In Search of the Sun

We awoke to fog today.

It is a rare Saturday morning that we have:

no volleyball tournament,

no appointments,

and

no company.

But, we also have no sun.

Gray skies

It's been a long week because every day I had a night time activity at school.

I was looking forward to working in the garden, but it was so gloomy.

So, we put our bikes in the car and headed for the hills.

We parked at the foot of the hills and pointed our bikes toward Ojai where the forecast was hot and sunny,

We regularly ride our bikes along the beach, but it is flat.

The ride to Ojai is a gradual uphill climb for 10 miles.

How can I be so out of shape?

I walk on the beach every morning.

I coach volleyball 3 times a week.

I run during the warm up with my players.

I garden, play tennis, cycle and kayak.

All of my activities use different muscles,  but obviously not uphill cycling muscles!

The only thing keeping me going was the thought of a relaxing lunch 

and 

a speedier downhill ride back.

I took my camera along and got a few pictures.  

 I like this cute little fella.

I had no idea there was an alpaca ranch in Oak View.

I love this wonderful stone wall.

There is a beautiful gate off to the left, but I couldn't get a good shot because there were 3 trash cans right next to it.

Flowers were blooming everywhere.

We would never have reached Ojai if I had taken photos of everything that caught my eye.

The bike trail runs behind the houses and there were some beautiful rose gardens that I would loved to have photographed, but I was holding Steve back already with my speed, or lack thereof.

We were surprised to come across this beautiful bridge -  a recent addition.

The trail used to run right through the stream.

We stopped for lunch at the Ojai Valley Inn and looked out at the Ojai Valley and lovely oak trees.

Riding home was a different story.

We sped down the hill that had nearly conquered me.

A 20 mile bike ride in the sun was just the ticket.

Driving home, about 1 mile from the ocean, we could see the marine layer hanging along the coast.

We found the sun and I earned the right to just sit and read tonight in front of the fire.

I hope there is sun in my garden tomorrow, but if not, I know where we can find it!