Hey, sarah_bellem: THIS is a pinecone.

  And a relatively small one at that. No, I didn't bring it home, it's illegal to "collect" in Yosemite, so it got put back where I found it.

More to follow - I'm going through pictures right now. No? OK, here's a taste.

An Awfully Big Adventure

Elevation of Alameda, CA above sea level: 30.'
Elevation of Yosemite Valley (hereinafter referred to as "the bottom" or "down there,") approximately 4000'.
Elevation of Glacier Point trail head (accessed by bus from "down there," approximately 7200'.
Elevation of Ilillouette Creek, approximately 5800'.
Elevation of Panorama Point, approximately 6500'.

didjiman arrived a little after 2PM on Saturday, so we tossed his gear in the back of my truck and headed east. We made surprisingly good time, even on the Slough of Suck that is the 238/580 corridor between San Leandro and the Altamont pass. 

( This cut better work this time. )

More photos at

Tuolomne Grove Saturday Night, http://www.flickr.com/photos/70104978@N00/sets/72157622476834282/

Panorama Trail Hike http://www.flickr.com/photos/70104978@N00/sets/72157622353147111/