BLACK DIAMOND SPOT

I picked up a cheap-o headlamp from cvs a couple of years ago when I hiked Pinnacles. Ive never got around to hiking late at night again, so never looked into buying something actually decent.  As I prepare to hike Mt. Rijani in Bali. I picked up this nicely designed Black Diamond Spot. 

Here are photos of the lamp. It's a 200. Features: Power tap, dimming, strobe, red, proximity, lock mode and uses 3 XAAA. Photos of the illumination later.  

Super Bloom @ Carrizo

Cause of the overwhelming rain fall we had this year, parts of California is experiencing a wild-flower "SUPER BLOOM." The phenomenon will only last another two weeks, so plan a trip to the closest hill of wild flowers near you. Here's a link to a few spots.

Anna and I had planned a backpacking trip through Channel Island National Park with her mom as a birthday gift. Turns out Channel Island charter's are not operating. Conveniently enough, its because of the record rain fall we had this year. We made the best of our situation and went on a day hike at Carrizo Plain to experience this years Super Bloom. Here's a quick edit I made for IG. 

OLD CO-WORKERS, NEW ADVENTURES

As usual, Sunday equals Funday, So I met up with some familiar faces. I use to work with these guys/gals @ Matter GlobalWe arrived early to catch the clouds blanketing the horizon. I bet it's epic during sunset. I can't believe this place is so close to home, I'll have to ride my motorcycle up here soon. Its one of the places I like to frequent, but feel like I never see it all. There is always something new each time I come. Video coming soon.

Fun At Funston

Just a little drive past Ocean Beach in SF. Depending on which direction you drive on highway 1, is Fort Funston Golden Gate National Conservancy. Primary a dog park, but expect hang gliders, surfers, and your typical SF breeze. The views and hike here is amazing. I would recommend to anyone with a pup. I've known of the park but have never gone, San Mateo has plenty of awesome dog parks so I don't venture into SF much. I'm so happy I did, I like filming on an overcast day. 

Cold, But You're What I Have

If only my local surf spot is warmer. Bless all you who live in warmer climate, like Hawaii. I rather own many dope pairs of swim trunks than a constricting wetsuits. But this is all I have. It's not perfect, but it's perfect enough.

Out with Gauthier:

Poplar Beach HalfMoon Bay

Just 5 minutes south of downtown Half Moon Bay is Poplar Beach. It's a long stretch of beach that feels quite private, more private than Lindamar if you're looking to get away from the crowd. There is plenty of parking, and dogs are allowed on a leash. I noticed a few artifacts left behind by man built fires along the walls, sheltered from the coastal winds. I'm assuming bonfires are ok here. If you're on a motorcycle I bet you can set up camp unoticed.

The view from the cliff before the climb down is a sight to take in, light brisk wind and salty air makes for good meditation. If you make a trip out here be sure to take a photo with that beached turquoise ship. I wonder if it still floats. 

The surf doesn't look so good, but I'll have to check on a bigger day, today the waves were mostly flat all along the coast anyway. From what I can tell, it's a beach break.

Black Diamond Mine Preserve

Here's a gem if you're looking for lush green rolling hills that extend further than the eyes can see, free roaming cows, eagles and vultures preying on agile field gophers, snakes, and best of all abandon mines. Then check out Black Diamond Preserve just north of Mt. Diablo in the eastbay. I wonder if this place stays green all year round, I'd have to check back in the future. 

Mavic Over Heels

Dude, I finally got my hands on one. Hands down. it's way better than the Phantom I had. Although the camera is smaller, hence lower image quality. Portability trumps all! So excited to fly soon.