Yosemite

Dear Briggz,

            Yosemite was our next destination. As we entered the park there was so much evidence of this past summers fire. Acres and acres of charred pines were seen, which can only be explained by viewing it all in person. Yes, forest fires bring renewal to the forest, by allowing the forest floor to be seeded, but it also gave us a sad feeling that the land had been robbed of its beauty. We continued on to our campsite. Daylight was dwindling so we only had time to set up camp and turn our focus to dinner.

only a small spot of fire damage. We saw much worse

The following morning we drove down to Yosemite Valley. The views of Half Dome and El Capitan were amazing. We took small walks to Yosemite and Bridalveil Falls was not as amazing. Yosemite falls was as dry as a dogs bone while Bridalveil Falls offered a small peak of water the was seen as wisps in the air as the wind blew. We took the time for the boys to complete the Junior Ranger program, which they have done throughout the trip accumulating a total of approximately 17 Junior Ranger badges and patches.

Mom and the boys in front of half dome. We also learned this is where north face started and half dome is now its logo.

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Bridalvail falls

Yosemite falls all dried up

cool dear

El Capitan

The nights in Yosemite were chilly. We decided to keep the tented ends of our camper folded up and to sleep as though we were boondocking. We did take the liberty of using the fire pit to stay warm prior to turning in for the night. I have to say that I think we are a group of warm weather campers.

We left Yosemite through the south gate. Lush green pines covered the landscape, far different from what we saw as we entered from the Northwest. We then traveled to a campground located about 45 minutes from Sequoia National Park.

Since we missed the big trees of the Redwood Forest we felt it necessary to see these giant Sequoias. These trees are something from another world. The General Sherman Tree, largest by volume in the world, was amazing. We took a hike through the forest to view as many of these giants as we could.

that's a big tree

the trees made us feel very small

The experience of getting to see all the beauty of this land we call home is truly humbling. You don’t realize how small we actually are in this big world. We Miss you a lot. Be a good boy.

Love all of us.