Age of Aquinas and Transitions Events:
This week, Upcoming, and Recent Events and Pictures

• For general information about Age of Aquinas, a Bay Area group for Christian Singles aged 40 and up, click here.
  
  
• Age of Aquinas is not just about dances and hikes.  It's about other stuff too.  For example....
  
  
• For general information about Transitions, a support group for recently separated, broken-up, or divorced of any age, click here.
  

• Scheduled Events for This Month: Click on the link for this month's Age of Aquinas Events.  Contact Randy Jones, 408.739.2881 for more information.
  
  
• Wednesday, August 6, 2008 Transitions Support Group continues at 7:30 pm in the Pastoral Center (3290 Middlefield Rd).  This is a support group for those undergoing the transition from couple-hood to single-hood.  We meet every Wednesday in a confidential and safe setting.  The meetings are unstructured and informal.  If you or someone you know has suffered the breakup of a marriage or significant relationship, this group may be helpful.  Contact Randy Jones, 408.739.2881 for more information.
  
  
• Saturday, Aug 9, 2008 Hike at Shoreline with Age of Aquinas, a group of Christian singles (40+), at 9:00 am. Gather at the Lakeside Café in Mountain View's Shoreline Park.  Click on the link above for more information.
  
  
• Saturday, August 9, 2008 @ 8:00 pm: Ladies Night Out: This is a new monthly event on the second Saturday of every month.  We go out together as a group, maybe attend a concert, dance, etc.  Meet at Mabel's townhome about 8:00 pm.  Ladies please RSVP Mabel.  Forming new friendships and having gal camaraderie is the goal of this activity!  You don't have to attend every month.  Only come when you have nothing better to do and would like to go out in a safe environment with a group of friends.
  Time: 8:00 arrive at Mabel's house till ??? depending on where we decide to go.
  Cost: Variable depending...
  Location: 5226 Myna Ct, San Jose, CA 95123. Call 408.623.2763 if you get lost.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=5226+myna+ct&csz=san+jose+ca+95123.
  More Information: Visit http://paloaltocatholci.org/AofA.html, or contact Mabel Ngo by email: m-ngo@sbcglobal.net or age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org.
  

• Saturdays in August & September, 2008 Hike at Shoreline with Age of Aquinas, a group for Christian singles (40+), at 9:00 am at Lakeside Café in Mountain View's Shoreline Park.  Walk on mostly level paths, then have coffee afterwards at the café.  We hike every Saturday, rain or shine, holiday or no!  Click on the link above for more information.
  
  
• 1st & 3rd Wednesdays in August & September, 2008 Transitions Support Group meets at 7:30 pm in the Pastoral Center (3290 Middlefield Rd).  This is a support group for those undergoing the transition from couple-hood to single-hood.  We meet every Wednesday in a confidential and safe setting.  The meetings are unstructured and informal.  If you or someone you know has suffered the breakup of a marriage or significant relationship, this group may be helpful.  Contact Randy Jones, 408.739.2881 for more information.
  
  
• 1st Saturdays starting in August, 2008 Hike at Edgewood Park with Age of Aquinas, a group for Christian singles (40+), at 10:00 am.  Meet at the entrance to Redwood City's Edgewood Park.  Walk up and down, in sun and shade, amidst grasses, trees and wildflowers, for about 2 hours.  Afterwards gather at a nearby eatery, about 12:30 pm, for lunch or brunch.  We'll hike every first Saturday, rain or shine!  Click on the link above for more information.
  
  
• Star Parties scheduled April - October, 2008.  Check out the PAS Star Party Schedule.  Contact Randy Jones at age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org or call 408.739.2881 for more information.
  
  
• Other Astronomical events in July & August, 2008: The Peninsula Astronomical Society announces their upcoming events in Astronomy.  These include star parties, lectures, meetings, and other events.  For the full Nite Skies newsletter, go to http://www.foothill.edu/ast/pas1.pdf.
  
  
• Tuesday, August 26, 2008 @ 7:30 pm: Financial Talk: by Maria Edmunds-Zediker.  The topic is Money Management, and the talk is free.  Ms. Edmonds-Zediker is a Certified Financial Planner specializing in retirement plans for teachers and for very small businesses (<50 employees), and in Section 529 college savings plans.  She is currently Financial Advisor for Foothill Securities.
  Time: 7:30 pm till about 8:30 pm with schmooze time afterward.
  Cost: FREE!
  Location: St. Albert the Great Hospitality Center, 1095 Channing Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=1095+channing+ave&csz=palo+alto+ca+94301.
  More information: Visit http://paloaltocatholci.org/AofA.html, or contact Mabel Ngo by email: m-ngo@sbcglobal.net or age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org.
  
  
• Wednesday, September 17, 2008: A special Transitions meeting!  Our Paster, Fr. George Aranha will be giving a talk on the Annulments.  He will discuss the Annulment process: what it involves; how, why, and when to initiate it; what it costs.  He will also address the spiritual and emotional stages one goes through.  If you or someone you know has suffered the end of a marriage or significant relationship, part of the recovery process is a putting back together some of the broken pieces of the heart.  Transitions meets every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month.  We occasionally have a special speaker as we do the 3rd Wednesday in September.
  

• Saturday, August 2, 2008, 7:30 pm: The latest Star Party took place at Foothills Park, Palo Alto.  We brought our telescopes and binoculars and a picnic dinner.  While the sun sat and twilight deepened, we had our picnic and got our telescopes set up.  We dressed warmly in layers.  Clear nights can get chilly.  We joined the Peninsula Astronomical Society for this month's public star party.
  Admission: FREE!!
  Location: Meet at the Park'n'Ride at I-280 and Page Mill Rd west of Palo Alto at 7:30 pm.  From there we'll carpool to Foothills Park.  Anyone with a telescope aboard gets in free and does not need to be a Palo Alto resident.  Just tell them at the gate that you are an amateur astronomer participating in the public star party.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=i-280+%26+page+mill+rd&csz=los+altos+ca+94022
  More Information: Contact Randy Jones age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org, 408.739.2881.
  
  
• Saturday, August 2, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  It couldn't have been a more perfect day for hiking.  A dozen of us set out for the Baylands under perfectly clear skies in air that was about 65 or 70 degrees at first and gradually warmed.  Another dozen joined us back at the café where we chatted and made new friends.  The Saturday Hike North debuted today.  It started about 10:15 and ended about 11:35.  A nice 2.5 miles along the "Sylvan-Serpentine" exercise loop.  The view was fantastic!  There were some little white daisies, and many butterflies.  Not as many flowers as in spring and winter but still beautiful.  The next hike will be Saturday September 6th possibly starting at 9 am.  Watch this space for news.
  
  
• Saturday, July 26, 2008: FREE Shakespeare in the Park!.  About a dozen Age of Aquinas friends met at: Memorial Park Amphitheater at 7:30 for an evening of memorable characters in the life of Prince Pericles! and there was great food to share.  The play was set in the American West, with lots of bluegrass music and even a scene with clogging!  Old Bill Shakespeare prob'ly never envisioned that, but it was a fun time!
  Cost: FREE!  Bring a picnic dinner to eat before the show.
  Time: The play starts at 7:30 pm, but plan to be there by 6:30 to get a seat and parking at a reasonable distance. 
  Location: Mary Ave at Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, 95014 (Across from De Anza College)  Look for the red balloons for our group.
  http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result.php?q1=Stevens+Creek+Blvd+At+Mary+Ave+Cupertino+CA+95014.
  More Information: Email Kathy Gannon Kathy_gannon@yahoo.com or age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org to arrange a meeting place and/or carpool.
  
  
• Saturday, July 26, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  This morning was the other kind of Bay Area summer morning: all blue and green and not a cloud to be seen anywhere.  The hikers, though, were neither blue nor green.  No one looked like they felt blue, and the only ones who would have been green (with envy) were those who missed it.  As usual, a few minutes after 9 a large group of us headed out along the lake.  Then at the crossroads we split up, some going straight over into the Baylands, and some curling back to the right for a looping route among the trees and along the shore of the salt ponds.  But we all rendezvoused back at the café by about 10 or 10:15.  The conversation and camaraderie there is as good for the spirit as the walking is for the body.  Don't miss it next week!
  
  
• Saturday, July 19, 2008: 8:00-11:00 pm. Age of Aquinas Summer Dance: opened at a dance floor near you! We danced to the tunes of Songs by Dave -- back for a return engagement.  Started Saturday, July 19!, and it was a blockbuster!  Dress Was casual as always, so everyone was comfortable!  Don't miss the next one coming in October! 
  Cost: Still only $10.00! Snacks and beverages will be provided.
  Time: Doors open at 8:00 pm, the music starts around 8:30 pm.
  Location: St. Albert the Great Hospitality Center, 1095 Channing Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
  http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=1095+channing+ave&csz=palo+alto+ca+94301.
  More Information: Email age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org, or contact Mabel Ngo, 408.623.2763, email: m-ngo@sbcglobal.net.
  "Produced and directed by Age of Aquinas | Music by Dave | Starring YOU"
  
• Saturday, July 19, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  The sun is not in a hurry to get up during these Bay Area summer days...  He is slow to kick off the low cloud covers.  But by the time we're half way through our hike, he's up and shining, warming faces and spirits throughout Shoreline Park.  The main group of walkers headed into the Palo Alto Baylands, while a small contingent turned left to check out a big bird's nest in the top of a power transmission tower.  We saw no bird near the nest this time.  Back at the café we schmoozed and learned about upcoming events and some of the history of the Saturday Hikes, and even brainstormed some ideas for the future.  If you're a regular, a once-in-awhiler, or even if you've never joined us before, you're welcome to join us next time!
  
  
• Saturday, July 12, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  It was a great day for hiking.  The sun slept in under a soft blanket of clouds, so the walk was cool and calm.  Of course, sun screen was still a good idea because UV and IR (the components of sunlight that burn your skin) come right through the clouds.  It was also a great day for sleeping in because not only the sun did.  A smaller than usual crowd was there for the start time of 9 am.  But at least an equal number joined us as the walk progressed and coffee time commenced.  If you missed it altogether, send your greetings and yours truly will convey them to the group next Saturday.
  
  
• Saturday, July 5, 2008, 7:30 pm: The latest Star Party took place at Foothills Park, Palo Alto.  You could bring your telescope and binoculars (if you had them) and a picnic dinner.  While the sun set and twilight deepened, we had our picnic and got our telescopes set up.  We dressed warmly in layers.  Clear nights can get chilly.  We joined the Peninsula Astronomical Society for this month's public star party.
  Admission: FREE!!
  Location: Meet at the Park'n'Ride at I-280 and Page Mill Rd west of Palo Alto at 7:30 pm.  From there we'll carpool to Foothills Park.  Anyone with a telescope aboard gets in free and does not need to be a Palo Alto resident.  Just tell them at the gate that you are an amateur astronomer participating in the public star party.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=i-280+%26+page+mill+rd&csz=los+altos+ca+94022
  More Information: Contact Randy Jones age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org, 408.739.2881, or Carrie Karnos ckarnos@yahoo.com.
  
  
• Saturday, July 5, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  What a beautiful day, and what a beautiful bunch of hikers!  We took off about 9 and walked and talked along the lake and out into the Palo Alto Baylands. Our group soon was spread way out with the faster walkers up ahead and the more relaxed saunterers several yards back.  By around 9:30, the leaders triggered a series of U-turns, and then we started bunching up on the way back.  Several "hitch-hikers" caught up with us along the way.  And several more joined us back at the café, where we had coffee, tea, brunch, breakfast, and conversation!
  
  

  Heigh-Ho, Heigh-Ho!	It's off to play we go!
  A day-sleeping Night Heron	It looks like a Pelican Convention

  
  
• Saturday, June 28, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  It was cloudy and cool when we started out this morning, but it didn't stay that way for long.  Before we were back we had worked up a little perspiration.  It was the first time for about 3 and we got introduced and acquainted, and had an exercising good time walking and talking.  The highlight of the walk had to be the American Avocet couple whose two little kids had wandered away from the nest.  They were toddling around in the path as our group approached.  This was a dire emergency for the parents who were trying very hard to keep us away from the chicks.  Finally, they feigned broken wings and headed in the opposite direction from their babies, so we followed and when the little birds were behind us, mama and daddy flew back around and joined the youngsters.  I'm sure they got their fluffy feathers ruffled in the scolding that must have ensued!  The hikes and coffee aftewards often connect people with one another and other events in the area.  So next week, come and connect!
  
  
• Saturday, June 21, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Man! was it hot today!  And everybody who had lived in, visited, driven through, or ever even heard of Iowa, was talking about their experiences and how hot it was there!  'Course, these days, Iowa is having its share of floods.  But at least they don't have earthquakes.  Well, not yet, anyway!  Nevertheless, in spite of the heat, a dozen and a half plus one started out at 9:02.  We were joined by another half dozen along the way, and yet another half dozen (or more!) back at the café where we all put a serious strain on the café's supply of ice.  These hikes are where people make connections.  One small group attended the Opera At the Ballpark last night at AT&T Park, and another small group is heading for the City today for a concert.  You might make a connection next Saturday!
  
  
• Saturday, June 14, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Our number was lighter today, though the sky was darker.  Low clouds hung silent over the park, but at least they were clouds and not billows of smoke.  People had stories of brushing ash off their cars this morning.  And did you see the eerie light last evening?  To a Midwesterner, it looked the way the sky does when a thunderstorm or tornado is coming.  Out here in California it means wildfires.  Anyway, we set out walking along the lake and most of the group kept on straight toward the Baylands.  A couple-three of us curled back along the center path through the woods where we met one trying to catch up with the group.  There were other catchers-up as well and we all got together eventually back at the café.  We're still looking for someone to lead a later or an earlier hike, or one farther north or farther south. If you're interested in being the point person, write to age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org and let us know.
  
  
• Saturday, June 7, 2008, 7:30 pm: The latest Star Party took place at Foothills Park, Palo Alto.  We brought our telescope and binoculars and a picnic dinner.  While the sun set and twilight deepened, we had our picnic and got our telescope set up.  We dressed warmly in layers, but it never really got very chilly.  We joined the Peninsula Astronomical Society for this month's public star party.
  Admission: FREE!!
  Location: Meet at the Park'n'Ride at I-280 and Page Mill Rd west of Palo Alto at 7:30 pm. From there we'll carpool to Foothill Park.  Anyone with a telescope aboard gets in free and does not need to be a Palo Alto resident.  Just tell them at the gate that you are an amateur astronomer participating in the public star party.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=i-280+%26+page+mill+rd&csz=los+altos+ca+94022
  More Information: Contact Randy Jones age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org, 408.739.2881, or Carrie Karnos ckarnos@yahoo.com.
  
  
• Saturday, June 7, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  There was no cloud to be seen for 360 degrees, horizon to zenith.  And, though it was cool at 9 am in the shade as we were milling around and chatting waiting for all to arrive, many realized that once we started walking it was going to get warm.  When the gathering reached 20 in number, we took off.  The first thing we noticed was that there were hundreds and hundreds of Canada Geese converging on one spot by the lakeshore.  And it appeared at that time that none of the goslings were present.  We figured it must be a parent meeting.  Most of the chicks had reached the equivalent of their teen years, and that's as good a time as any for a parent meeting!  There were at least 4 first timers that morning!  Word continues to spread, and our numbers continue to grow.  If you would like to help facilitate an additional start time or location, write to age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org and let us know.
  
  
• Saturday, May 31, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Yesterday it was a normal hike, except that we saw a White-Faced Ibis!  There was a guy with a large camera and another one with binocs who told us what it was.  Evidently they pop up at Shoreline occasionally but we've never seen one before.  (Of course there was no white on its face that could be seen!)  Oh, and two Ring-Necked Pheasants flew over the little river (on the left as we walked north on the Baylands path), and there were several American Pelicans... plus all the usual birds and bugs.  Probably 100 adult and 50 teenaged Canada Geese.  Then two people came over and talked to us about a walk for charity next Sunday morning at 8 at Shoreline.
  

  A White-Faced Ibis, copyright Mark L. Bixby, www.bixby.org/parkside

  
  
  
• Saturday, May 24, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  From too hot to too cold!  What happened to summer?  Well, summer will be back, but this morning was a good morning to sleep in... or go for a walk.  15 people decided to walk, but Shoreline Park itself stayed under the covers of thick clouds.  There were a few rain drops but no one needed their umbrella.  Last week, you recall, I asked for ideas about adding additional times or places to the Saturday hike tradition.  There've been about 20 responses.  Almost everyone likes the 9 am Shoreline Park edition.  And half a dozen expressed interest in a 9 am hike in the San Jose area.  So let's try to organize that idea first.  First of all we need a volunteer to be the contact.  Let me know if you're interested in helping organize a San Jose hike.  Of course, the 9 am Shoreline hike will continue, rain or shine, heat or cold, holiday or no.  We're beginning our 4th year, with no end in sight!
  
  
• Saturday, May 17, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  There was a light turn-out yesterday.  I think people thought it would be too hot to walk.  Well, it has been hot, and to be honest, that's why this update is a day late -- it was too hot to write!  But not everything that's uncomfortable is un-beautiful!  It was a beautiful day!  And it was just as beautiful earlier, and somewhat more comfortable.  One hiker came early and hiked by herself for a couple hours before the rest of us got there.  So, I've been thinking...  How many of you would be interested in rendezvousing at 8 am next Saturday?  Let me know, and we'll organize an "early service"... not to replace the 9:00 am launch window, but to supplement it.  There's also talk of organizing a Saturday Hike South, down toward San Jose.  Let me know if you'd be interested in something like that too, and if you have any other ideas.  These are your hikes.  You may do with them as you please!
  
  
• Saturday, May 10, 2008, 7:00 pm: Astronomy Day Star Party, Foothill Park, Palo Alto, Sponsored by Peninsula Astronomical Society.  Bring your telescope and/or binoculars (if you have them) and a picnic dinner.  While the sun sets and twilight deepens, we'll have our picnic and get our telescopes set up.  Dress warmly in layers.  Clear nights can get chilly.  See above for the Star Party schedule for the summer.
  Admission: FREE!!
  Location: Meet at the Park'n'Ride at I-280 and Page Mill Rd west of Palo Alto at 7:00 pm. From there we'll carpool to Foothill Park.  Anyone with a telescope aboard gets in free and does not need to be a Palo Alto resident.  Just tell them at the gate that you are an amateur astronomer participating in the public star party.  We will be joining the Peninsula Astronomical Society for the first star party of the season.
  Directions: Map
  More Information: Contact Randy Jones, 408.739.2881, or Carrie Karnos.
  
  
• Saturday, May 10, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Well, we got a late start today because of the Human Race.  If you arrived at the entrance to Shoreline Park before 8:50, you drove right in.  If you got there 5 minutes later, you waited 15 minutes for more than a 1000 (estimated) humans to pass.  But once inside, there was plenty of room to park, and to walk.  A dozen and a half of us took off about 9:15 along our usual path beside the lake.  But at the end of that path, we saw cones and signs, and walkers/runners with tags on their backs.  Obviously they were members of the Human Race, so we hung a left and then a right and peeled off on another right following a leader who (we all hoped) knew where she was going.  By the time we returned, carefully avoiding the Human Race, we had seen Great Egrets, Barn Swallows and Cliff Swallows, Forster's Terns, and a Red-Shouldered Hawk tracking a ground squirrel.  As well as the usual Canada Geese with their goslings, Coots, Robins, etc, etc.  We had a great time identifying birds and avoiding the Human Race!
  
  
• Saturday, May 3, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  The weather recently has not lived up to the forecasts.  It just hasn't turned warm.  But cool is great for walking!  And walk we did.  The sky was bright, the air crisp and clean, and there were smiles on all the faces as we gathered and got introduced.  The subject of carpooling came up.  With gas prices already through the roof and heading outer space, it might make sense to hook up with someone who lives nearby or on the way to share a ride to the hike.  If you're interested, send your name and location, and we'll see if we can line something up.  See you next week!
  
  
• Saturday, April 26, 2006: Spring Dance: 8:00-11:00 pm.  Near, far, wherever you were, the Age of Aquinas Spring Dance went on!  We danced to the tunes of Songs by Dave -- back for a return engagement.  Once more we opened the door, and there you were in the heart of it.
  Cost: Still only $10.00! Snacks and beverages were provided.
  Time: Doors opened at 8:00 pm, the music started around 8:30 pm.
  Location: St. Albert the Great Hospitality Center, 1095 Channing Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
  http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=1095+channing+ave&csz=palo+alto+ca+94301.
  More Information: Email age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org, or contact Mabel Ngo, 408.623.2763, email: m-ngo@sbcglobal.net.
  "We'll dance forever and the music will go on and on!"
  
• Saturday, April 26, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  We've discussed before the eclectic mix of religions and politics (or lack thereof) in our Saturday morning hiking group.  Well this time we wondered what people talk about as they're walking.  One ambitious and energetic researcher visited each of the clumps of walkers and took a tally of the conversation topics.  The largest group of people were talking about, um, male-female relationships.  The other groups were discussing education, nutrition, travel, music, and science.  Surprisingly, or maybe not surprisingly when you think about it, there were no discussions on the topics of religion or politics.  And there were no arguments.  So if you'd like to come and have a nice conversation while you exercise, we'll see you next Saturday, okay?
  
  
• Wednesday, April 23, 2008: Silicon Valley Astronomy Lecture Series Sponsored by Foothill College Astronomy Program, NASA-Ames, SETI, and Astronomy Society of the Pacific.  We'll meet at 5:45 for a light dinner at Pasta Market, San Antonio Rd & El Camino Real, in Los Altos.  Then carpool at 6:30 to Foothill College.  Speaker Jill Tarter of the SETI Institute will give a talk on possible extraterrestrial civilizations.  (The main character of Carl Sagan's Contact, Ellie Arroway played by Jodie Foster in the movie, was based on Jill.)
  Time: Dinner 5:45 pm, carpool 6:30 pm, lecture 7:00 pm.
  Location: Dinner & Carpool: The Pasta Market, 4546 El Camino Real Suite A7 Los Altos, CA 94022.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=4546+el+camino+real&csz=los+altos +ca+94022
  Location: Lecture: Foothill College, Smithwick Theater, 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=12345+el+monte+rd&csz=los+altos+hills+ca+94022
  More Information: Contact Carrie Karnos, ckarnos@yahoo.com, age-of aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org, or call 408.739.2881.
  
  
• Saturday, April 19, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  It seems like it was warmer everywhere than it was at the staging area for the hike this morning.  We were all shivering, going back to the car to get another jacket, taking off our sunglasses.  A big ol' flock of clouds happened by and the sun just decided not to fight it.  Spring must have gone away for the weekend... to Redwood City or Campbell or Sunnyvale or Santa Clara.  Cuz it sure wasn't around Shoreline...  We did see a Robin, though, and there were a couple or three families of Canada Geese leading their newly-hatched kids around.  Maybe they were all ones who didn't get the memo.  The beginning of the walk was into the wind, so we curled around to the right and the end of the lake and came back downwind by the salt ponds.  There we saw a flotilla of American Pelicans huddling on the water.  Then the sun returned and we started to warm up.  In spite of the chill in the air, the fellowship was warm and everybody had a good time.  Don't miss it next Saturday as I understand Spring will be back by then.
  
  

  Big ol' flock o' clouds	A Canada Geese couple and their kids
  A Robin that didn't get the memo	A flotilla of American Pelicans

  
  
• Saturday, April 12, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Well, we had first-timers, first-time-in-a-long-timers, and... uh... post-first-timers.  The leaders, the energetic ones, walked about 3 miles round-trip in an hour.  The rest of us set paces and distances in between.  So it worked out for everybody.  We walked along the lake going out and coming back and noticed that the level was down about 2 or 3 feet.  An observant walker pointed out the sign that explained, "... the lake level is being gradually lowered to allow for lake bank restoration..."  Wish someone would lower interest levels so my bank account could be restored...  Well, the walks are free, and coffee is only $1.73, so you can prob'ly afford it.  See you next week?
  
  
• Saturday, April 12, 2008: 7:00 pm till about 10 pm.  The FIRST Age of Aquinas Star Party happened!  It was short notice, I know, but 4 of us rendezvoused at the Park'n'Ride and had a picnic in Foothill Park.  We got our telescope set up, and actually didn't have to dress warmly, because the air temp was balmy!  There was a little confusion at the gate, because our PAS coordinator had not confirmed the date, but it all got worked out due to the kindness and understanding of the on-duty ranger, Curt Dunn.  So we got to stay and have our star party!  Don't miss the next one scheduled for May 10.  See above for the Star Party schedule for the summer.
  Admission: FREE!!
  Location: Meet at the Park'n'Ride at I-280 and Page Mill Rd west of Palo Alto at 7:00 pm. From there we'll carpool to Foothill Park.  Anyone with a telescope aboard gets in free and does not need to be a Palo Alto resident.  Just tell them at the gate that you are an amateur astronomer participating in the public star party.  We will be joining the Peninsula Astronomical Society for the first star party of the season.
  Directions: Map
  More Information: Contact Randy Jones, 408.739.2881, or Carrie Karnos.
  
  
• Friday - Sunday, April 11 - 13, 2008:   Singles Together Retreat.  Inviting all singles over fifty to a "Weekend to Remember"!  Sponsored by Menlo Park Presbyterian Singles and held at the Mt. Hermon Christian Conference Center in Felton.  Featured speaker Ed Brackenbury, M.A., on the topic: The Perfect Relationship.
  Cost: $160+ includes 2 nights of lodging and 6 delicious meals.
  Online Registration: www.mppc.org.  Click on "Register for events here near the bottom of the page, then find "Singles Together 2008 Spring Retreat".
  More Information: Email Jorgia Stanford, or call 408.268.5150.
  
  
• Saturday, April 5, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Okay, here's a math exercise for you...  Thirteen people were congregated at the staging area at 9 am.  We set out a few minutes later as 3 later-comers showed up.  Then we were joined along the path by 2 more.  Two turned around early to head back while 5 brisk walkers pulled out ahead.  Then one kept stopping to take pictures but caught up by taking short-cuts.  We headed toward the Palo Alto Baylands trail again this week where 3 turned around before the rest.  On the way back the early turner-arounders met 1 power-walker-later-comer heading out.  Back at the café 6 had picked a place to sit inside while 4 chose the patio.  As the rest of the group arrived, they picked either the inside or the outside to sit and chat.  So here's the math problem: How many of us were there?  I think Heisenberg's Uncertainly Principle applies, because I have no idea!  But if you come next week, you'll be able to count first hand how long you walk and how many friends new and old you meet.
  
  Here are some pictures the short-cutter took:

  Baylands Trail Walkers	A soaring Crow
  A tree recovering from a twist of fate	A Snowy Egret

  
  
• Sunday, March 30, 2008: Deadline for registration extended!  Singles Together Retreat.  See below at April 11 - 13.
  
  
• Saturday, March 29, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Well, the sky was leaden, but it wasn't near as cold as it looked.  20 of us, including a first-timer, set out along the lake and continued straight through the 4-corners and on into the Baylands.  Several joined us along the way as we spread out farther and farther.  The leaders made it all the way to the second bench on the right before they turned around.  The rest of us either turned around early, or did our u-turn when we met the returning leaders.  Another dozen, it seems, were waiting for us back at the café or joined us soon.  We filled up the inside (minus the party room which was reserved for a party) and spilled over to about 6 or 8 tables outdoors.  It was a wonderful time of exercise, conversation, and camaraderie.  You don't want to miss it next Saturday!
  
  Here are pictures of a couple of the birds we saw:

  An Eared Grebe, copyright Ron Reznick, www.digital-images.net

  A Northern Shoveler, copyright Clark Stanton Peterson, www.clarkstanton.com

  
  
• Saturday, March 22, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  This Hike Report is again provided by a loyal hiker, cuz yours truly missed another one!  There were 20 people who set out walking this morning, one of whom was a first-timer.  The group spread out as people walked at their own comfortable pace, but everybody stayed on the same route toward the Palo Alto Baylands.  The leaders turned around at the second bench and everybody arrived back at the café around the same time.  Several more joined the massive group back at the café and all sat outside because the weather was so nice.  The group schmoozed and sang Happy Birthday to one member who either confessed or got tattled on.  This celebrating of birthdays is getting to be a tradition!  I'm really sorry I missed it.  Let's you and me be sure we make it next Saturday!
  
  
• Saturday, March 15, 2008: St. Patrick's Day Party!!  On St. Paddy's Day EVERYBODY'S IRISH!!!  Hope you weren't "Irish Missed"!!  Ticket sales began three weeks ago for the annual St. Patrick’s Day legacy celebration of Irish music, Celtic dancing, sing-along, and the best corned beef this side of The Emerald Isle!  The evening convened at St. Elizabeth Seton School Auditorium, 1095 Channing Ave., from 6:00 – 8:00 pm (actually is was still going at 9 pm!).  Ticket prices: $15 - adults, $5 - children.  As usual it was a sellout!  Call Randy on 408.739.2881, or email age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org if you want more information.
  
  
• Saturday, March 15, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  There was a Great Blue Heron posing on the way in.  Unfortunately only one other person saw it.  At 9:05, there were about a dozen people gathered.  We around the lake counter-clockwise, then we went to the Burrowing Owl nest, turned around and came back to the café.  We saw Hummingbirds, Mallards, Gulls, Coots, Surf Scoters, Canada Geese, both kinds of Egrets (Great and Snowy), and Mockingbirds.  Oh, and there was a Hawk at that old nest in the electrical tower.  It flew away when we got there, and we didn't see it come back.  Hope we didn't scare it away permanently!  Maybe 6 or 8 others joined us back at the cafe.  It seemed to be the week for birthdays!  There was a card being passed around, presents given out, cakes with candles, and several rounds of "Happy Birthday" sung.  It was a beautiful day for a party!
  
  
• Saturday, March 8, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  It was another incredibly beautiful morning, but our numbers were light this time.  Several of our regulars were off on an outing of their own.  But that didn't diminish the fun our smaller group had.  We saw lots of hummingbirds, but couldn't quite decide if they were Anna's or Allen's, so we listed both in the bird book.  All the usual birds were out, along with a slightly rarer mockingbird.  And besides 3 or 4 more people, two red-winged blackbirds met us back at the tables on the patio at the café afterwards.  If you missed the walk, we hope you enjoyed the morning in your own way!
  
  
• Wednesday, March 5, 2008 Astronomy Lecture - Foothill College Sponsored by Foothill College Astronomy Program, NASA-Ames, SETI, and Astronomy Society of the Pacific  We'll meet at 5:45 for a light dinner at Pasta Market, San Antonio Rd & El Camino Real, in Los Altos.  Then carpool at 6:30 to Foothill College.  The Lecture begins at 7 and is usually packed.  Parking permits are $2 (eight quarters).  The Lecture is FREE!
  Time: Dinner 5:45 pm, carpool 6:30 pm, lecture 7:00 pm.
  Location: Dinner & Carpool: The Pasta Market, 4546 El Camino Real Suite A7 Los Altos, CA 94022.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=4546+el+camino+real&csz=los+altos +ca+94022
  Location: Lecture: Foothill College, Smithwick Theater, 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=12345+el+monte+rd&csz=los+altos+hills+ca+94022
  More Information: Contact Carrie Karnos, ckarnos@yahoo.com, age-of aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org, or call 408.739.2881.
  
  
• Sunday, March 2, 2008: God's Mechanics, a talk by Vatican Observatory Astronomer Br. Guy Consolmagno, SJ.&nbps; This presentation explores how scientists and engineers make sense of religion.  It will take place at 4:00 pm at The Women's Club Of Palo Alto, 475 Homer Ave, Palo Alto, 94301.  For further information contact Kay Williams, 650.328.2781, kaywill@pacbell.net.
  
  
• Saturday, March 1, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  The wind was kinda blowing, and the air was kinda cold, and the sky was kinda overcast.  But the folks were kinda numerous (about 15) and we were all kinda happy to be there, and so we set out and kinda wound our way around the trails and out into the Palo Alto Baylands and back.  More joined us along the way and a bunch more showed up at the café.  It was getting warmer and the wind was thinking about blowing that pop stand (http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/blow_this_pop_stand), but we congregated inside anyway.  By that time we numbered two dozen or more.  And a good time was had by all.
  
  
• Saturday, February 23, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Well, the weather was prob'ly the nastiest we've seen, and felt, in a long time.  The wind was blowing, making the 45° temp feel a lot colder, but it wasn't raining, and despite the fact that it was uncomfortable, it was another beautiful morning... just beautiful in a different way.  The dozen-plus hikers that were at the staging area by 9:00 joked among ourselves about how crazy we were.  Well, crazy or not, we had a good time walking and talking with each other.  Plus we spotted and identified 13 different species of birds.  A few more people joined us enroute, and there were several more (less crazy ones?) who joined the hardy band of walkers for a hearty cup of coffee back at the café.  Don't miss out on a single stride or sip... join us next Saturday.
  
  
• Friday, February 22, 2008, 6:00 pm April Dance Planning Party!  We're looking for volunteers to plan, prep, and pull it off!  If you're interested in partaking, there's going to be a planning party at the home of Mabel Ngo.  The party includes dinner... and it's NOT a potluck!  All you have to bring is your brain... to think up ideas and ways to implement them.  These dances are YOUR dances, so take control and be pro-active, and all those other buzz-words you hear every day.
  Contact: Mabel Ngo, 408.623.2763, m-ngo@sbcglobal.net.  RSVP by Wednesday, February 20, so she knows how much traditional Chinese New Year food to fix!
  
  
• NOTE!! The Embarcadero walk (originally scheduled for President's Day, Feb 18) is CANCELED!!  Ron who was coordinating this event has undergone major changes in his work schedule and won't be able to lead this event!  We will try again later in the summer to schedule this event.
  
  
• Saturday, February 16, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  It was just your basic, garden variety, ordinary, wonderful hike! said one regular.  Yours truly was playing hooky in Texas, where the weather was cold, rainy and overcast.  Any questions about why I came back home to California??  Anyway, the hikers went clockwise around the lake, through the golf course first, and "backwards" behind the lake.  At the biggie 4-way intersection, some of us went over to the Baylands, some went back, per usual.  Back at the cafe, a few more people joined us.  There's always something new at these hikes: new routes, new conditions, new faces.  And each hike is always better than the last one, so jump on the "hike"-wagon and join the fun next Saturday!
  
  
• Saturday, February 9, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  The beautiful, warm weather was welcome among the two dozen of us who set out on the walk this morning.  The rush of bright sun, blue sky, green grass, infused everyone with a merriment typical of spring and all that spring brings.  A large portion of the group was ready, willing, and able to extend the length of the hike and 3/4 of us headed on over to the Baylands trails while 1/4 of us looped around through the paths between the lake and the salt ponds.  We picked up several more "hitch-hikers" along the paths, some headed on to the Baylands to join the energetic walkers, and some moseyed on back with the rest of us.  Back at the café we gathered with a bunch more who came after the group embarked and did their own walk before rendezvousing for coffee. The weather can't get better than it was today.  But it really can't get worse, either.  All God's weather is beautiful, so join us next Saturday, rain or shine!
  
  
• Saturday, February 2, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  The sky was a hard, cold, corrugated tin roof.  The ground looked as though it were feeling down.  And in between was a mass of chilly air.  But the 17 people who gathered to hike warmed the air with their spirited conversation and energetic walking.  Those who missed the departure by a few minutes caught up with us.  So by the time 3 "hitch"hikers joined us, and 2 more dropped in for coffee, we had 22 people filling up 5 or 6 tables in the café.  In spite of all the warm air we created, it was still too cold to sit outside.  But inside the warmth of friendships, old and new, spread throughout the group.
  
  
• Saturday, January 26, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  The comment heard over and over again as people arrived at the gathering place was: "It's not raining!"  It not only wasn't raining, the sun was peeking out!  Perhaps it was checking to see if we were all okay.  Fifteen people were okay, and we set out a couple minutes past nine.  We walked for almost 2 miles, and talked for almost 45 minutes.  Then we came back to the café and talked some more… another 45 minutes or so before people with places to go and things to do started taking their leave.  There aren't too many events, other than the regular hikes, scheduled for February beyond the President's Day walk in the City.  So if you have an idea and would like to organize a gathering of any sort, drop us a line.
  
  
• Wednesday, January 23, 2008 Astronomy Lecture - Foothill College Sponsored by Foothill College Astronomy Program, NASA-Ames, SETI, and Astronomy Society of the Pacific  We met at 5:45 for a light dinner at Pasta Market, San Antonio Rd & El Camino Real, in Los Altos.  Then carpooled at 6:30 to Foothill College.  The Lecture began at 7 and was packed as usual.  We purchased our parking permits for $2 (eight quarters).  The Lecture was FREE!
  Time: Dinner 5:45 pm, carpool 6:30 pm, lecture 7:00 pm.
  Location: Dinner & Carpool: The Pasta Market, 4546 El Camino Real Suite A7 Los Altos, CA 94022.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=4546+el+camino+real&csz=los+altos +ca+94022
  Location: Lecture: Foothill College, Smithwick Theater, 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022.
  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=12345+el+monte+rd&csz=los+altos+hills+ca+94022
  More Information: Contact Carrie Karnos, ckarnos@yahoo.com, or call 408.739.2881.
  
  
• Sunday, January 20, 2008 Potluck in the City!  Carmen Castillo has invited us to her home in the City to start off the New Year with a Potluck starting at noon!  RSVP to Carmen by email at carmencast@peoplepc.com if you would like to come, and tell her what you'll be bringing.  (That way, she can coordinate the dishes and keep from getting too much of the same thing!)  The address is: 589 Dolores St, San Francisco, CA 94110.  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=589+dolores+st&csz=san+francisco+ca+94110.
  
  
• Saturday, January 19, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  There was nothing unusual about this morning's hike.  The day was incredibly beautiful, as usual, there were 20+ cheerful people walking and talking, as usual, and the mood and the spirit of the activity was spiritually, physically, and socially uplifting -- as usual.  How boring, right?  WRONG!  It was wonderful.  We are so lucky and blessed in Northern California.  More joined us back at the café and the conversation and camaraderie continued.  If you haven't been with us for awhile, or ever, come on by.  There's always room for a dozen more!
  
  
• Saturday, January 19, 2008, Age of Aquinas FOURTH Anniversary Dance!  The festivities celebrating Age of Aquinas's fourth year was a success!  We danced to the tunes of Songs by Dave -- a new DJ for us, but one who has been around the Bay Area a long time.
  Cost: Still only $10.00! Snacks and beverages were provided.
  Time: Doors opened 8:00 pm, but the music had already started!
  Location: St. Albert the Great Hospitality Center, 1095 Channing Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
  http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=1095+channing+ave&csz=palo+alto+ca+94301.
  More Information: Email age-of-aquinas@paloaltocatholic.org, or contact Tom De Bartolo, 408.298.2064.
  
  
• Saturday, January 12, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  The sky was a watercolor painting in pastel blues and greys.  The sun was a bright spot that made the clouds shine.  The temperature was perfect for walking -- not too cold, not too warm.  More than twenty were ready to walk at about 9:05 when we all set out.  There were 2 first-timers, and several first-time-in-a-long-timers.  We had our birder's diary and here's what we saw that we identified: Canvas Backs, Surf Scoters, Common Goldeneyes, Willets, Curlews, Night Herons, Cinnamon Teals, Avocets, Stilts, and Northern Shovelers.  Most of these were spotted beyond the lake over toward the Baylands.  Back at the café there were another half-dozen or so that were waiting for us, plus a few that arrived after the main group but did get in some walking.  The total?  Prob'ly around 30 friendly people all together.
  
  
• Saturday, January 5, 2008 Hike at Shoreline:  Well, it was cold and rainy and windy, but that didn't stop 15 people from gathering with rain clothes and umbrellas by about 9:02 for the hike this morning.  Seeing so many people defying the weather, must have intimidated the rain… or else it was the prayer offered up by an enthusiastic hiker.  The rain fled and the sun even came out briefly.  And a good time was had by all, except maybe the clouds!  We had our Bird-Spotting Diary and recorded some of the less prevalent birds we spotted: Canvas Backs and Surf Scoters, Common Goldenyes and Ruddy Ducks.  Plus an Allen's Hummingbird and a Turkey Vulture which bracketed the size spectrum.  Back at the café several more were waiting for us which brought our number up over 20.  We always hike!  Rainy or dry, windy or calm, cold or hot.  So… see you next week?
  
  
• Tuesday, January 1, 2008: Hike & Soup Supper Potluck Sponsored by Menlo Park Presbyterian Singles Together.  GREET THE NEW YEAR with your Singles Together friends at the 2ND ANNUAL HIKE AND SOUP SUPPER at the home of Carol Johnson, 1199 Washoe Dr, San Jose 95120.
  RSVP by calling 408.268.5150.
  Time: Come at 2:00 pm for the hike of your choice: Walk to Almaden Lake (1 hour, 3 miles flat terrain) or hike Almaden Quicksilver (1 ½-2 hours hills).  OR, come at 4:30 pm to hang out, watch football, play games, chat.  The SOUP SUPPER is at 5:30 pm: bring a potluck dish, drinks or afternoon snacks.  Minnesota Wild Rice, Chicken Soup will be provided.
  Cost: $3.00 donation.
  Directions: Take 85 South to Almaden Expwy. turn right to Camden Ave, right again to Bose Ln, then left on Bose to Washoe. Carol's is the corner house on the left.  Map: http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=1199+washoe+dr&csz=san+jose+ca+95120.
  More Information: Call Carol Johnson, 408.268.5150.
  
  For events of 2007 please go to Age of Aquinas Events of 2007.
  
  For events of 2006 please go to Age of Aquinas Events of 2006.