Washington became the first state to legalize the composting of human remains (May 22, 2019, CNN). In “human composting,” the body remains are mixed with organic matter and allowed to break down for about 3-7 weeks. In keeping up with the times, I used to say that I did not wish for a lonely burial but preferred cremation (California – 61.5%; US – 53.1%; South Korea … Continue reading Compost me on the trails
Date Monday, November 18, 2019 Weather Clear, sunny One-way / two-way 7.4 / 14.8 miles Trailhead elevation 8,150 ft Summit elevation 9,926 ft Peak class / Difficulty 1 / Moderate Type Urban-NP People (groups) Approx. 10 Animals Birds, esp. crow Start time 7:00 am End time 2:39 pm Points & Junctions Distance Elevation Time Reverse Trailhead 0 miles 8,150 ft 7:00 14:39 Sunrise Lakes Trail … Continue reading Clouds Rest Trail & Peak #2
Going beyond the trail Staying on the trail is the safest thing to do. You minimize the risk of getting lost or falling down. It’s also the easiest way to hike. Most of the trails on the maps are well-defined and well maintained. On heavily trafficked trails, you also protect the landscape. But occasionally, while traversing over mountains and through the valleys, my eyes fixate … Continue reading Sawtooth Peak – AMS
Introduction Take care of the land. Someday, you’ll be part of it. This sign, posted without attribution, made an impression on me since I first began hiking Santa Anita Canyon many years ago. If I had to make one change to it, though, it might be to add the word “again”, as in, “Take care of the land. Someday, you’ll be part of it, again.” … Continue reading Hiking Report: Mt. Zion Loop 2/9/2019
I make it a point to see mom and have lunch with her about once a week – more if I am driving by and she’s with her friends. About half the time, we’re grabbing bows of pho in Garden Grove or Westminster in Little Saigon, a local treasure. Other times, we’re going for Korean food mostly on Garden Grove Blvd or in Buena Park. … Continue reading Best Pho Places in Little Saigon
I usually hike alone for the ease and simplicity of scheduling and the chance to be more intimate with nature. Still, I do occasionally enjoy hiking with others. For example, it’s always great hiking with the family either together or separately with my wife and each of the boys. Meet-ups with fellow hikers are nice. Sometimes a relative wants to try hiking. In this case, … Continue reading Hiking Report: Baldy Ski Hut Trail with Alex 2019/1/26
Patrons pay to have their names hanging alongside the beautiful lanterns. Each paper lists the names of family members, their domicile, and a prayer. Mostly, they pray for good health. All lanterns say, “The day Buddha came.” It must have been prettier in May. Photo taken 10/21/2016 at Naejangsa Temple, Naejangsan National Park, Korea. Camera: Samsung Galaxy 7s. Continue reading Good Luck Lanterns at Naejangsa Temple
When my wife mentioned going to Jamaica on a mission trip, it perked my interest. “What?” I asked. “They give you room and board and take you out daily on guided tours?! You get to meet and have fun with the locals and eat local food?!” It sounded just like going on a cruise or flying into one of Montego Bay’s all-inclusive resorts. Thoughts of … Continue reading Healing of my Soul
On December 12, 2012, I decided on a whim to hike up Mt. Baldy via Ski Hut Trail. It turned out to be my first camping trip in a blizzard. Light rain was forecast and it was partly cloudy. I did not mind as I sometimes enjoy hiking in the rain. I intended to summit around nightfall, pitch the tent near the top, and trek … Continue reading Almost Froze on Mt. Baldy
The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation (yes, there is such a thing!) reports that scientific studies show kindness results in numerous health benefits. Kindness… Strengthens the immune system and diminishes the effects of serious and minor disorders, effects of physical pain. Releases endorphins, giving you a “natural high” (without the dangers of drug addiction). Subsequently provides a period of calm important to emotional well-being. Reduces … Continue reading Random Acts of Kindness is Good For You!
Charles K. Park 