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We took advantage of some rare sunshine this afternoon to add some new plants to the garden. I’m terrible at remembering the names of plants…fortunately, Jeff is much better. But today, I saved a couple of the plant names to show off. So, first off, an easy latin quiz for Buddy, a.k.a. Mr. Horticulture.

Here are three of several new plants. Let’s letter them A, B, and C in order. Their latin names are in the following list:

1. Juncas spiralis
2. Sedum album athoum
3. Acorus gramineus ogon

Answers at the end.

And here are some of the new succulents we added today. Its amazing how after 50+ different varieties in our succulent garden already, that we can sill find cool new ones.

Oh, and the answers: A-2, B-1, and C-3.

William Randolph Hearst built his dream getaway atop the rolling hills of his enormous San Simeon ranch (250,000 acres!!). Hearst and his visionary architect Juial Morgan began work on the estate in 1919 and really the work never stopped until Hearst’s death in 1951.

Tours of the mansion and grounds are all guided–there are four daytime tours. On this trip, we took Tour 2 (which is our favorite) and Tour 4 (which focuses on the gardens, which are not really notable in April).

On both tours, we lucked out and got the same guide–a colorful woman named Julie. She was animated and had a storytelling style that really drew us in.

Now, everybody that goes to Hearst Castle will tell you about the pools. There are two of them (one indoor and one outdoor), and they grand. Frankly, nothing about Hearst Castle is understated. There are statues and carvings everywhere…usually inspired by some antique that Hearst had seen. And of course, there are true antiques everywhere you turn.

The best parts of the house (in our opinion) are the upstairs rooms. These are the highlight of Tour 2. You get to visit Heart’s library, his private Gothic study, and many cool tucked away bedrooms. Most of the ceilings are transported from Europe–lots of Spanish and Italian ceilings.

I think what is the most fascinating part of Hearst Castle is that it is clearly a work in progress. As Hearst acquired more ceilings or doors, he would ask his architect to change floorplans or build additions. So, in many places, you see the bones of the building and the concrete walls just waiting for some elaborate tile work.

Hearst Castle stands out because of its isolation. It sits uniquely alone among some of the most spectacular natural beauty that California has to offer. Everyone should visit at least once.

Our trip south this weekend took us along some of the most beautiful coastline in the world. If you don’t believe me, just dig up an old copy of National Geographic Traveler with its “50 Places of a Lifetime” list.

The weather Saturday was mostly sunny, with just enough clouds to make the light interesting. We stopped along the way at some of the cool scenic spots. This was Matthew’s first visit, so he got the full treatment. And we made it to our destination in Cambria for a nice sunset.

All of our rain (see James…I worked it in) has definitely made for some unusual greens along the coast. And fortunately, we did not have any closures due to landslides. But one not-so-pretty artifact from all the rain was an abundance of poison oak. Unfortunately, Jeff drew the short straw and seems to have picked up a couple of nasty patches. Just makes you stronger, right?

I got a glimpse of the future last night. I received another email from Russia, but it was clearly further along in the story than where we were. And this one named another man 🙁

Nevertheless, the plot thickens. In today’s episode, we learn of Elena’s true desires: money for a visa. This one is great, even if it refers to someone else.

My dear Banty. I hasten to write to you the letter. My girlfriend informed me what probably to make the visa for 10 days. She talked with familiar in Moscow and he agreed to help. I mean can soon go to you. Do you you want it? It is necessary to solve a financial problem only. As soon as I shall have the sufficient sum of money for trip I shall necessarily write to you the letter with the data when and where it will be necessary to you to meet me. Ok? I cannot believe that I shall soon see you and I can touch you. It so raises :). Weather here magnificent. I am happy that at last my dream comes true. I love you mine sunny.

I wonder if she will write back to me back where we left off last time, or if she will continue where this letter places us. Tune in next time.

Signed, mine sunny.

Well, the good news is that we’ve returned from a very nice road trip along the California coast. But the rain (and some pesky allergy medication) has me drained. So, perhaps just a couple of snapshots from our trip before dinner.

The main destination for our trip was Hearst Castle in San Simeon. William Randolph Hearst’s architect literally cobbled this building together from and around Hearst’s broad collection of antiques. Most of the ceilings, doors, and fireplaces are transported from Europe. The rooms are filled with antiques ranging from a few hundred to a thousand years old. Hearst was insatiable, and his architect placated him by changing plans as she went along to match whatever new acquisition Hearst had made.

Here are a couple of hints of the style of the building and its interior. I’ve got many more photos to show as I work on them.

But like I said…I’m tired. So, I leave you with an elephant seal. I like to think he is yawning with me, but he was probably making a funny belching sound.