Needing some sustenance for our big day in Lodi we went to Bon Appetit, a well rated, local sandwich shop, and enjoyed a tasty lunch before checking into our hotel. Checked in and with plenty of time to spare until the wedding we started our Lodi tour by driving about an 1/8th of a mile down the road to where most of the wedding guests were staying. Pool side, surrounded by Rutgers buddies and family we came across the groom. We chatted for a while and when we asked what there was to do in town, I was a bit disappointed by the grimly serious "nothing" response. Back to the hotel we went. After scanning the channels and settling for some boring re-run we watched a little TV before I could no longer take the boredom. It was drive time! Back in the car we headed into town. We drove down one massive main street, through a few nice, platonic neighborhoods before finally finding a Pleasantville-esque center of town complete with antique stores out the yin yang and not a bar in sight. We walked into a few uninspiring shops before making our way back to the hotel. I hate to sound like I'm picking on Lodi, but this iconic suburbia truly seems like a place where a kid could start up a drug addiction just to have something to do.
At 6 pm Ms. Molly Jones, now Mrs. Molly Campbell, walked down the isle to be with her bridegroom. Yeah weddings!! Following the ceremony, as the bridal party headed off for pictures, we wandered into the "cellars" to enjoy a few appetizers and drinks. We mingled a bit then settled down at our table where we caught up with Rutgers friends and met new pals. The evening was a little chilly especially for those of used to desert temps, but we enjoyed the company of our table-mates as we endured the gusts of chilly wind. After toasts, cake and a bouquet toss we boogied down for a few songs before making our way to Molly's parent's pizza shop for a few slices, and a little beer with fellow guests.
Sunday we didn't have anything scheduled until much later in the day so we opted to check out Muir Wood, just North East of San Francisco. Ascending the twisty roads we soon found ourselves driving in the fog bank and watching the fog whip across the open roads between the low points of the tree topped hills. We then made a twisty descent into Muir Woods and were lucky enough to find a parking spot along the road not too far from the official park. I enjoy living in Arizona, but this trip made me realize just how much I appreciate greenery, moisture in the air, and trees, trees, trees. Yes, we have trees in Arizona, but they just don't compare to the redwoods of Muir Woods. Since many, if not all, of the longer paths were closed we sauntered along the tourist loop, snapping too many pictures, before starting our drive back to Alameda. 
Later in the evening we met up with Tyler in Oakland to check out his awesome new place and enjoy some burgers and beer at Cato. The atmosphere was interesting, a very diverse and hip Oakland scene, the food/beer was tasty and it was a treat to spend a little time catching up with Tyler. Tyler is currently training for his first Ironman taking place this August in Canada. Go Tyler Go!!
We spent our final day in the bay area, lounging at home, watching Larry the box turtle feast on snails before roaming the backyard, fighting with car rental providers and hanging out in the airport waiting for our plane which was delayed for 2 hours due "mechanical problems". Thankfully that big metal beast got us home safe and sound and we were able to pick up Mr. Jackson from his vacation home in Scottsdale. We had a lovely trip, but as always, its good to be home. (Note the bone dry desert viewed from the plane window and understand why I miss the greenery)
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