We arrived in San Francisco a week a go and met Kate. The next day Fay showed us around, we went on a cable car down to Fisherman's wharf and had a wander, then got ready for our Yosemite trip.

We went to Yosemite with a tour group called the Green Tortoise. We got on the bus on the Monday evening and travelled over night to Yosemite. The bus was like a huge caravan, it converted to seats and tables, to 3 layered bunk beds!! I had an interesting nights 'sleep' as I was on the top and a little afraid of rolling off when the bus went round the corner!! We arrived early the next morning in the park and set up breakfast. We had a really nice group of people and we all got involved with the cooking and cleaning up. It was amazing what they could create out of food stored on a bus and a gas stove, we had peach pancakes, apple and cinnamon porridge, amazing fruit salads with mint yogurt dressings, thai green stir fries (u get the gist), all made from scratch. By far the healthiest I have eaten so far.

On the first day we were left to do as we pleased, so Kate, Fay and I went for a hike to the top of a stunning waterfall, it was hard work but well worth it. We spent the first night sleeping under the stars, but I paid the price and still have the bites to show it! I am hoping my red swollen bites all over my arms and legs will be gone by the time we go to Vegas but its not looking hopeful, it would seem I am not just allergic to horseflies!!

On the second day we went to Mono lake, a huge salt lake for a swim. Rather surreal in the boiling heat, surrounded by mountains that still had snow on top. We then went to Mammoth for another walk to see Devils pots piles, more of a stroll in comparison to the first day!! We also got to have a shower in the hot springs which was much appreciated by that point.

On the last day we went to Taullomey meadows, and then another lake for a lovely swim. Finally we went to see the giant sequoias, 3000 year old trees big enough to create a tunnel through that cars can drive through!! They were amazing, but unfortunately I gained even more bites! On the last evening, those of us that are 21 (ie. not fay) went to a saloon for a drink before heading back to San Fran over night.

We had one more day in San Fran when we got back so Kate and I went on a boat trip that took us under the golden gate bridge and around Alcatraz. We then did a bit of shopping before collapsing into bed, shattered after lack of sleep.

Hope you are all well at home,

Love Emma