A Successful Backup Plan!

The Mrs. and I turned lemons into lemonade today when we couldn’t take our planned camping trip.

We hit Hwy 17 to Felton, CA and took a trip to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.  Only 40 minutes away from home, yet it’s like stepping into another world.  Stunning, just stunning.

The feel of the air in the Redwood Grove just feels different.   You can breath better in there, I swear.  You can feel it in your lungs,  on your skin…  It smells better.  It smells like the real world in there.  Pictures can do it no justice, and neither do my meager words.

We hiked around a bit, it was by no means a strenuous, adrenaline inducing hike.  We walked around 2 miles through these magnificent, ancient trees and then parked it for a while on a little bench and just ABSORBED the atmosphere.   Not to sound like some dirty hippie, but places like that are just transformative to me. 

After our time in the woods, we continued south to Santa Cruz, our old stompin’ grounds.  We had a nice lunch at Ideal Bar & Grill, right between the Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Wharf.  Don’t let the tourist trap location fool you, the food is fantastic there.   Not terribly expensive, especially considering  it’s right on the beach.  AND you get to watch a nonstop parade of weirdos strolling by while you dine!  What’s not to love?!?

After a slow,  leisurely lunch, we took a stroll down the Wharf.  We dipped into Marini’s to satisfy the Mrs’ sweet tooth after lunch which is always nice.  This candyshop has been there since 1915 and is always fun to visit.  I’ve only been going there since about 1972, but it never disappoints!

Below are some other fun sights from the Wharf…

The famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Sure, it’s no campout, but it’s been a great day and it sure beat hanging around the house watching movies or some such.

So glad Spring is upon us and the outdoors are inviting once again!

Thanks for stopping by by!