On The Way To Santiago Peak

June 2, 2002, James and Richard strike out on a 6.5 hour journey to the top of Santiago Peak and back.

James Bush leads the way. The lush shade did not last long. Water was scarce but easy on the eye. Flowing into the pool. Greenery Flowers, always a favorite subject. My foot in motion. The view begins. With the climb comes the dryness & heat. I swear, no Photoshop here. I love the layers of muted colors. James pointed out this photogenic limb. Don't be fooled, it's still a long climb Succulents cling to the hillside. Look close for the drops of water. Yerba Buena Folds of earth. Yes, it is really that steep. An oasis of cool. The yellow of the witches broom. The contrast of coolness. I am still walking. The surrounding plants appreciated this. Begin the Matilija poppy show. They really did look this bright. I love close ups. Yellow and white. One of the greeters along the path. Good enough to paint. The respite before upper Holy Jim. On a hot day green cools the eye. Snack time over, the rattler awaits. DOA but liviing on the WWW. Looking through the haze to Corona A Rocky moment. Put a watercolor filter on this. Looks like someone got here before us. James, is that San Gregornio? The official marker. If it was clear we could see the ocean. The distance conspires to produce gray. We found this quest book inside two cans Yes, we signed our names.