We loaded everything we could into our trusty old Honda Civic and took off to CA to see family for just over a week.  We took our mountain bikes, so stopped near Gooseberry Mesa in Southeastern Utah.  Had a great, but short rider there,a nd headed onward to CA the next day.  We drove through Death Valley National Park, this being our first time through there.  What a huge, an beautiful place!  Sand dunes, rolling hills, enormous valleys, and wind, definitely wind.  Next time we hope to make the trek to the Playa Racetrack, a good excuse to bring the jeep back.  

We arrived in Lone Pine, CA, just before dark. Having set up camp in the cold and dark numerous times, I knew Joey would be much happier if we just splurged and got a room.  We then found the best Taco Truck in the world, not exaggerating.  I got up before sunrise, and knew little about the Alabama Hills just to the west of town.  I took my bike and pack for my camera in case the road was too rough for the car, but the road was great.  With clear skies, I found a nice spot in these beautiful hills, and waited for some nice, warm alpenglow.  It started with just a sliver, but soon the whole Sierra Nevada range radiated an intense orange, Mt. Whitney came to life in a blaze.  Sometimes it pays to get out of bed.  What a great morning. This would be the landscape photography highlight of the trip. 

We had a great time visiting family, going to the beach in Fort Bragg, and eventually driving nonstop back to Colorado.  Yes, life is good.