Hi Steve,
Most excellent report. Fond memories. I need to do it again.
One question for you. On you preperation you mentioned "the Panorama Loop via the Four Mile Trail". Is this the Panorama trail from Glacier Point to JMT/Nevada Falls, down to valley, and up the four Mile Trail?
I will be at Yosemite in Aug., and am looking for a hike of that aproximate distance, and will be staying near Glacier Point (Yosemite West). Seems most inviting.