Yosemite is a Magical Place

In the last few years we've created a new family tradition. Twice each year, once in the summer and once in the winter we head to Yosemite. This year's winter trip was amazing. We stayed at the Tenaya Lodge in Fish Camp for the second time and loved it. There's always something fun to do there and I really enjoy swimming in a nice warm pool when it's snowing outside.

This year we decided to give cross country skiing a try. We rented our equipment and had a lesson. It's like hiking but in the snow. I think it's definitely more our speed these days than downhill skiing. Downhill skiing just costs too darned much and I'm really not a fan of lift lines. Plus the ride down never lasts long enough. Sure the cross country skiing is a bit of hard work, but well worth the effort. Most groomed trails are free to use so it's way more cost effective. Badger Pass was a nice, low key ski area and although we didn't get that far on our first time out, I can't wait until next time when we'll pack a lunch, thermos full of hot coco and make a day of it on the trails.

Sledding as always was great fun. If only I could avoid screaming, it's kind of embarrassing screeching like a girl. Although it's not nearly as embarrassing as when Honey screeches like a girl (haha). I have to say that a day of sledding and playing in the snow makes a pizza dinner taste especially good.

Visiting Yosemite Valley on the way home was a highlight. The roads are a bit scary with the black ice and all the people driving like they just don't care. I'm the slow one on those mountain roads that gets a line of cars behind me and stresses about where the next passing lane is (yes, I always look to let everyone pass). So aside from my old lady driving style, Yosemite is like a totally different place in the winter. It's so quiet and has an eerie quality to it. It's still very beautiful and fascinating just how different it is. We did see people tent camping in the snow... kudos to them. Honey and the boys are up for that but I don't think it sounds like any fun at all. After all, I think the Bay Area in Summer is too darned cold.

Dear Derby

I think we need to call it quits. It’s not me, it’s you. You used to be fun, accepting and really made me feel good about myself even though I’ve never been a skating goddess. It was about bonding with others, pushing our limits together, making a difference and having the time of our lives. We wanted the same things once. In fact, I totally supported you in your desire to be taken as a serious sport. I didn’t know you were going to become no fun at all in the process. I’ve noticed you’ve also gotten a mean streak and become judgy. In trying to be taken seriously, you’ve lost some of your most endearing qualities, namely your ability to give recognition to all those who support you, appreciate others talents no matter what they are (i.e. not always athleticism) and your ability to have fun.

Perhaps this is just a stage you’re going through. I hope that sometime soon we can be friends. I know that right now you are only interested in a full-on, full-time commitment verging on obsession and I’m not up for that. Perhaps as we spend time apart, we’ll find a way to be together again in a way that works for us both. In the mean time, try to stay away from those who will exploit you.