I WILL GO HERE SOMEDAY...and swim :D
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Chimney Rock, NC!
Typed in Google looking for a picture for me previous post of Point Reyes National Park, I found this amazing place, AND it's in North Carolina, not surprised. ahh...
The State of North Carolina under Governor Mike Easley's leadership has announced a $24 million dollar purchase of Chimney Rock Park. The park is adjacent to the newly created Hickory Nut Gorge State Park.
http://www.stayinnorthcarolina.com/ -sounds good to me..
"These 50 years have brought untold suffering and destruction to the land and people of Tibet. Even today, Tibetans in Tibet live in constant fear and the Chinese authorities remain constantly suspicious of them," he told followers in Dharamsala, the Indian home of his government in exile.
This is so sad, Tibetans are the most peaceful people who have been chased out of their own country which was on a remote mountain the Himalayas, not bothering anyone.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iXMSB3EUnnfIAJsuamPM0wp7G1QQ
Baby Elephant with prosthetic leg!
Point Reyes National Park
EARTHQUAKE TRAIL (1 km / 0.6 mi.)
A short paved loop explores the San Andreas Fault Zone. Interpretive signs describe the geology of the area. This trail begins at the southeast corner of the Bear Valley Picnic Area, just across the street from the Bear Valley Visitor Center.
CHIMNEY ROCK TRAIL (2.5 km / 1.6 mi.)
A spectacular hike with views of Drakes Bay and the Pacific Ocean and renowned for great spring wildflowers. Rocky cliffs drop off steeply to the water, so there is no beach access. From January through May, look for migrating whales from the point. Fog and wind can make this hike challenging. Start this hike at the Chimney Rock Trailhead, near the Lighthouse, a 45-minute drive from the Bear Valley Visitor Center.
TOMALES POINT TRAIL (15 km / 9.5 mi.)
This open trail through the Tule Elk Reserve offers spectacular views of Tomales Bay, Bodega Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. It is also a prime wildlife viewing trail, as it is remote and the tule elk are enclosed in this reserve. The first 5 kilometers (3 mi.) to Lower Pierce Point Ranch are well marked and maintained, but the last stretch can be overgrown with bush lupine and other shrubs, so long pants and long sleeves are a good idea. The journey all the way to the Point is worth it, for the view is unparalleled. Fog and wind can limit visibility and make this hike more challenging. The Tomales Point Trailhead is at the end of Pierce Point Road, 40 minute driving time from Bear Valley.
Backpack Light
Arial Photos of Point Reyes
Hiking Trails
CHECK OUT THE LINKS! THEIR AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL PLACES
Friday, March 6, 2009
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Cuddleback
COOL-Motion Detector Camera to capture wildlife!
CuddleBack
GREAT shots of wildlife, check out the "POWs" Photos of the Week, haha
CuddleBack
GREAT shots of wildlife, check out the "POWs" Photos of the Week, haha
Harry J. Anslinger was a bad man..
HE GAVE MAJUANNA THE BAD CONOTATION...
Anslinger at the 1937 Hearings
Harry J. Anslinger was an outspoken racist and the head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, a unit of the Treasury Department, between 1930 and 1962. Known as the "Father of the Drug War" and as the "First Drug Czar," Anslinger helped fight against opiates, cocaine, and marijuana.
Many believe that Anslinger's intense interest in making marijuana illegal had to do with his collaboration with industry giants, such as Hearst Newspapers and DuPonts, who both had motives to make hemp illegal.
Harry J. Anslinger was the man who brought the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 to the floor of the Senate, where it was passed. These are some of the statements said by Anslinger, during the hearing:
"There are 100,000 total marijuana smokers in the US, and most are Negroes, Hispanics, Filipinos, and entertainers. Their Satanic music, jazz, and swing, result from marijuana use. This marijuana causes white women to seek sexual relations with Negroes, entertainers, and any others."
"...the primary reason to outlaw marijuana is its effect on the degenerate races."
"Marijuana is an addictive drug which produces in its users insanity, criminality, and death."
"You smoke a joint and you're likely to kill your brother."
"Marijuana is the most violence-causing drug in the history of mankind."
HA! RIDICULOUS!
Anslinger at the 1937 Hearings
Harry J. Anslinger was an outspoken racist and the head of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, a unit of the Treasury Department, between 1930 and 1962. Known as the "Father of the Drug War" and as the "First Drug Czar," Anslinger helped fight against opiates, cocaine, and marijuana.
Many believe that Anslinger's intense interest in making marijuana illegal had to do with his collaboration with industry giants, such as Hearst Newspapers and DuPonts, who both had motives to make hemp illegal.
Harry J. Anslinger was the man who brought the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 to the floor of the Senate, where it was passed. These are some of the statements said by Anslinger, during the hearing:
"There are 100,000 total marijuana smokers in the US, and most are Negroes, Hispanics, Filipinos, and entertainers. Their Satanic music, jazz, and swing, result from marijuana use. This marijuana causes white women to seek sexual relations with Negroes, entertainers, and any others."
"...the primary reason to outlaw marijuana is its effect on the degenerate races."
"Marijuana is an addictive drug which produces in its users insanity, criminality, and death."
"You smoke a joint and you're likely to kill your brother."
"Marijuana is the most violence-causing drug in the history of mankind."
HA! RIDICULOUS!
Pot Tv!
Students for Sensible Drug Policy
JOBS!?
Mission Statement
Students for Sensible Drug Policy is an international grassroots network of students who are concerned about the impact drug abuse has on our communities, but who also know that the War on Drugs is failing our generation and our society.
SSDP mobilizes and empowers young people to participate in the political process, pushing for sensible policies to achieve a safer and more just future, while fighting back against counterproductive Drug War policies, particularly those that directly harm students and youth.
Values Statement
Students for Sensible Drug Policy neither encourages nor condemns drug use. Rather, we seek to reduce the harms caused by drug abuse and drug policies. As young people, we strive toward a just and compassionate society where drug abuse is treated as a health issue instead of a criminal justice issue.We recognize that the very real harms of drug abuse are not adequately addressed by current policies and we advocate measures that would effectively help those who develop drug problems. Yet, we also believe that individuals must ultimately be allowed to make decisions for themselves as long as their actions do not infringe upon anyone else’s freedoms or safety.
Because the War on Drugs has historically been justified as necessary to protect youth, it is our responsibility as young people to stop this harmful war from being waged in our names any longer. As scholars, we seek solutions to society's drug problems through focused research, honest dialogue, and informed debate, instead of unquestioned extremism, punishment, and propaganda.
CLICK LINKS BELOW!
NORML
Cannabis Culture
High Times
Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson has a reagae album called "Countryman"
GREAT STUFF!
GOOD LISTENING! while you read on...
http://www.zinio.com/express3?issn=0362-630X&pss=1
Friday, February 27, 2009
http://www.marctedeschi.com/
Hapkido...
is a Korean martial art which emerged in the mid-twentieth century and quickly grew to become an international style. Hapkido possesses on the the most complex, unique, and varied arsenals of self-defense techniques to be found in any martial art. These skills include: strikes, kicks, blocks, avoiding movements, holds, joint locks, chokes, throws, breakfalls, tumbling, ground fighting, weapons, meditation, and healing.
Like many other Asian martial arts, Hapkido, emphasizes the unification of body, mind, and spirit; the perfection of human character; social responsibility; and appropriate use of force. Unlike most martial arts, Hapkido utilizes more than 1100 core techniques, which are intuitively modified or combined to create thousands of variations.
Hapkido techniques are not only for self-defense. Meditation and healing techniques are used to develop emotional stability, peace of mind, and confidence, while providing the same health benefits in other arts, such as Tai Chi Chuan and Qi-Gong. Thus, Hapkido is a highly practical self-defense art with strong spiritual underpinnings. In contemporary society, Hapkido, is mostly practice for self-defense, health, and spiritual growth. Although it is often compared to Aikido, Taekwondo, Jujutsu, Judo, and Tai Chi Chuan, it has a much broader range of techniques, suitable in a wider range of situations. Hapkido is currently practiced by a diverse range of men, women, and children of all ages; working professionals; gifted athletes; the physically impaired; military and law enforcement professionals; practiced in over 100 countries and continues to expand rapidly worldwide!
Etiquette
Bowing...is a sign of gratitude and respect found throughout the martial arts world. It signifies not only respect for you instructors or superiors, but respect for yourself, the art, and the "life" in general. It is a symbol of your profound reguard and caring for the rights and lives of others.
Standing bow in Korean is called Kyŏng-nye.
Rank System
The ten black black-ranks are referred to as degrees or dans. Fourth degree black belt or higher usually refers to master-level practitioner. The ranks from the lowest to highest are: white, yellow, green, blue, red, black.
Ranks are awarded based on skills and the amount of time spent in training at one's current rank. Promotion from one rank to another usually occurs through formal testing, which assesses a candidate's skills according to specific rank requirements.
Uniform
The jacket, belt, and pants worn during martial arts training is called a tobok (Korean). The jacket and pants are white, and the belt is color-coded according to the students rank. The uniform worn in Hapkido is commonly referred to as a "grappling-style" uniform or "Judo-style" uniform.
Kindle 2 from Amazon.com
Have you ever heard of this device?!
click link
230,000 books available on amazon for $10 wireless sent to this device as thin as a pencil, weighs less than 10 grams.
You can have every book you own with you always, type notes in the sidebar like a real book, no glare, screen doesn't hurt your eyes like a normal computer monitor,
directly connected to wikipedia, you can download blogs, newspapers, use the dictionary or thasurus to look up any new words you don't know or use wikipedia to learn more about any topic you find as your reading!
What a crazy invention, how weird that some day people won't ever print anything out or even write with pens and pencils anymore!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Góðan daginn - Icelandic!
Jambo -Swahili!
Konnichiwa -Japanese
Bonjour -French
Bangawoyo -Korean
Salaam _Arabic
Namaste_Hindi
Guten Tag_German
I love the greetings on FLIKR.
www.flikr.com
Konnichiwa -Japanese
Bonjour -French
Bangawoyo -Korean
Salaam _Arabic
Namaste_Hindi
Guten Tag_German
I love the greetings on FLIKR.
www.flikr.com
Monday, February 16, 2009
Mermaids & Mormans
"If your a bird, then I'm a bird" ...My roommate was watching the Notebook
Ha.
Tour of California Updates, videos: http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/race-live/video.html
http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/
http://barschool.com/recipes.asp
I'm going to on a road trip to Arizona, gunna see the Grand Canyon!!!! :D
1901 Harder Rd, Hayward, CA 94542
4335 N 78th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
1 Mather, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 (Grand Canyon National Park)
10714 Harpenden Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93311
1901 Harder Rd, Hayward, CA 94542
I've been sick this week..resting.
I have to finish two photo books this week to publish them in time for when the quarter ends so I can turn them in as my final project.
I have to plan 3 photoshoots..
Thank God, this quarter is almost over..
Then I road trip north. Humbolt County, Redwoods, Fern Canyon, Portland, Oregon...Seattle, Washington, Olympic National park, The cascades..ahhh
Ha.
Tour of California Updates, videos: http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/race-live/video.html
http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/
http://barschool.com/recipes.asp
I'm going to on a road trip to Arizona, gunna see the Grand Canyon!!!! :D
1901 Harder Rd, Hayward, CA 94542
4335 N 78th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
1 Mather, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 (Grand Canyon National Park)
10714 Harpenden Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93311
1901 Harder Rd, Hayward, CA 94542
I've been sick this week..resting.
I have to finish two photo books this week to publish them in time for when the quarter ends so I can turn them in as my final project.
I have to plan 3 photoshoots..
Thank God, this quarter is almost over..
Then I road trip north. Humbolt County, Redwoods, Fern Canyon, Portland, Oregon...Seattle, Washington, Olympic National park, The cascades..ahhh
Tour of California Off to Auspicious Start for Lance
Posted: 15 Feb 2009 11:10 AM CST
The Adventure Blog
http://theadventureblog.blogspot.com/
The Tour of California officially gets underway today, with the first stage running from Davis to Santa Rosa, covering a distance of 107 miles (173km). Fabian Cancellara will begin the day in the yellow jersey after winning yesterday's Prologue. The stage will get underway at noon local time.
But, it's already been a rough morning for Lance Armstrong, who awoke to find that the Astana team truck was broken into over night, and his time trial bike was stolen from inside. The bike, pictured here, is one of a kind, and as Lance says in his Twitter feed, it'll be tough to pawn off. A reward is being offered for its return.
The other compelling sub-plot for the Tour of California is of course the return of Floyd Landis to cycling. Floyd had a bit of a scare a few days ago, crashing on a training ride, but he suffered no real damage, and partipated in yesterday's prologue, finishing well back in the field in 90th place. For Landis, the first big hurdle is over however, as he has returned to the track at long last.
The Adventure Blog
http://theadventureblog.blogspot.com/
The Tour of California officially gets underway today, with the first stage running from Davis to Santa Rosa, covering a distance of 107 miles (173km). Fabian Cancellara will begin the day in the yellow jersey after winning yesterday's Prologue. The stage will get underway at noon local time.
But, it's already been a rough morning for Lance Armstrong, who awoke to find that the Astana team truck was broken into over night, and his time trial bike was stolen from inside. The bike, pictured here, is one of a kind, and as Lance says in his Twitter feed, it'll be tough to pawn off. A reward is being offered for its return.
The other compelling sub-plot for the Tour of California is of course the return of Floyd Landis to cycling. Floyd had a bit of a scare a few days ago, crashing on a training ride, but he suffered no real damage, and partipated in yesterday's prologue, finishing well back in the field in 90th place. For Landis, the first big hurdle is over however, as he has returned to the track at long last.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Weekend Plans?
Valentines Day?
The Great San Francisco Pillow Fight http://pillowfight.info/
Leave it to a place like San Francisco to host the most visible incarnation of the Pillow Fight's flash-mob-esque gathering, and subsequent public pillow fight. I would say that a safe thousand people were milling around Justin Herman Plaza at Embarcadero and Market Streets in Downtown San Francisco. As the Ferry Building's clock struck 6pm, the lovey-rage could be cut with a knife from the air around. As 6pm approached, two lines were formed, people wielding pillows took one last breath of air: and running full speed at one another, a Braveheart-like scenario played out. The feathers were everywhere, pilling up to six inches in some parts. Now, this is a community building event if ever I saw one. --Russ Juskalian
Weekend Sherpa suggestions:
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/newsletter/northern-california-romantic-outdoor-hikes-bike-rides-escapes/132
That's A Mori: Grab binoculars, lawn chairs, and a thermos filled with goodness, then head to Pacifica's Mori Point for some afternoon basking. From your cliff-top vantage point, scan the waters for migrating gray whales.
Urban Waterfall: Berkeley's got all sorts of hidden treasures within its city limits. One of our favorites: a secret waterfallaccessed from a stairway behind Codornices Park.
Wilbur Wind-down: Soak the day away at Wilbur Hot Springsnear Clear Lake. Try out three different flumes of water ranging from 98 to 110 degrees. Some like it hot!
Northern Comfort: Pedal from San Francisco, across the Golden Gate Bridge, and make a sharp right turn down toCavallo Point Lodge at historic Fort Baker. Enjoy a farm fresh brunch on the patio or sip a warm drink by the outdoor fire pit.
NEXT 3 WEEKENDS OF Next Wave Choreographers, Black Choreographers Festival
I'm helping set up for this show tonight. One the of the performers named Corey Action taught my hip hop class last wednesday. It was so much fun! The best class so far. I went to this festival last week in Oakland at Laney College, it was so great! But the performers were all different. So Laetitcia and I volunteered to help set up for the show tonight and we get to watch it for free! BUT it's only $15.
I invite you to come tonight because it will be in San Francisco at the Dance Missions Theater on 3316 24th Street @ Mission
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5023677100465615469
Watch a video clip here.
FEBURARY 14-22
This weekend go and check out the Amgen Tour of California!
The largest cycling event in America, the 2009 Amgen Tour of California is a Tour de France-style cycling road race presented by AEG that challenges the world's top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding, recently expanded, 750-mile course from Sacramento to Escondido from February 14-22, 2009. Founded in 2005 by Breakaway from Cancer. Lance Armstrongs first race back since he retired.
I'm trying to decided if I want to drive to Sacramento for the first day they race 2.4 miles, over in 5 mins but theres lots of events going on in the city it's right by the capital building and they announce the racers.
But then go to the start in Davis or the end in Santa Rosa. 107.6 miles! Santa Rosa is supposebly the best place to cycle in California. So it'd be worth it to go there also.
BUT then if you have Monday free they will be right here. Sausalito-Santa Cruz. They will be riding through San Francisco! I think I will definitely be going to this day!
Stage Map: http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/docroot/media/2009/2009-stage2-map.pdf
Sacramento Sat, Feb 14th 1:30-4pm
Davis - Santa Rosa Sun, Feb 15th Noon-5pm
Sausalito - Santa Cruz Mon, Feb 16th 8:30-2pm
San Jose - Modesto Tues, Feb 17th Noon-5pm
Merced - Clovis 18th 11-5pm
Visalia - Pasa Robles 19th 10-5pm
Solvang 20th 12-3pm
Santa Clarita - Pasa Robles 21st 12-4pm
Rancho Bernardo - Escondido 22nd 12-5pm
The Great San Francisco Pillow Fight http://pillowfight.info/
Leave it to a place like San Francisco to host the most visible incarnation of the Pillow Fight's flash-mob-esque gathering, and subsequent public pillow fight. I would say that a safe thousand people were milling around Justin Herman Plaza at Embarcadero and Market Streets in Downtown San Francisco. As the Ferry Building's clock struck 6pm, the lovey-rage could be cut with a knife from the air around. As 6pm approached, two lines were formed, people wielding pillows took one last breath of air: and running full speed at one another, a Braveheart-like scenario played out. The feathers were everywhere, pilling up to six inches in some parts. Now, this is a community building event if ever I saw one. --Russ Juskalian
Weekend Sherpa suggestions:
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/newsletter/northern-california-romantic-outdoor-hikes-bike-rides-escapes/132
That's A Mori: Grab binoculars, lawn chairs, and a thermos filled with goodness, then head to Pacifica's Mori Point for some afternoon basking. From your cliff-top vantage point, scan the waters for migrating gray whales.
Urban Waterfall: Berkeley's got all sorts of hidden treasures within its city limits. One of our favorites: a secret waterfallaccessed from a stairway behind Codornices Park.
Wilbur Wind-down: Soak the day away at Wilbur Hot Springsnear Clear Lake. Try out three different flumes of water ranging from 98 to 110 degrees. Some like it hot!
Northern Comfort: Pedal from San Francisco, across the Golden Gate Bridge, and make a sharp right turn down toCavallo Point Lodge at historic Fort Baker. Enjoy a farm fresh brunch on the patio or sip a warm drink by the outdoor fire pit.
NEXT 3 WEEKENDS OF Next Wave Choreographers, Black Choreographers Festival
I'm helping set up for this show tonight. One the of the performers named Corey Action taught my hip hop class last wednesday. It was so much fun! The best class so far. I went to this festival last week in Oakland at Laney College, it was so great! But the performers were all different. So Laetitcia and I volunteered to help set up for the show tonight and we get to watch it for free! BUT it's only $15.
I invite you to come tonight because it will be in San Francisco at the Dance Missions Theater on 3316 24th Street @ Mission
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5023677100465615469
Watch a video clip here.
FEBURARY 14-22
This weekend go and check out the Amgen Tour of California!
The largest cycling event in America, the 2009 Amgen Tour of California is a Tour de France-style cycling road race presented by AEG that challenges the world's top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding, recently expanded, 750-mile course from Sacramento to Escondido from February 14-22, 2009. Founded in 2005 by Breakaway from Cancer. Lance Armstrongs first race back since he retired.
I'm trying to decided if I want to drive to Sacramento for the first day they race 2.4 miles, over in 5 mins but theres lots of events going on in the city it's right by the capital building and they announce the racers.
But then go to the start in Davis or the end in Santa Rosa. 107.6 miles! Santa Rosa is supposebly the best place to cycle in California. So it'd be worth it to go there also.
BUT then if you have Monday free they will be right here. Sausalito-Santa Cruz. They will be riding through San Francisco! I think I will definitely be going to this day!
Stage Map: http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/docroot/media/2009/2009-stage2-map.pdf
Sacramento Sat, Feb 14th 1:30-4pm
Davis - Santa Rosa Sun, Feb 15th Noon-5pm
Sausalito - Santa Cruz Mon, Feb 16th 8:30-2pm
San Jose - Modesto Tues, Feb 17th Noon-5pm
Merced - Clovis 18th 11-5pm
Visalia - Pasa Robles 19th 10-5pm
Solvang 20th 12-3pm
Santa Clarita - Pasa Robles 21st 12-4pm
Rancho Bernardo - Escondido 22nd 12-5pm
Thursday, February 12, 2009
7 Marathons, 7 Continents, 6 Days!
7 Marathons, 7 Continents, 6 Days!
Posted: 06 Feb 2009 03:47 PM CST
Last weekend I set a personal best for myself running. I hit 11 miles, and felt pretty good afterwards, even though my next few days were much more scaled back as my legs recovered. So, I can only imagine what it must have been like for Richard Donovan, who just finished up his World Marathon Challenge, completing seven marathons, on seven continents, in just six days.
The Challenge got underway last Saturday, with Irishman Richard running his his first marathon, a distance of 26.2 miles or 42.2km, in Antarctica. From there he moved on to Cape Town, South Africa, then to Dubai, before proceeding to London. He than ran the London Marathon, in that blizzard no less, before he boarded a plane, and with the time zones working in his favor, flew to Toronto, where he ran another marathon on the same day! Next, it was on to Santiago, Chile on the 3rd of February, and after a quick run there it was off to Sydney, Australia for the final leg, which he successfully completed yesterday as well.
All told, it actually took Richard five days, ten hours, and eight minutes to complete the Challenge. In the process, he also added up a lot of frequent flyer miles as well, and had the opportunity to tour some of the great cities of the world, on foot no less. And, as an added bonus, he was also able to make me feel like total crap for those mere 11 miles I was able to run on one continent, over one day. I'm such a slacker.
Congrats Richard! And thanks to the Team Geared Up Blog for this story.
Posted: 06 Feb 2009 03:47 PM CST
Last weekend I set a personal best for myself running. I hit 11 miles, and felt pretty good afterwards, even though my next few days were much more scaled back as my legs recovered. So, I can only imagine what it must have been like for Richard Donovan, who just finished up his World Marathon Challenge, completing seven marathons, on seven continents, in just six days.
The Challenge got underway last Saturday, with Irishman Richard running his his first marathon, a distance of 26.2 miles or 42.2km, in Antarctica. From there he moved on to Cape Town, South Africa, then to Dubai, before proceeding to London. He than ran the London Marathon, in that blizzard no less, before he boarded a plane, and with the time zones working in his favor, flew to Toronto, where he ran another marathon on the same day! Next, it was on to Santiago, Chile on the 3rd of February, and after a quick run there it was off to Sydney, Australia for the final leg, which he successfully completed yesterday as well.
All told, it actually took Richard five days, ten hours, and eight minutes to complete the Challenge. In the process, he also added up a lot of frequent flyer miles as well, and had the opportunity to tour some of the great cities of the world, on foot no less. And, as an added bonus, he was also able to make me feel like total crap for those mere 11 miles I was able to run on one continent, over one day. I'm such a slacker.
Congrats Richard! And thanks to the Team Geared Up Blog for this story.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Photo Stores
http://www.calumetphoto.com/ctl?ac.ui.pn=compinfo.CompStoreLocDetail&ac.comp.locID=SF
http://www.lookingglassphoto.com/rentals.html
http://www.lookingglassphoto.com/rentals.html
OTHER Places...have cool things too HAHA
REPLICAS OF STONEHENGE
Carhenge: http://www.carhenge.com/
Foamhenge: http://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/9209
Bay To Breakers!! SF! 3rd Sunday of May
PILLOW FIGHT! Valentines Day: http://pillowfight.info/
Carhenge: http://www.carhenge.com/
Foamhenge: http://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/9209
Bay To Breakers!! SF! 3rd Sunday of May
PILLOW FIGHT! Valentines Day: http://pillowfight.info/
Ohlone Regional Wilderness, Del Valle Regional Park between Livermore & Sunol
Ann L.
Fremont, CA
http://www.yelp.com/biz/del-valle-regional-park-livermore#hrid:MPVOFK1s1PnFhIE2Iq3ofw
4 star rating3/22/2006
If you are a true hiker you have to go to Murietta Falls-at least once! It's a total butt-kicker of a hike and only recommended in the Winter or Early Spring and very strong hikers because otherwise you'll just want to die. Get the $2 wilderness pass (good for one year), parking is $6 (as of 2006) The hike is 12 miles but will feel longer and will take all day. Start very early, say 8am and start hiking. There are lots of climbing involved (3,300 foot climb), and easy to miss the falls since it's off the trail..have to do a cliff scramble down to get to the falls. Also go after it rains otherwise the falls won't be so good. Good views though on the hike. 5/5 difficulty; 8/10 views
Fremont, CA
http://www.yelp.com/biz/del-valle-regional-park-livermore#hrid:MPVOFK1s1PnFhIE2Iq3ofw
4 star rating3/22/2006
If you are a true hiker you have to go to Murietta Falls-at least once! It's a total butt-kicker of a hike and only recommended in the Winter or Early Spring and very strong hikers because otherwise you'll just want to die. Get the $2 wilderness pass (good for one year), parking is $6 (as of 2006) The hike is 12 miles but will feel longer and will take all day. Start very early, say 8am and start hiking. There are lots of climbing involved (3,300 foot climb), and easy to miss the falls since it's off the trail..have to do a cliff scramble down to get to the falls. Also go after it rains otherwise the falls won't be so good. Good views though on the hike. 5/5 difficulty; 8/10 views
Friday, January 23, 2009
Elephant Seals
Big Love
jan 24,2008
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/elephant.seal.ano.nuevo/246
The true bad boys of the beach are back, and they're lookin' for a little lovin'. Every year at this time, elephant seals converge on their favored breeding ground: Año Nuevo State Reserve, 13 miles south of Pescadero on the San Mateo coast. Visit through March and you'll be privy to one of nature's most amazing peep shows: two and a half tons of testosterone-fueled seal vying to be the alpha male among a harem of discerning females. Be forewarned, things can get ugly as the bulls fight for their chosen seal-queen. To see all the commotion, join one of the reserve's guided tours; these daily outings to the rookery get you as close as 25 feet to these behemoths. Bring a camera to capture the, um, action.
TIP: Want to overnight it? Grab a coastal cabin nearby.
Año Nuevo State Reserve is 55 miles south of San Francisco on Highway 1. Reservations are required for guided walks to the rookery. For a map and more information click here.
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=523
jan 24,2008
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/elephant.seal.ano.nuevo/246
The true bad boys of the beach are back, and they're lookin' for a little lovin'. Every year at this time, elephant seals converge on their favored breeding ground: Año Nuevo State Reserve, 13 miles south of Pescadero on the San Mateo coast. Visit through March and you'll be privy to one of nature's most amazing peep shows: two and a half tons of testosterone-fueled seal vying to be the alpha male among a harem of discerning females. Be forewarned, things can get ugly as the bulls fight for their chosen seal-queen. To see all the commotion, join one of the reserve's guided tours; these daily outings to the rookery get you as close as 25 feet to these behemoths. Bring a camera to capture the, um, action.
TIP: Want to overnight it? Grab a coastal cabin nearby.
Año Nuevo State Reserve is 55 miles south of San Francisco on Highway 1. Reservations are required for guided walks to the rookery. For a map and more information click here.
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=523
Mt. Diablo Diamond Waterfalls
Diablo Diamonds Waterfall
feb 28,2008
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/mt.diablo.waterfall.donner.creek/265
With its looming peak and devilish name, it's hard to imagine Mt. Diablo having a softer side. But winter's rains bring an unexpected boon: four watery cascades spill off the mountain's northern flank. And getting to them is half the fun. Start the 5-mile hike (round-trip) with a gentle climb up Donner Canyon Road, passing an old cabin site and large oak trees. Follow the rushing creek before ascending an open slope that offers uninterrupted views of the Irish green canyons and hills leading to Mt. Diablo's summit. Then take Middle Trail, a narrow path that ducks through manzanitas, until it links up with the Falls Trail, which skirts the side of the mountain. Parts of this path seem better suited to goats, so take your time and watch your step. The upward climb rewards with increasingly better perspectives on the falls. Take a break on a grassy knoll and enjoy huge views of the northern valley. Don't wait to make this visit—these falls usually dry up by late spring and are best after a steady rainfall.
TIP: Quench your thirst afterwards at the Clayton Club Saloon. With cowboy boots hanging from the ceiling, the scene is Old West at its best.
To reach the waterfalls loop trail: From Walnut Creek, take Ygnacio Valley Rd. 8 miles east to Clayton Rd. Stay on Clayton Rd., which turns into Marsh Creek Rd. (don't turn right at the first sign for Marsh Creek Rd.), until it intersects Regency Dr. Turn right onto Regency Dr. The trailhead is at the end of the road. Hike the Donner Canyon Fire Road south. After about 1 mile, you'll come to the Meridian Ridge and Cardinet Oaks Fire Road junction; turn right onto Meridian Ridge. After a few hundred feet, turn left onto the Middle Trail, which climbs up and connects to the Falls Trail. Continue on the Falls Trail, which ends at Cardinet Oaks. Turn left and take this back to the Donner Canyon Fire Road. For a map of Mt. Diablo and more info, click here. Donner Canyon Road can be muddy after rains; wear appropriate shoes.
feb 28,2008
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/mt.diablo.waterfall.donner.creek/265
With its looming peak and devilish name, it's hard to imagine Mt. Diablo having a softer side. But winter's rains bring an unexpected boon: four watery cascades spill off the mountain's northern flank. And getting to them is half the fun. Start the 5-mile hike (round-trip) with a gentle climb up Donner Canyon Road, passing an old cabin site and large oak trees. Follow the rushing creek before ascending an open slope that offers uninterrupted views of the Irish green canyons and hills leading to Mt. Diablo's summit. Then take Middle Trail, a narrow path that ducks through manzanitas, until it links up with the Falls Trail, which skirts the side of the mountain. Parts of this path seem better suited to goats, so take your time and watch your step. The upward climb rewards with increasingly better perspectives on the falls. Take a break on a grassy knoll and enjoy huge views of the northern valley. Don't wait to make this visit—these falls usually dry up by late spring and are best after a steady rainfall.
TIP: Quench your thirst afterwards at the Clayton Club Saloon. With cowboy boots hanging from the ceiling, the scene is Old West at its best.
To reach the waterfalls loop trail: From Walnut Creek, take Ygnacio Valley Rd. 8 miles east to Clayton Rd. Stay on Clayton Rd., which turns into Marsh Creek Rd. (don't turn right at the first sign for Marsh Creek Rd.), until it intersects Regency Dr. Turn right onto Regency Dr. The trailhead is at the end of the road. Hike the Donner Canyon Fire Road south. After about 1 mile, you'll come to the Meridian Ridge and Cardinet Oaks Fire Road junction; turn right onto Meridian Ridge. After a few hundred feet, turn left onto the Middle Trail, which climbs up and connects to the Falls Trail. Continue on the Falls Trail, which ends at Cardinet Oaks. Turn left and take this back to the Donner Canyon Fire Road. For a map of Mt. Diablo and more info, click here. Donner Canyon Road can be muddy after rains; wear appropriate shoes.
SLEEPING BEAUTY!
Maybe it's because there aren't any signs, but a first trip to Carson Falls feels like traveling to a storybook oasis. Find this 100-foot series of cascading waterfalls just outside Fairfax in Marin County. But get there soon, because this beauty only awakes during the rainy season. Start the 1.5-mile jaunt (one-way) by climbing wide, rocky Pine Mountain Fire Road. While ascending, be sure to stop and turn around: the gently sloping spine of Mt. Tam comes into view, as do panoramas of San Pablo Bay and the Richardson Bridge. Leave the fire road and follow an unmarked trail into the forest, down a series of switchbacks until the falls come into sight. On a clear day, even in the winter, people will be relaxing on large rocks among the waterfall's multiple drops and pools. Look closely and you might even catch a glimpse of the fall's special residents: yellow-legged frogs. Pucker up!
From Highway 101 in Marin, exit Sir Francis Drake Blvd. toward San Rafael. Go about 6 miles to the town of Fairfax. Turn left on Pastori, immediately right on Broadway, then left on Bolinas Rd. Follow this 3.8 miles (go past the turn-off for Bon Tempe Lake and past the golf course). Park in the large pullout on the left (it fits about 20 cars). Cross the road, go through the rusty gate and up the fire road; this is Pine Mountain Fire Road. After 1 mile the road levels, turn left onto Oat Hill Fire Road. Hike .25 mile to an offshoot trail on the right. Follow this down .25 mile to the falls. Dog-friendly!
Maybe it's because there aren't any signs, but a first trip to Carson Falls feels like traveling to a storybook oasis. Find this 100-foot series of cascading waterfalls just outside Fairfax in Marin County. But get there soon, because this beauty only awakes during the rainy season. Start the 1.5-mile jaunt (one-way) by climbing wide, rocky Pine Mountain Fire Road. While ascending, be sure to stop and turn around: the gently sloping spine of Mt. Tam comes into view, as do panoramas of San Pablo Bay and the Richardson Bridge. Leave the fire road and follow an unmarked trail into the forest, down a series of switchbacks until the falls come into sight. On a clear day, even in the winter, people will be relaxing on large rocks among the waterfall's multiple drops and pools. Look closely and you might even catch a glimpse of the fall's special residents: yellow-legged frogs. Pucker up!
From Highway 101 in Marin, exit Sir Francis Drake Blvd. toward San Rafael. Go about 6 miles to the town of Fairfax. Turn left on Pastori, immediately right on Broadway, then left on Bolinas Rd. Follow this 3.8 miles (go past the turn-off for Bon Tempe Lake and past the golf course). Park in the large pullout on the left (it fits about 20 cars). Cross the road, go through the rusty gate and up the fire road; this is Pine Mountain Fire Road. After 1 mile the road levels, turn left onto Oat Hill Fire Road. Hike .25 mile to an offshoot trail on the right. Follow this down .25 mile to the falls. Dog-friendly!
Berkeley Backyard Hidden Waterfalls
Backyard Waterfall!!
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/berkeley.waterfall/267
Tucked among the hillside houses of North Berkeley is a stairway that leads to a waterfall. It's not marked; you just need to know how to find it. The adventure starts at the partly hidden stairway behind the playground at Codornices Park (across from the Rose Garden). These stairs lead to a path, which leads to a second set of stairs and then a small gate. Beyond that gate is another world: a lush green canyon with a grove of redwood trees, a rushing creek, and a 40-foot series of cascading waterfalls. Walk across the creek via a wooden slab to get a better perspective on this hidden oasis.
The waterfall is at its best in the rainy months. Park at the entrance of Codornices Park, across from the Rose Garden, on Euclid Ave. and Eunice St. (map). Behind the wooden trolley in the playground are two sets of stairs; take the left set. At the top, continue left. Then look right for a winding concrete staircase; take these up, but not all the way. Twenty feet past the first green lamp post there's a small gate on the left with a "Private Property" sign. Enter the gate (it's OK, they allow you to visit) and veer left at the first junction. Follow your ears to the falls.
Dec 20, 2007
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/berkeley.hibernation/229
Walk around the UC Berkeley campus over the next couple of weeks and your only company will probably be chubby squirrels and crowing blackbirds. Students and faculty have vacated the university's 1,230 acres, leaving you plenty of space to roam one of the most sylvan campuses around. At no other time of year is Cal so tranquil; even usually chaotic Sproul Plaza is silent. Start at the historic Sather Gate, make a right, and wander along Strawberry Creek to the grassy, amphitheater-shaped Faculty Glade (once thought to be home to Ohlone Native Americans). On the western side of the glade, check out the Arleigh and Ruthie Williams Redwood Grove. When we were there last week, the branches were trimmed with paper snowflakes some holiday-spirited students had hung. Just look out for those Cal bears—they pop up in the most unexpected places.
TIP: End your wanderings on the leafy terrace of the Caffe Strada just across from the campus at the corner of College Ave. and Bancroft Way.
For a map of Berkeley campus click here.
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/berkeley.waterfall/267
Tucked among the hillside houses of North Berkeley is a stairway that leads to a waterfall. It's not marked; you just need to know how to find it. The adventure starts at the partly hidden stairway behind the playground at Codornices Park (across from the Rose Garden). These stairs lead to a path, which leads to a second set of stairs and then a small gate. Beyond that gate is another world: a lush green canyon with a grove of redwood trees, a rushing creek, and a 40-foot series of cascading waterfalls. Walk across the creek via a wooden slab to get a better perspective on this hidden oasis.
The waterfall is at its best in the rainy months. Park at the entrance of Codornices Park, across from the Rose Garden, on Euclid Ave. and Eunice St. (map). Behind the wooden trolley in the playground are two sets of stairs; take the left set. At the top, continue left. Then look right for a winding concrete staircase; take these up, but not all the way. Twenty feet past the first green lamp post there's a small gate on the left with a "Private Property" sign. Enter the gate (it's OK, they allow you to visit) and veer left at the first junction. Follow your ears to the falls.
Dec 20, 2007
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/berkeley.hibernation/229
Walk around the UC Berkeley campus over the next couple of weeks and your only company will probably be chubby squirrels and crowing blackbirds. Students and faculty have vacated the university's 1,230 acres, leaving you plenty of space to roam one of the most sylvan campuses around. At no other time of year is Cal so tranquil; even usually chaotic Sproul Plaza is silent. Start at the historic Sather Gate, make a right, and wander along Strawberry Creek to the grassy, amphitheater-shaped Faculty Glade (once thought to be home to Ohlone Native Americans). On the western side of the glade, check out the Arleigh and Ruthie Williams Redwood Grove. When we were there last week, the branches were trimmed with paper snowflakes some holiday-spirited students had hung. Just look out for those Cal bears—they pop up in the most unexpected places.
TIP: End your wanderings on the leafy terrace of the Caffe Strada just across from the campus at the corner of College Ave. and Bancroft Way.
For a map of Berkeley campus click here.
The 50 Best Adventure Books of All Time!
The 50 Best Adventure Books of All Time!
Posted: 21 Jan 2009 01:57 PM CST
http://blog.nileguide.com/2009/01/21/top-50-adventure-books-of-all-time/
NileGuide, the same great online personal trip planning service I mentioned last week, have posted an awesome list of the Top 50 Adventure Books of All Time to their excellent NileGuidance Blog.
Their list consists of some amazing books, and they definitely seem to have hit all the classics. There are even a few honorable mentions that just missed the cut. This is a perfect list to use to expand your library and they even made it simple by adding links to the Amazon.com page to order your own copy of any book you don't already own.
The list runs the gamut of true life adventure, travel books, adventure novels, and more. I don't want to spoil the entire list, as part of the fun is the discovery of where your favorite fell, but the top five look like this:
1. The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen
2. Wind, Sand, and Stars by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
3. The Long Walk by Slavomir Rawicz
4. Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin
5. No Picnic on Mount Kenya by Felice Benuzzi
Many more great books on the list. Be sure to check it out!
Posted: 21 Jan 2009 01:57 PM CST
http://blog.nileguide.com/2009/01/21/top-50-adventure-books-of-all-time/
NileGuide, the same great online personal trip planning service I mentioned last week, have posted an awesome list of the Top 50 Adventure Books of All Time to their excellent NileGuidance Blog.
Their list consists of some amazing books, and they definitely seem to have hit all the classics. There are even a few honorable mentions that just missed the cut. This is a perfect list to use to expand your library and they even made it simple by adding links to the Amazon.com page to order your own copy of any book you don't already own.
The list runs the gamut of true life adventure, travel books, adventure novels, and more. I don't want to spoil the entire list, as part of the fun is the discovery of where your favorite fell, but the top five look like this:
1. The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen
2. Wind, Sand, and Stars by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
3. The Long Walk by Slavomir Rawicz
4. Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin
5. No Picnic on Mount Kenya by Felice Benuzzi
Many more great books on the list. Be sure to check it out!
Whale Migration
From Good Migration
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/whale-watch-while-hiking-the-owl-trail-in-marin/472
The Owl Trail, Marin's swooping seashore tramp, offers a special bonus in winter and spring: the chance to see migrating Gray Whales offshore. The 2-mile round-trip trek —not for those with a fear of heights—parallels Highway 1 between the Muir Beach Overlook and Slide Ranch( http://www.slideranch.org/ ). Pack your binoculars and your patience, and keep an eye out along the way for swashes on the Pacific, signaling spouting whales in the distance. Bonus sightings include the trail's namesake Great Horned Owls, along with a flock of curious sheep that live at Slide Ranch, a nonprofit teaching farm that's a crossroads destination on the trail. Upon reaching the ranch, continue past the office building and take the path—steep at one point—down to North Beach. Explore tide pools and take a breather on a giant rock, keeping your eyes peeled for those large gray wonders of the sea.
The Owl Trail starts from an unmarked trailhead at the north end of Muir Beach Overlook parking lot. Take this north all the way to Slide Ranch, and return on the same trail. No dogs.
TAKE A BOAT http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/whale-watch-with-the-oceanic-society-out-of-half-moon-bay/473
ANOTHER HIKE OPTION: http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/whale-watch-from-mori-point-in-pacifica/474
DRIVE IN WHALE WATCHING http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/whale.watch.bodega.head/248
http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/whale-watch-while-hiking-the-owl-trail-in-marin/472
The Owl Trail, Marin's swooping seashore tramp, offers a special bonus in winter and spring: the chance to see migrating Gray Whales offshore. The 2-mile round-trip trek —not for those with a fear of heights—parallels Highway 1 between the Muir Beach Overlook and Slide Ranch( http://www.slideranch.org/ ). Pack your binoculars and your patience, and keep an eye out along the way for swashes on the Pacific, signaling spouting whales in the distance. Bonus sightings include the trail's namesake Great Horned Owls, along with a flock of curious sheep that live at Slide Ranch, a nonprofit teaching farm that's a crossroads destination on the trail. Upon reaching the ranch, continue past the office building and take the path—steep at one point—down to North Beach. Explore tide pools and take a breather on a giant rock, keeping your eyes peeled for those large gray wonders of the sea.
The Owl Trail starts from an unmarked trailhead at the north end of Muir Beach Overlook parking lot. Take this north all the way to Slide Ranch, and return on the same trail. No dogs.
TAKE A BOAT http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/whale-watch-with-the-oceanic-society-out-of-half-moon-bay/473
ANOTHER HIKE OPTION: http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/whale-watch-from-mori-point-in-pacifica/474
DRIVE IN WHALE WATCHING http://www.weekendsherpa.com/story/whale.watch.bodega.head/248
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