Well, here we are in the USA.

Had a great flight over as we where upgraded to Business Class - very nice thanks David. Customs was not a problem just mention the word Vegemite and they wave you through. Jenny's brother had organised a car to pick us up from the customs exit. You know the little man with "Jenny Ruehmkorff" on a sign.

Spent the weekend relaxing with David and Claire. Watched (and listened to) the 73,000 people pack the Rose Bowl from the backyard. Went to Pie-n-Burger for breakfast with David on Sunday.

David and Claire's lovely friend Deborah dropped us at the car hire to pick up our Chevy Impala on Monday and we drove around Pasadena and went to Huntington Library and Gardens - we particularly enjoyed the Japanese gardens.

Wednesday took off to Sequoia National Park which was very interesting. The Sequoia trees are absolutely huge and have a beautiful red bark. Stayed in Merced for the night; it was a long day but very enjoyable.

Thursday we thought about going to San Francisco via Yosemite National Park but too many miles so we cut across to the West. Stopped by the NASA education centre just southof SanFrancisco and then into the city. Took a walk around the block (which is a challenge) and found a lovely little Thai restaurant called Lemongrass - lovely food but far too much.

Today we took a 3 hour city tour and then the ferry to Alcatraz - a must do! When we got back, we had a wander around Pier 39 which is tourism paradise and also checked out the resident seals. Back at the motel, walked around a few more blocks tonight and found a great burger place - did not order as much this time and they had tea! Interestingly, San Francisco only has 12 franchise outlets ie McDonalds etc so there are around 3,000 restaurants to choose from - mmmmm what's for dinner tomorrow?