The Santa Ana winds are blowing in Southern California and that means moderate temperatures and low humidity. For some, temps near 70 degrees in December seem like a dream. But for my part I’m ready for cooler weather. Not that I have experience living in rainy or snowy climates. I don’ know what I would do in the Pacific Northwest or the Midwest where six months of the year it was cloudy, cold and dreary. I think snow is something I can drive to play in and drive home.

Nonetheless, I’d like to have a little bit of early winter, something that requires a real jacket or coat. I think I know why.

While browsing the news on my iPad a couple of days ago, a photo popped up from a Yosemite trip I had taken a few years back. It was probably taken in February because it took seven years to capture Horsetail Falls, an event that happens around President’s Day. This photo is of my friend at the lookout emerging from the tunnel on CA 41. This iconic view of Yosemite Valley with Half Dome in the distance, Bridalveil Falls on the right and the majestic El Capitan on the left is world famous. Returning to the spot never fails to satisfy as the light and atmospheric conditions are always changing. I suspect it is impossible to get exactly the same photo over a period of years, seasons, or even days. I’ve been at the parking lot at Tunnel View and seen the image change within minutes.

This photo, empty of cars, rimed by icicle teeth, with a lone subject entering the tunnel’s darkness is worthy of some missive, either a comedy or tragedy, depending on the day.

It conjures up the crisp, dry winter in the Sierra Nevada mountains that require a jacket that may remain open and unzipped. It’s a perfect drive, play, and go home image.