Santa Ynez Valley, CA - March 2007

For Saint Patrick's Day weekend, a bunch of girls got together to celebrate our dear friend Erin Sweeney's 40th birthday (and not the official reason for the gathering, but also celebrated - the anniversary of my 29th birthday).

The destination was the Santa Ynez valley in southern California, north of Santa Barbara. The region has excellent wines and is fun for vineyard touring and wine tasting. Most of the girls originated in San Diego. Jacq and I came from CO, Barb came from San Antonio. Here is a map of the Santa Ynez valley and surrounding areas:

As we gathered and headed north, we stopped for lunch in Santa Barbara (Barb, Carmen, Cate, and Jacq):

Upon arrival in the Santa Ynez valley, we hit a few vineyards for wine tasting. Here we all are at dinner.

The next day, we hit the wine tasting circuit early - heading for the town of Los Olivos but stopping by a few vineyards on the way. Erin and Barb:

Erin:

The valley is truly beautiful. I hope to return in a differnt season when the vines are green and in fruit.

After a good deal of time in Los Olivos, we made our way to Solvang - a town with architecture and a general atmosphere of a small Swedish town - very quaint and enjoyable.

By the end of the long and joy filled day, we were all wiped out:

It was very enjoyable to spend the long weekend with my long-time dear friends, and to become better aquainted with a bunch of truly amazing ladies. Hope to have future adventures with this group, and hope to make it back to Santa Ynez again.

http://www.syvva.com/

Jackal Hut Trip - April 2007

Jackal Hut is outside of Leadville. The approach is fairly steep but not difficult - car to hut was appr 5 hours (3 for the faster skiiers). Good skiing outside of the hut both on open slopes and in the trees. Views from the hut are amazing. Photo of hut and view:



View from the deck:


Beth planned this trip. In the photo from left to right: Kent, Jacq, me, Greg, Ellen, Beth,Ernie, Mark, Maile, Eric, Tim. Great group!


We met an amazing 76 year old guy (Ludwig or Luke) who is still out tearing up the backcountry. Here's his photo:

Uncle Ernie sweeping the outhouse (love the moons on the doors).

Jacqueline on the approach. The approach wound through some meadows and lots of trees - beautiful hike in - snow-plow, quad burner on the way out.

As with most huts, this is best as a 3+ day trip to have the middle day to play. Definately worth more trips to this hut. Jackal Hut has a rustic feeling from the wood interior finishes, very comfortable with plenty of space - couple small rooms upstairs, mostly dorm-style sleeping upstairs, more beds in communal area downstairs.