California

Golfing in Torrey Pines near Carlsbad is tough.  The paragliders and the ocean are distracting - not to mention the nude beach!  The US Open will be here in 2021.  

We've missed a LOT of golf in the last year due to my knee problems, but all seems well now.  Mike hadn't played in quite a while himself out of empathy for me, so we're [...]

How many people does it take to make a town?  How about TWO??  The mayor and his wife? The official "Center of the World" lies in the town of Felicity, CA - near the California/Arizona [...]

In an hour's drive around Mt. San Jacinto, you can be a world away from Palm Springs at Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA.  Instead of warm desert, you are transported up 6,000 ft. in elevation to pine [...]

The historic mountain town of Julian is known for many things: the gold rush, fresh air, tall trees, a quaint downtown and the ever present risk of wildfire. But ask just about anyone what’s the [...]

It's really hard to get a last minute tee time at the famous Torrey Pines Public Golf Course.  High demand for a great course with stunning views of the ocean.  We joined the cancellation list, [...]

We had a pretty chill long weekend in Santa Barbara to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary.  Long walks on the beach, great food - we even reread our wedding vows to each other!

Sequoia National Park highlights include the Mac Daddy of all trees, General Sherman (the largest tree in the world!), Moro Rock climbing, driving through the Tunnel Log and abundant wildlife. The combo of high elevation, [...]

Santa Monica is a quick flight from Vegas, and a great way to escape the heat.  Mike and nephew Chet had a great time boogie boarding/surfing, and I loved walking the beaches for miles. [...]

Driving along 17 Mile Drive in Carmel, CA with jaw dropping views. My favorite stop (besides Pebble Beach!) is Bird Rock. Back in 1930, it was covered with 4 to 5 feet of pelican and [...]

We dropped in on my brother in Carlsbad, CA for a quick visit.  It's nice to be able to see people now that pandemic restrictions are easing just a bit.  We're still being very careful [...]

Death Valley is an incredible place to go EXCEPT in the summer, when temperatures have reached 134 degrees Fahrenheit!  Some roads are quite steep, and signs posted require that you turn off your car's air [...]