This photo was taken at a location on the Merced River, which I confirmed with Park Rangers was well off the beaten path and rarely visited or used for photos.⁠

To get to the location, it took quite the hike that included bushwhacking, crawling underneath low lying branches, precariously balancing while walking across rocks and logs trying not to fall in the water.⁠

Let's just say this is not how I describe a fun time. However, I knew the goal that was in front of me. I knew the scene for which I was looking. Keeping the goal in mind, I pressed on.⁠

This view did not disappoint. Not even remotely. El Capitan and the Merced River combine for a stunning scene, with the stillness of this section of the river allowing for a perfect reflection of El Cap.⁠

After capturing the scene, I packed up and found that there was a different way back. No hiking. No bushwhacking. No almost falling into the water. Just a leisurely walk through the meadow back to the car.⁠

However, when I reflected back on the hike to the location - I wasn't even mad. It was worth it. The search for the location and angle I wanted. The challenge of getting to the spot. The frustration of trying to move and fit my frame into spaces that were clearly not made for it. All of it. Totally and completely worth it.⁠

May we allow our reflections to produce gratitude whenever we are able.⁠