About a week ago I embarked on an adventure I had been looking forward to for so long. I made my way out to San Francisco, California, where I spent a couple of days exploring then I drove up to Yosemite National Park. These pictures won't give the true experience justice, but here are some of my favorite moments.

To me there is something so hidden and magical in trees. They are captivating and wondrous and grow in their own way. They embrace the seasons of change, and outstretch themselves as if they want to touch the sky while staying grounded. We could learn a thing or two from them.

We never stop to think how powerful a body of water can be. It can wear down rock and crack through the earth splitting in all different directions. It can be heard from afar and it's strong enough to take your breath away.

I never really knew going into the trip what to expect out of it. I knew it would leave a stamp of significance on my life somehow, but I didn't think it would be this great. This aroma of peace among this open field reminded me of simple truths and opening my heart to love.

If I were to choose my favorite spot in the national park it would be this one. We hiked through the valley and up the side of a mountain until we reached an overlook of the valley floor, Bridal Veil Falls - not pictured - and Half Dome. My blood felt lighter when this picturesque landscape was laid upon me due to the intense desire to explore this part of the world being accomplished.

Nature always felt sort of like home to me; however, it's intangible because you can only grasp the concept of waking over the roots and under our sky in your heart.

I choose to believe in the good. I choose to believe in the Universe and its origin. I believe in the moon and its ability to help us find comfort in the darkest parts of our soul.

I remember this moment so vividly. My eyes traced every inch in which encloses this photograph. The star, partially hidden behind the tree, is singularly exposed. The rest of the sky is as clear as can be and then I see that star. I don't know exactly why I couldn't look away from it, but it fascinated me. It made me wonder about the limited possibilities presented to solely me. I, too, can shine on my own even amidst the grand orchestra sounding its finale.

The mountains cause my heart to dance, the trees commence a song. I can feel the wind in my fingertips and liberation in my bones. I cry out in awe as I look down below at a world more vast and mighty than can be seen without adventure. I opened my eyes and gazed upon the Earth. I opened my eyes and felt present and alive. I opened my eyes and I noticed. The leaves, the trees, the flow, the fall, the growth, the wear, the beauty, it all. I was there, encompassed by the whimsical reality of nature.