Ocean Beach!

Ahh, Ocean Beach, San Francisco. Andy and I picnicked here a few weeks ago and it was wonderful! We are on the constant search for good beaches in the Bay Area. Not that there are beaches that are not good, but some have better perks than others. Some allow fires, some don't, some get crowded, others are abandoned, some allow dogs, others are strict with animals, some are blocked from the wind, others are warm...and it goes on. Ocean Beach is one that we have put of visiting due to the fact that it is actually in San Francisco. We figured it would be crowded and over run with people, not to mention cold and windy. Surprisingly though, it was none of those things.

Ocean Beach runs about the whole length of the western side of San Francisco. It stretches pretty far and because of that there is plenty of space to spread out. We went on sunny day and it actually got hot! We didn't wear bathing suits because the Bay Area beaches are far too cold for that. We were tucked away in the grassy bluffs out of sight for most to see us, so we stripped down to our underwear and basked in the sun. (Simply divine!) Not only was Ocean Beach warm, but we saw plenty of dogs and I think beach fires are even allowed. This seems like a beach win for the books!

Redwood Trees!

I have come to realize that the redwood trees of California are just about as representative of the state as the dramatic coast line. Really, this state does not skimp on beauty! Unfortunately these huge trees don't just line the highways, instead you have to go find them. Near San Francisco there is a national park called Muir Woods and that park is known for their redwoods trees. The famous redwood trees in Muir Woods seem to attract all sorts of hoards of tourists though. Let me just say miles of tourists! I mean they get dropped off by the bus loads, and if they drive in they park for miles and miles. Andy and I checked out Muir Woods one weekend and immediately drove away. I am not one for enjoying nature in a woods crowded with people. No thank you! So after our failed attempt to see some redwoods we did some research and discovered Butano State Park about equal distance away from San Francisco, but south rather than north. (Mill Ox Loop trail is known for redwood trees.) When we arrived at the park there was not a single soul in sight! I mean we had the whole place to ourselves. I have no idea why Muir is so crowded and Butano sits empty. No matter though, we enjoyed the large majestic trees in a quiet forest all to ourselves. They sure are beautiful trees.

Marin Headlands

Marin Headlands is the area opposite of San Francisco directly over the Golden Gate Bridge. Andy and I have been there quite a few times, but we are usually just driving through. This fine Saturday we decided to spend some time hiking in Marin and really see what the area has to offer. It was beautiful! We hiked out to a beach, let our dog run free, and took a nap in some long grass. We are enjoying hiking these trails before things get too touristy. I can definitely tell that more tourists are populating the area on these warmer days. I guess when you live in a beautiful place that is just something you have to deal with.

Strong Arms Saturday!

This Strong-Arms-Saturday is brought to you by spring hiking. We have been enjoying going outside this spring and exploring different hikes around the Bay Area. Our little dog, Mr. Buckles, loves to get out and run without a leash on the trails. Sometimes we find him happily nibbling on horse or deer poop. Other times, we'll turn the corner to see him rubbing himself in some sort of dead bug's carcass. He loves the outdoors and ALWAYS gets a bath afterwards! Happy Saturday!

What exciting things do you have planned for Saturday? Feel like snapping a picture of your own Strong-Arms-Saturday, send me a picture and I'll post it along with a little story and a link to your website or blog (if you have one):  E-mail Me!

Lake Tahoe Skiing

Last weekend Andy and I went skiing at Lake Tahoe. We went to the Sierra at Tahoe ski resort to be exact. Though there are about 10 other ski resorts to chose from! Variety is always nice.

This was my first time skiing on the West Coast and Andy's second time. It was amazing, words can't describe how awesome it was! We spent our whole day in awe. The snow was packed and perfectly groomed, the sun was shining, and overall conditions were great. Beyond great in fact, perfect!

I had fun skiing on the groomed slopes while Andy would take off into the woods to ski the powder (6 fresh inches when we got there), then we'd meet up at the bottom and ride the lift to another slope. Mid-day we took a break at the tiki bar on the back side of the mountain. We enjoyed fish tacos, chips and salsa, and beer. Fish tacos have never tasted so good. And all of this to a reggae soundtrack playing on some loud speakers in the background. Does skiing get any better?

I think we have found the most ideal place to live in the whole world. Amazing skiing and beautiful beaches all within about 3 hours. That, along with laid back people, amazing food, and chill lifestyles. We are really just in awe with the Bay Area.

What are you up to this weekend? I think we plan to head into San Francisco for restaurant week. I can't wait for some amazing food, and at great prices it'll be even better.

This is where we stopped on the way home. Nothing satisfies more than an In-N-Out burger!

Peninsula Beaches

Ahh the beaches of the San Francisco Peninsula! Last weekend was the first 'real' weekend that Andy and I have had in the Bay Area. Our first weekend we moved in, then it was New Years, so finally we had a nothing-to-do weekend. It was great! We started by driving to Half Moon Bay. It was a lovely drive through green hills and past little farms and flower stands. We also passed a few vineyards that we hope to go back and visit. From Half Moon Bay, we drove up highway 1 and stopped at a few more beaches. It was a wonderful leisurely day of overcast skies, playing on the beach, watching surfers, and sampling the local cuisine (crab). I love that this is home now!

What are you doing this weekend? I think we plan on heading to the slopes...Lake Tahoe!