Yosemite

First, let me start by saying I love the sheer magnitude of the mountains in Yosemite valley. Second, I am so very glad we saw them for the first time covered in snow and ice.

We picked the right day to adventure to the mountains. A storm had blown through earlier in the week and knocked out power and covered the passes in thick snow leaving them impassable for a couple of days. When we arrived to the lodge, we discovered it was the first day Yosemite had power restored after a week of none. Lucky us.

The roads were mostly clear too. Only at one point did we put chains on and it was just below the summit and only for a few short miles.

Since the weather had been so poor, many people cancelled their reservations. I loved this because there were very few people and the best cabins were up for grabs. We splurged and took the best one, with a view.

Our evening was mostly calm and quiet. We took a tour ride around what roads were open (not many) and went for very quiet walks. We happened upon talkative deer and a very timid coyote scavenging in the snow.

The falls were amazing. The ponds frozen and begging for someone to ice skate on them. The camps were empty and serene. Most importantly, we were breathing fresh cold air pocketed with the satisfying scent of ponderosa pine.

At 0340, we found ourselves awake and ready for another day. Los Angeles was an easy decision. We have many lovely friends there and we both want to see the Hollywood sign.

We took our time getting ready and left Yosemite long before the sun was signaled by the rooster.
This was a relatively peaceful night on a journey full of fire and spice.