You're doing WHAT?

Yes, it is true...we have quit our jobs, packed our remaining possessions into a 5x10 storage unit, and set off in our Honda Civic for an Excellent Adventure. William is a former software engineer who plays classical guitar and Irish flute, and Angeline is a pianist and piano teacher (on hiatus) who also plays Irish fiddle. We have been discussing this journey for two years and on June 1st, 2009, we finally got everything out of our house in Silicon Valley. The first week was a confusion of moving, staying with various friends, playing our last gig for Irish set dancing in Cupertino (with several fine musicians who we will miss very much) and heading for the hills - literally. June 4-8 were spent at Kowana Valley Ranch, the home of Lynn and Richard Ferry. The ranch is in a lovely valley about 10 miles outside of Yosemite National Park, and Lynn and Richard are kind enough to invite their friends up once a year for a wonderfully crazy party. This year was a first - it RAINED! Despite the dampness during the days, which forced us all to huddle under tarps and awnings instead of hiking and swimming, everyone had a great time at night singing, dancing, and playing music until the wee hours of the morning (when the bagpiper showed up :) It was good to see all our Bay Area friends and a terrific way to start our travels.

Right now we are camping at Dimond-O Campground (scroll down) just outside of Yosemite. We are sitting outside of the Evergreen Lodge at the moment, borrowing their wi-fi to bring you this post, and the plans for today include a hike to a nearby waterfall as well as some serious relaxing and reading. There will be photos in the next post and more specifics of the last few days. Heading for Portland on Friday...