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.
It’s the time of year again for everyone that rides in Scotts Valley to raise money for our local schools while enjoying our great mountain roads. This year we’ve got a few changes. Charlotte got a lot of help from Aura, Mike, and others in pulling off this great SVEF event. And this year Gabe joined me in riding the 50km route. I’ll miss doing Mt. Charlie with the usual crew, but riding with Gabe is a treat and there’s plenty of climbing to enjoy. ...
Yesterday was a great bike ride down from Santa Cruz, but no one is excited to head back in the saddle this morning. Instead our intrepid group explores Garland Ranch park.
I’m off for a long bike ride down to Carmel along with some friends, while Charlotte enjoys some hiking with her friends. It’s a great day for both cycling and hiking. The cliffs and ocean along 17 Mile Drive are always fantastic. I’ve already gotten a lot of this view when we cycled past here a few hours ago. More of that great cliff scenery. We hooked up with the ladies in Carmel Valley where we enjoyed a nice evening at the Los Laureles Lodge, and a great dinner at Cafe Rustica. I can tell that Sally really enjoyed herself. ...
Gabe joined the wrestling team along with Doug and a few of his friends this year. He had a lot of fun with practice, but the meets were a bit too stressful for him. I’m glad I got to see one of his meets before wrestling became a thing of the past. Maybe one day he’ll be back, as he’s got some natural ability.
It’s our last day in Yellowstone as we head into the park once again. The antelope finally make an appearance at the entrance, as well as a hungry raven that keeps us company while we eat our lunch. We head to Lamar Valley again to visit with the river otters. This guy shows off a fish he just caught. We’ve got a little company while we photograph the otters. I know Monica is enjoying herself immensely. ...