Rocking in Morro Bay, CA

Commencing Bouldering, after climb

Thursday 21st & Friday 22nd

We set out on a seemingly innocuous hike this afternoon in cloudy weather. The morning, spent working and doing washing, was slow while we waited for the weather to clear. Our expectations were low and our spirits, only slightly higher about the hike. However, we discovered a path that lead via a dry mountain wash to the peak of what is termed, a morro. Not coincidentally, we are in Morro Bay, which has seven of these formations—the most famous of them, positioned on the beach. The hike through the state forest, followed by a climb up the steep mountain of about 1,000 feet, got the ‘juices’ flowing. It was one of the most sheer we have encountered. Close to the peak, we ended up ‘bouldering’ upwards, a favorite pastime of ours. It was exhilarating climbing these large boulders and rocks, planning each step, until reaching the top.
On top of the World & loving it

Hawk eyeing kosher lunch on mountain top
Not everything went as we wished, though. A while back, we mentioned to our editor that we are quite a scout. Having had a year in the military, we thought it enhanced our tracking ability. Of course, our pride got in the way and we had to accept the challenge when called on it. Isn’t that how it always works.
Lazy taking a break
Before commencing the hike, our editor read the warnings about cougars in the park. We were hoping that after the bear debacles, mountain lions would be a ‘breeze’. Can’t they keep all the carnivores in the zoo? We guess not. Whenever we see droppings on the trail, our editor calls out, “Hey, Scout.” What that means is that said scout should check the temperature of the droppings. Of course, hot or warm ‘parcels’ indicate the animal passed by recently. “No, you cannot wear gloves, Scout,” she explains. “You don’t get an accurate feel that way. Are you being a wuss again?” Clearly, there is a lesson for us—if we are going to boast, be careful what we choose to express—not that we have a much of a repertoire.
Victory declared...sort of
We arrived at the car having enjoyed a wonderful afternoon. The surprise for us was the last comment from our dear editor. “You can’t get in the car with those filthy hands. See you at the motel, sweet heart.”
Perched for view of San Luis Obispo

SL Obispo from the Peak

We wish you a great Shabbos and good weekend.

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey

PS We enjoyed another hike south of Morro Bay on Friday which is appended. Distance of 4-5 miles with an elevation gain 1200 feet.

Valley of My Doll

Pre Shabbos greeting with Gavin