Giant California trip post

A few days after I graduated several weeks ago, my friend Ryan and I took a little drive on out to California to see our high school friend Ellen graduate from Occidental University in L.A. Ryan only had one request for the entire trip, which was to see the Grand Canyon, so we made a stop by there on our way which proved to be quite entertaining. Other places we went were to my dad's in Coto de Caza and then to Venice Beach where we stayed for 3 days with the Bogarts. The weather was amazing the entire time and everything went great, except for the part where I missed out on Vegas, Zion Park and Joshua Tree park because I had to fly home. Oh well, another day.
The amphitheater where graduation was held.
Ellen being handed her degree, the whole reason we went.
The Bogarts!
Ryan checking out his nails.
The sign coming in said "No smoking and NO BALLOONS allowed" These guys are way out of line, that balloon needs to go.
Sara, Ellen and I, three high school buds re-united in SoCal.
Venice Beach.
Claire.

Ryans first view of the Grand Canyon, just look at that smile!
Rediculous.

Our last piece of wood. We were trying to resolve other ways to obtain more, but there were so many park codes we had to start getting creative. We didn't end up with any more wood.
The squirrels didn't like people at all. Just look at this guy, he's mad.
Best Ludicrous Speed representation ever. Who says I don't have any love for our men's team?

Note Ryan ever so safely perched on out on that rock.

Me and my trusty bandana. I like to hold on to something when I hike, and the handlebars were perfect.

Man vs. cliff round 1
Man vs. Cliff round 2...to be continued.

8 am! Ready to go!
Ryan thinks he knows how to put up a tent, and somehow claims bragging rights to setting up his faster than mine. But I had already set mine up and almost finished cooking my dinner by the time he was done.
By the way, Rbill forgot to bring food, so he went to the Grand Canyon Store and got some chips and salsa. Smooth move.