Avenue of the Giants

I drove home today. This time there were no detours so I could drive the route I wanted and take pictures. When I first had my job I didn't take detours and enjoy the drive, I just went from start to finish as quickly as I could. This drive could have taken 5.5 hours, but instead it took 7.5 hours. I had nothing to do when I got back and I know if I drive without taking breaks my body will hurt for a long time so I take small breaks and enjoy the drive. This drive I could have driven straight down US 101 or I could take a paralell road called Avenue of the Giants.

The "Giants" are redwood trees and the "Avenue" is a 20 mile road that drives through the redwoods in Humboldt County, California. This small two lane road curves and winds in the forest surrounded by huge trees. It isn't very busy since it doesn't really go anywhere except to small towns of less than 300 people so the only cars on the roads are tourists that want to drive through the redwoods. I stopped periodically and took pictures and every time I stopped I was amazed at how quiet everything was. Even though no one else was around I didn't want to make any noise.

When I opened my door the buzzer sounded since I didn't take out my key and I cringed a little because I didn't like making any unnecessary noise. I also didn't slam my door for the same reason. I enjoyed this drive and felt very blessed for being able to take this route. I have been here once before, but it was cloudy and misty. This time it was beautiful blue skies and perfect temperature. Every time I drive here, or think of driving this road I think of the lyrics for "This Land is Your Land".

This land is your land This land is my land
From California to the New York island;
From the red wood forest to the Gulf Stream    waters
This land was made for you and Me.

As I was walking that ribbon of highway,
I saw above me that endless skyway:
I saw below me that golden valley:
This land was made for you and me.

California has so much to offer and I very happy to live here!