This granite landscape boggles my mind. No matter how many times we hike, climb, sit, fall, wonder and ponder in this environment, we never get tired of this view. Out here, one can feel deeply connected to everything in the world around you and at the same time, unbelievably small and alone. It never ceases to amaze.
It’s funny how I can get comfortable living without something until I get a tiny little taste of it. Suddenly, I realize how much that thing fills my heart and body with joy and life. My hubby and I have been hiking in the Sierra together for fifteen years now and it is so much a part of who we are. We have had some pretty amazing adventures over the years as we have discovered and grown our mountain skills together. Last season’s Sierra outings were frustratingly few and far between and we have been anxiously awaiting a new season and new adventure! Well, to be honest, we don’t even need a big adventure. At this point we would settle for a nice, simple, life-giving trek on a trail.
Sometimes it is the simplest things that feed my sense of wonder. A dry desert bush suddenly alive with color. A bird’s nest. The thoughtfulness of a child. Sometimes I have to allow myself to take the time to get distracted, to be amazed, to stop and take a photo of some seemingly insignificant moment. Like a wonderland of rocks alive with the fresh color of blooming creosote bushes.
I seem to have a theme going, here. Spring. It is, without a doubt, my favorite time of year in the high desert. I’m sure my loved ones wonder why in the world we are so grounded in this dry, little, desert town in the middle of nowhere. Well, as The Little Prince declares, “The desert is beautiful.” This desert has so much spirit and life and a view with no bounds.
Seek a Little Solace 