BEST DAY EVER

BRIONES REGIONAL PARK 4/10/2010

2010-04-12T21:24:00.001-07:00

To a Buzzard a "Best Day Ever" is soaring through the sky on a clear day.........

waiting for lunch.

To a cow, a "Best Day Ever" is a green meadow to relax in.

To a child a "Best Day Ever" could be many things.

Discovering a mysterious room

Staring down a cow

or something as simple as finding a square rock.

Thank goodness we have the children to remind us that the simple things in life make the "Best Days Ever".

MT. DIABLO - FALLS TRAIL 3-27-2010

2010-03-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

I am sorry to announce that the "Best Day Ever Gang" has turned into a bunch of slackers. We have decided it is time to re-commit and get back into shape. However, in retrospect, choosing this hike as a starting point just shows that we are crazy and should be committed.

Tthis is one of our favorite Spring Hikes. We were about a week to early for the wild flowers this year, but when you time it right, they are beautiful.

These two are enjoying a spring walk, comforted with the knowledge that Easter is around the corner and not Thanksgiving.

When it comes to finding the perfect lunch spot, we still have it! Actually, I was sitting in the middle of the trail afraid I would fall if I moved. So it seemed like a good time for lunch.

Some things never change.

We had passed a group of hikers (and I use the word loosely) that were being one with nature while smoking pot. Now we are not prudes, ok maybe Polly is, however, one should not mix smoking pot and climbing hills. It would be extremely easy to fall and you may accidently take me with you. Use your head. That has been a Public Safety Announcement.

We all finished sore and exhausted but with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude that we were still able to make it. That feeling is what makes it a "Best Day Ever".

I'm Back!!

2010-03-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

After a long absence, by popular demand, I have decided to resurrect the Best Day Ever Blog. Ok, the popular demand is just my roommate, but she can be pretty demanding, so here goes.

First, I want to show you the family tree with the future Best Day Ever Gang.

Jenkinson Lake - August 17, 2009

2009-08-17T18:23:00.000-07:00

Cindy and Karen joined us today for an 8 1/2 mile walk around Jenkinson Lake which is located in Sly Park. This is a good place to go when your time is limited and you don't want to drive very far. An early start is a must because it can get very hot in the stretches where there is no shade. Cindy is now a full fledged member of the "Best Day Ever" gang, complete with voting rights.

The big controversy of the day was is this a nature walk or a hike? I came home and looked up the definition of both to see if I could find the answer to our question. Nature walk is defined as a walk on a nature trail, while the definition of hike is to take a long, vigorous walk; tramp or march, esp. through the country, woods, etc.

I don't think anyone worked up a sweat, but what some consider a walk may be considered a vigorous walk to someone else. The bottom line is as long as you are out walking and enjoying nature instead of laying on the couch, it doesn't really matter what you call it

We weren't the only ones enjoying the beautiful lake.

A word of advice, when nature calls while you are in the woods, it is always a good idea to make sure there are no bees in your pants before you pull them up.

If you don't heed that advice, you really can't blame those with you for laughing.

and laughing.............

That's not very nice.

It doesn't matter if you call this a nature walk or a hike, as long a you call it a "Best Day Ever"

MONTERA -MCKNEE RANCH AUGUST 8, 2009

2009-08-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

Polly and I did this hike about three years ago during our Everest by the Bay obsession. I remembered the mountain was covered with a variety of plants that were so pretty they almost looked fake. What I forgot was how steep portions of the hike were, how much poison oak there was, how little shade there was and hot it can get going up hill five miles without shade. I still love the hike, but will add it to my list of hikes that are best done in the spring. I realize it sounds like I am whining, but I'm not. I am simply documenting the facts so I don't forget next time.

It appears that Bart is very excited about participating in this weekends best day ever. However, in reality, the source of his excitement was his Friday night poker games. Apparently he won big and is giving Polly and Cindy a play by play of his winning hand.

After about an hour we finally had to remind Bart of the "no personal phone calls while hiking" rule. By then he had already called everyone he knew and a few people he didn't know and tell them about his big win at poker the previous night.

The hills were a glow with the pretty colors of the poison oak.

As steep as the hike was, we had had no problem going up hill at all. We are all in good enough shape that we can keep up with most hikers, young and old alike. However, going down hill, we were slipping and a sliding while the young hikers flew passed us. I asked the others if they knew why we were so slow when going downhill. Their answer was "because we are old". I felt sure their was a better reason and decided to study the young hikers as they passed us by. I was determined to figure out how they could be so quick without slipping and landing on their butts. After closely watching as they passed us by, I noticed they all had two things in common; 1) they walked with confidence and 2) they had a slight bounce in their walk. I decided to add a little bounce to my walk to see if it helped. Amazingly enough, it did and I was able to cut my slippage in half. As far as the confidence, I am very confident that if I speed up I will fall and am likely to break something that will take forever to heal because I am not as young as I use to be. That is not the same as being old.

Our planned lunch spot was located at the bottom of this trail. As Cindy started down the narrow trail, we noticed it was overgrown with poison oak. We decided it would be in or best interest to find a different lunch spot.

Not bad for a last minute change of venue.
.

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!

Finally something to distract Bart from his tales of last nights poker game. This is when he declared this his best day ever.

"Best Day Ever", I think that goes without saying. Don't you wish you had joined us?

GARY'S BEST DAY EVER

2009-07-23T21:10:00.000-07:00

Donna and Gary ventured out without me today. Gary found another "sanctioned" walk he could do in the area that would add to the stockpile of miles he has been collecting. It was a 10k walk that would take them through the historic town of Manitou Springs.

The walk also passes by the Cog Railroad which is where the Barr Trail begins. Gary said that he knew how much Polly and I really wanted to hike this trail and decided he would give it a try. He was determined to be the first in the family to compete this hike. I was stunned as he was telling me this. After all, this is a 12.6 mile hike and he would not receive any credit. Obviously Gary must be a little more competitive than we thought. I have to hand it to him, he must be in a lot better shape than I realized to consider even doing a portion of this hike.

Here are Donna and Gary at the trailhead right before they set out on their hike.

Here are Donna and Gary at the top of Pikes Peak not looking any worse for the wear. These are the only pictures Gary was able to provide. He told me he was very disappointed that he didn't have any pictures of the actual trail going up to Pikes Peak. Apparently the batteries in his camera went dead right after they took the picture at the trailhead. Unfortunately, he had to wait until he made it to the top to replace the dead batteries. Sounds a bit fishy to me.

Donna and Gary made it back to Manitou Springs. Gary decided he still wanted to compete the sanctioned 10k walk so he could get some credit for the day.

I almost forgot, according to Steven, he was so impressed that Gary made it to the top, he rewarded Gary by allowing him to drive the train back down the hill.

Garden of the Gods- July 20, 2009

2009-07-21T14:38:00.001-07:00

Donna and Gary met me in Colorado to check out the newest member of the family, Zoey Kathleen. Please feel free to call her Kathleen for short if you would like, it is after all, a beautiful name.

Donna and I had planned to hike a portion of the Barr trail, which is the trail that will take you to the top of Pikes Peak. Unfortunately, I am still recovering from last weeks fall and was forced to cancel that hike. Now that I am thinking back, Polly was a bit jealous that Donna and I were hiking that trail without her. You don't suppose....?

Donna and Gary are members of a walking club called Star Trekkers. Gary loves to walk and has no problem completing a 10k walk. However, there is one condition, he must get credit for the walk. When visiting new cities Gary looks for "sanctioned" walks so he can make sure he gets the proper credit. No credit, no walk. I'm not sure how it works, maybe the miles are like the blue chip stamps we collected years ago. Once he gets a book full of miles he can turn it in for something really nifty that you could buy at the store for $9.99.

Gary did his research and located an 11k walk through the Garden of the Gods,which is a beautiful place to walk with or without credit. He and Donna set out for this walk with only the clothes on their back and one bottle of water each. No, that was not a typo, they each only had one bottle of water for an 11k walk in 85 degree weather and an altitude of 6,500 feet .

Gary is hoping this will get him extra credit.

In the meantime, Alex and I were off on our own adventure. Our plan was to take the car and go find something to do. Instead we decided to take some of the little spur trails to see what we would find. After all, Alex had a hiking stick and had every intention of using it. He was determined to do some rock climbing and found the perfect spot for it.

Would someone take the camera away from Gary?

I am pretty sure Bart said the sun would set to the west................ or was it the east?

It didn't take Donna long to see the error of their ways. Realizing that if she went on, the buzzards were likely to find them before we did, she did the smart thing and gave Gary her remaining water and went in search of a cool place to wait for Gary to complete his walk.

Donna sent a rescue team with water to find Gary.

This is what a Colorado "Best Day Ever" looks like.

LOCH LEVEN JULY 12, 2009

2009-07-13T13:49:00.001-07:00

Polly, Cindy and I had just spent a wild weekend with our friends at a cabin near Donner Lake. I can't go into any detail because you know they say "what happens at the cabin, stays at the cabin". All I can say was a good time was had by all and we were ready for a good workout. This is Cindy's second hike with us, a couple more hikes and she will no longer be considered a guest. She will become a member of the "best day ever gang", however, it will take a while longer before she is given decision making power.

Our hike today was Loch Leven and yes, it is my favorite hike. Loch Leven is located right off 80 about 20 minutes west of Donner Lake. It is a seven and a half mile hike and takes you to three beautiful lakes.

Loch Leven offers a little bit of everything. The hike begins in very rocky terrain.

But quickly turns to this lush greenery.

Before you know it you are headed into what feels like a rain forest.

The only problem with allowing Cindy to join the best day ever gang is she never gets dirty. That makes the rest of us look bad.

Cindy got to experience natures obstacle course.

Unfortunately I tripped over a rock. As I hit the ground I felt a rib pop and for a brief moment thought we would be calling for that Ranger Rescue. Luckily that was not necessary. No worries, there was no permanent damage, but we were forced to cut the hike short and didn't make it to the upper lake to our favorite lunch spot.

Since we were so close to the middle lake, we settled and ate lunch there before heading back to the car.

Somehow this doesn't look like we settled?

A nice swim in the lake would really make this a best day ever.

Lake Tahoe Rubicon Trail July 6, 2009

2009-07-07T15:10:00.000-07:00

Polly and I decided that a quiet day was needed to recover from the lovely weekend we had just endured, I mean enjoyed. So we left everyone behind and headed to Lake Tahoe to explore a new trail that she and Bart had discovered the previous weekend. It is approximately a two hour drive from Polly's house, but worth every minute. Polly had warned me that it was a fairly flat hike, but was so beautiful that you forgave it's lack of incline. I am not sure where she went hiking last weekend, but it couldn't possibly have been this place. It was indeed beautiful, however, far from flat. This is my new favorite hike and will be until the next hike. My favorite hike always seems to be the one I am on. The only negative was the allergy attacks we both had. I would highly recommend taking allergy medicine with you even if you do not normally suffer from allergies.

I am sure they don't mean me.

We learned a new terminology this week, PUD. Can anyone guess what a PUD is? When beginning a hike, PUD's are fun. By the time you get to the end of a 12.5 mile hike, you will be making every attempt to avoid the PUD's.

The trail takes you around the lake, so you have an amazing view from start to finish.

We came across a bench that overlooked the lake and decided we should stop an enjoy the view. As soon as we sat down Polly spotted an Osprey enjoying his lunch on a tree right in front of us.

You have heard of tree huggers, Polly is a tree sniffer. According to her, the tree smells like butterscotch. It appears to be catching on as she had other hikers sniffing trees as well. Personally, I was looking for the candid camera.

This is one of those hikes that you can't wait to do again. From start to finish, this was a best day ever.

2009-07-05T15:27:00.000-07:00

Best Day Ever? Today our destination was the American River Bike Trail. We had planned to take the kids on a three to five mile walk, another family fun day. If you read about our last family day, you already know how much work they are. You may even recall that I confessed to scheduling our last family day when I thought I would be out of town. Don't get me wrong, I love our family days, once we get going.

I believe everyone should be encouraged to participate and for the most part everyone enjoys family fun days. However, every once in a while, someone decides they don't wish to participate. If you are ever planning a family day and someone is insistent that they don't wish to participate, I would advise leaving them home. If you are already on your way when you realize they really don't want to go, I would stop at the nearest bus stop, open the door, gently but firmly push the individual out of the car and drive off quickly without looking back. This may sound like drastic measures, but in the long run it is the kindest thing you can do for all participants.

It was so touch and go there for a while that a couple of people even tried to fly away with a passing flock of birds.

As always, I will use discretion and not identify any of the annoying parties.

Skyler finally gets to try out her new hiking digs. Now that is the only way to travel.

They look like they are in trouble already. I think they forgot to put their dog on a leash.

After our walk, which was cut very short, we all piled in our cars and silently drove to a friends house for an afternoon of eating and swimming. Everyone had a great time and the day was salvaged.

We survived Saturday which couldn't have been too bad because it is now Sunday and we are all together again to celebrate Katie's XX birthday.

This is our hostess reminding us of the importance of always wearing protective gear when cooking.

Katie is blowing out her pretend candles. We were afraid to light real candles now that she is XX.

Now we are talking fun!

Reminder: Best Days aren't always obvious, but if you look hard they are always there.

MT. TAMALPAIS - JUNE 13, 2009

2009-06-14T07:06:00.000-07:00

Today’s adventure was Mt. Tamalpais. This was the hike that got me hooked several years ago and is still my favorite hike. There are several trails which allows you to “create your own hike” each time you go. Today we began at Muir Woods, which has a mile long ADA compliant Board Walk. This is a popular place for tourists to come to see the California Redwoods. The park charges a fee of $5 per person to enter at the Board Walk. Since this is one of God’s most beautiful creations, it is well worth the price. If that isn’t enough to get you to fork out the $5, there are clean restrooms you can use before you begin your journey. For those of you that still don’t want to pay the $5, there are several other places you can begin your hike without having to pay anything.

Before we go any further, I should warn you that there are some very disturbing photos that may offend your sense of fashion. I would like to take this opportunity to explain why someone would go out in public dressed like you see me today. When hiking, it should be all about comfort and safety, not fashion. Proper hiking attire is important and is not cheap. Shoes with good support are a must. The shoes I am wearing are like walking on a cloud. These shoes retail for $120, however, if you are willing to purchase them in baby poop green, the price drops to $30. Bugs flying in your face as you walk is very annoying. To remedy this without spraying your face with bug spray, you can purchase hats treated with insect repellant. These hats can get pricey, unless of course, you are willing to wear the lovely green hat you see me in, which was only $14. The sun is brutal out there and it is important to be protected from the sun’s evil rays. To avoid sunburn without constantly re-applying sunscreen, you can wear shirts and pants that have built in sunscreen and as a bonus are treated with insect repellant. Once again, these can get very expensive. However, if you keep your eyes open these items can be purchased for next to nothing. The shirt I am wearing was reduced from $75 to $15 and the pants from $90 to 30. At those prices does it really matter if they are in your size or if they match? Ok to recap: shoes $30, hat $14, shirt $15, pants $30, the day hiking in comfort priceless. Bottom line, I haven't lost my sense of fashion, I am just cheap.

The unfamiliar face you see with Polly is Cindy, our guest hiker today. She was invited on a seven mile hike which turned into a twelve mile hike. This change of plans didn't seem to phase her at all. We did hear her whine once when she saw the hill we were about to climb. The ability to whine at the appropriate time is very important in order to fully enjoy a hike. Cindy proved that she knew exactly when to whine and therefore has been granted an open invitation to go hiking with us anytime.

All avid hikers know the importance of a good stick. All eleven year old hikers believe if one stick is good, three are better.

Our quest for the perfect lunch spot was a huge success today.

Does anyone know what to do if a snake is spotted but disappears into the bushes before you were able to determine if it was poisonous? Why, you try poking at it of course. If you are lucky and make it mad enough, it will fight back and show itself which will give you the opportunity to properly identify it. Please do not try this unless you are a trained expert like we imagine ourselves to be.

I believe that smile on Polly's face means she senses Bart is get ready to give our guest his lecture on finding your direction by reading the sun. If I am reading Polly correctly, she is about to ditch CIndy without a word of warning.

Do I know my sister or what?

That's right Cindy have a seat. This could take a while.

I believe someone was trying to impress that pretty girl.

Mt. Tamalpias offers everything needed for the perfect hike.

You have the ocean view.

The man made obstacle course.

natures obstacle course.

and a place to take a break from adults.

You never know what you might see.

Somebody needs to tell him he is not taking that bear home.

.

There really isn't much left to say. It is impossible to stand in the middle of these woods and not say it was the best day ever.

Can you identify these two people? Two among us took a tumble today. Since our hiking rules state if there is no proof such as a picture of the incident, the fall doesn’t count. However, I believe if you look closely enough, you can see the dirt on their pants where they hit the ground. Since this is circumstantial and not proof positive, I am not allowed to disclose the names of these two individuals.

SAWTOOTH TRAIL - 5/16/09

2009-05-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Knowing that it was supposed to be well over 100 degrees in Sacramento today, we decided to find a cooler place to go hiking. Our first choice was Loch Leven, however, there was still 5 feet of snow there. Determined to hike in that area thinking it would be cooler, we searched the internet and came across Sawtooth Trail. This trail is located a little southeast of Truckee, is a nine mile hike and is rated moderate. A perfect hike for a hot day. We planned on leaving early enough to begin our hike by 9:00 so we could finish before it got hot. Karen and I met Polly and Bart at Raleys at 7:30 as scheduled. We got what we needed from the store, jumped into Polly's car and headed down the road. After driving what seemed like a very short distance, I reached in the back of the car to get something out of my backpack. I am sure you know where I am going with this, the backpack was not there. It was in the trunk of Karen’s car, which was parked at Raleys. OOPS! If it had been my lunch or my water, I would have gladly sacrificed and done without. However, I was wearing flip-flops and my hiking shoes were in my backpack. We immediately turned around and drove the short distance back to Raleys to get my shoes. Normally I would have pointed out that Karen knew that my stuff was in the trunk of her car and she didn't think about it or that Polly and Bart knew I needed to bring my hiking equipment and they didn’t notice that I didn’t have it either. However, since they were all such good sports about the whole thing, I will not mention any of that and will take full responsibility for the hour and forty minute late start we got this morning.

I was told that if I did not provide an accurate accounting of our morning, my co-author would. Therefore, I would like to point out that what seems like a short distance to one person, may seem like half-way there to another.

As I am sure you have noticed, we have a new guest hiker today. Karen isn't really a new. She has been hiking with us before. The first time she went with us, we got lost and made her eat her lunch as we walked so we could make sure we made it back to the car before dark. Karen isn't crazy about getting lost so it took quite a while to talk her into going with us again. Not really a good day for me to mess up but I am sure she will not hold it against me.

After the necessary preparation, we are finally ready to begin our hike.

I don't think I am even to ask.

I didn't even make it on the trail before tripping. Is it possible I was pushed?

The first thing we noticed was the lack of shade. We could see snow on the surrounding mountains, yet we were going to roast. Of course the others were quick to remind me that had we gotten started earlier, we could have been finished before it got hot.

Oh no, he has Karen cornered.

I told you Karen didn't care which way the sun was setting.

Look who joined us!

There was a nice view of Truckee, but it seemed safer to take a picture of Bart looking at the view than to go out on the edge and take a picture of the view.

We found a great lunch spot that actually had some shade. Of course, I was forced to sit alone and think about all the trouble I had caused. It's ok, I deserved it.

This is not a must do hike for me again, however, I was the only one that didn't care for it. The terrain is very uneven and it was lacking in shade. There were a couple of times thought I would have to exclude this from the best day ever category. The first was the moment I realized I didn't have my backpack and the second was when I thought we ended up at the wrong parking lot. I had no intention of taking another step. Somehow we ended up on the wrong trail (I know, what a surprise) but ended up in the right parking lot. When we got to the car Polly and Bart pulled out an ice cold beer for Karen and I. It felt like we were in a beer commercial. You know good friends, good times. So when all was said in done, this did turn out to be another best day ever

MT. DIABLO - FALLS TRAIL 5/9/09

2009-05-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

The Falls Trail is a must do every year. We usually try to do this one in the early Spring while there is still water to fall and the wild flowers are still in bloom. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it early enough for the falls, but there were still lots of wildflowers. We picked a hot day to hike this trail and there isn’t a lot of shade. Whatever were we thinking?

We immediately ran across some sort of strange, scary creatures. It turned out to be some actors filming a dream scene for an independent movie. How would you like to run into him alone in the forest?

Here is another scary looking guy. About five minutes after Polly and I explained to Bart why we didn’t like to go in the bushes on this hike, we ran across this little fella. Did I mention that it was hot?

This weary butterfly decided to hitch a ride on Bart’s backpack.

That butterfly may be on to something. If she can hitch a ride, so can I.

See Polly, if you look at your shadow, that will also help you know which direction the sun is going.

Does this look like the face of someone who cares which direction the sun is going? And if you are so smart, why doesn't the dog have a shadow?

Lunch anyone? This guy followed us all day waiting to see who would drop first.

Ahh, shade at last.

Back to the car and the end of another best day ever,

bestdayever

2009-04-01T21:03:00.001-07:00

FAMILY DAY AT ROCKVILLE - MARCH 28, 2009

2009-03-27T21:47:00.000-07:00

Today is family hike day. Family days are wonderful, but let's face it, they are also hard work. You put in a couple of hours packing the car. Then you have to drive to the trailhead. Once you arrive at your destination everything must come out of the car. It has now been five hours since breakfast and you still have to find the perfect lunch spot. Oh, and don't forget to apply the sunscreen and insect repellent before you get started. I am sure you get the picture. That is why when I scheduled this family hike day, I thought I would be out of town.

Ok mom, I'm ready, now where's the snow?

Let me know when the fun begins.

The second Bart lifted his walking stick and pointed towards the west, Chloe and Jeremy knew they were about to get the "sun talk". In an effort to escape they quickly scurried up the side of the mountain.

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.

Word quickly spread in the underground community to stay put, no one was safe.

This lonely lizard was looking for a friend. He planted himself on Jeremy and made himself at home. It wasn't easy explaining that eventually he would need to let Jeremy go..

Public Service Announcement: This was a catch and release hike. No animals were harmed in the filming of this blog.

You're in big trouble mister.

That's right, you go your way, I'll go mine and my dad won't have to smack you down.

I am at a loss of words on this one. The only possible explanations for her unusual behavior is her failure to take the Organic Chemistry class in college. Rumor has it this oversight has resulted in her being banned from a well known candy store. Had she taken the class, she would recognize the nutritional value of sugar. I have been trying to tell her that all along. Maybe she will listen now.

Chloe was not having a good day until two wonderful things happened. First she fell and skinned her knees which meant that band aids would be necessary. Then during lunch, Bart pulls out a bag of candy (thanks Kelly). When you are three, there is nothing that can turn a bad day into a best day quite like a couple of band aids and a bag of candy.

Those of you who think that it is all about where you eat and not what you eat have obviously never tried the gerber sweet potatoes.

Colby's first "Best Day Ever" smile

While watching Chloe reluctantly eat her lunch so she could have the candy or as she calls it, her treat, it suddenly occurred to me that family day was like the candy. Once you get through the unpleasant tasks necessary to prepare for the day, there is nothing left to do but enjoy the treat and have the "Best Day Ever"

A PRELUDE TO A HIKE

2009-03-23T12:35:00.001-07:00

When we found out we would be spending the night in wine country, we knew wine tasting was in our future. When we arrived in Napa and saw this view, we knew it was going to be a great day. According to Earle, our host for the weekend, wine is not worth drinking if it doesn't come with a story. I like that, however, I would like to add that wine isn't worth buying if the person pouring doesn't inspire a story.

Our first stop of the day was Laird Winery. We enjoyed the wine, but enjoyed the pourer even more. He loved to tell jokes and kept embarrassing himself. He was trying to send us off to a winery that sold vine-agra. Apparently the wine is sold in large bottles only which he found very amusing. He may have made the whole thing up, but we had a good time listening to him. There was a $10 tasting fee, however it was waived if you made a purchase. The wine was very good so we came home with a couple of bottles and a couple of jokes. When we pop the cork, we will have an amusing story to go with the wine.

Monticello Vineyards was our next stop. This is one of those unmemorable places. The wine was fine and the pourer was pleasant. The problem was that when you were finished your tasting there was no story to tell. In all fairness, the gentleman from Laird was a hard act to follow, but without a story, we could not purchase this wine.

Our next stop was Stags Leap Wine Cellars and a very quick stop it was. The tasting fee was $20 and consisted mostly white wines. Since we prefer red we decided to pass on the tasting. We had glanced at the wine list and realized we couldn't afford do much but smell the wine anyway.

Our next winery will remain unnamed. I don't even remember how the wine tasted. I just remember the guy pouring the wine was personality challenged. I vowed that before we left the winery, I would make him smile. Well, we didn't have all day and there is only so much you can do. He never smiled and I was throwing some pretty funny stuff his way. A tickle attack seemed a little extreme, so I gave up and bought a bottle of wine. After all, he did make a good story. I guess I should get some more clarification about the type of story that goes with wine. Seriously, do white wines have a different criteria than red wine. Do you need a light hearted story for white wine and heavier story for red. Just something to ponder.

Paraduxx is one of those wineries everyone should visit once. The pourers were very professional and would have been out of place telling viagra jokes. The wine tasting is $20, but you get a flight of wines (get it, par-a-ducks, flight of wine) and some cheese and crackers.

Once you have ordered your wine, you go outside, have a seat and enjoy yourself while waiting for your wine and cheese to be delivered. The wine is a bit pricey, but very good. We pooled our money and bought one bottle. I received physical custody of the wine and they received supervised visitation. We decided to save the bottle for a special day. It is my understanding that the person with custody gets to decide what is special and what is not.

Murphy Goode is the only winery that we had previously been too. They make the best Petite Verdot. Unfortunately, you can only purchase it at the winery and they seldom have it. We called first to make sure they had some in stock. We lucked out today. They only bottle 400 cases a year and the wine club members get first pick. I discovered Murphy Goode about four and half years ago when Karen and I went on a sip and cycle for her 50th birthday. Wine tasting on a bike makes for a fun story to tell while sipping a glass of their wine.

Our last winery of the day was Geyser Peak. We drove into their parking lot a little after five. Someone had forgotten to lock the door and Bart made it in. Need I say more? They were gracious enough to stay open late and let us taste some of their wine. It was the first time I had ever done express wine tasting. Someone had recommended that we go there and insisted they had the best Malbec. I don't know that it is the best but is is very good.

We ended the day by joining the rest of the group for dinner. We have our wine, our stories and another "Best Day Ever" I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings our way.

ROCKPILE

2009-03-23T06:45:00.001-07:00

ROCKPILE -MARCH 21, 2009

2009-03-21T20:17:00.001-07:00

I wasn't sure why our destination was called the Rockpile but after having spent some time with Earle, I knew there had to be a great story behind the name. Imagine my surprise when I learned it was simply the name of the street he lived on.

The tall building to the left is the "cottage" we spent the night in. I know, it was a sacrifice but we survived.

To make sure we were mentally prepared for the day, we took the time to sit outside and watch the sunrise.

Today we wouldn't be hiking any further than Earle's backyard. However, before we even set foot on the trail, we could tell that today would qualify as the "Best Day Ever." The truth is there were so many "bests" today that I decided to list some of them.

The best tour guide award must go to Earle. I have never met anyone that knew the technical name of every flower and plant they saw. Impressive to say the least. The downside is it is very hard to take notes while hiking. I have decided that since Earle took so much time sharing his knowledge with us that a test is in order. Therefore, I will be sending him the pictures I took of the flowers to see if he remembers what he told us.

Polly looks like she is paying close attention. Maybe she should take the test with Earle.

Susie gets the award for the best trail namer. So far she has Dead Mouse Pond and Granny Hill. I think she has a knack for it and should make a map of the trails. Our first suggestion was for her to make trail signs. However, Earle has declared this a no trail sign zone. I think that is so once visitors leave, they can't find their way back.

Wayne gets the best water event award. We had been told that if we looked closely we might be able to see some turtles so Wayne decided to go down to the stream to get a closer look.

Well, you can’t get much closer than face down in the stream. Wayne’s story is that he was snorkeling. Personally, I thought it looked a little more like a slip and slide.

Wayne, may I suggest that the next time you go snorkeling you try a wet suit and water proof camera.

The quickest reaction award goes to Bart. While I was watching in horror as Wayne tumbled into the stream, not quite knowing what to do, Bart sprang into action. Without any hesitation, or concern for his own safety, quick thinking Bart pulled out his camera and starting shooting pictures. Thanks Bart, you' re my idol.

The best obstacle course event goes to Polly. This is Polly falling out of a tree. Luckily for her, the tree was laying on the ground. I am not sure what happened, but one minute she was on the tree, the next minute she was under it.

Susie was nice enough to help her out. Personally, I wanted to see how she was going to get herself out.

Best strategic move goes to Dana. I believe she is walking away from her husband and leaving him alone to listen to the weekly lecture on finding your way by reading the direction of the sun. Note the smirk on her face that is saying I love you honey, but out here in the wilderness it is each man for himself.

Ash is always the best mascot. Today he very graciously shared his mascot duties with Scotia.

The best moment goes to the sunrise. Actually, there were several best moments for me today. Watching Wayne fall into the ice cold stream and Polly falling out of the tree were both very high on my list of best moments. However, sitting outside this morning with a cup of coffee, watching the sunrise is moment truly deserving of an award.

We finished our hike by noon and headed back to the cottage for lunch. Who would have imagined that a cottage would qualify for the best lunch spot award.

Best hosts award goes to Earle and Susie with a special thanks for making today "The Best Day Ever"

SALMON FALLS - MARCH 14, 2009

2009-03-15T02:52:00.000-07:00

Salmon Falls is another under appreciated hike done only when we are running short on time. A perfect springtime hike and only a quick 30 minute drive from Sacramento. This is an up and back hike, so you can make it as long or as short as time permits. Today, time only permitted an eight and a half mile hike. The problem with an up and back hike is that once you turn around, the hike is over and you are just walking back to the car. So while we hiked over eight miles, it was really a four mile hike and a four mile walk back to the car. If you hike, you know that the longest part is the walk back to the car. For this reason, I avoid doing up and back hikes whenever possible. Silly I know, but that is how I feel.

The one advantage to an up and back hike is that you get to view everything from both directions.

Hikers and Bikers share this trail. There are parts of this trail that look so dangerous you would never catch me on a bike there.

Ok, so the truth is you would never catch me on a bike on any trail. The point is, you must have nerves of steel to ride your bike about the first half mile of this trail. I believe my daughter still has her x-rays that show how dangerous it can be.

It is really to bad that poison oak is poisonous. In the spring it is absolutely beautiful. I would love to plant some in my backyard but am pretty sure that if I did the grandkids wouldn't be allowed over.

When you are out on a hike and nature calls, one usually finds a bush to hide behind. Word of caution, if you ever do need to hide behind a bush it is important to make sure there isn't a trail right behind it. If there happens to be a trail, at the very least you should make sure there isn't a hole in the bush. I am not naming names, but some poor biker ended up with a view of more than he bargained for.

The solitude often experienced while hiking gives you the opportunity to clear your mind of last weeks clutter so you can start next fresh.

So to recap the day, easy hike, short drive, poison oak was beautiful, someone got mooned, yep all adds up to the best day ever.

FORESTHILL March 7, 2009

2009-03-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

Foresthill is one of our "Gee we need to get ten miles in but really don't have much time today hikes." We usually do this hike three or four times a year. There was one year we only went once. We had crossed paths with a father and son that looked like they were extras from the movie Deliverence. The two men were out hunting squirrels. We were pretty sure if they didn't shoot any, they would just go out to the highway and scrape up some roadkill. Polly felt that this was no longer a safe place to hike. The ban on Forest Hill only lasted one year. This is officially categorized as a "sissy" hike. However, as we get older we have discovered that yesterday's sissy hike may be tomorrow's killer hike. For that reason, we have learned to keep our thoughts to ourselves regarding the difficulty of a hike. That is of course unless someone has too much to drink after a long day of hiking with friends who act like they just climbed Mt Everest without breaking a sweat. Then all bets are off.

This can be an extremely dangerous hike. The trail is used by hikers, bikers and horses. Proper etiquette is essential to keep from getting plowed down.

And if you survive the bikers, you have these guys to worry about.

We always take plenty of food with us when we hike. After all, we are out in the wilderness for five or six hours. Without proper nutrition, we may not make it back to civilization alive.

The burden of hauling the food in and out is normally shared by everyone.

However, there does seem to be one among us who has turned into a bit a of a slacker. Can you guess who that is?

I could soar like a bird too if the only thing I had on my back was a bottle of water.

We found the perfect lunch spot by a trickling stream. Unfortunately it was almost right on the trail.

It did give us an opportunity to to visit with others as they passed us by.

We were finished with our hike by 2:30. With only a 45 minute drive home, we were left with plenty of time to prepare for our evening festivities. Today was truly worthy of being called the best day ever.

2009-02-23T02:20:00.001-08:00

TILDEN REGIONAL PARK 2/21/09

2009-02-21T21:04:00.000-08:00

This park is only about 80 miles from Sacramento and a very easy drive. If we hadn't spent 30 minutes roaming aimlessly through the neighborhood, it probably would have taken less than an hour and a half to get to the trailhead. However, I must say, If you have to drive aimlessly, this is a great place to do it. The houses are all unique and fun to look at. I often wonder if mapquest leaves one street out of the directions on purpose just to give us all a new adventure.

It would be very hard to get lost here. The trails are well marked, however without a map, you aren't quit sure what the marking means.

Did you ever wonder what a human antenna looked like? Bart, a little more to the left please.

Run Polly, I can feel another "how to know where you are by reading the sun" lesson coming on.

Thanks a lot. I told you to run. Now we are both are going to have to listen.

Good idea, just point in the same direction and nod your head yes.

I can't tell, is she catching him or knocking him down?

I think this was Polly's Best Day Ever moment.

For those of you that wonder why anyone would keep their hair so bright, this is why. Out in the wilderness it shines like a neon light and will make it easier for rescue plane to locate me if ever necessary.

Kind of creepy isn't it?

There was no need to search for that perfect lunch spot. There were picnic benches all along the way.

And a nice lake for the dogs to cool off in. I hope Ash doesn't see this. He will wonder why he wasn't invited.

This was really more like a nature walk than a hike, but It was exciting to see all of the families enjoying the great outdoors. This is a great place for kids of all ages. We saw kids on their bicycles, tricycles and strollers. There were animals for the children to see and touch at the beginning of the trailhead and a little play yard for them to climb around on.

This is the face of someone who took a nasty tumble and just wants to go home. Luckily, the camera was in my pocket at the time so there is really no proof. Now, I'm sure you are wondering how this face could say this was the Best Day Ever. I was wondering the same thing.

So I will leave you with these happy faces instead. This really was one of the best days ever.

LOST IN BRIONES

2009-02-10T20:50:00.001-08:00

LOST IN BRIONES

2009-02-07T22:32:00.001-08:00

I bet next time Bart just says yes dear.

It is amazing how three semi fashion conscious women can throw out all the fashion rules on hike day. Oh well, I think we still look good.

We began the hike with great anticipation of what new discoveries we would make along the way. We already knew it was going to be a great day.

Who wants to tell Bart that this isn't a bus stop?

Dana are you suppose to be touching things?

After making nice with the wildlife, Dana stops to give directions to one of the locals.

Wait he wasn't alone. Look Out! Stampede!

Then there was the obstacle course. I believe Polly got extra points for her dismount.

It had rained earlier in the week and there was no escaping the mud.

Dana is demonstrating the proper technique for downhill skiing in the mud. Bart tried hard to get a picture of Dana falling, but there was no way she was going to let that happen. She did fall, but I don't think even the most experienced photographer would have been quick enough to snap that picture. She was back on her feet before it registered with us what had just happened. I think she must have bounced. It was almost a Tigger sort of move. She was afraid if we got her picture, I would put it in my Blog. As if.......

If you will look carefully, you will see that I am sitting on my shoe. Therefore, regardless of the rumors you may here, this does not constitute a fall.

We found the perfect lunch spot, There was bench with a view from either side. I was going to show you both sides of the view, but according to Polly, you have to earn the right to enjoy the view and have lunch. I am not sure if this is an all or nothing rule she has, but if you want to see the view from the other direction, you will have to climb the mountain.

A couple of weeks ago we said we could not think of a negative thing to say about this hike. We found out this week that the signage is lacking. It is not always easy to determine which way to go. Without proper signage everyone has their own opinion. Dana is big on the importance of reading the map and is always trying to keep us always moving in the right direction. Two questions for you Dana, first how is that working for you and second did you manage to loose the buzzard that was following you closely in anticipation all afternoon?

Then there is Polly who is always looking to add miles to a hike. She thinks that if we go her way, we could add three miles and climb to the top of the peak. It didn't add three miles, but the distance down the hill then back up when we discovered we were going in the wrong direction should count for something.

And last but not least you have Bart who tries his best to educate us on how to use the sun to determine which way we should be going. Give it up Bart, we prefer to not know where we are. It makes the hike more exciting.

Now, I bet you are wondering what I am doing while the master minds are trying to determine which way to go. I wait patiently to be told which way to go. Since I have no sense of direction, they prefer it that way. Besides someone needs to be free to take the pictures.

If someone would just ask me, I know which way to go.

If you are ever hiking with someone and as you are heading down a steep hill they say they wish it was uphill because uphill was easier for them, just ignore them. They will change their tune when they have to turn around and walk back up the hill they had just come down after discovering they are going in the wrong direction. I know this to be a fact.

As the day went on we began to wonder if we would ever see civilization again and found signs of those who didn't.

Just look at the smiles of joy when we located the parking lot. Polly estimated that we hiked around 12 miles, which was 4 more than we had planned. We were muddy, tired and sore. You put that all together and it adds up to the best day ever.

2009-02-03T19:39:00.001-08:00

ROCKVILLE

2009-02-02T16:27:00.001-08:00

Rockville Park is an easy drive and a great hike for kids. There are several trails to choose from and you are never far from the parking lot. It is also stroller friendly, as long as you are not the one stuck pushing the stroller. That is why it is always a good idea to carry a camera. The photographer needs to have their hands free at all times to be ready to take that once in a lifetime picture.

Look dad, no hands.

Two little cousins sitting in a tree.

Does anyone know the words to kumbaya

Stay behind me. I know the way.

Can you say "Princess Chloe?" I would have helped carry her chariot up the hill, but someone had to take the picture.

It was a family affair and a great way to spend a Saturday. You might even say is was the best day ever.

BALD MOUNTAIN

2009-02-02T04:01:00.001-08:00

BRIONES

2009-02-02T03:46:00.001-08:00

MT DIABLO

2009-02-01T22:55:00.001-08:00

2009-01-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

Mt Diablo is one of our favorite places to hike and home of the infamous pig incident I refer to from time to time. It is an easy drive and has several trails to chose from. We come here several times each the Spring while the mountain is covered with wild flowers. Mt Diablo is a friendly mountain. I know it may sound strange, but as you drive away, you can almost here it beckoning you to return.

Polly and Bart were here the previous week doing this exact hike. She looked forward to this steep incline all week. Is that sick or what?

I was going for the Rocky Balboa look here, but ended up with the hallelujah praise the lord, I made it look, which was exactly how I felt.

When Polly and I finally reached the top, Bart was sitting there well rested and saving us a lunch spot with a view.

And this of course, was the best day ever.

Donna and the snow hike 1/1/09

2009-01-30T21:10:00.000-08:00

We have another sister who lives in Texas. Every time she comes for a visit, we drag her out on a hike. Actually, she loves it as much as we do, but I don't see another snow hike in her future anytime soon.

If I had known entertainment was going to be provided, i never would have missed this hike.

Donna, you had better keep moving. I think that is where the Donnor Party gave up too.

Dana, is either saying "I love it this much" or "I am the king of the world." Either way, it translates to "this is the best day ever."

BRIONES REGIONAL PARK 1/25/2009

2009-01-25T20:26:00.000-08:00

We arrived at the trailhead around 11:00 which is much later than we normally like to begin a hike. However, a couple of years ago we skipped church to go on a hike and had a run in with a wild pig that was guarding her babies. It was a Moses and the burning bush kind of moment. We figured it was God letting us know we should not have skipped out on him to go hiking. Probably just our imaginations, but decided not to risk it. If we have to hike on Sundays, we do after church. The drive to Briones was a very easy and short one, which added points to the hike before we even saw the trail.

After several trips back to the car, we began our hike.

We ran into the locals who seemed thrilled that we were enjoying the mountain as much as they were.

Polly made friends along the way.

Did that nice doggie just give Polly a kiss"

We came upon a steep hill just begging to be climbed, but unfortunately, that didn't happen. It was so muddy that I kept slipping and sliding. I knew once I fell I that I would never be able to get up again There was a creek below that I had visions of tumbling into. Now it is my belief that if you think you are going to fall anyway, it is best to just sit and slide down the hill. So that is exactly what I did.

Dana often accuses Polly and I of being competitive, which is normally not true. However, today I would have had to agree with her. After watching me slide down the hill on my bottom, Polly decided that I had just attempted to climb up the wrong side and she proceeded to show me where I went wrong. Since a picture is worth a thousand words, there is no need for me to say anything else on the subject.

We couldn't think of a single negative thing to say about this hike. Yes, I took this picture of the two of us to show our smiling faces so you could see that this was indeed the best day ever.

BALD MOUNTAIN 1/17/2009

2009-01-20T18:44:00.000-08:00

We arrived at Bald Mountain ready for the "kick-butt-hike" Polly had warned us about only to discover I forgot the salami. Panic ensued and we were forced to decide if we could survive on 1 loaf of bread, 2 types of cheese, pringles, balance bars and trail mix. After taking inventory of our food supply, we decided to throw caution to the wind and headed up the mountain with our limited food supply.

Dana showed up for the hike sporting the same stylish outfit I was wearing. Coincidental, you be the judge. How many people do you know that wear a green shirt and orange hiking pants.

Shade was very scarce (Note to self, do not do this hike in the summer)

Dana made it to the top of the mountain in lightening speed.

Which left her plenty of time for nap when she reached the top.

The elevation gain was 1,524 feet over three miles. Not a beautiful hike, but a great workout. A person couldn't help but feel victorious as they reached the top.

The view from the top was spectacular.

It was a little cold and windy at the top for lunch. Luckily, as Dana was running up the mountain she slowed down long enough to find the perfect lunch spot.

Instead of the 8 mile killer hike Polly had promised, it was only 6 miles. We had started at the wrong trail head and ended up doing an up and back instead of the 8 mile loop. While not a killer hike, it was a worthy adversary. Polly was disappointed that we could still walk when we got back to the car. The rest of us were not so disappointed. We all agreed that it was the best day ever.