Playing Tourist

This past weekend my parents visited California for the first time since we moved here. We took them places we hadn't even been like Marin Headlands and the USS Hornet air craft carrier. I can't believe we've been here for 1.5 years and hadn't yet ventured into the Headlands for the amazing views! Absolutely gorgeous.

We started our journey at the Golden Gate Bridge vista point, and we walked out on the bridge a bit. It's always funny how much the wind picks up and how much cooler it feels toward the middle of the bridge.

Family photo from the vista point.

Flying in the wind! I had to hold on to my hat.

From there, we drove up into the Headlands for the views and to walk the trails a bit. We didn't go far, but what we saw was wonderful. I need to get back there for some serious trail running soon.

From a lookout point after driving up the hills.

Dad enjoying the view.

Golden Gate Bridge from near where we parked.

We then drove to Muir Woods, which was super crowded. We split up from my parents, letting them roam Muir Woods themselves, and headed out to run in Mt. Tam State Park. We ended up on the Miwok Trail for a 5 mile run; boy do I wish we'd had more time! I loved it.

 Lovely trail view.

 Sporting my new SF Marathon Ambasador hat.

Kev at the trail head.

The next day we visited the USS Hornet in Alameda. I admit I wasn't very excited about this museum tour, but it was so much better than I expected. The air craft carrier is HUGE and has tons of cubbies and hallways to explore. My fave highlights were the huge anchor chain links and the big frosting mixer in the bakery.

For the anchor.

Look at the big mixer attachments!

We spent their last day visiting Monterey, and we had beautiful warm weather. We drove part of 17 Mile Drive to see the ocean sights, complete with huge waves. My parents really enjoyed the views and the beach, and I'm happy they liked it. This is definitely one of my favorite places. Usually we visit Kevin's aunt who lives there, but she was traveling this time so we were on our own.

Love the waves crashing on the rocks.

Sadly, they have already headed back to Ohio, but we had a great time and I'm so glad they were able to visit. Back to the regularly scheduled work week...