Wawona gets their library back! Many months ago all the library books from Wawona’s branch of the research library were moved to the Valley while much needed physical building repairs were made. Our top priority this week was to re-establish their library. We started this project last week by hauling the old books down from the attic storage and began the process of reviewing, culling, cataloging, and adding them to our Wawona library.
By Thursday our task was completed when we loaded 17 boxes of books into my car and drove them to Wawona on Friday. Just FYI, if you are interested, you can learn more about Wawona at the following link: https://www.yosemite.com/yosemite-mariposa-county-region/southern-yosemite/wawona/
This was the last major project for our team of four volunteers. Laura left us this weekend to return home to Kentucky. We will definitely miss her presence and wish her safe travels. At our going away dinner she agreed to do some project work in preparation for the upcoming Yosemite Research Library’s centennial celebration. How fortunate for Yosemite!
We made a visit to Bridalveil falls for a quick hike on our last drive in to work together. It was a nice stop and good to make this one together on Laura’s final day.
Life was a little slow on the visitor front this week at the Welcome Center. I think visitors are planning their vacations for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. I had a moment to take a couple pictures of Volunteer Mark and Ranger Caroline in The Welcome Center.
I really love being there on Tuesdays and will miss my time with the Interp Rangers and Volunteers. What a great staff Yosemite has in their welcome center. Volunteers and Park staff work together seamlessly!
There were threats of incoming bad weather this week that never came to fruition. (I’m grateful as I’m a little fearful of ice on these windy roads!) The week was just beautiful with temps in the upper 50’s and low 60’s. It was a strange feeling because it was so warm and so calm. On Saturday we had some overnight rain and fog that made the morning view really beautiful from the cabins. Today out is in the upper 50’s once again. Rain is predicted for most of this week which I’m sure will mean snow at the higher elevations.
We have plenty of projects left to complete here and I won’t be part of all of them. Elizabeth will be here for another month and Madeline until April. These projects will be completed. But, for me, I’ll be on my way home in just two weeks. I won’t deny that thoughts of leaving are bittersweet. I’ve had a great time and feel good about the work we have accomplished as a team. I’ve learned much about Yosemite and have a true appreciation for this park site and the importance of the Research Library. I do miss my family though and will enjoy being home once again for the holidays and a lot of puppy love with Gus and Lou.
Please forgive all errors, take care of yourselves, stay safe and blessings to all.
Hugs, Mara
Mara I have learned so much from you and I love following you’re journey. Where will we travel again? Thank you, and Happy Thanksgiving