San Diego's Iron "Everest" viewed from Mount Woodson, the return of clouding.

Vacation is fun until the editor gets us out of bed on a Sunday morning at 5am to climb a mountain
for a purpose we have yet to determine. The fact that we love it negates the whining of the previous sentence.
That we walked up Mount Woodson, some eight miles round-trip with over 2,000 feet elevation gain in the rain
added to the experience. A relatively fast run down to the trailhead gave us a 'high' although by that time
we were much lower, reaching the trailhead.

We did not foresee that the usually enjoyable sights would not be on view until we noticed the whole region
was covered in thick clouds. We hoped, always optimistic about weather, the sun would break through but
that wasn't the case. Nevertheless, we enjoyed an incredible treat looking at the voluminous clouds taking
the form of the mountains and valleys they covered, partially and wholly. In retrospect, the missing sunshine
was a blessing.

Once again, we think the point that no matter where one is in the world, the scenery can be breathtaking
depending on the conditions rather than the place.




A bank of clouds so vast, never seen before in the county.





Iron Mountain covered in clouds not unlike a glove.





More clouding on the other side of Woodson, nearly lost the editor. Have to try harder.




By way of contrast, the view of an earlier sunset awhile ago (Time rather than place).





From Mount Woodson, a view of the dam and wild clouds.




Returning to the trailhead, no sun but less mist at ground level. At 6am the fishermen were casting-off,
giving us hope that we were not the only 'meshuganas' (crazies).




'Swamped' in clouds, an incredible feeling.




A sunset in the area without clouds on another occasion.




In January 2015, it's still Autumn in San Diego but feels like Spring.





Looking into the valley. Clouds at times look like smoke.





Iron Mountain remains covered, 'his sisters' get rid of clouds.



Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey