chasing rabbits stateside

On tuesday my target was the top of Upper Yosemite Fall, which along with Lower Yosemite Fall is the fifth tallest waterfall in the world at 2,425 ft. I had to make it to the top because I'd told my mother in her birthday card that was what I was doing so I was determined to stick to it !!! I have never had to mentally cajole (I don't think that's spelt right!) myself to such an extent in my life, it was a real test of will power and determination. One of the hardest routes I have ever hiked it was, to date, the biggest physical challenge of my whole trip. An incredibly steep incline up the side of the falls, signs warning of recent sightings of a mountain lion in the area, a trail packed with switch backs, dozens of people crashed at the side of the trail questioning their own sanity, but at the same time lots of people on the way down with encouraging words and promises that the view is worth all the effort. It was. Although it took me a good few minutes of lying on my back and staring at the sky before I was capable of appreciating the view! This is the time when kids are struck off my "I like ....." list. There is nothing more annoying than being exhausted, having legs like jelly and lungs that are trying to burst out of your chest and then having 6 year olds who have just done the same route running around you like they are on speed ".... a little nearer the edge my sweet one, that's it, one step further...". Only kidding !!!! I practically ran back down, worried that I would miss my bus, this of course resulted in me falling - well done KP.A bloody knee, enough grit stuck to my anti mozzi cream (which by the way seems to be appreciated as a four star appetizer by the little bastards) to create a rock garden, filthy pants, all very mature and presentable. I didn't want to leave the park , ever (picture childish tantrum and shaven headed woman stamping her foot and refusing to get on the bus!). Damn it for tattoo appointments !

posted by KP @ 8:34 AM