I think I've spent about 8 weeks of my life this way, at this point . . . and I have no doubt there are more GC adventures in my future.  Most of the adventures were before children.  Then, about 16 years later, when all four could carry a pack, we introduced them to the experience; now, as empty-nesters, we once again rediscovered our love for this place. . . .

     On the past two trips, in 03 and 04, I have taken along a digital camera- to capture some of the spectacular scenery- although the 360 degree effect is definitely lost- and is the essence of the whole experience.  Nevertheless, I have been inspired to share some of my favorite photos. . . .First, our trip down the south Bass trail in March of 2003. . . . .Enjoy. 

In March of 2003, after weeks of gorgeous spring weather, winter took one final swipe as we ventured forth on our week of Spring Break vacation!  We raced the snowstorm across the 30 miles of dirt road to the western side of the national park, hoping that the road would be passable a week later when we climbed back out.  The gaping canyon lies hidden in fog below the rim the next morning as we made final preparations and wondered about the trail conditions and the weather that was in store in the week ahead.

  We hesitate on the rim before hoisting packs and venturing into a soggy first day and night along the Esplanade

  The next day reveals snow on the north rim and a continuing threat of cold weather.  We decide to head down south Bass toward the river- a slight change of plans for the week.

Once into Bass Canyon, the south rim, where we descended, is no longer visible.

The Colorado River is muddy from runoff.  The weather remains cool even here at the bottom.

  We arrange a sheltered "kitchen" area near the Bass/Tonto junction this night.

  There is no lack of water pools on this trip, to replenish our canteens.

The crash of rocks across the canyon reveals this lone bighorn sheep scrambling along the wall. We watch as he maneuvers then finally reclines on a ledge.  This is a first for us- seeing a bighorn sheep in the depths of the Grand Canyon. (Poor picture, great memory!)

  Sunset on Dox Castle (that's the Holy Grail point to the left of the light shaft), from the warmth of my sleeping bag where I have retreated as darkness fell in our canyon.  I watch as the clouds and sun dance, finally giving way to the strip of stars in the sky above.

 We rise early and hike out a day early, reveling in the views in  the cool morning light.

  We decide to spend the night at the south rim village, and stay another day before heading home.  This view is practically out the front door of the cabin we spend the night in.  A warm shower and middle of the night bathroom facility is greatly appreciated after nearly a week below the rim.  I still found myself burrowed into the bottom of the sheets, as I had been in my sleeping bag all week. 

  Great sunrise views!

  We decide to splurge and take a helicopter flight over the Canyon for yet another perspective .  Here is where the muddy Little Colorado River meets the green cold water released from Glenn Canyon dam below Lake Powell- here the once muddy, wild Colorado regains its color as it heads into the Canyon.

  Sunset that night is an experience in itself.  We take the shuttle out to Hermits Rest (the farthest stop west on this route) and stay to watch the sunset, hoping that the final late shuttle will return and save us a five mile hike in the dark.  There we meet another group of sunset seekers, including a musician (Daniel Jacobs) who plays his guitar and serenades us through the final light of day.  His songs are his own- and one seems written for the moment, when he discovers we are teachers he tells us this one is dedicated to his HS English teacher. . . about himself as a student, told to imagine himself as a separate part of the world- a metaphorical perspective.... his answer.... "I am the wind... I know because my teacher said "what are you... where do you live... when you think of it in the abstract""  The lyrics took us on the wings of the ravens playing in the wind currents along the canyon rim.  When I look at this sunset shot- I am there again.  I AM THE WIND.

P.S.  I did a search and discovered that Daniel Jacobs now has 3 albums.  "I Am The Wind" appears on his "Notes from the Road" album copyright 04.  All I can say, is that I heard this song in a solo performance at Hermit's Rest, in the fading light of sunset, on the rim of the Grand Canyon- it doesn't get any better than that. 

I don't know how to embed music here, but this link will take you to a site where you can play a part of this song for yourself:  I AM THE WIND