October 28, 2017
Lower Cathedral Lake
Total distance walked: 8 miles

You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so… Get on your way! —Dr. Seuss

The year was 2011.  It was a bittersweet day, both sad and exciting.  Andrew and I had just finished a hike, our last together before he left for college.  With good intentions and a heavy heart, this soon-to-be empty nester mom boldly asked him to promise, “…no matter where life takes you, you’ll always come home once a year to hike in Yosemite with me.”  He agreed; but then, what else was a son to do?

Finishing the North Dome trail, 2011.

It has been six years since that hike.  Andrew finished college, embarked on a life of his own…and never forgot the promise.  So far, we have hiked together at least once per year.  This year was exceptional: four hikes together.  Our last adventure of 2017 was to Lower Cathedral Lake in Yosemite’s high country. Continue reading →