Selfie With River

We are in Yosemite, in the Tuolomne high country for a few days, camping in our van in one of the most stunning and calming places that we know. It's about a seven hour ride from home, so I need all the calming I can get by the time we arrive and find a campsite. A gentle walk upriver is perfect. We've been coming here almost every fall for years and years, and I like to check on all the rocks and trees and make sure everything is in its proper place. There are spectacular views in every direction, but I come to be by the Tuolomne River as it gains momentum for its descent into the valley. The glacial water is cold and clear and the air is charged with what I can only describe as a minerally smell--it's different from other air and I fill myself with its clarity. I am so happy to be back here in this sacred and inspirational place.