Vacation

Patty and I just returned from a road trip up the California coast and into Oregon. We hiked in redwood forests and stopped at desolate black sand beaches scattered with bleached driftwood. Sometimes you need a reminder of just how beautiful it is.

The picture here is of Patty about to climb one of the redwoods somewhere between Eureka and the Oregon border. Just kidding about the climbing part. But we did have an invigorating hike through groves of these great giants. That anyone is still cutting them down is nothing less than a sin.

And of course we worked out: One motel had an exercise room with a treadmill, stair climber, and stationary bike. We alternated push-ups, sit-ups, and Hindu squats with cardio. Then we found a gym in Crescent City where we could do our regular weights routine.

In some ways it’s good to be home. On the other hand, we found places that we know we’ll revisit. We also saw some that passed the I-could-live-here test.

Traveling the northern California coast? Patty and I couldn't recommend more highly Ravenwood in the heart of Redwood National Park. The tastefully decorated rooms are spotlessly clean and at the best rates you will find. We don't know how they do it. Nice people, too.