Yosemite
December 27th
There’s something about Yosemite that captivates you in a way that words can hardly describe. When I think back to my recent trip to this national park, it’s not just the towering granite cliffs or the tall gleaming waterfalls that stand out, it’s the time spent with people I care about that I can call family, creating lifetime memories together in one of the most beautiful places in the Central Valley.
Our trip began early in the morning, I had been wanting to visit Yosemite for years, and finally, the day had come. The drive itself was scenic and fun, twisty winding roads pushing the dynamics of my car to the limit, but however, nothing could compare to the first moment we entered the park. Coming from Oregon, it felt like home. The beautiful reminder of the tall trees, the fresh air, and the landscape more incredible than I could have ever imagined, it even had the cloudy atmospheric tone that is so familiar with Oregon . It was all just so captivating.
Seeing El Capitan and Half Dome for the first time is nothing short of breathtaking. Standing in Yosemite Valley, these towering granite peaks seem to stretch endlessly toward the sky. El Capitan, with its sheer vertical face, immediately drew my attention, I could not stop admiring finally seeing it in person for myself after years seeing it in social media posts and on TV and in movies. Half Dome's famous, rounded peak created a striking silhouette against the horizon where I couldn't take my eyes off either, with the added bonus of vivid snow scattered amongst the top peaks, it truly felt like the extra cherry on top to showcase these iconic monuments. The scale of these cliffs is so magnificent, it's hard not to feel small in their presence. After gazing and taking my photos, it was truly a sight that left me with a lasting impression.
Going during the winter, the daylight ended quick which concluded our visit to Yosemite. As we drove out of the park that evening, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experience. Yosemite had given us a day of adventure, laughter, and connection that we will always cherish. I realized that while we might not get to visit often, the memories we made in that single day will stay with us forever.
Reflecting the experience from the trip, I have come to learn that a trip like Yosemite isn’t just about the sights, the hikes and adventure, it is also about sharing those moments together in which I am very grateful for that I get to share this experience with people I cherish. And for me, that’s what made this trip truly unforgettable. My heart felt full in a way it hadn’t in a long time.
