Cali Trip Day 10- Art District, The Obscure, Cinema Rooftop Club

Just blogging my way through these memories is tiring. We did a lot. And all of it was fabulous. I couldn’t have had a better vacation. Definitely helped not being ill this time or having the anxiety of my daughter moving half way across the country.

Zoe planned a Sunday Funday for us. She booked us rooftop cinema tickets to a Halloween movie and a tasting at a new distillery in the Arts District.

We parked in a garage near the movie theatre and walked around a bit before heading to our tasting.

Had a food truck area, shopping and a few restaurants.

We walked down some not so great roads for a mile to reach the distillery. Definitely some great art along the way to entertain us.

I noticed some Lime scooters nearby and told Zoe if they were there on the way back we would take them instead of a taxi. They are definitely more fun!

We entered the Obscure waiting area and were given a card. Of course ours had a rabbit on it! A great sign.

They called us inside by tarot card. Then lined us up to tell us a bit about the place. It was started by some artists during Covid. It reminded me of how the world shut down and left so many without work. Admired how this group took the time to create something totally new. Shows optimism in the future and how imagination never dies.

Once inside seated it was an experience! Like nothing I had seen or done before. It was like being in a play. You could watch a cartoon artist sketching while the cocktail/mixologists educated you on the history of each drink.

This was the perfect place to take someone in LA.

The cartoon illustrator was amazing and sold some of his prints and originals.

At each table they lined up each alcohol to taste and then came around with a cocktail made from each of the tastings. We tried the pure form first, then experienced the cocktail version.

We were led out of the main room by group again after 3 tastings- rum, rye and a liqeuer, to grab our last tasting which was lined up along the bookshelf beside the candles. So dramatic, I absolutely loved it.

Then they led us to their newest area where we picked up the cocktail and then took a seat anywhere to enjoy.

Zoe and I went upstairs and I felt like I was in a Harry Potter library.

I purchased a print for Charlie’s Christmas present and had the artist sign it. I remember getting my daughters art when I travelled instead of a tee shirt or toys and I truly felt it had more meaning.

We scootered back which was a blast! I miss that free feeling. And we made it just in time for the movie.

We put blankets in the car and were able to get them to bring up for the perfect outdoor experience.

I mean look at this view! You got to watch the movie wearing headphones which was so great, you weren’t disturbed by anything around you. They need to do that in regular theatres! I watched the planes fly over us while enjoying every bit of the movie.

The place was packed and Zoe said they sell out when new movies come out.

Sad that it was our last vacation night together, but boy what a perfect way to end a fabulous trip.

Cali Trip Day 8- Griffith Observatory, Alama Cidery, and Spitz Mediterranean

We arrived back to LA Thursday mid day. We both had to work late to catch up from our amazing days off. We were exhausted as you can imagine and crashed hard.

Friday, although a bit drained, we decided to at least get out and see a few things. From the balcony of Zoe’s Koreatown apartment building, you can see the Hollywood sign and the observatory up in the mountains. I suggested we go there. Although touristy, something I wanted to see.

True LA view. Reminds me of the song….Randy Newman – I Love L.A.

We were hoping to catch the sunset so we left right at 5 to beat the rush.

The Observatory was packed. Buses were coming in dropping off visitors.

It offered an excellent view of the city.

We went inside but didn’t stay to read or learn anything.

I read recently on Instagram, my only news source, that the Hubble Telescope was aimed into the darkness for 4 months and they were confused by what it was looking at. And once the photos were received it was another galaxy that defies our known facts of physics. Look it up.

Tourists were lined up to get their photos taken with the wings and the Hollywood sign in the hills above. My Angel Baby A.

Then me with my new hat and borrowing Zoe’s tie dye shirt.

We started walking down one of the sandy trails but I didn’t have it in me.

I stopped and looked at the Hollywood sign and Zoe and I decided tomorrow morning we would wake up and hike to it.

As we walked back to our parking spot, we saw the trails coming up from the parking lots below which was free. Thought it was nice that they had this option at both entrances.

Sun was leaving us, but we knew the view with the smog wasn’t going to be much to admire so we decided to stop for dinner at the colorful joint we passed on the way in.

It was an interesting Mediterranean styled ‘everything but the kitchen sink’ type place. Was perfect. Even a little bit of lettuce to convince us that we were eating healthy.

Always love trying new quaint places. They were so busy with take out. That’s an entirely additional business.

Zoe had been wanting to check out a cidery near her house. Since it was still early we decided we could swing by there on our way home.

A terribly blurry selfie with delicious cider.

This was as big as it was. Super dark and moody inside with very friendly bartenders.

I noticed this on the way out the door and made me wonder what it was all about. Guess I will ask next time I’m there.

Cali Trip Day 6- Wedding Rock, Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek Trail, Lighthouse Trail Trinidad

The place we were staying at recommended Cafe Brio in Arcata for breakfast and they were not wrong. Expensive a bit, but well worth it. A great way for us to start our hiking day.

It was filled with a few tourists and college students. Last night at the cidery Zoe was asked if she went to the college there. We had no idea this was a college town. Guess Polytech is pulling in the crowds.

The breakfast spot was on the corner of the town square.

We drove around the square and then headed toward our first destination. We only determined where to go while eating breakfast= Wedding Rock.

We googled mapped our way to the trailhead. It was well marked and easy to follow.

Was a bit chilly and overcast but still an amazing view.

We went up one side first and then headed down the other side to plant ourselves on the rocks.

When I hike inclines I am happy that I am still able. Makes me want to get out even more to explore while I still have my physical capabilities.

Looking down. Wishing I wasn’t afraid of heights.

Steps led down to the other side which revealed even better views.

The color combinations and sound were enough to make you realize what life is about. Sometimes when I hike at such beautiful places, I feel like I have been blessed to be witness to this.

Trying to stay warm and catch Zoe in my selfie as she climbed down.

If you look at the rocks to the left, it looks like a couple facing each other. Hence the name.

We sat here for quite awhile. Just sitting. Zoe videoing and using her old fashion digital camera.

We hiked another trail but it led to Mussel Rock which wasn’t as interesting. It was interesting that there were tsunami signs which reminded me of Thailand.

I snapped this photo as we exited so I could remember where we were.

We drove north and eventually were officially in the Redwoods National Park.

We pulled over at a beach which we could view from the trail we were just on.

The look of the sand was darkly colored and had a unique texture. Small shellfish carnage could be spotted everywhere.

Directly across the highway from this beach was a tiny community tucked away in the evergreens. Zoe kept feeling like she was in the Twilight movie.

I love travelling with someone who loves exploring and pit stopping to soak in a new view. We got back into our Big Blue SUV and set the map to Fern Canyon. I read great reviews of it on Tiktok, people claiming it as a “must see”.

The road to get there was super narrow and winding. Zoe was driving and I just looked out the window at the view instead of concerning myself if another car would come barreling our way.

I snapped a shot on Google maps upon arriving. Basically in the middle of nowhere and yet in the best place you could be surrounded by nature.

I mean seriously the history of nature. It must be fascinating to study.

Walking into the canyon you are surrounded by ferns.

Ferns lined the walls of the canyon as we puddle jumped our way deeper in.

Selfie. I stole her hat. I was thankful for the pullover Dale and Angela gave me one night when it got chilly on their back porch. It travelled all the way to Cali with me.

Zoe needs to invest in a pair of hiking boots, she wore her wool socks and tevas. But I understand other wardrobe choices would be her priority in LA with all the events she attends. I was happy her footwear sufficed.

Trying to recapture the moment from the tall trees. I even tried to jump and nearly peed my pants laughing. Zoe would show me my face’ which was in serious concentration to lift.

Another red mushroom. They are huge. Most we found were not whole like this one.

Other shrooms showing off softly among the sticky branches and cones.

With all the moisture in this area understandably it provided for the ferns and the fungi as well.

We hiked another trail after emerging from the canyon to the beach. It was one of the best spots we found. I could’ve sat there all day.

This beach was so long. And the pebbles sprinkled throughout could of kept me hunting for hours.

Again. Look at that! The clouds, the pines, the beach and water. God /The Creator is beyond our tiny human comprehension.

Love the combination with the grasses separating the woods and the sand.

We weren’t sure where to go to next. But decided to hike Prairie Trail, another recommendation from our Airbnb host in Arcata.

I snapped a photo of this upon arrival in case our phone maps no longer worked once we got inside the woods.

We saw you could hike to Fern Canyon from here – only 4.6 miles. But later when we saw the sign pointing to the direction to go, it came with huge warnings about not being easy and making sure you were equipped properly. Debbie and I could’ve used that warning in Yellow Springs.

The trail was perfect. Easy. Picturesque.

There were several streams and you could hear the running water as you hiked. Was wonderful.

Almost looks fake this shot. As if a painting.

Many had burn marks which we later read they had been hit by lightning. But it created such an added palette, their wounds.

I felt like I couldn’t capture the feeling and kept taking photos in hope of later remembering their presence.

It was about this point when I started to slow down.

You could literally camp inside the tree base.

The other trees in the forest were equally marvelous with their curly moss like branches and vivid yellow leaves. I wanted to be sure not to overlook them and their contribution.

I wondered if kids felt the same awe as we did as an adult exploring here or if they always feel small so being surrounded by massive trees seemed the same.

One more time. Captured. I should do a collage of her fun jumps.

After we crossed the road it was just a little bit further to a documented tree. We decided it was worth it as we had already come this far.

It didn’t seem so big to me. But when I backed up to try to capture it with Zoe in front, it was like a skyscraper.

Spotting a heart for Anne. She’s the one person who pointed out the hearts in nature. Always interesting what each person brings to your perspectives.

Often times you felt like you were in a movie and the trees set the mood.

It was like touching an elephant. The beauty and texture of the skin/bark.

As we exited the trail we again saw an Elk warning sign. I really wanted to see one. It’s sort of like the moose warning signs you see in Vermont, but you never see one.

We got back in the car and were getting hungry. Zoe found a small restaurant in Trinidad that served mashed potatoes in a waffle cone. So of course we aimed for that!

Along the way, I started screaming ” elk in the water, elk in the water”- and we spotted a elk finally in its natural habitat in a stream by the highway. Was really cool.

After eating we drove around Trinidad a bit, there was a lighthouse which was a landmark. We found the beach and then decided to hike the Lighthouse Trail. Mind you, when we decided to hike this trail I imagined it to be very short and not steep. I was pooped from an already full day of activity.

We hiked up and were able to capture this view.

The sun was starting to set and it was a really beautiful hike.

Took you through a lot of covered trailways like this one.

It was an incline which my legs were no so happy with. But I knew this was our last night up here.

Acknowledging this colorful rock star standing out among the mud.

At the top of the trail was this cross with a lot of history which I did not take the time to read.

A view as we declined of the town of Trinidad
below.

Then we finally arrived back at ground level with the buoys.

On our way back to Arcata, we stopped at a Vista Point and were able to see a little bit of the sun set and a lot of seals in the alcove.

Those speckles along the shore are seals.

We breathed it in one last time. The scallops of the sand added to the lines in the sky.

Someone needs to write a book about the sun setting for kids. Like Goodnight Moon. But for the sun.

So true. It’s only when you get out of your car and hike do you really get up close to the beauty that surrounds us.

Cali Trip Day 7 -Vichy Springs Spa, Ukiah

Our trip to the Redwoods was amazing and now it was time to trek back to Los Angeles. It was not going to be as fun filled or adventurous as we had no stops planned along the way. But just like life, plans change. I love the quote, if you want to see God’s sense of humor, make a plan.

As we were driving we stopped for an excellent road side coffee where I purchased my new favorite crochet winter hat. ($20 hand made- Love)

Zoe saw a billboard about a missing person from the area where we got the coffee and she google searched the mystery surrounding it. Another murder mystery. Zoe was well into the middle of her book reading to me every night before I went to sleep. Such a loving gesture that will live in my heart forever.

Another billboard that caught her eye, one of a retro photo of a man wearing a bikini bottom advertising a champagne spring. Well we of course had to detour and take a look at what the heck that was all about. As everyone knows, I love bubbles! Drinking them, blowing them, you name it. Why not soak in them?

We parked and walked around a bit but there were warning signs about having to pay to get in and private property, yadayada.

I was curious what was in here. Eventually a woman popped her head out and asked if we wanted help. She told us about these natural springs dating back to 1854. Gave us a pamphlet.

I thought this would be great for George’s arthritis. Zoe was wanting to give it a test run, but bathing suits were required. I didn’t bring one with me on this trip. The woman behind the desk offered that I borrow one. She brought out a laundry basket of swim suits, all promised to be sterilized and clean 🙂

You know how hard it is to shop for a swimming suit. I was sure there wasn’t going to be any that would cover me right- but I grabbed two to try on and I paid the $35.00 fee to stay two hours at the resort. It was cold and rainy. The springs were not “hot” and were located in a covered outdoor venue. Challenge excepted.

We got a cute map of the place, in case we got lost. There were also hiking trails we could utilize if desired.

On our way to the pool house to change we passed these adorable cabins.

We walked over this bridge and landed in our first set of tubs.

Zoe was loving that Mark Twain sat his butt in one of them, I’m sure back then bathing suits weren’t required.

Tubs looked so ancient. You pull the pole out of one end and the spring water just naturally comes in and fills the tub.

Amazingly one of the swim suits fit. Perfectly. Probably better than any I personally purchased before. Life. Ridiculous sometimes.

Zoe capturing the moment. I was worried about getting my phone wet. Old fashion thinking with their new technologies.

The first set of tubs was for mineral water that was great for your skin. We sat in them for awhile until we got cold. I wore my new hat the whole time to stay warm. Then we wandered out in the rain and sat in the hot tub for a bit. That was awesome. I didn’t want to get out.

We then walked around and asked a couple of ladies if they knew where the champagne tubs were and they steered us in the right direction. Zoe and I shared a room with two tubs. This one functioned the same way, where you pulled out the pole and then the water filled up, but the water didn’t drain. Instead it overflowed onto the floor to the floor drain. We both scrambled to get our clothing up.

We were told this is a natural spring where the bubbles adhere to your skin and work their magic on your blood vessels to increase the flow. It was wild. Watching them attach. Definitely clustered more on my legs than Zoe’s.

We were told there are only 3 of these world wide but did not fact check. One was here of course, one is in Vichy France but you need a prescription to soak, and the last one is in Madagascar. This one in CA was allowed to remain open during Covid helping those that needed it.

After walking out I felt 10 lbs lighter. I can’t explain it. Definitely something went on in there and it was such a great experience. Happy Zoe convinced me to go.

The drive back was misty and cold. But the trees still showed off their beauty as we drove by.

We decided to stop and stay in SLO- San Luis Obispo. We drove through this town on our way to the Redwoods, but didn’t stop because it seemed really busy. We couldn’t find parking, so decided to just keep moving along. Later Rhonda told us it was parent’s weekend and that is a college community. Makes sense now.

She then recommended some of her favorite dinner spots there and we google mapped our way for dinner.

We travelled through Oakland but it didn’t help with the traffic.

I felt this traffic in this area was worse than any I encountered in LA.

The sun was starting to set. I was exhausted. Poor Zoe did most of the driving.

We ended up at this adorable Italian restaurant named Guiseppe’s. After 12 hours in the car, we were not looking quite proper but the server was kind and said everything is Caifornia casual.

After dinner we found our way to the Airbnb which was an adorable historically rehabbed carriage house named “Goddess meets Cowboy”. I loved it. Zoe read to me again and I passed out, not ready for the following morning when I would have to return to work.

I love how some people create the most perfectly charming places to stay for people like me. Airbnbs are so fun because the decor is purposeful and you can experience something you would never put in your own home, but yet enjoy for a night or two.

The next morning I woke up super early and took my computer outdoors to work while Zoe slept in.

Cali Trip Day 3- Pismo Beach, Dinosaur Park, Morro Bay, and Pacific Grove

I wanted to get an early start Saturday morning to avoid any traffic in LA and to reach our first stop in time for a brunch break. I planned this road trip taking the advise of Rhonda Glenn (Nomini), who I did gymnastics with as a kid and now lives in the San Francisco area. She texted me so many ideas! I started google mapping them out and then looking up Airbnbs so we knew where we could rest our heads.

Our first stop was Pismo beach.

As we got closer, Zoe googled best brunch place and that is where we headed. When we got there about 10 am, there was a line out the door.

After brunch we walked down to the shoreline. It was a cute typical beach community. A lot of families on vacation.

They were having a clam bake off on the boadwalk.

Was busy by the bake off. But not too much activity in the sand.

A very small community. We walked back to the car and picked up some amazing cinnamon rolls along the way. They were so good, we stopped on our way back to LA to pick up more 🙂

I read about Dinosaur Caves and it was only about 5 minutes up the road from Pismo. We pulled into the park and were amazed by the views.

We hiked down a trail that led us to several other viewpoints.

It smelled badly from the birds who made their home on the rocks. I wondered how I would feel if I was a millionaire and owned one of the beautiful homes in this small community but had to deal with the stink.

What an amazing place to live. The sound of the water hitting the rocks was more peaceful than coming up along a sandy beach.

Picture perfect. The textures and colors. Then we noticed the fisherman and wondered how the got down there.

Then we found the staircase but decided not to take the time to go down. We had several more stops before reaching our overnight place of Pacific Grove. Looked like another cave below to explore if you dared.

I didn’t want to leave this place and wished we had the time to just sit for hours.

I kept noticing how the sea guls were unafraid and were quite the posers.

We took off and wandered through the mountains to reach another small beach called Avila.

We walked around a bit and then headed out.

Felt like we got a little flavor of how the beach towns differed.

Next stop was Morro Bay which I read had sea otters. I didn’t know much else. Zoe and I were quite surprised by the massive rock which looked literally like an alien hide out of some kind.

We parked and walked around. Was a gorgeous day!

Another poser. The man sat down in perfect timing of me taking this shot of the bird. I loved them together.

The sea otters were so cute to watch. They were tough to capture in photos. But they floated on their backs and were constantly playing with each other.

The rock was massive and tough to capture in photos.

I made Zoe go stand by the sign to try to give it perspective.

As you rounded to the backside of the rock, people had made a stacked rock playground of sorts.

Zoe put together a stack of her own and posed by her creation. Everyone was leaving their marks.

The waves were quite dangerously crashing up along the shore and I worried for the ignorance of tourists who were getting too close.

I loved discovering this place. I would love to come back when time allowed.

Zoe mastered the selfie and tried to teach me. I’m still not the greatest but I love that she still believes I can learn.

This bird found the perfect perch. On this side of the rock were many families picnicking on the beach and even some swimming.

We continued driving down a one lane highway through the gorgeous mountain scenery. I kept saying how I had no idea how beautiful this state was. Its absolutely majestic naturally.

The colors of the tan mountains against the bluest of skies.

I hadn’t seen landscape like this before and was desperately trying to capture it through my passenger side window.

Then there were the farms. Miles and miles. Occasionally we would spot crop pickers wearing their sun shade hats bending over with their baskets. As if we were back in time. I wondered how their bodies endured such hard labor in the sun.

At one point I think Zoe got tired of my oohing and awe-ing

The layers. Who is the artist here. How can we not respect the source.

We finally arrived out our Butterfly Hotel in Pacific Grove. It was an adorable motel.

Was about a mile out of the main down town area. So beautifully decorated and cared for.

I wished I had packed a swim suit. They had a sauna and hot tub. Would’ve been great after this days long drive.

The sun was beginning to set and we saw the coastline was only about a mile away so we walked to the beach instead of driving.

Again stunned by the beauty and the rocky shoreline.

The waves and their chaos along the rocks was mesmerizing.

I didnt know when not to take a photo. Every way I turned was landscape I wanted to remember.

We kept walking toward the bend in the coastline. We had originally planned to drive and hike at Big Sur along the way, but were both so glad we decided to get here instead.

I enjoyed watching Zoe appreciate it as much as I did. Its nice that the apple did not fall too far from the tree in regards to adventure and love of nature.

The lighthouse was closed but the view from the beach was perfect.

As the sun set, the clouds offered their part in the reflection.

The birds created their own addition as they flew across.

Was so worth it. We felt so fortunate to have caught it.

I captured this older couple and then showed them the photo of their affection.

The sunset and the clouds. My new muse ever since Lake Waynoka.

Walking back the sky turned pink as the sun went under.

I could see myself here one day. Or at least for a few months. Even if all I can afford is vanlife.

This was the view of the golf course as we left. Players still finishing their game. I wondered if they appreciated it as much as we did. I wondered if those that live here continue to see or if they simply expect. My wish is that I never stop appreciating the miracles in nature.

Cali Trip Day 2- Los Angeles: Jean Basquiat Art Exhibit, Angel’s Flight Incline and Grand Central Marketplace

Friday evening Zoe purchased tickets for us to go to the Jean Basquiat art exhibit. I was super excited to be able to see his collection. We decided not to fight for parking and instead decided to ride the bus into downtown LA. It is literally a quick walk to the bus stop from Zoe’s place and a direct drive into the city.

I was completely entertained by the bus driver’s continual screaming trying to get everyone packed in. We were riding with kids coming home from school in their uniforms. They also allow dogs on the bus which is interesting. The driver was screaming warnings about the dogs saying they better be on leashes and asking the kids where they were headed. Everyone seemed to just ignore her. She yelled at me to let the people seated below me off, which of course I was going to move for them. It was an experience. I enjoyed it.

As soon as we got off the bus I was taken back by the architecture.

The movement of this building against the blue sky was amazing to me. Capturing the colored reflections in its windows. I nearly lost Zoe as I stopped in awe at some of the sites.

The Disney Opera house was equally interesting in an opposite fluid way.

This building was across the street from the gift shop when we exited the show.

LA is so different from NYC. It has so much more space around its skyline.

The entry into the exhibit. The exhibit took you through 4 different rooms where you were introduced to him as a person, not an eccentric artist, through the videos of his family and seeing his childhood art development.

His beautiful soul was revealed which I believe was the intension of this collection.

Was interesting to see his art which is still current. The struggles he revealed sadly still an issue in our society.

Zoe and I wandered separately interpreting it all differently from our own points of view.

I enjoyed his art and seeing inside his creative mind. He tends to cross things out which only makes you want to read it more. In a way chaotic.

Jean Basquiat was advised to keep one of every collection he painted, as an investment and that is what he did. A legacy his family continues to show.

After the art show we went to Otium right beside the Disney Opera House.

Not lying when I tell you both Zoe and I agree it was the best meal of our lives. Seriously go there if you are ever in LA. We shared a roasted chicken and curry carrots with coconut foam.

When it was time for dessert, Zoe noted that everything we had was the best ever, so we had to try the dessert too. And sure enough, it was by far the best dessert I’d ever eaten. Such an amazing mix of textures and flavors. Was called Somoa pudding.

After dinner we decided to walk off our bellies and wandered a bit.

We ended up on a rooftop of an interesting intersection of buildings.

The sun was setting and we admired the view of the streets below.

With wandering we discovered an incline. So we decided to take it to see where it went.

Was fun we were the only two riding on it.

The view looking up from where we started. There were several people at the bottom waiting to go back up.

It was a fun little discovery that neither of us had heard of before.

Directly across the street was the Grand Central Market. Had all sorts of food and beverage choices.

We walked through to check it out. Would’ve been more fun if our bellies were not already full.

We grabbed a draft beer and sat and listened to a music trio for a bit. Then decided to head back via the LA metro/subways. I loved seeing the public transportation. So proud of my kiddo who has figured it all out in order to survive out here without a vehicle.

Going down the escalator I captured what I found to be a beautiful geometric view.

Inside the actual station was surprisingly clean and empty. It was a quick ride to Zoe’s neighborhood and an easy walk home. We wanted an early night since at 6:30 am tomorrow, we were heading up the Northern coast of Cali!

Cali Trip Day 9- Silver Lake Brunch, Venice Sunset

Well the hike to the Hollywood sign did not happen. But we walked to this vegan restaurant instead in Silver Lake to get some exercise. We met up with Tiffany, Zoe’s coworker from New Jersey. She’s also a transplant to LA and works at BET.

Was another one of those cute joints with amazing food.

I love all the inclusion messages throughout California.

They are adorable and I’m so happy to have met her while I was here.

That evening we decided we would go to Venice Beach to spend our Saturday night. We headed to a beach bar that Zoe had heard of and wanted to check out. It felt to me like a spring break kind of place where I was certainly not necessarily needed 🙂 It was also Halloween so you can imagine the costumes.

We took a table outside to avoid the crowd and sticky floor. It was awesome people watching on the boardwalk.

We decided to walk the beach to catch the sunset.

The most beautiful lighting and moments. We were feeling it was our last few days together out here.

Honestly I love California. There is so much here to see and explore. I hope at one point I can spend more time.

We decided to head back to the shopping area where the SoCal Cidery was.

We decided to stop into a high-end cocktail bar where I partook in a mocktail. I was so tired and knew I’d be the one driving back to the city.

The outdoor seating area was entertaining.

Baby A with more energy than me. Oh to be in our 20s again.

I ended up dropping Zoe off at a friends house who lives nearby. They ended up going out late night, since it was Halloween weekend after -all. I drove my tired old butt back to her place but had to circle the block for 20 minutes to find parking. I was losing my mind. I crashed hard once inside and she came back after brunch the next day. We had big plans for Sunday. My last full day visiting CA.

Cali Trip Day 5- Hike in the woods, Avenue of the Giants, Ferndale and Arcata

After waking up in the beautiful treehouse, we decided to explore the area before we took off again. Zoe was the one communicating with the owners of this Airbnb and confirmed there were hiking trails on the property.

The sun was doing its best to shine through which we took as an excellent sign after our rainy chilled day yesterday.

It was nice to explore not knowing what views we would discover.

The sun peaking through the trees as if to tell us She knows we are there.

When there was a clearing we soon discovered we were on top of a mountain.

We had no idea since most of the drive was in the dark rain. It was amazing!

We saw intricate cobwebs throughout the hike. They are tough to capture but this one was perfect.

We also discovered red mushrooms and banana slugs.

Wasn’t too keen on the mountain lion warning sign, but I guess always good to be aware.

We had a long drive ahead with the goal of reaching our final destination of Arcata today. As we drove out of the farmer’s drive, we were chased by some dogs and squawked at loudly by the geese, but the cows in the road were the cutest.

We wondered if they would move when we got closer.

I dropped a pin to remember our location. I was low on gas and headed to Bodega Bay to fuel up. We didn’t spend much time there, but it was an adorable little town. Gas pricing was not so adorable there 🙂

We were on country roads for quite some time. Passed a ton of wineries.

Zoe took the wheel while I again oohed and awed out the windows at the scenery.

We started to hit the tall tree lined areas and felt covered in peace.

I kept leaning to take photos out the front windshield. It just didn’t seem to capture it.

I read that the drive up was worth it even if you didn’t stay to hike. I totally get that now. But couldn’t wait to get out and immerse myself in it.

Bucket list. Not that I actually have one, but this was for sure something I have always wanted to experience and so glad that I made it here.

So tall and majestic with their wisdom of what they have endured and witnessed.

We finally found a slight curbside place to pull over and we went straight into touch these trees! The smell of the forest is so fresh. Check out Zozo vs the giant.

This all was just along the drive called “The Avenue of the Giants”.

I was inside the tree taking a photo out.

Zoe and I went our separate ways at times.

Perspective of who we are in this world. These trees are said to be thousands of years old. We are lucky to live to 80.

I loved watching Zoe look up and feel small.

Leaves on the forest floor were equally beautiful. I still have my same hiking boots from my first road trip two years back.

My perfect capture of the energy and moment felt.

We hiked a trail that had a lot of fallen trees which was interesting to see their girth and length.

I ordered a free map prior to our trip of this area and kept losing it along the way. I finally smartened up and took a photo so I could see it later to determine our next move.

We exited the Avenue of the Giants and headed to a historic town called Ferndale.

The main street took pride in its fun decor.

I walked into a small shop and instantly fell in love with these shoes and had to get them. I almost gave up until Zoe found this pair in my size in the display window.

Adorable shopping here. Highly recommend a stop if ever in this area.

A historic inn. Every small town needs one.

A beautiful bed and breakfast in a restored Victorian home.

We still had another hour to drive to reach Arcata. Immediately upon arrival at our Arcata Airbnb we googled and found a cidery just a couple blocks away. Sounded like a perfect end to our non stop day.

Great little set up which sells pies during the day.

We both did tasters and then went back for more.

Baby A. How lucky am I to have her in Cali to give me the excuse to road trip there. I can’t believe I haven’t explored this coast sooner in life, but so glad she is.

Cali Trip- Day 4 Monarch Sanctuary, Bike Tour Carmel by the Sea, Treehouse in Bodega

We woke up early to start another full day of adventure. A bike tour was scheduled at Mad Dogs and Englishmen in Caramel by the Sea at 10:30 am. I got up and around and left the motel to check out the Monarch Sanctuary which was located on a small trail directly behind where we were staying.

Now I understood why our motel was named the Butterfly Garden Motel.

These spikey looking fuscia flowers caught my eye. A new plant I was unfamiliar with.

I was fortunate to have seen a man with a very long photo lense pointed up in this direction. He informed me these were the butterflies even though they appeared as tan leaves in the trees. He explained that they get their coloration from the sun. They were not quite “ready to fly yet.

I thought it was interesting but wished I could’ve been there a few weeks later when they were fluttering about. Would have been fascinating to see their flight.

When I got back to the motel Zoe was ready to go and we drove along the coastline on our way to Carmel by the Sea. It was overcast and looked like it was going to rain. We stopped by Sunset Beach where I parked parallel next to a van, blocking it in. An elderly woman jumped out of the van, with no teeth and asked how long I was planning to park there. I told her we were just taking a look and would only be a couple minutes. That satisfied her as she wasn’t planning on taking off until later that day. I saw my future in her van-life demeanor.

Loved that Zoe was wearing the overalls I made as part of my senior project in college.

I can see so much inspiration coming from this coastline.

It was the perfect season to go. Seemed desolate. I wondered if it was always like this.

We only walked a little way before hitting privately owned property. We headed out and saw many surfers lining up to catch the turbulent waves. Would have been a fun day to watch them conquer today’s surf challenge.

We google mapped our way to a pretzel shop Rhonda raved about. It was an adorable bakery. We purchased a few pretzels along with breakfast and sat and watched the Sunday crowds.

There was a quote above this photo that basically said that if the founders of Carmel by the Sea returned they would not be able to afford it anymore and would be mistaken as vagrants. This was written in 1962 so you can only imagine now with the million dollar homes, the judgement that would be cast onto them. I loved the reminder and the fact they placed this on their historic walls.
My understanding is this community was originally started by artists, who are never in it for the income, but simply following a passion.

Zoe found our bike tour on Airbnb but we soon took the conversation off their site and booked directly. Interesting how businesses use websites to help promote but don’t want to endure the fees when booking through them.

We were paired up with a group of 8 who all knew each other. As the tour progressed, we learned that they had all met on a vacation many years ago and get together at various locations every year since. I felt a little tension between some of the members and it was tough maneuvering our playful way amongst them.

Our first stop was to a Hansel and Gretle house which explained the original historic architecture of this city. According to our tour guide, this couple was one of the first to settle here and the woman had a doll collection. Her husband designed and constructed their home to look suitable for the dolls. He became a popular architect and his style is seen throughout the town.

The Hansel and Gretle home is now a historic landmark. They upgraded the house behind it to be livable and up to current codes.

It started to rain and it was fun but cold. Reminded me of Phuket and driving my scooter in the rain. We stopped by the courthouse to hear how there was no take- out allowed in this city prior to Clint Eastwood becoming mayor and changing a few rules, allowing ice cream to be eaten on the streets and to- go coffee lawful.

Interesting to hear how long this city kept community and eating inside a restaurant a priority.

I would stop occasionally and snap a photo and then catch up with my group who was pedaling way to slow to my liking. This was another home from the same architect. Hugh Comstock was his name. Of course one of the members in our bike tour’s house was designed by him. I was starting to see the wealth we were surrounded by and now understood the dynamics better.

Even though it was pouring we all voted to go up to see the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course. People were playing in the rain. Figured they were probably equally frustrated that they booked their tee time on the one day it was cold and rainy. We were told it only rains during the evenings.

We had gone quite a distance. I was beginning to wonder when the tour was going to end. It was definitely a great way to see the city and learn about it, but I was getting bored with the pace and started to get chilly.

Went down by the shoreline to see the infamous Frank Lloyd Wright’s ship home. This was one thing I wanted to see.

Surprisingly I much preferred this “Butterfly House by **Francis W.** **Wynkoop**.

I wish I had time to walk on the beach but in general felt I didn’t quite belong here.

Then we peddled up to Mission Ranch where there was a restaurant overlooking the bay. I am sure it would be beautiful on a normally sunny clear day. But the view was limited with the mist and overcast storm clouds.

It was peaceful and I can only imagine the history inside these walls.

This is a group shot of us by the shell mural. On the way back to the bike shop, one of the older ladies, who I suspected had slight dementia due to her coordination and inability to keep up- could not make it up a hill. The entire group rode on and I stayed back while Zoe got the tour guide to come back and help. None of the others knew how to directionally get back to the bike shop, and were stopped debating. I said I knew, but they started arguing, so I just pedaled ahead and at this point didn’t really care if they believed me or followed me. I got there. Eventually they did too.

Zoe and I drenched by the end of the tour. Had to change my pants in the back seat of the car in the parking lot. That was challenging.

In dry clothes we walked around a bit and shopped. I spent 40$ on a baseball hat to hide my wet helmet hair.

I started appreciating the thatched roofs and curved architecture I learned about.

And hearing how you should always wander down the alleyways.

We decided to grab lunch before taking off toward Bodega Bay where our treehouse was located. Good thing we did, because there wasn’t much to get along the way.

With occasional green broccoli like trees.

It was raining just enough to not be able to see and have your wipers on. The sun set quickly and next thing you knew I was driving down one lane windy country roads with no street lights or road lines. My stress level was sky rocketing. I was thankful the google maps was still working.

After going through three password gates and up a gravel road, we waited for the farmer to meet us. He then drove his truck down a narrower path over a creek and eventually to the treehouse. It was dark, wet and slippery. I just wanted to get inside.

He asked if we had a light, we admitted possibly not being properly prepared. We may not be cut out for this rustic stay. Inside there was no fridge or wifi, but remarkedly a shower and toilet. The kind accented host showed us a lantern we could use and how to use the electric heater.

We got into our warm jammies and sipped on the ciders and beers we packed while nibbling on the extra pretzels we bought earlier. Beer and pretzels- dinner of champions. We got under the covers and Zoe started reading a book she brought along. She read it out loud for my entertainment and I have to admit it was such a beautiful moment. Being read to. By a child I used to read to every night. I feel asleep to the words of her murder mystery.

The next morning was damp but the sun was coming through. I took a few photos to remember the place by.

It was so well done and such a fun stop along the way.

Zoe waving to me below. A memory for sure. One of many we are creating on this trip.

This was the quote we put onto the pint glasses we handed out at my mom’s celebration of life. Feel appropriate here as I continue to create road trip memories with my daughter.

Cali Trip- Day 1 Venice Beach, So Cal Cidery

Feels good to have a Saturday to just simply catch up on what I want to do. So I’m blogging about my absolutely fantastic trip to Cali last month. I teased Zoe that when I get older and senile, she can just set me up with a self reading program and put my blogs on from the beginning and I will be completely at peace listening to all these fantastic memories coming back to life. Its why I do it. For me. For my memory. I often still go back and read just to relive the journey. (and occasionally fixed those type-os I missed ) It keeps me looking and photographing in attempts to keep capturing those moments.

Thanks to the dollars brought in from my towel freelance work, I was able to afford another trip out to California to visit with Zoe. This time I was flying and careful about my rent a car dates in attempts to not repeat the costly mistakes of past. I am sure I will make several new mistakes, but repeating past ones is something I try to avoid in life.

I haven’t flown since last year and it felt good to be back in the air again.

The view from the window seat was awesome as we started to hit California. You could see the cloud coverage so clearly defined. America is truly beautiful. The change in landscape is so severe and magical to me. There are so many places I have yet to explore.

Some of the views from this high up in the air feel like heaven. I was happy to have a window seat, since lately you get random seating based on the price you pay for the flight and I seem to always end up in the back with my carry- on bag having to be checked in. May be worth the extra 50$ in the future to just pay for an assigned seat.

It felt great to be in the sun again. The nights in LA get cool and the days are just golden and bright. I honestly could see myself living out here one day.

I loved being back in Zoe’s studio apartment again and walking the neighborhood. She showed me how she walks to fill her water bottles and it somehow reminded me of Phuket life.

Zoe doesn’t have a car out there. Since I had a car, we wanted to explore as much as possible. We had a road trip planned up the coastline beginning early Saturday morning, but after work on Thursday we drove to Venice Beach. I hadn’t been there before and it is one of Zoe’s favorite spots. Whenever I check out her location on Life 360 she’s usually at Venice Beach or Santa Monica.

She took me to SO CAL which is her favorite cidery. We ordered a flight of mead and ciders and there wasn’t a bad one in the bunch. We sat facing the street and people watched for about an hour.

This place had such cute decor. Umbrella lined ceilings.

Cute instructions on making their ciders.

A beach vibe going through the hallway to the outdoor area.

We took a growler and a 4 pack of the Mexican Lolipop home.

We walked to see the beach. A shame it gets dark so early now.

This is a vegan burger joint with a play off the traditional Mickey Ds.

A very different vibe than some of the other beaches I’d been to. More youthful, fun, playful. Like a spring break feeling.

Tried to capture the beach but it was too dark. I wondered how they controlled the homeless beach bums as there didn’t appear to be as many as I expected.

Its quite a large beach and we only covered a small area.

We ended up grabbing a table here at the Great White. Highly recommend. Excellent cocktails and food.

After eating we nabbed a couple Lime scooters and rode our way back to the car. It was so fun. Just being out and enjoying life. Seeing new things. Breathing it all in.