Periodically we have to remind ourselves, as denizens of this part of the world, that we live in a region brimming with natural beauty. What better way is there to appreciate the natural world than to take a stroll through the majesty of our parks and open space preserves here in Northern California and, in fact, the Greater Bay Area in general.

For my money, springtime in the Bay Area is the best time of the year for hiking the variety of beautiful trails, regions, and biospheres that we're lucky to have access to on a regular basis 'round these here parts. The hills are verdant and green, the waterfalls and creeks are as full as they're gonna get, and wildflowers rule the grassy regions unlike any other time of the year. That being said, get yourself ready for those planned outings on your "must-do" list or the spontaneous opportunities that exist with a book like 101 Great Hikes of the San Francisco Bay Area. There are plenty of other books to guide you if you need help, but the important part is to just get out there and breathe the cool air of hiking freedom.

A couple of my favorite local hikes: Sunol Loop in the Sunol Regional Wilderness & the Old Landing Cove Trail at Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz.

I like beautiful beads and crystals. But how do I string those freshwater pearls and Swarovski crystal beads together to make wearable jewelry? I found a lot of beading books and instructional DVDs in the library and I made some bracelets (yes, I made those in the right photo) for myself. Other than jewelry, there are books showing that beads can be wonderful decoration in the house, such as this book: Beading: 20 Great Weekend Projects. You will be so proud of yourself wearing your handmade necklace or giving a gift to a friend. Happy beading!