New Zealand: Tongariro Crossing: A couple of shots supporting cover picture.

'Burn, baby, burn' is the result of a dip below.
Volcanic desert...let's get going.

62.07: California: Winters: Berryessa Lake: Pleasant Ridge Trail and one of the most stunning of regions.

Every now-and-again, along comes an opportunity that's unique. Actually, most are unique but there are those that stand on their own, often because of the subjectivity of the participant or hiker. 

We were reading through some recommendations for the Berryessa Lake region when this guy's approach came across as original. Some of his comments were: 

  Hazards: "On the way down, the grade is so steep in places, you will have to make the choice of letting gravity have its way with you or you can try to engage in a controlled fall." How enticing. 

It's a very short hike of 1.5 miles with an elevation gain of 1,470 feet per mile. Believe us that is steep.

 He continued..."Other hazards: Poison ivy, mountain lions and rattle snakes." 

 He concluded: "Would I do it again?: NO." 

Only one of many rewards from the top: A view of Monticello Dam and wall, Berryessa Lake, Putah Creek, the beautiful surrounds and put it all together and one is immersed in natural life, in wonder.

You've heard it before; nevertheless, this looks nothing like the real climb. Also, an indication of parts of the path.
To the right is the Blue Ridge Mountain which we crossed 2-days earlier. The path along the stream below is part of the return route.
From near the peak, we have a nice view of the campground plus the Putah River.
Truth be told, can't get enough of these views. The small tree on the peak to the left of the dam is one of the places we stood 2-days before on our way up to-and-along the Blue Ridge Mountain.
For perspective, a typical view of the lake from the ridge (2 days earlier) differs as shown below. To the right foreground (water), the lake continues back toward the dam wall.
Reaching the last clump of trees before the peak.
A view from the peak toward the campground.
A little of everything.

The 'zig-zags' or 'switchbacks' on one of the routes to Blue Ridge Mountain. I've never heard Jen say something to the effect that she would like to redo the hike two-days later. That would be her first for a second.
  We arrived at an alternate trail after a partial completion of another (long story). The Pleasant Ridge Trail is now apparently closed which we did not realize. We had read about it, as written in the opening paragraph, of its difficulty. 

  We found the ‘trail’, for want of a better description. It was rough, steep as mentioned, surrounded by ‘snake grass’, and appeared to head nowhere but up toward something high. Jen took one look at it and declined to put her delicate feet on the ‘track’. Being a little frustrated, having been turned back earlier and not wishing to pressure Jen to commence with me, I decided to head-up and test the trail on my own. More accurately, test myself. As I moved up—I found it very rough and steeper than expected. More importantly, something came over me. I will try to explain the feeling but would wish anyone reading this to try to accept my word of not making a point, or being in self-promotion mode, or anything else other than relating what spirit drove me. 

  After ten minutes or so, I began to think of Jenni waiting for me at the car. However, I felt comforted that she held the keys, although I had brunch. Maybe I could sneak an extra yoghurt. I thought I’d limit the hike to less than full duration, something we seldom do as well as resent doing. It was, as stated, steep, probably dangerous and very tiring. A ranger had mentioned to Jenni, I found out later, it was dangerous as well snake infested—something an intelligent person would avoid. 

  ‘Perhaps another few yards and then I’ll turn—Jenni will be getting anxious.’ However, I had told her I was heading upwards so that would not be surprising. Then something triggered in my mind. Here I was preparing excuses for myself. Let me digress. 

  Soon after the attack on Israel, October 7th, we made superficial inquiries about rendering some assistance in Israel. After obtaining information and being practical, it seemed needing the services of 2 seventy-two-year-olds might not be a high priority for the State. So, we pursued other avenues. 

  Back on the mountain, as I struggled up, I thought what a slacker I was. Israelis are under attack and extreme pressure, and I seek excuses as to why I should turn around. Obviously, to lessen the anxiety for Jenni was a good reason, but perhaps it was overshadowed by my weakness. I pushed on and then thought twice more of turning. Had I a mirror with me, I would not have looked into it. It would have been embarrassing. ‘I’m heading for the top,’ I decided. While it won’t help Israel one trifle, it would allow me to share a kind of challenge in my own way. My danger and sweat, hopefully not being arrogant, would put me in a place allowing me to relate a little closer to their real threats and tribulations. 

  I believe strongly that each action we take is a challenge in and of itself. Life is a conglomeration of tests. Therefore, our actions are a method of building ourselves. While rationalization is a brilliant method of avoiding action, it’s also pretty good in the making of mediocrity or worse. 

  “Did I reach the peak?’ It’s irrelevant to others but one person. 

  On my return down the mountain, I thought again of the continuing human misery, self-induced amongst humanity. While many, for example, are 'intent' on saving the planet, ostensibly protecting lives of all who agree with them, including acknowledged terrorists, (to mention a mere few of their ‘attributes’, I omit so much more), yet the murdering of Jews is welcomed. In fact, it’s encouraged. Should you not like Jews, not wish to mix with them or acknowledge their existence, that’s your right. But to wish to murder us, is not your perogative. It is not permissible and frankly, shows your evil, inhuman and hypocritical natures. We are appalled. To share the term ‘human’ with you is an extreme embarrassment to us. 

  From time-to-time, I believe it behooves a person to take a stand, to voice an opinion, to show where one stands. While I don't particularly wish to do it in this blog or even in the public domain, occasionally, I have the need. 

  I am so grateful for the joy and meaning that has filled my life; I have been most fortunate. However, I'm appalled at what I see, read and surmise. It was 35 or more years ago that I turned to Jen one day and said I will always be shocked that the holocaust occurred. What shocked me even further, something I realized to my horror, was that I could envisage it reoccurring. 

Let's close the gate, lift the drawbridge and express gratitude for the treasures that abound.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

He's just a shadow of himself...maybe, he was here.

'Would I do the hike again? YES'

62.05 Re-Introduction to Berryessa Lake: A staggering place of hikes and views—heading for Blue Ridge which is extremely green.

The introduction is limited to 6 photographs or else I would have been tempted to go with 2 dozen. On the first occasion we hiked in this region, we knew we were in a special place. That we took over 3 years to return is disappointing, but we are tending to skip California these days. It's another heaven-on-earth region further enhanced by ideal weather conditions for rich, green growth...and it shows. 

When we look toward nature and immerse ourselves within it, we spend our days filled with awe and discovery, inter alia.  

Full blog of this spectacular day will feature in the future. 

The lake extends to the 'horizon'.
The hills are alive; you see and even feel the richness. We began the hike at river level and are still rising.
Jen is hiking along the ridge, part of trail in view. This means after reaching a basic top of mountain, one continues up and down along the said ridge, while soaking in incredible views. Currently, about to rise again, energy permitting. Advisable to keep a watchful eye out for rocks, roots and snakes. We came across the most number of these reptiles on this hike. (See future publication of these critters should they interest you. Next blog below contains an interesting snake, too. A word or two of comfort to Jen will go a long way to ensuring dinner tonight...thank you!)
Rock climbing which is always a source of challenge to continue growing...although some may see it as a 'show-off' in action. Some might in fact be correct.
'Life and death'...loved the contrasts.
Monticello Dam feeds Putah Creek, the latter seen in the valley.

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

While "Breakfast (brunch) at Tiffany's" sounds enticing, the real dream is in Vacaville, thirty minutes from Berryessa. 

 'Seventh photograph, but from elsewhere, sneaked onto the blog without my knowledge. Who would have thought?'

62.06 California: Morro Bay: Valencia Hike through a form of Eden.

We happened to see an officer of the law fine this offender 3 worms and a feather-weight of birdseed. The real issue for the authorities appears to be collection of the fine. These type of offenders are similar to those who live 'on the road', irregular collection of mail. Fortunately, some of the finest bureaucrats are focused on the issue, a source of comfort to us. We did mention to the officer that the offender should be granted a reprieve as the bird did have a disability—apparently, a deformed left-wing.
While each specie is free to follow their own paths, we still believe it's rude to stare and portray an unfriendly attitude. From humans we can understand that demeanor, reluctantly, but we expect more from reptiles. Why Jen began singing 'Snake, rattle and roll' is beyond me but then again, she has a nice voice. Funnily enough, so much is beyond my ken these days, I feel I'm living in a strange world. Should I be able to sing better, I could relate to 'Fly me to the Moon', undertaking a full emigration. Then again, a US Congresswoman says it's not feasible because the moon comprises gases only. She should be 'Armstronged' for that or perhaps, strong-armed out of congress. The problem with that tactic should they get rid of her: the IQ of the esteemed body will reach new heights. The result: It will become even more difficult to attract candidates who qualify.  

Who knows what 'to morro' will bring but 'to day' is very attractive in-and-of-itself.
Now we know 'Where All the Flowers Have Gone'...to mountain tops, everyone. (Be grateful you haven't heard me sing it.)
I find this position, the view and 'even' Jenni, an incredible sight. Mesmerizing would not be an exaggeration.
There was a bit of a gap between us. When Jenni reached the top, she turned around and ran down to collect her hiking pole. Hence, it appears I got a little ahead of her when in fact, I was behind although appear ahead. Got that! (She's toward the bottom of photo.)
"We've looked at clouds from both sides now." Please feel free to sing along. 

We think that's Valencia Peak on the horizon. Picture taken in a reciprocal position during some rock-hopping the day before. (Before the Morro).
Valencia from Hazard Peak trail, 2 days later.
A healthy stride along the numerous trails.
Let's head home, this time Jen leads.

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

AM YISRAEL CHAI

61:48 Arizona/Nevada: Wandering below Fortification Hill...Hill? while immersed in color rather than water.

After 3 miles, we reach the lake edge in blustering winds. Should you not like the blues, there's jazz and even reds...take your pick or as we do, absorb them all. 

  A section of Lake Mead.
Standing in Arizona and peering across the water into Nevada. We wonder about the contraptions in the distance. Mount Charleston sits in the far distance.
There's one of the contraptions (above) from another angle, viewed from Black Canyon Peak in Nevada.
Now we are close to the structure, opposite side of the lake and Arizona, while standing in Nevada.
The masterpiece, Fortification Mountain, aka "hill". Viewed this from so many different positions.
Jen heads for the hills.
Jen returns from the hills.
'The long and winding (and colorful) road.'
We'd call it 'rough' following the gusting winds. Even the shade of blue was unusual.
We'd call it 'Smooth'.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

We had no space to store these photographs, hence... 

Looks like a sea or should that be a 'C' for the .olorado.

62.04 Nevada-2: Boulder City surround: Owl Canyon continuing onto an unknown peak which has the odd view or 2 or ten.

'Lady in Red'...sorry Chris, should have been 'on red'. Heading beyond the peak behind Jen...sometimes I have to turn her about.
Walking through the canyon when we halt for a flash of light. Turned out to be more than a flash. The poring of molten gold might be taking place in Nevada just as it did in earlier centuries.
This view of The Frenchman (Sunrise Mountain) depicts both the attractive coloring, the height and possible views. It's a great hike but Miss Jenni might tell you otherwise about the very rough footing. Nevertheless, she never misses an opportunity. In the foreground is the inimitable Lava Butte, a partial tease.
Ah! Finally, she turned around and is heading in the correct direction. "You're welcome, Jen."
The coloring stuns us or maybe it's the strenuous hikes. Mount Charleston is impressive with snow-covering...but the foreground is special.
Lava Butte joins Charleston, Frenchman, right rear, in showing us what they have.
In a class of its own, Lava Butte.
  We are always amazed by the power, reach and beauty of nature…and much more of which we know nothing about, have yet to see, and never will. One facet of it that’s startling is the power and destructive nature it wields. That it can destroy itself is frightening; that it is able to rebuild itself is miraculous. 

  Perhaps the point being made is despite its urges to and follow through of exploding from within in the form of say, volcanoes, rather than leave the destruction in its wake indefinitely, over time it builds something unique to cover its tantrum. And as someone said about himself recently, although it should be taken with a lot more than even a ‘pinch of salt’, perhaps vinegar, too, it ‘builds back better’. Proof? For a start, how about Lava Butte and surrounds. 

A view from Lava Butte; Lake Las Vegas and the desert sand pictures 'in color' (next below).

Wandering without a trail, wilderness-freedom at its best.
Jen asked to have her name in 'lights'...I went one better. As anyone who knows her will testify, she's most extroverted. Hmm!
"Is Lava Butte real?" One may ask. "As real as Jenni, I would say."
A scene far from 'civilization', a position to seat oneself and contemplate...and throw in brunch, too.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

Guess who needed the proverbial "Just one more".
...and settled for two, including a gold canyon.