Redwood National Park, California

The redwoods are majestic and impressive. It's almost impossible to capture the immensity of one of these giants but I tried!
This is a grove of redwoods near our campsite. Huge sword ferns carpet the forest floor along with red sorrel and many other plants. Moss covers every dead branch.
We walked or hiked every day. The weather was not rainy for a change.
This is the very rustic northwest coast of California. We were lucky to get a clear day, on the other days the coast was completely shrouded in fog, just what the redwoods like.
Roosevelt elk came into the meadow by the campground every day.

Camping under the redwoods was a rewarding experience - chilly but rewarding. The temperatures, as usual, were about 70 during the day and as low as 45 during the night. This first part of our summer's journey was a rewarding experience.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake is a must see! It's a beautiful area, with breathtaking scenery. The picture above shows the formation called Phantom Ship, since it resembles a pirate ship. It's only visible from one part of the lake. Doesn't it look like a ghost ship just floating in the sky?
Every lookout has its own special view. Some parts of the crater have trees, some just rocks. The mountains and valleys on the drive around the crater are spectacular, too.

4th of July in Howell

A wonderful time was had by all at Sheryl and Jim's 4th of July party! Corn on the cob, burgers, hot dogs, deviled eggs, potato salad, blueberries, cake, oh, and beer - all made for a fun-filled afternoon!
Trenton shows off his muscles and tattoos.

Jim was an excellent grillmaster. Sheryl had everything organized, even games for the kids.

The water balloon toss, egg race and egg toss were hysterical!

We are excited to be heading off on our 65-day journey tomorrow.

Water gun shootout!

Oliver had a blast after his good nap. Chrysanne played well with Trenton and Oliver.

Oliver has 2 teeth on top now.

Jason was the king of corn hole, unbeatable.

Lots of spectators all afternoon. The weather was excellent for a change.

Good picture of the Georges.