Soaking up Northern California

I got to have a great tour of some of the more gorgeous aspects of Northern California recently. First, a hike up to the top of Mt Tamalpais.
The view from the parking lot was a pretty good indication that it was going to be a great day!

Jill and Missy, ready to go!
A little hazy, but mostly clear. As we hiked up, this view of San Francisco appeared.
Ampitheatre built into the hillside. I hear-tell there are plays here in the summertime (bring your own seat cushion!).
Another lovely view -- the bay/pacific.
Me and Emily -- still looking relatively fresh at the beginning of the hike. Notice the sunglasses and hats - so sunny!
These are some sort of Paintbrush flower that I can't remember.
But these I remember -- the Indian Paintbrush! And its cousin up there.
Yes. Another lovely view.

Made it to the top! That elevation might not seem terribly impressive (especially to you Coloradans), but consider we started at sea level. Okay -- even so, it's not that high.
Janelle and Elizabeth chowin' on the Subway.
Jill decided to investigate whether this cliff led somewhere or dropped straight off. Lost her balance while doing so.
Puppy. Look at him. He's bigger than Cameron.
I guess that's it. Someone sent a few more photos -- I think you can link to them here if you want.

So the next day, I drove to Napa and had a little ride up some VERY large hills. Too much climbing to take many photos, but it was a gorgeous sunny day in the beautiful Napa hills.
And Napa often starts off with a view of some Hot Air Balloons!
Ed showing off his endless energy.
Ed and Chris. Anyone else think it looks like Ed is showing off his amazing legs for the cute boy from San Francisco?
Lunch at Pacific Blue! John, Tara, Emily after stuffing their faces.
Me and Emily. I had to keep my glasses on because my eyes were nearly swollen shut with yicky itchy watery allergies.
Kristen and Ken. So cute. Kristen threatened to ear her own arm if the food didn't come fast enough.
It was a tough ride. With some great climbs and descents. Many more miles to go!

Oh, and check out our fund-raising! We passed $60k this week!