Day Two California Trails



There are lagoons in this area, actually just one huge lagoon .  When I saw the first sign and saw the small lagoon, I didn't think much of it until we rode on and on and so did the lagoon...it is massive.




just another shot of the lagoon at its wide point, an amazing sight.




There is a row of trees, all tall, almost leafless and a strange color of tan.    I said banyan tree in my mind but I have no idea what they are.  Interesting though.




Always curves, large hills and foothills to see.




Look what I saw.....and thought son John would bypass it but he didn't.  This was my Mother's Day, Birthday and our first trip together in a very long time and he was going to make sure he filled in all the interesting things I liked or participated in...gaming....yeah....he actually stopped and this is what we found.....



a very tiny casino in the backwoods.  Now I know where the old machines go.  They had a room full of them.  I played a keno machine and got seven dollars back for my five dollars. 

No, we didn't stay long.   It had taken us time to find the casino itself as there was a sign leading to it but there were off roads that led into a forest area and after winding around a few of those we decided to forget it but on the way out there was a bigger sign that did lead us into the casino itself.  I wonder how many locals come and spend their pennies.  

I wish I had a California map beside me so I could remember the names of all the towns we were in and out of.    We made good progress and tomorrow you will see more pictures as we headed for Loomis and John's visit with his friend. It is decided I will spend some time at the big mall and give them some time to catch up with each other.    I can hardly wait to visit all those fancy stores and maybe I'll find a shoe store and a pair of shoes.     It will be good to walk around the mall and be out of the car for awhile.    The miles go back quickly and the scenery is beautiful, interesting and the stops welcomed.    Traveling is expensive and I try not to think of the eight gallons of gas for $33.00; or the hotel bill for a night.  John knows it will be my last trip through some old highways and roads that I have traveled many times over my life time.   We stop for a stretch or two and have a snack as we ride on an on to our destination for the day.

John had a mouse on his lap top so I could use it.   I got to read my e mails along the way.    I have some catching up to do and a few thank you cards to send out.   It felt good to cook dinner at home last evening and a pleasure to sleep in my own bed.   Vacations are wonderful but I think you all agree that coming home after a week of a road trip brings a sigh of contentment yet a little regret that vacations do end.  

Did I tell you I missed you and hoped you were all 'minding your manners' and having a good time while doing it.    I hope you are keeping healthy and happy and back to reading the blog.     More tomorrow.   Make your seconds count today and do some one thing that will bring a big smile to your face.    Hum through the 'stuff' and know that you can beat the world with one hand tied behind our back.   Hugs to all.