Category Archives: California

In Pictures ~ Point Dume State Beach, Malibu California

Point Dume State Beach is located in Malibu.  Not as crowded as many other Southern California beaches, it still offers views, swimming, surfing, tide pools to explore, and more.  Parking is limited and no dogs are allowed on the path. … Continue reading

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Dana Point ~ Elephant Parade, hurry or you will miss seeing it!

Have you heard about Mosha, the little elephant that stepped on a land mine and lost his front leg?  Well, I had not until this weekend.  As tragic as this event was, it has led to an inspiring outcome. Here … Continue reading

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Castle Crags State Park ~ scenic hiking, fall colors, easy access

Castle Crags State Park is located in Northern California just six miles south of Dunsmuir on I-5.  According to the Parks and Rec web site: “The park offers swimming and fishing in the Sacramento River, hiking in the back country, … Continue reading

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Children’s Forest Walking Trail and Exploration Hiking Trail

If you are looking for a feel good easy walk in the mountains, check out the Children’s Forest Trail. Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, off Highway 18 just East of Running Springs, this is perfect for an afternoon stroll.  … Continue reading

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In Pictures – Balboa Island

Sometimes your best choice is to be a tourist in your own backyard.  We are so fortunate that Southern California offers some amazing options to do just that.   Our weather is mild year-round.  These were taken in February of this year.  It was … Continue reading

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IN PICTURES: California coastline from San Luis Obispo to Carmel

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BODIE – A classic ghost town

Bodie was a thriving mining town in the late 1800’s.  Once home to 65 saloons and two churches, it was a bustling community of families, drunks, thieves, criminals, hard-working miners, gun slingers, prostitutes, and shop owners. Mixed in with a one-armed Sheriff, a school teacher, … Continue reading

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MAMMOTH LAKES – 10 things to do when there is no snow

We just returned from a week in the Mammoth Lakes area. Mammoth is located in the Sierra Mountains of Eastern California at an elevation just under 8,000 feet and a population just over 8,000 people.  I must admit that I … Continue reading

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Mono Lake – Toto, I don’t think we are in Kansas any more

I have a tendency to overuse “other worldly” in describing places that are different, or spooky, or look like I could be on another planet. In this case – I stand by this description.

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Lassen Volcanic National Park – Bumpass Hell Hike

Well, I am a bit of a light weight when it comes to hitting the trails.  One of my goals is to get into better physical condition so that I can take on tougher terrain, but for now the easy … Continue reading

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