How much fun did the dogs have on the beach? As long we were out there, the fun never ended for them. Sky could go longer than we could throw sticks. Luna would take it easy from time to time. Sand Dollar Beach provided a great place for dogs to run. We went out early in the day before the majority of the surfers and sun lovers made their way down the stairs. This is just a small sampling of dog fun.
We camped for most of the two-week trip except when we stayed with my aunt and uncle in Napa. From Napa we drove to Big Sur. Looking at the maps, it seemed like a pretty easy half-day drive. As with most of the trip, it took much longer than we expected. We finally arrived at a campsite in time for sunset and a very late dinner. I know it’s too many sunset images but how can I decide what to cut?
It just seems natural that you must visit a winery even though we come from a big wine-producing state ourselves. My aunt and uncle live in Napa and they took us to one of the grander wineries I’ve ever seen – Castello di Amorosa. It is in an authentic castle built specifically to house the winery. This building was a labor of love that took several years to complete with bricks and rock and fixtures shipped from Europe. I cannot begin to imagine how much it cost. Much of the winery is underground in a labyrinth of tunnels and arched rooms. I had to fight off my claustrophobic tendencies in order to enjoy the tour. Thank goodness we had a guide. I’m quite sure I could not have found my way out on my own. At the end of the tour, we were treated to tastings and we did take home a little bit of California wine to enjoy in the future.
We have been away for two weeks on a road trip to California. There are many, many photos from that trip to edit and I have yet to get started. Lots of images of dogs playing in the surf. Prepare yourself. But for the moment I thought I’d share a few flower photos.
When we left, most of the ground on our hillside was covered with snow. Now it’s all gone. The ash-covered dirt is ready for spring and in some places it is already covered with a fresh blush of new green grasses. And if I look closely I can find tiny wildflowers. Some of them seem to be flourishing after last year’s fire. It’s a relief to see color on our landscape again.
The Western Bluebirds returned last month. They were a couple weeks earlier than usual. We still welcomed them with open arms. This one is perched on the neighbor’s nest box above our house. They have been checking out our boxes also. Hopefully a few pairs will settle in for the season.
My Everyday Photos 