Monterey 2012, part two

On day three in Monterey, we visited the Carmel Mission then headed to the Monarch butterfly sanctuary in Pacific Grove. The butterflies were just warming up when we arrived. I was amazed at how difficult they were to see from the ground. The butterflies spend the night clumped up together high in the eucalyptus trees — they look like leaves. Pretty clever disguise if you ask me!

After the sanctuary we headed up the road to the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The sun was low in the sky when we were there. The light filtering through the gigantic trees was soft and sublime.

My dad took this photo.

My dad and Alden marveling at the great heights of these trees.

Tree hugger :)

Walking among the trees was cold and it was so dark at some points it felt like it was almost night. Despite that, when we finally walked out, I felt relaxed. There is nothing like the serenity of nature.

Always,