Happy Hiker

Nothing like a 5-mile hike in the sun 'n surf with sons to bring out the smiles. Ryan and Stephen took this picture of me along the way on our 5 miler south of Doheney State Beach.

Ryan and Stephen taking a snack break on the beach hike

A convenient driftwood log was the stopping point for our snack break. You can see where we came from in the background. I think this spot is south of Capistrano Beach. We passed about 2 miles of beach-front homes. Some were original one-story ranch-style or beachcomber style from the 50's and 60's. Many more were tear-down and rebuilds, 2 or 3 story, in different architectural styles. Several homes had catamarans or ocean kayaks parked on the sand by their back porches, at the ready for a day's sail. The downside to these home's location is the train tracks (and PCH) on other side of the home. We saw the Amtrak Surfliner train pass by about once an hour.

Sick Grebe

Ryan spotted a bird resting on the beach rocks, which we think is a "grebe," because of its crested head, curved neck and distinctive red eyes. That's the closest type of bird we could find in our bird-i.d. guide. It looked like a young one, and appeared to be sick because it couldn't run or fly more than a couple of feet.


Close up:

5 Mile Beach Hike--Stephen, Ryan, Dad

On Saturday, 16 February, Stephen, Ryan and I did a 5 mile beach hike, going south from Doheney State Beach. We had to cross a fast-moving creek that enters the beach right there. Usually the stream is blocked from the ocean by the sandy beach--not this time! Ryan chose the jumping route--he made it all the way (almost), and there was a huge splash as he hit stream bottom and jumped to the far side. Stephen and I went to where the stream was shallower and walked across barefooted.

Ryan Victorious At Risk

Ryan celebrates his first Victory at Risk, after crushing Stephen and Dad. World Domination comes naturally for him. He took North America, beat back recurring invasions, dominated South America, then gradually drove Stephen from Asia and Dad from Europe and North Africa.

Why Will People Flock to St. George This Year?

Heather gave a great farewell talk on Sunday, Feb. 10th. Nathan warmed up the crowd by speaking first. After we met at Greg and Jillair's where Heather gave Grandpa Steve an extra love and demonstrated why we're all going to miss her so much.

Southern Utah will be even sunnier for the next 18 months!

Arizona Jake Makes His California Debut

Scot and Chari brought Jake to Irvine where we got to meet him for the first time on Sunday, Feb. 10th. He's a cutie. He's got his mother's charm and his dad's studly looks.