Blue skies and white clouds above mountain forests enchant me as I feel my spirit soar. This dayhike was good medicine for me after being so restrained during the Pandemic. Still, was surprised to encounter so many hikers wearing protective masks even out here in the Cascades. Felt self-conscious, didn’t have mine, and understood being outside in the fresh mountain air was safe! Yes? Ah, found it a bit perplexing, I did.