First up in So Cal was a three day jaunt in Los Angeles for Norah and me (Steve was off hiking in Death Valley). We invaded Sally's apartment and she was a gracious host, great tour guide, and overall fun companion for our time in LA (no wonder Norah really took to her!). We visited the Griffith Observatory, spent a day in Santa Monica, caught up with friends (Vicky, Jason, Jana, and Jill), had many tasty meals (and farmer's market samples), and in general basked in the sunniness and warmth. At the end of our trip, Norah, Steve, and I had a bonus afternoon in Manhattan Beach. One last chance to enjoy the riches of Southern California before we had to return to snow and cold. LA was a great winter getaway for us!