November 2, 2012
Sentinel Dome, Yosemite National Park
Total distance walked: 2.2 miles

Driving is a relaxing activity for me, especially when I can sing along to my favorite tunes. On my drive today through the Merced River Canyon towards Yosemite National Park, I enjoyed singing along with my CDs of Miranda Lambert, Josh Turner, and The Band Perry. The sight of yellow trees set against the rugged canyon walls was a clear indication that autumn is in full swing.

A week ago, my long-time friend Michele reached out to tell me she’d be visiting Yosemite for a few days. We agreed to meet at the Sentinel Dome trailhead. On the day Michele ascended Half Dome (July 11, 2011) Chris and I were hiking Sentinel Dome. That morning, we communicated via cell phones from one dome to the other.

Michele, her friend Eli, and I walked to the top of Sentinel Dome together. The morning was cool with ice and snow on the road and trail, yet the brisk walk was warming.

After taking in the view from the top for some time, we returned to our cars and bid farewell. Tomorrow, we plan to meet again for another brief hike in Yosemite.

On the drive home, Josh Turner’s lyrics, “don’t rush, don’t rush, slow it on down,” played. They weren’t about driving, yet they inspired me to slow down and appreciate the golden leaves falling gracefully from their branches. While stopped, I captured an image of one of the two stoplights in Mariposa County at the one-way bridge.

There’s something incredibly soothing about driving through such natural beauty with music filling the air and the memory of Yosemite’s grandeur in my mind. These moments remind me of the simple joys in life and the peace that comes from connecting with nature.