Hi Bob,

No, I've never made that trip, however, I did make one to just north of Bodega Bay today. I found a beach that had easy access from the road and collected more rock samples and a few pieces of driftwood. I found this area had the same metamorphic rock that I saw yesterday at the Headlands, however, mixed with granite. The scene though slight different, shows the mighty forces of nature. Very awe inspiring.

The beach was interesting though. At first I thought I was walking on sand, however, upon closer inspection it wasn't sand at all. It was from the rocks decomposing into minscule fragments, which though looking like sand have a more gravelly texture when run through your hands.

It was such a terrific day for the coastside. It was sunny and warm and not only did I think to go there, so did many other hundreds. I checked out the tiny town of Bodega, CA on the way back. Its one of those near flashes when you drive by, but is pretty much an artist colony. There are few stores offering the best of Bodega.

Saving the very best for last, a lunch at Negri's in Occidental. Though if you let them, they'll feed you until you drop, but for me a marvelous small salad full of vegetables and fresh made ravioli with an excellent marinara sauce and of course, the Bay Area's specialty, sour dough french bread. Couldn't be better.

Occidental for those who have never been, draws tourists to eat. They are tops in family dining and on holidays huge families flock to partake of enormous amounts of food including the Union Hotels famous fried chicken and Negri's always features Italian delights. They normally begin with minestrone soup, a family size bowl of salad, tons of french bread, antipasto and the main course of any Italian food one would desire to consume.

California is truly one of the best places on Earth to live. Not only do we have what the tectonic and volancic forces have brought to us in a wide variety of scenery. From San Diego to San Francisco, the very best of fine cuisine can be enjoyed in the major cities and everything inbetween. Even little Parkfield, CA offers a hamburger anyone would enjoy at the Parkfield Cafe.

I recall one time having a discussion on what people eat while researching seismic behavior. Popcorn was high on the list, pizza I think was next and of course brownies after the salty snacks was a have to eating experience.

Yeah, I like to eat.....Petra