Pictured in photo left to right: Sequoia Park, Calaveras Big Trees State Park, Yosemite National Park and Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park.

When I moved to California, my new-found friends used to tell me that to get out of a slump there is one simple anecdote-go to the beach! And believe it or not, it actually seems to work. With the ocean breeze against your skin and the waves crashing on shore, there is something incredibly soothing about being there. It lifts up your spirit and you leave feeling refreshed and re-energized.

After living at the beach too long, however, the feeling of same-ness sets in. Day after day, the glory of the beaches, piers and sunshine all begin to fade and you take it for granted. If that should happen, go see the BIG Trees!