October 18, 2008

Why the Coconut Head?

One of my coworkers told me that he calls his wife “coconut”, cute, sweet and lovely. So I told my friend about the cute nickname, then I ended up being called "a coconut-head".

Some of my friends, the evil ones of course, were convinced that God actually made a slight mistake when creating me. The head was too big. Then, in order to correct the bug, God decided to put some rocks in my head.

So, on some days when the rocks are aligned correctly in my head, I can think straight. But, unfortunately, on most of the days, the rocks are randomly positioned in my head.


October 16, 2008

October 14, 2008

Hidden Canyon Trail at Zion National Park

The Hidden Canyon trail starts from the Weeping Rock. The first 1-mile is kind of similar to the Angle's Landing trail because it's pretty much a one-way steep trail winding all the way up to the observation point.


The observation point offers gorgerous views of Big Bend, Angels Landing, Cathedral Mountain and the Organ on the return is impressive.


Then, soon the hike became really interesting. The trail becomes rather narrow and steep, the chains attached to the wall help the hikers pass through the dangerous parts.


The clincher for most hikers is the dizzying drop-off on one side.


This trail is the ultimate test of true courage between Chris and me. While I was having loads of fun passing along the narrows, the macho Absolute Goose did not seem to be that macho that day. :) Somebody just wanted to get out there as soon as possible. He,he, he...


The mouth of the Hidden Canyon.

Leaving Zion

Zion, as our most favorite park of this trip, has so much to offer to any visitor, from stunning views to challenging hikes. Leaving Zion was actually a little hard for both of us. We just wished our adventure in the beautiful park would not end so soon.


The famous check board masa.



葡萄干肉桂布丁 Cinnamon Raisin Casserole for Breakfast

我加了一些椰茸。香喷喷,很好吃,又不太甜。可以浇一些无糖糖浆在上面,就更完美了。

Morning, Chris still asleep, I went downstairs and made myself a cup of tea. Hmm...What we should have for some breakfast? Healthy, simple, different. I found this recipe, and it turned out to be pretty good.


4 c. whole wheat bread (cubed) (about 4 slices)
1/2 c. dried fruit or raisins (diced)
1 1/2 c. skim milk
1/4 tsp. ground Cinnamon
1/2 c. Healthy Choice Cholesterol Free Egg Product
1/4 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

In 1 1/2 quart casserole sprayed with vegetable oil spray, combine bread and fruit. In small bowl, combine milk, egg product, sugar, vanilla and nutmeg. Pour milk mixture over bread. Bake in 350 degree F. oven for 60 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Serves 8.

Total 1000 calories; 125 calories/serving

October 13, 2008

The Angle's Landing Trail at Zion National Park

The Angels Landing Trail is one of the most famous and thrilling hikes in the national park system. The driver of the shuttle bus warned us that this hike is not for anyone with a fear of heights. Of course, Chris and I would not listen.


This 5-mile hike (two ways) can be done within 2-3 hours, although it's basically straight up and straight down one way trail. It offers one of the most stunning and challenging treks we had ever undertaken.


Most part of the trail is paved, although quite steep and winding all the way up.


Hey, but for the magnificent view, it's totally worth it.


The challenge would not be physical, but rather, it would be psychological. The last section of the hike to Angel’s Landing is notorious for raising the fear factor for those who don’t like heights.


This trail could have been the most challenging trails we've ever undertaken, if Chris did not chicken out. Basically, when he saw the sign and the sheer drop of the cliff on both sides, he called it quits after mere 10 seconds of standing on the "FLAT" platfor with quivering legs. Oh, well, at least we were almost there.


In spite of challenges and the slight disappointment of not making to the top, this hike remains our most favorite one during our 1-week of exploring Zion, Grand Canyon and Bryce.




The unique red rock in the park.