Slowing Down

Last night, Mike and I were talking about what an ordeal it was getting ourselves here to this first destination. We dealt with bad weather and snow on the other end, and then scary bad traffic at this end. It's nice to be staying put for the week in this pretty setting. I'm still mad at them for charging us extra for the kitties, but it is a nice campground. And when you look at this pretty girl, doesn't it seem like they should be paying us for the privilege of having our fabulous felines here?

Sadie is a heat-seeking cat, and she sought out the sunshine at the back of the RV yesterday morning. She's sitting there this morning too. She knows the sunshine spot will arrive soon enough. Below, you can see her view from the back window.

With our weak signal, it's taking forever and a day to upload pictures. I waited about five minutes for the ones you're looking at today. At some point, my patience will wear out. For now, I'm getting 'er done. Also on the get 'er done list, I filled in my embroidery hoop yesterday. This block is about 2/3 finished now.

With the weather finally on our side, I went out for a walk yesterday morning. I loved the graceful white trunks of these trees across the road from us.

I wish I could have caught these guys in better light. It's hard to know for sure, but from the sound of them, I'd say these are grackles like the ones we see in Boulder City. Click right here to hear the sounds they make.

Turning to my left, I encountered this sign, and I paused here to consider whether I could call my feet an "authorized vehicle."

My shadow self was there egging me on, so what could I do but follow her lead.

Walking on, I was able to get closer to the lake. Looking out across the expanse of water, I could see the dam responsible for this reservoir.

Zooming in, I could see it through the reeds.

Also present, some coots. 

To my right was a picnic area, and people fishing.

Farther to my right was a boat launch with more people fishing. And here's another question I have: If people are not permitted to swim in the lake, why do they let the fish swim here? And you just know those fish are pooping in the water. I rest my case.

Looking to the left, the sun was sparkling on the water off in the distance.

Turning back, I had another view of the mountains.

Also, I caught this bird. I've identified him as a Western Kingbird. We saw some of these when we spent the day with my friend Judy up at the Merced National Wildlife Refuge, and so I was feeling smug at being able to identify him.

Also, I passed by a eucalyptus tree. This is one of those things that when you see it, you can say you know you're in California. We saw these lining the freeway as we headed south. They're so pretty with their peeling bark. When you rub the leaves between your fingers, you can smell the eucalyptus scent.

Today will be spent much like yesterday...just relaxing and visiting with our friends. Mike got out our bikes yesterday. They're electric, and so they needed to be charged up. They're ready for riding by now, and I expect we'll get out for a ride today. The roads are paved, level, and mostly abandoned. Also, I didn't see any woolly caterpillars, so it's probably safe for people who like to fall down and break bones.

I'm just about to get back to my embroidery. Maybe I'll finish that block off today...or maybe not. It's nice having no agenda nor any place to go.