Nothing like Yosemite during government shutdown!

Welcome to my first official post! I will have to go back in time to get Spain, Austria, Africa, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, All of southeast Asia, etc. done.

For now: YOSEMITE

Yosemite is considered one of the world's wonders, and for great reason. For a century a bunch of 'naturalists' argued about what could create such a gorgeous valley with so many different geologic formations and wildlife. Naturally, it was decided that glaciers circa 30K years ago were responsible, and now thanks to the extraordinary powers of ice, we have a 7 mile long valley that is surpassed by questionably no National Park.

The Shutdown: We went during Trump's temper tantrum over Christmas, so several areas were not available. Some trails were closed and others suggested maybe not so much unless you like broken limbs. Of note, a gentleman died of head injury on one of the trails we hiked on Christmas Day, so the suggestions are not given lightly.

We started off at Tenaya Lodge: tenayalodgTenaya is like the classiest Great Wolf you will ever see: minus waterparks with adults wearing inappropriate bathing suits, large freakishly singing animal exhibits, food that might couple well with hotel room coffee, and weird Doom games for the kids. So really, if you want to show your kids nature in a gorgeous family and dog (BTW, they literally have dog massages at the spa) friendly place, this is your bag.

Concierge is incredibly helpful and there is a full service expansive spa as well. In addition, indoor pool and sauna facilities. You can do flashlight hikes, horse carriages, and even archery. And there's a skating rink for those who aren't afraid of Colle's fracture such as myself. Or, just explore on your own.

Hike! We did 2 hikes, one on our own and one with flashlights. The solo trip, we followed Jackson Road to the creepy cabin on the left...then follow the canal next to the cabin for about a mile to a beautiful half frozen waterfall. Round trip ~6 miles.

Flashlight was a guided nature trail with tree identification and some good bear tales. We saw no bear this time (but one tried to eat my sandwich last time I was there!)

Archery! 30 minute sessions are $16 for instruction and as many arrows as you can fling in that time. My husband cheated and has hunted for many years, so the fact that I hit near the red 3 times is not to be shadowed by his 30.

Ski! Yosemite Ski and snowboard area https://www.travelyosemite.com/winter/yosemite-ski-snowboard-area/

Just the cutest little ski area. 11 slopes, 4 lifts, 800ft elevation. Awesome for old fogies like myself who just started skiing again after a 20 year winter sport hiatus due to medical training and malaise.