What I Did on Summer Vacation – Part Two

Day Two: The Ascent

The morning was calm, the kind of quiet that feels sacred in the wilderness. Before setting out, I captured Lotus Serenity and Lily of the Valley, taking in the stillness of the landscape. Originally, I had planned to hike down to the lake, but before even stepping onto the trail, I changed my mind. Today felt like a day to climb.

I packed all the water I could carry and set off toward the mountain. Along the way, I took Pop Rocks and Hope, capturing the beauty of the surroundings through my lens. At one point, I paused for a break, catching my breath and soaking in the serenity. As I rested, I remembered my Cobra Kai shirt and, naturally, decided it was only fitting to practice karate on a few dead tree branches before pressing on.

Up the Mountain

The higher I climbed, the steeper and wetter the trail became. A few times, I slipped on the wet rocks, my feet losing traction as the fog thickened around me. Despite the slips, I kept moving forward, my determination pushing me past any minor stumbles. I passed a group of young hikers on their way down, their voices filled with frustration about the lack of a view.

Eventually, the fog grew thicker, and when I reached the summit, I found myself completely surrounded by it. The forest below had been clear, but the mountaintop was swallowed by mist, transforming everything into a world of white.

The final stretch was challenging, but nothing too perilous. I navigated the slippery rocks with care, taking extra caution after a couple of those unexpected slips. I eventually reached the peak. Standing there, surrounded by the fog, I felt a profound sense of peace. Then, as if the moment had been waiting for me, the hymn God on the Mountain started playing through my headphones. In that instant, I felt something vast—something greater than myself.

After lingering in the moment, I walked toward one of the many overlooks on the mountain and found a designated camping site. The fog had been lifting slowly giving me untold views.

I settled into my hammock. The next day was my birthday, and little did I know, I would be surprised by what happened on that day…