Closing thoughts on Summer 2009

Well, after 39 days, 11 states, 4 National Parks, and several other wilderness areas we're back home. So many new things and places on this trip... There are many places I already know I'd like to go back to in the future. That's the way it always goes - sometimes places you really want to go, once you see them you only want to go back!

I learned quit a bit about John Muir in Yosemite. Here's a quote that sums it all up:

"Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean."

Yosemite

Another place that has been on my list for a long time. Unfortunately, late August is not the best time to visit Yosemite. It was really hot (~100) and some waterfalls were barely a trickle. But, I'm glad we went and was very impressed - definitely will go back again!

Sequoia National Park

I've always wanted to see Sequoias - and I was not disappointed. Such amazing massive trees. Look closely at the pictures for points of reference (people, cars). We saw two bears, each with two cubs, in different areas of the park.

Big Sir

The beach at Pfeiffer Big Sir was beautiful, but really windy. Our campground was in the woods across the street, so much more comfortable there...

Monterey

The drive around Monterey was beautiful. The picture of Jason is during the day at the wharf- there was alot of smoke from the fire (actually worse than Santa Cruz). Once we got a little south of the city it cleared up quite a bit (my picture).

Sailing for Jason's Birthday

For Jason's birthday we went sailing...it was fantastic! I was pretty scared at first (really big swells), but the sailing was a couple hours, so I got more comfortable - they also provided wine which probably helped calm me as well :)

Santa Cruz

We spent two days in Santa Cruz. I loved the seals! There was an amazing view of the smoke from the nearby fire.