Lake Tahoe and Yosemite

Today is travel day, and I mean the WHOLE day. Woke up at 7 and got my suitcases fight-ready. The drive to the airport was almost 3 hours, and I got to see much of California's diverse landscape. From the high mountains to the low mountain country all the way down to the valley, ranch areas, and fertile farm fields of fruit trees, vineyards, corn and wheat. Much of California is completely dried out straw grass by early June with a moderate fire hazard and No Burn laws in effect until November. The car is covered in dust because it is so dry here.

I turned in the rental car and have made it to the terminal. I decided to spend the couple hours waiting for my flight at the grill eating breakfast and lunch... a tasty angus burger and salad. I change planes in Denver and will arrive home at 1:40 am tomorrow if all goes well.

I just heard the waitress say that they JUST started using real plates here in this restaurant yesterday! i still have a plastic fork and knife.

This trip was a two part trip since May 20th. First my "health retreat " ... which was restful and insightful... life changing really, as it provided clarity and redirection for my life as well as a new way of thinking about life and myself. On the second part, I experienced the pinnacle of nature first hand; my soul was nourished and enriched. Lake Tahoe and Yosemite are some of the most beautiful places in the world, and I hope to return... with my van. How many times did I wish I had my van!

I didn't get the car camping experience due to the chilly weather and expedited return. But that's okay. Hopefully there is plenty of camping in my future. Actually, I'll be camping in my van mostly the next two weeks near my sister's place, taking care of her and her home ... until she throws me to the curb. Well, technically I'll already be at the curb in the van ...with my own coffee bar! I snapped a picture of the typical "California coffee bar". Four Airbnb's and no Keurigs! My French press coffee this morning was a disappointment. I see a delightful purchased gourmet coffee in my near future.

Goodbye, CaliforniaRead more