The other day I was reflecting on the busy winter season and my
thoughts were constantly prodded towards summer. An amazing view of
an ice free lake, the birds singing their spring sonatas, the mercury
rising above 70 degrees, and the indescribable smell of spring all
worked in concert to wipe away old man winters hold. I know we will
surely have a few more storms before winter is gone but for now I
will allow myself to start planning for change. One of the reasons I
love taking people into the mountains is that my short attention span
is rewarded with the changing of the seasons. With each new season a
whole different set of activities, dreams and goals are renewed.
From powdery turns, thoughts of a corn harvest. From the swing and
stick of an ice tool, the grip of warm rock. From desires for a never-
ending stream of storms delivering new snow, the desire for cloudless
warm days.
I was blessed a few days ago to be able to take me 8-year-old son
Nathan rock climbing. In him I witnessed the innocence of discovery.
I saw the challenge of a new climbing location written on his face. I
relished in the honest joy of accomplishing a difficult task. All
this quickly followed by, "Can we go to Mono Cone and get an ice
cream?". As you start looking toward your spring and summer just know
that all of us at Sierra Mountain Guides are ready to meet your
outdoor objectives. And yes we can go to the Mono Cone and get an ice
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