The only thing missing from this full-blown summer are the extra hours we lost to Daylight Takings Away a couple weeks back. (Did you know the federal government has already legislated extending Daylight Savings? Of course it's a phase-in thing that will not begin for 2 years, but it's already been approved ;) On top of the perfect weather perhaps you've noticed the moon lately. At the horizon it's been appearing bigger than a basketball and over head it's been so bright you could read an ironic mission bohemian's t-shirt from 25 feet. Of course all this dry warm fall weather also means it's fire weather - especially in the east bay hills where temperatures have reached in the 80s the last 7 days - so watch those cherries.

If you're in town next week and have some time off, take advantage of the quiet roads and consider getting outside as the weather should be great. It would be a great time to hike, bike or kayak in Point Reyes and Tomales Bay. Big Basin on the way to Santa Cruz and Henry Coe just past Gilroy both have nice late season camping and hiking. Of course our favorite November camping/hiking locale is Pinnacles National Monument. The eastern campground rarely ever fills up, the central valley air is warm and the hikes around the ancient epic extinct volcano are always astounding. Watch where you place your hand, however as tarantulas like it there too, though they are completely harmless in these parts. Locally, if you want to stay in Ess Eff and enjoy the ample parking and uncrowded roads, the Conservatory of Flowers is always transporting geographically as the nearby Japanese Tea Garden is spiritually. Baker, China and Chrissy Field offer great in-city beaches and quick trips down or up Highway 1 will cure what ails you ... every time. Enjoy!