Yesterday was a great day of hiking in Zion, so this morning we’re headed to the Kolobs Canyon entrance for a hike on the Taylor Creek trail. The Double Arch Alcove at the end was an impressive sight. I hope to come back this way for some backpacking in the future. It looks like a fun multi-day hike across the park. A little of the wildlife and wildflowers along the way. ...
Charlotte and I are off for a big road trip to various national parks. Our first stop is Zion. After a long drive from Santa Cruz and a peaceful hotel night just outside the park, we head to the Angels Landing hike bright and early. The only problem is that it’s actually dark outside when we start hiking. Let’s just say we’ve got a few switchbacks to traverse before getting to the top of Scout Lookout. ...
Gabe has been very excited about moving on from Middle School to High School for some time now, and today is that day. He’s looking so fine in his new business attire, and I think he even likes the tie. His friends Joe and Connor take their turn up at the podium, while Monica the photographer works the crowd. The big man heads up to get his diploma. A few more friends and then it’s time to party. ...
It was a blast watching the Amgen Tour of California yesterday in Santa Cruz, and today we’re off to San Jose to watch the riders start from downtown. We get a few glimpses of Horner and Hincapie, then Gabe camps out right in front of the Saxo Bank team RV and lucks out. There’s Andy Schleck, Jens Voigt, and Fabian Cancellara. He’s even got a signed tshirt to prove it! ...
The AMGEN Tour of California is back in Santa Cruz again this year, but this year springtime and hopefully the cold, wind, and rain will be replaced with beautiful days like today. Charlotte headed down to the finish area at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk with some friends. While Gabe and I camped out on Bonny Doon Road to catch the riders struggling up this great climb. Gabe made a very nice ecologically correct road sign saying “Go Levi”. Meanwhile plenty of local riders headed past us to find their spot to watch the race. ...
I’m headed over to San Jose today for an awesome Judo clinic at Silicon Valley Judo. Japanese champion Shintaro Nakano is explaining his outstanding Seoi Nage technique to a big group of eager Judoka, including myself. Unfortunately Peel hurt himself and couldn’t participate, but my Sensei from Aptos Judo is my very capable partner.
It’s Scotts Valley High School prom night, and Monica and her friends are all dressed and ready to go. First stop is a party over at Capella’s house. Then a bunch of group shots over by the pool. I can’t believe the size of this party! But wait, there’s more action inside the house. Back at the school, everyone gets loaded into buses for the trip over to Monterey. A very nice, safe alternative way for everyone to get there and back safely. It’s good to see Joe here also. ...
The Scotts Valley Grand Prix is a brand new NCNCA bike race we’re very happy to see come to our area. Charlotte and her Kiwanis buddies are helping with the stage, food, and drinks. It’s great to see Vladan out there racing for his Bike Trip team. There’s also a great Specialized presence, though it doesn’t look like Larry was able to make it to this race. A slight finish line malfunction made for an interesting lap. ...
It’s the final track meet, and the last Gabe will ever do in Middle School. First it’s the shot put. Then it’s over to the 400m relay. And then one last chance at the discus record. Gabe’s happy with his throw, but the record falls to another guy on his team. Second place is a great placing.
It’s another track meet over at SLV, and Gabe is working hard to break the school record. Unfortunately it’s not today.