Alright now everyone, gather 'round. Here's a story that'll make your knees spin. On the weekend of January 24th, 2004, Ben's dad decided that it was time to retire from Delta. When oh when to retire???? How about the weekend of January 31st? Ben hears this and finds out that his last layever ever will be in San Francisco. Since Ben has always wanted to get a picture of his dad flying, this was as good a time as any, since it was the last possible time. So, after skipping out on work early and heading down to the airport, out of the cold cloudy day came the Delta 767-400 with Ben's dad at the controls. Here's one of the many picutres taken, and if you look close enough, you can even make out Ben's dad in the middle window. For you math buffs out there, the probabilities of this occurring are, well, not so good. After landing, Ben and Beth surprised his mom and dad by showing up at the airport to greet them. A lovely evening of dining and drinking in downtown San Francisco followed. All that can really be said is that it was a very special and memorable weekend.  More pictures from the "Retirement Trip" can be found here.

Well, you've heard about Mt. Diablo, and you've seen pictures from on top of Mt. Diablo, and finally here's a picture worthy of showing Mt. Diablo. With the right wind and moisture in place, there were some great clouds around the area all day, and Ben knew that the sunset had some great possibilities, and fortunately, the light and clouds were perfect. For reference, Ben and Beth live a bit to the right of the white buildings (a mall) to the right of the big house in the picture. Also, this picture is looking to the Southeast, putting San Francisco to the back right of the picture.

Just a shot of a cloud at sunset.

Beth and Ben with their friend from grad school, Leah, standing in front of the Bay in Sausalito. We had a great day with Leah, trying to make the most of her short visit. We hope that she can make it out again. Also, a big "Hello!" to Gary.

Leah captures a great moment as Ben and Beth struggle to push over a Redwood. By the way, this is not a painting, though the lighting sure is strange.

Leah and Beth standing in front of the Golden Gate Bridge. Don't step backwards!!!

During Leah's visit, another ILIR friend, Liz, who lives 30 minutes NE of Ben and Beth in Fairfield came down to visit for dinner. It was a great quasi-reunion. See what you're missing when you don't come visit.... ;)

During a visit by Ben's parents, the whole gang decided to visit the Manchester Mystery House, a huge house built to appease the spirits of those killed by the Winchester rifles...... bum bum da bummmmmm...... notice the door to nowhere on the right side of the house.