Road Trip! Let’s just call it ‘The Drive’

Ladies and gentleman, when I tell you that today's drive on Highway 1 from Cayucos to Big Sur to San Francisco and then on for a sidetrip to Napa was one beautiful drive, it is said without one bit of exaggeration. Unless the Oregon coast surprises me, this is going to be "The Drive" of the trip.

I hope Nevada can salt away a little money this legislative session. Because when California goes bankrupt, I saw some chunks of land that would make good acquisitions for the Silver State.

The day's weather was again spectacular. Bright sunshine, with patches of fog early on. Temps were in the 60s on the coast and in the 70s as we moved inland. We drove straight through San Francisco. When I caught a glimpse of the city in the rear-view mirror, I must admit thinking about how much fun it would have been to stay in the city tonight.

But it's on to Napa. We have what appears to be a fine hotel/bed-and-breakfast in the River Terrace Inn. We're here for two nights. Wineries ... here we come. But since I avoid drinking and driving, my tasting will be done almost exclusively through Christina, who has a more refined sense of taste than I do anyway. Maybe a rinse 'n spit when she points me to something that can't be missed. I'm looking forward to the Duckhorn and Heitz facilities as I've enjoyed their products greatly over the years.

(Click images to enlarge.)

Some of the scenery on "The Drive". Calling it "spectacular" doesn't quite describe it well enough. You must see it for yourself.

Stopped at two bakery/coffee joints on the drive today. Both made substandard coffee (but I'm used to it and I drank it anyway.) This joint in Davenport was a hopping place. Hardly room inside or out. So the food must be good. We shared a slice of their homemade apple pie (I know, it's not Vegan, but I'm discovering that I am a Vegan in an Anglican sort of way, so step back and let me enjoy my apple pie in moderation every once in a while.

Over the Golden Gate Bridge and on to the wine country.