We originally thought we could drive straight to Casey’s ma’s house from Eureka, but after hitting some traffic in the Bay Area, decided to make one final stop. It was only fitting that it was Monterey, the birthplace of the Great Casey D. Gill. After driving through the smoke and traffic, Monterey was literally a breath of fresh air. Uncharacteristically fogless and warm. I think Monterey was welcoming Casey home.

Casey says this tree looks like home to her

Drove through the fertile lands of the Salinas Valley. The hard workers dot the fields like flowers.

Loved swimming in they butt shaped pool

After a couple of rough hotel experiences, we lucked into this gem. Do yourself a favor and fly to Monterey and stay at Casa Munras (then come south and visit us, too, of course). We couldn’t believe it was actually warm enough to swim in the huge (butt-shaped) pool.

Refreshed from our swim, we went to Fisherman’s Wharf. Monterey continued to pull out all the stops with the sunshine, lack of crowds, clam chowder in a bread bowl, and sea otters dancing around in the water. Casey lamented the absence of the organ grinder monkey she remembers from her childhood. This was apparently back when Delaney still liked monkeys. Interesting. We picked up the requisite penuche for Casey’s dad (and promptly ate it all. Sorry, Doug. What did you expect us to do? What would you have done?)

Monterey harbor bathed in sunshine

Fisherman’s Wharf (amazingly absent of crowds)

Casey reliving her youth at the candy mothership

Complete with salt water taffy stretching machine (which she ogled for a very long time. I agree it’s a goddamn miracle.)

Believe it or not, I’m not drunk in this photo

After a perfect day in Monterey, we crashed in a bed so comfortable with sheets so soft Tim and Faith would approve. Zekey definitely did not get on that bed either. We got up the next morning and headed out on the final leg of our journey.