'I've looked at clouds from both sides now'

Clouds fill the mountain gaps—the sun does the rest .

Wisps of clouds—bowled over when spotted at first light

Shadow of mountain rests on the clouds, facing west

As we were leaving at 4:15am for a hike this morning, our editor whispered from her cozy bed, “Watch out for snakes.” Well, at least her heart is in the right place although not her boots. She is either taking the rest before hike-about-10 very seriously, rebelling against early morning hikes or has injured herself. We must give her the benefit of the doubt and are sad to acknowledge that it’s the latter.

Clouds never get in our way

Here comes the sun—just creeping above the mountain top

Following a call from ‘City Hall’ yesterday, we decided we had to arrive at the peak of Iron Mountain before sunrise. Over the last few days, the sun has disappeared from San Diego. We like it that way but the majority seem to be effected adversely by dull weather. So when the mayor asked for our help, we were eager and ready. High ground must be the answer, we decided. Hence, off we went to discover the mystery of sub-standard summer weather in this city.

Sun shines on the clouds for the first time this morning

Clouds, above it all

We commenced the hike at 5:02am in the dark. While we were busy looking out for snakes, we missed spotting a protruding rock. After picking oneself up from the rough surface, we decided the snakes could look for us instead—we are through with looking for them. Truth be told, it was completely dark but for the flashlight beams. If we thought about it deeply, perhaps a little spooky, too. At times, it’s better not to see what is lurking in the bushes, particularly the flock of birds that flew from a tree, sounding like squawking missiles.

Sun performs its magic

At first light, we saw something that was unique—it looked like the tail of a comet. Thereafter, one could easily be overcome with emotion as the sights were unbelievable. To view the mountains waking in a sea of clouds, clouds so thick that one could almost imagine standing on them. Before the sun exposed itself, the rays lit up the mountain tops which reflected onto the clouds. Wherever one turned, peaks protruded through the cumulus, creating a wonderland. Thereafter, things only got better. The sun is definitely operating normally, we are pleased to announce. Let the pictures tell the rest of the story.

Sunrays fill the gaps preceding the source

Cloudy colors 'hit the button'

We made our way back quickly as we are beginning to run down the mountains these days or at least, part of this one. The worst aspect of the morning was sitting on the 52 freeway in peak traffic on our return. Why don’t people walk (hike) to work?

Lesson learned today: Sometimes it's not the place but rather, the time.

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

Waiting for this moment

Cloud blanketed towards the west, the Pacific Ocean

Too much sun, time to leave