Photography

Backpacking in the Sierras is an important tradition for me and the boys. So I was glad that Micah and I landed a last minute permit for Yosemite this August. As the sign indicates, our destimations were May Lake (2.7 miles) and Glen Aulen (10.6 miles), and in total, we walked about 18 miles in 3 days. May Lake is short hike in, but steep. And yet it has panoramic high sierra views. Micah found us a great campsite about 200 feet above the lake and we settled into our hammocks to relax. As the evening unfolded, the light on the mountain ranges grew better and better, eventually peaking in an amazing sunset. ...

Juneau Our cruising vacation with 20 family members and friends started in Juneau. The weather on our first day was sunny with the purest blue sky. This is rare in rainy, misty Junenau. And on the boat, we were very lucky to have zero rain for all six days. The Mendenhall Glacier is just outside Juneau, and we enjoyed a great hike to a waterfall. The Alaska state museum was also a good stop. And there’s plenty of shopping for trinkets in downtown Juneau (but don’t blink or you’ll miss it). ...

On our first morning aboard the “Wilderness Legacy,” a 5:30 am intercom announcement broke our sleep. In pajamas, fleece jackets, and sneakers, we hustled to the bow. We were in an enormous, panoramic bay. And humpback whales were spouting in every direction, from near to far. They rose, blew spray high into the air, and then showed us their tails as they dove. The boat slowed to a crawl and we watched for an hour. Magic! ...

My visit to Seoul began at the Gyeongbokgung Palace, where I connected with colleague John Whitmer to see the changing of the guard parade. The palace was established in 1395 but did not make it to present day intact. Across the street, the Museum of Contemporary History shared the struggles of Koreans for freedom and democracy. A special exhibit shared current photos from the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Afterwards we strolled to Bukchon Hanok Village, an area with many restored wooden houses. A particular impressive compound was open for a free tour. The area is also full of upmarket stores and galleries–a bit touristy, but still fun. The steep streets make for good views that contrast the old with the new. ...

While attending the “Festival of Learning” research conference in South Korea, I took some time out for exploring the rich experiences that Seoul has to offer. 1. Changing of the Guard After one Lyft, a 12 hour flight, a two-hour airport bus, and a 45-minute subway ride, I found myself at Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace on a bright sunny morning. Just in time for the changing of the palace guard. Drums were beaten. Trumpets blared. Conch shells honked. Crowds gathered. And the safety of the ancient grand palace was secured. ...