Y hike the Y?

You can see it from an airplane, train or automobile. A passer by might ask it's meaning or purpose. A mother may ask her preschooler what sound it makes. It's big, it's white and high enough for everyone to see. It's the sacred Y set upon the mountain top for all to see. To some it may mean honor, respect or Alma mater. To others it may resonate big games, big crowds or Big Blue. A few may even shutter at the sight of it and turn north for a bigger badder letter to hail. (U)

But whoever you may be or where your allegiance may stand, the Y calls to the valley, challenging it's patrons to come forth and ascend. "Climb to my peaks and take in a view that I claim both day in and day out," she cries.

The Baxter Family rose to the challenge the 11th of June, 2011. Our packs were equipped with water, fruit snacks, juice boxes, a boomerang, a toy monkey and a diaper. Our course was set and we were off to the first rest stop. There are 11 switchbacks (rest stops) along the trail which are much anticipated and at times seemed unreachable. To help motivate the climb songs were sung to the tune of Do, Re, Mi, Fa, So, La, Ti, Do...5 little ducks went out to play...I Am a Child of God...Pioneer Children...5 little speckled frogs. And as we reached the top and sat on the southern fork of "route Y" we did take in a view that took our breath away. The game I Spy took on a new meaning sitting a top the world. Two temples were spotted, an awesome water park, that we must visit in the very near future, was in clear view. The majestic and overflowing Utah Lake was spread across the background accompanied by green hills and white peaked mountains. Patches of green ball fields and white school rooftops dotted the valley with black licorice running through each block. Rays of sunshine illuminated the Provo Temple while Center Street Down Town Provo enjoyed the shade of a cloud passing by.

It was a site we had never seen before and an experience we'll never forget. The journey gave me the chance to stop time for a moment and behold a place that has been raising my children for the past 7 years. The adventure, culture, flavor and most of all friends of this valley are priceless. It was nice to stand above it all and say, thank you.

Y hike the Y?

You'll see.