Armstrong Redwoods & Last Meal

Being geographically impaired, I was pleasantly surprised to find redwoods right in Guerneville!


We parked outside the park, and took the shortest introductory hike of about 1.5 miles. With the thick canopy, the temp was cooler by about 10 degrees on the forest floor.


Henri worked up a sweat, but managed to keep his coat on.


On our last night, we spotted an Inn just down the road. Actually I discovered it in the recommended places at our B&B. They called it a "unique dining experience" since the Inn was located ON THE RIVER.


We loved the service, loved the view, and especially loved the food. This was my grilled Napoleon. Not sure why I was feeling vegetarian. Delicious. Wonderful, special way to cap a terrific holiday!

Sonoma Coast

Not wanting to stay in Guerneville and imbibe, we got suggestions from our Innkeepers and headed in the direction of the Sonoma Coast, about 20 miles away. First stop, Goat Rock.


I looked at this rock every which way, but it NEVER looked like a goat. Even Henri didn't think so.


The sand was a heavy grade, but soft. I took off my shoes and enjoyed getting my tootsies all wet. This lone bird wasn't alone for too much longer. Luckily I didn't get crapped on!


Again, what's in a name? I didn't see any blind people on this beach. And it's doubtful they didn't see me.


It's really lovely actually. I do love the marine layer, the cool mist, the spooky desolate effect.


Yep, another lone bird. Reminds me of a Three Dog Night song...


Spent a good chunk of the day in Bodega Bay. The homemade tour included lots of stops from the Hitchcock film "The Birds". Hmm, maybe those lone birds above where on to something? But of course, Henri takes it to the next level and hams it up. Jeez...

Sonoma Orchid Inn & Guerneville

Our GPS took us off the main highway way too soon but we were able to get a crazy screw top view of this wine country region. Sonoma Orchid Inn, located next to Korbel Champagne Cellars, was in a word: lovely.


The Inn keepers greeted us upon arrival with a tour of the grounds. Our room was through that red door. The sitting room or "family" room was upstairs. This is where we had breakfast each morning with one of the fancy meals they whipped up. The oatmeal souffle was memorable, tasting like a big oatmeal cookie!


With only a few visitors checked in during mid-week, we had full reign of the grounds. I made ample use of the hot tub. No picture of that, sorry, but imagine a manatee in a cup of clear hot chocolate. (I forgot my swim trunks, so it was a boxer party for me!)


Now Guerneville - it's still a quaint town but has seen better days. The sights to see are the Russian River and the bottom of an empty glass of tequila or bottle of wine (according to one of our waitresses).


Henri had to squeeze his little ass into this photo of sunbathers in canoes. Mmmm, SPF 45.