When Yosemite Falls, Nature Calls
"Honey, I really want to spend more time in Yosemite. And I'd like to sit at our spot in the Valley."
These are words that have been uttered by me on a regular basis, and some times weekly. With Yosemite only 3-4 hours away, I regret the weekends we DON'T go out there. And so what was Jamie thinking, when she planned a quick day trip to Yosemite? Exactly those words. And it was perfect.
Exhausting, but perfect. It was her way of showing me that after 9 years of being together, our dreams come true with forces combined. We left San Francisco after a full day of work, and got into Mariposa just after Midnight. We walked Boo along the twilight lit streets, passing the old saloons and shops with alpaca teddy bears in the windows. We stretched, we showered, and we set an alarm for 5am. Because with only 1 day in Yosemite, you don't want to sleep it away.
Having a dog, particularly Boo, is the greatest joy in life - and yet, it limits our ability to hike many national forests. As we entered Yosemite Valley, our hikes were pre-determined. They were the only trails available to dogs, so we packed for a day of idle strolling and picnicking in open fields. We saw Bridalveil Falls and Yosemite Falls, both of which we danced in the mist that swarmed our feet and filled our lungs.
“Bridalveil Fall
Looking to meet someone special? Head to Yosemite Bridalveil Fall. The 617-foot waterfall owes its name to a legend from the Ahwahneechee Native American tribe: They believed that inhaling the mist of the waterfall would improve one’s chances of getting married.”
It was a pleasurable way to spend time admiring the vast canyon sized valleys, walking Boo's pace, and not racing to see all that we can. We even sat at the base of Yosemite Falls and watched Boo take a nap. I distinctly remember a butterfly landing on her nose, and Boo's confusion work between her ears and eyes. Next thing I knew Jamie was popping champagne, and we sat and watched people the size of tiny dots climb a nearby rock face.
Our way back home was full of similar anticipation of when we left for Yosemite - only it was anticipating the next driving break so that the other may sleep. Boo was passed out or panting blissfully the whole ride home. We had made it as a family to our 9 year anniversary - which means next year is a decade. And I though Yosemite Valley was a romantic gesture. Just wait for what we have planned!
