(My nickname for her is Mighty Mouse. She's five feet tall, and in great shape, both physically and mentally.)
My dear friend and hiking buddy Janayia is moving across the country soon, and wanted to get in a last hike before we said our goodbye's. I let her choose our final exploration, as she's been busy packing and such. Not surprisingly, she chose a trail not far from her home.
(Our trail overlooks Santa Monica Bay. We are in one of five Mediterranean Climate Zones around the world.)
We hiked the five mile, 1100' elevation gain loop to Skull Rock that passes Temescal Canyon Falls. It was the first hike we'd done together some nine years earlier when I was a hike lead for a local group. As we reminisced over our friendship, she told me that she liked my hikes more than the other hike leads because of the knowledge I passed along. I include elements of geology, horticulture and history when I lead hikes. She also liked the way I took into consideration the strength and weaknesses of the participants, and made it comfortable to converse.
(Approaching the skull.)
I prefer (and she tolerates!) the loop direction where we do an aggressive rise during the first 1/3 mile, then taper off for more gentle ups and downs to the skull. The formation is visible from multiple points along way. In this picture, we are within 500 feet of it.
While the formation is called Skull Rock, I've always been amused by the rock facing away from it. It looks like an animal, but people's assessment is often affected by what they are familiar with. An Aussie friend said it was a kangaroo. Another likened it to a cow or moose. I think it's a bunny.
Whatever the case, our final time together was filled with laughter, love, and knowing that we will stay connected.
(All images are property of the author)
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What a nice way to say goodbye by doing something you both love for the last time.
#dreemport
I don't like saying goodbyes. It's nice that you guys did something memorable. I hope you guys keep to your words and stay connected.
#dreemerforlife