tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69153578150515756462024-03-19T01:48:04.495-07:00The MoHo and Other Traveling TalesSue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.comBlogger991125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-44034819832238615492024-03-07T10:12:00.000-08:002024-03-09T15:40:23.025-08:0003-01-2024 Mo's Birthday Trip<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/03-March-Birthday-trip-to-North-Oregon/03-01-2023-Driving-North-on-Mos-Birthday/i-X876hrH/0/FHnCV2hTPJXnDpw6DqHD7NDqpHvhb8BC6qr6dTwHK/L/03-01-2023%20Driving%20North%20on%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(19%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="706" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/03-March-Birthday-trip-to-North-Oregon/03-01-2023-Driving-North-on-Mos-Birthday/i-X876hrH/0/FHnCV2hTPJXnDpw6DqHD7NDqpHvhb8BC6qr6dTwHK/L/03-01-2023%20Driving%20North%20on%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(19%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="706" /></a></div><div><br /></div>It has become a tradition for the last few years: Mo will start thinking in January about where she might like to spend her March birthday and what she would like to do. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/03-March-Birthday-trip-to-North-Oregon/03-02-2023-A-Day-on-Sauvies-Island/i-CwNs2bc/0/DNpSP29vRzD9TjzWBHqC3nMTSXHw8P5WVrFCPPCKp/L/03-02-2023%20A%20Day%20on%20Sauvies%20Island%20(51%20of%2061)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/03-March-Birthday-trip-to-North-Oregon/03-02-2023-A-Day-on-Sauvies-Island/i-CwNs2bc/0/DNpSP29vRzD9TjzWBHqC3nMTSXHw8P5WVrFCPPCKp/L/03-02-2023%20A%20Day%20on%20Sauvies%20Island%20(51%20of%2061)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Sometimes, as we did last year, the trip involves several days of camping and we traveled north to the part of Oregon where Mo was raised. We camped on nearby Sauvie Island and spent a few days exploring the places that Mo remembered from her youth<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2020/03-01-2020-Mos-Birthday-to-Crater-Lake/i-fkPKQGC/0/CdG4vk9fqCRMhpPC9tWqk2GBmwrcKnLxR8xq3Vp3r/L/03-01-2020%20Mos%20Birthday%20to%20Crater%20Lake-27-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2020/03-01-2020-Mos-Birthday-to-Crater-Lake/i-fkPKQGC/0/CdG4vk9fqCRMhpPC9tWqk2GBmwrcKnLxR8xq3Vp3r/L/03-01-2020%20Mos%20Birthday%20to%20Crater%20Lake-27-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />One year we spent a very cold and windy day playing in the snow at Crater Lake.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2021-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/03-01-2021-A-Birthday-for-Mo/i-5dMQz8z/0/CV23LcZVkWZ3C6D8bm5kzmNJ23Pcs3hKkDpFfv4hc/L/03-01-2021%20phone%20photos%20%20Birthday%20Bridge%20Bash%20for%20Mo-7-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2021-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/03-01-2021-A-Birthday-for-Mo/i-5dMQz8z/0/CV23LcZVkWZ3C6D8bm5kzmNJ23Pcs3hKkDpFfv4hc/L/03-01-2021%20phone%20photos%20%20Birthday%20Bridge%20Bash%20for%20Mo-7-L.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">In 2021 Mo decided that we should spend a day exploring some of the covered bridges in Southern Oregon. </span></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2020-MoHo-Travels/03-Trip-to-Klamath-Falls/03-04-2020-Lava-Beds-National-Monument/i-X6kKwKC/0/KkKcHMH6GqS2pSgQLRs7JbhjfBqFdv4wN9CHFJC2/L/03-04-2020%20Lava%20Beds%20National%20Monument-27-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2020-MoHo-Travels/03-Trip-to-Klamath-Falls/03-04-2020-Lava-Beds-National-Monument/i-X6kKwKC/0/KkKcHMH6GqS2pSgQLRs7JbhjfBqFdv4wN9CHFJC2/L/03-04-2020%20Lava%20Beds%20National%20Monument-27-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />One year we drove over the pass toward Klamath Falls and ended up spending a beautiful starry night at a wonderful campsite in Lava Beds National Monument.<p></p><p>Whether we are at home, or traveling the country, most often Mo will decide in advance what kind of day she would like to celebrate her birthday. The one thing that I can be sure of is that under NO circumstances is there to be any kind of a party for her. That is the only request that she is adamant about. Most often we will celebrate with a nice restaurant meal. I have come to look forward to her birthdays, and to enjoying whatever outing she plans for us to share. This birthday was no exception. </p><p>Mo decided this year that she would like to explore some ghost towns. She did as she often does, researching extensively to learn about places to visit. The problem was that there are not a lot of ghost towns in this part of Oregon that have buildings that are still standing. </p><p>Mo did find some historical sites to visit that were interesting to explore, and a couple of them were places that we have passed many times driving here and there without paying much attention to the history.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-25qVv2b/0/DGhnjMkQhp94QBKBCFjzSSC372gQFKTDc9jFrs874/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(6%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="798" height="393" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-25qVv2b/0/DGhnjMkQhp94QBKBCFjzSSC372gQFKTDc9jFrs874/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(6%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="798" /></a></div><br />Our first stop on our birthday tour was the small community of Rock Point, Oregon. Rock Point is just north of the junction of Interstate 5 and Oregon Highway 99 along the Rogue River. The small community was founded by John B White, who fought in the Rogue Indian Wars. In exchange for his service, he was awarded land in this location and developed a homestead on the north side of the old stage road now in the vicinity of Highway 99 and continues on a road fittingly known as "Old Stage Road".<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-swFjQVD/0/ChqLVWnC2TfjC8VjCtKMNxWG9kJwF7kp8gnWXMHpF/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(8%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-swFjQVD/0/ChqLVWnC2TfjC8VjCtKMNxWG9kJwF7kp8gnWXMHpF/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(8%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We read that there was a tavern and a stage stop and that John B White was the postmaster. We also read that the tavern and stage stop were still standing, but there was no actual location for the existing buildings listed. Imagine our surprise to discover that the existing tavern and stage stop was now the location of the beautiful tasting room for Del Rio Vineyards, a site we have passed often without a clue of the history behind the building.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-VLN4pnr/0/FGqMrsp9KPpF7SR8FW4Ln7SDXdps4BMV45t4qvZ2S/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(5%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-VLN4pnr/0/FGqMrsp9KPpF7SR8FW4Ln7SDXdps4BMV45t4qvZ2S/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(5%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>Mo also wanted to visit the beautiful and historic bridge built in 1919, famous for its lovely arches. Unbeknownst to us, we have traveled over this bridge countless times without a clue about its history. We never had a clue that beneath us as we crossed the bridge were the lovely arches that made the bridge so special. </p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-VxhWcQm/0/DVrKcLvgMzXJPtq5TpfwmnDqQzVfTkj36dH6CfLcp/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(3%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-VxhWcQm/0/DVrKcLvgMzXJPtq5TpfwmnDqQzVfTkj36dH6CfLcp/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(3%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We exited our normal route toward Gold Hill near the winery and parked along the old road to walk beneath the bridge. Even though it had snowed earlier that day, the sun was brilliant and the snow was melting enough that walking around wasn't terribly difficult.<p></p><p>Mo also read about the Dardanelles Post Office in the community of Dardanelles, which we discovered was simply an extension of Rock Point, or what it was once called, "Point of the Rocks". The old post office just across the river opposite Rock Point still stands and is now a convenience store and gas station. The original postmaster was none other than J.B. White himself.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-3xLNnxj/0/CGd2gf5R3R57W8xNFcC6mTszjXgFgcTnWPN5bFPKm/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(9%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-3xLNnxj/0/CGd2gf5R3R57W8xNFcC6mTszjXgFgcTnWPN5bFPKm/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(9%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Another site in Rock Point that we have passed many times is the historic Rock Point Cemetery. More than 100 years ago, a local landowner deeded 26 acres of land for a cemetery just south of the tavern and stage stop. Part of the cemetery land was deeded to the IOOF and that side was maintained but another section became known as the Pioneer Cemetery and declined. In 1955 a group of citizens got together, cleaned up the cemeteries, and recorded tombstones and grave markers. There are many stories still out there about hauntings, including eerie lights and sounds and a green fog that suddenly appears. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-SnXkdgV/0/CkWZT9zrxjnbLt5sJBX2b63fzpXhKx2xKcJpkbJDh/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(12%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="433" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-SnXkdgV/0/CkWZT9zrxjnbLt5sJBX2b63fzpXhKx2xKcJpkbJDh/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(12%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="433" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-8jJdSgg/0/5WVHQtpq2RLrSsZkbFBn66XdPjxGMmpwLPxFdnQq/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(13%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="435" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-8jJdSgg/0/5WVHQtpq2RLrSsZkbFBn66XdPjxGMmpwLPxFdnQq/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(13%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="435" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-KKGgmPW/0/DnV84pJ7cXtS35Cw3zgCfT4mnKZNcWp9JMsMtZzZ9/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(15%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-KKGgmPW/0/DnV84pJ7cXtS35Cw3zgCfT4mnKZNcWp9JMsMtZzZ9/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(15%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />On this lovely sunny, chilly day, we saw no evidence of hauntings but thoroughly enjoyed viewing the old gravestones and inscriptions in the part of the cemetery that we visited.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-7XDqHQH/0/p7j6FkXddjN3SqQsrX3Cz4CFVtZqP35QS7kbMrgK/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(27%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="439" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-7XDqHQH/0/p7j6FkXddjN3SqQsrX3Cz4CFVtZqP35QS7kbMrgK/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(27%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="439" /></a></div><br />The ghost town of Golden is north of Grants Pass near Wolf Creek, but Mo didn't want to go that far north so visiting that ghost town will have to wait for another day. The second ghost town that remains in our area is Buncom, Oregon. <p></p><p>We continued south along Old Stage Road toward Jacksonville and decided that traveling to Buncom via Sterling Creek Road would allow us to avoid backtracking as we left Buncom. Sterling Creek road is narrow and winding and crosses some steep hills as it leads toward the old ghost town in what is now called the Little Applegate.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-4gnSVDZ/0/L9RNQTX9kDdH5FfmxqQNWCQH795fVPdZFQdRHZBx/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(20%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-4gnSVDZ/0/L9RNQTX9kDdH5FfmxqQNWCQH795fVPdZFQdRHZBx/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(20%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />As the road climbed the hills, the snow got deeper until we decided it was snowy enough to kick in the ECT drive on the car, which helps in snowy conditions. By the time we got to Buncom, however, there was no sign of snow and the sun was again shining brilliantly.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-FNVRk6f/0/FRJXLmSF3QmCBTsv4WVnwMjqrPXqHhH3BtxpnV6wn/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(28%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-FNVRk6f/0/FRJXLmSF3QmCBTsv4WVnwMjqrPXqHhH3BtxpnV6wn/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(28%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The tiny town of Buncom was settled in the 1850s by Chinese miners. Locals got wind of the find, pushed out the Chinese, and established a general store, a saloon, and a post office before the 1900's. In 1918, however, the town was abandoned because the region's gold dried up. Shortly after that, many of the remaining buildings in the town were destroyed by a fire. Only three buildings survived, the town post office, a wooden bunkhouse, and an old cookhouse.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-gdXtKrf/0/bBxDJptMvv8zkRjVt6j63rJhvjRQX7gdTCfbxzgF/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(26%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-gdXtKrf/0/bBxDJptMvv8zkRjVt6j63rJhvjRQX7gdTCfbxzgF/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(26%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />In 1990, the Buncom Historical Society was formed by local residents who wished to preserve what remained. Beginning in 1993, they organized the first "Buncom Day", an all-day annual affair designed to promote interest in local history. There are events including a BBQ, a parade, a petting zoo, and craft and food booths. According to something I read, up to 500 people attend to help raise money to preserve the buildings of Buncom and promote the history of the Little Applegate Valley.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-27qBQ47/0/p86x9JsCB5zP4LztGb9PWxMRjmrZvTnnV7nsdm6v/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(25%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="556" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-27qBQ47/0/p86x9JsCB5zP4LztGb9PWxMRjmrZvTnnV7nsdm6v/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(25%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="556" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-MZ2sKn3/0/3RwNCvwcS97pDZ39Hb6zp6cVBvC9BTMXrnQtBF4B/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(34%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="565" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-MZ2sKn3/0/3RwNCvwcS97pDZ39Hb6zp6cVBvC9BTMXrnQtBF4B/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(34%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="565" /></a></div><br />Mo and I sometimes enjoy attending local gatherings like this but the last Buncom Day information I could find was from 2016. I also found a notice indicating that Buncom Day 2023 has been postponed indefinitely. Perhaps Buncom Day is going the way of Buncom town and may only be a memory.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-LRNWbfT/0/Cs8S65T72VgsKKHF8M2Zzsj7j5qC8t342XVfg2jNx/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(31%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="428" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-LRNWbfT/0/Cs8S65T72VgsKKHF8M2Zzsj7j5qC8t342XVfg2jNx/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(31%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><br />No matter. We thoroughly enjoyed walking around the old buildings in the sunshine, imagining the life that was once there. Mattie thought the place was great as well since it allowed her to get out of the car and run around a bit.<p></p><p>The next town on Mo's list wasn't an actual ghost town, but the Ruch area had several buildings listed that were of historical significance. The town was originally named after Casper M. Ruch, who bought a tract of land in 1896 where the community now stands. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2021-Christmas/12-31-McKee-Bridge/i-P5vMZ3S/0/rg77XCwcG95LPHZjzDhhZnk3s5Vw3QjkWCGQWXP5/L/12-31-2021%20McKee%20Bridge1-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="800" height="500" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2021-Christmas/12-31-McKee-Bridge/i-P5vMZ3S/0/rg77XCwcG95LPHZjzDhhZnk3s5Vw3QjkWCGQWXP5/L/12-31-2021%20McKee%20Bridge1-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>The Historic McKee Bridge at Christmastime<p></p><p>Mo and I have traveled through Ruch many times on our way to visit the McKee Bridge, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The local people decorate the bridge at Christmas time and it is always fun to drive south on a snowy day to see the bridge decorations. </p><p>Ruch is also of significance to me personally since it is the town where my youngest daughter Melody moved to from Eastern Washington in the mid-90s. I lived nearby at the time and I was devastated that she had to move so many hundreds of miles away from me. I visited later that year and still remember she and her husband at the time and the little house they lived in. I often point out the driveway when Mo and I drive through Ruch and always am grateful that we are now only separated by 3 hours instead of 800 miles. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-pSwfcpx/0/FbRv9WcRchSpfWP5vwD7gcZk59VTtXRPSW5SVTWj7/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(35%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-pSwfcpx/0/FbRv9WcRchSpfWP5vwD7gcZk59VTtXRPSW5SVTWj7/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(35%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Sweets-n-Eats in Ruch, Oregon for lunch<p></p><p>There are at least 8 historic markers within 7 miles of Ruch, but since we were looking for ghost towns rather than old town sites, we decided to stop at the local store for a bit of lunch instead. Lunch was delightful, as we shared a hot dog between us before continuing on our journey.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-trVRs6B/0/FM67JSJBHHFmPgcb64WdrXrWdcFHnwm47SfxdQtzr/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(42%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="800" height="431" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-trVRs6B/0/FM67JSJBHHFmPgcb64WdrXrWdcFHnwm47SfxdQtzr/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(42%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Our next stop was the small community of Provolt where the Provolt Country Store is located on the Jackson/Josephine county line. Local lore says Samuel Provolt, who established the store in 1875, later moved the store from Jackson County so that it would be in Josephine County because the taxes in Jackson County were getting too high. This is an interesting story because, at this time, taxes in Josephine County are generally much lower than taxes in Jackson County.<div><br /></div><div>The store has been a hub of local commerce continuously ever since it was established in 1875. It is thought to be the oldest continuously operating establishment in Southern Oregon selling an eclectic mix of convenience foods and nuts and bolts. <div><div><br /></div><div>The post office was established in 1895 and the first postmaster was Mary Provolt. That post office was discontinued in 1955. The historic Provolt Store is a popular site in Jackson/Josephine County, where people journey from town to enjoy the old-fashioned store and its popular delicatessen. We visited the store once during our travels along Highway 238 through the Applegate Valley and didn't feel a need to go inside on our visit this time. We were still full from our hot dog lunch and knew that suppertime wasn't far off.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-zfJnf2N/0/CFD7CJ6jvf679vmHZV9xzg2TCz8qwtQHGVVVdWwDB/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(39%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-zfJnf2N/0/CFD7CJ6jvf679vmHZV9xzg2TCz8qwtQHGVVVdWwDB/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(39%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />North of the store, we drove a little bit further to discover a place new to us, the Provolt Recreation Site, a BLM Day use area with bike trails, walking trails, and picnic areas adjacent to the Applegate River. It was quite chilly and beginning to rain, but we could see how it might be a fun place to visit on a hot summer day.<p></p><p>Our final destination for the day was at the northern end of the Applegate Valley and is a place that will be familiar to friends and readers of this blog. We arrived at Schmidt Family Winery in time to get a nice indoor table near the fireplace to wait for daughter Deborah to arrive. Deb agreed to come to help celebrate Mo's birthday with wine and pizza at Schmidt and when she walked in the door she was carrying a beautiful bouquet of birthday flowers.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-vbMnNdR/0/DLXc2DLX3tCk73cB8nTSbKdntXnvsPHQCnhCLk84W/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(47%20of%2047)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2024/03-01-2024-Mos-Birthday/i-vbMnNdR/0/DLXc2DLX3tCk73cB8nTSbKdntXnvsPHQCnhCLk84W/L/03-01-2024%20Mo's%20Birthday%20(47%20of%2047)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The music was perfect for the evening, the company was great, and the wine and pizza were delicious as always. The entire day had been wonderful, without any mix-ups or surprises. Mo does a great job planning these birthday trips and she said she was very happy with how the day turned out. <p></p><p>Next year we will be in Desert Hot Springs and I look forward to seeing what Mo comes up with for us to do then. </p></div></div></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-42045130372686900462024-02-15T16:31:00.000-08:002024-02-18T17:06:09.113-08:0002-15-2024 Home Again Home Again<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-wbNQL9j/0/c146e06c/L/02-04-2024%20Later%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20(5%20of%2016)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-wbNQL9j/0/c146e06c/L/02-04-2024%20Later%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20(5%20of%2016)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Sunset on the Kofa Mountains is a nice memory <p></p><p>Sitting at my desk at the moment listening to the rain on the windows. It has been raining for a few days now, so very much needed and yet it can still get a bit tiresome. I am grateful for the time Mo and I had in mostly warm sunshine in the southern deserts this winter. It is all about the timing. This year we were lucky as we crossed the passes on I-5 toward home. There was snow all around us, but nothing on the roads and the skies over Southern Oregon were a gorgeous blue last Thursday when we returned. We even had a couple of sunny days to enjoy before the rain started.</p><p>Coming home was especially sweet since daughter Deborah decided that she would stay with us until the weekend before she packed up her "stuff" to take back home after spending most of her time at Sunset House while we were gone. It was wonderful coming home to a warm, clean, and cozy house, without a single worry about anything that may have gone wrong while we were traveling. </p><p>Once we arrived home, Mo and I unloaded the MoHo in record time, and by the time Deborah got home from work I had some hot soup ready for supper for the three of us to share. I am so glad that Deb is willing to housesit for us.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-4rpqzGD/0/05a07d3b/L/02-04-2024%20A%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20NWR%20(15%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-4rpqzGD/0/05a07d3b/L/02-04-2024%20A%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20NWR%20(15%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Our boondock site near Palm Canyon Road in Kofa NWR<p></p><p>Last week, after four days in Tucson, we traveled west on Interstate 8 toward Yuma and then north on Highway 95 between Yuma and Quartzsite to spend a couple of quiet nights in the wonderful desert landscape in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. Mo and I have visited Kofa in the past, but have never attempted to boondock there. This time, however, we had some help from our friend Gaelyn, who has a special spot near Palm Canyon Road. Gaelyn agreed to wait for us at the intersection of Highway 95 and Palm Canyon Road and then lead us to a perfect site with a nice fire ring, an unobstructed view of the Kofa Mountains, and plenty of level places to park our rigs.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-dj7VDRS/0/bd0ce755/L/02-04-2024%20A%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20NWR%20(12%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-dj7VDRS/0/bd0ce755/L/02-04-2024%20A%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20NWR%20(12%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Gaelyn parked a respectable distance away from us, but not so far that we couldn't enjoy morning coffee and conversation, and evening visits by the campfire. Mo loves to build campfires, and she purchased some firewood at the base in Tucson just in case we could have one. Sure enough, on BLM land just on the edge of the refuge, campfires are allowed in existing fire rings.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-8ZHvCZg/0/e9695ff9/L/02-04-2024%20A%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20NWR%20(18%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-8ZHvCZg/0/e9695ff9/L/02-04-2024%20A%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20NWR%20(18%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Our days were relaxed and the warm air was perfect for afternoon naps, some reading, and a little card playing before we cooked supper and then enjoyed the fire with Gaelyn. We shared dinners before the campfire. Gaelyn prepared dinner the first night and I made dinner the second night. The nights were perfect as well, getting down to the mid-40s for comfy sleeping.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-K6nSWpq/0/dfca325e/L/02-04-2024%20Later%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20(13%20of%2016)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="409" height="599" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-K6nSWpq/0/dfca325e/L/02-04-2024%20Later%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20(13%20of%2016)-L.jpg" width="409" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-bQ45vWZ/0/5b1fdeab/L/02-04-2024%20Later%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20(11%20of%2016)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="449" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-bQ45vWZ/0/5b1fdeab/L/02-04-2024%20Later%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20(11%20of%2016)-L.jpg" width="449" /></a></div><br />It was great talking with Gaelyn in person, with time to hear the stories of her recent life changes since her truck and camper burned last fall. Despite the awful loss from the fire, the outcome has been rather positive, and she has made a great group of new friends and has a nice upgraded rig to make her life a bit easier than it has been. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-fjQtpLw/0/829fc593/L/02-04-2024%20Later%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20(16%20of%2016)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="419" height="599" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-04-2024-A-Day-at-Kofa-NWR/i-fjQtpLw/0/829fc593/L/02-04-2024%20Later%20Day%20at%20Kofa%20(16%20of%2016)-L.jpg" width="419" /></a></div><br />Leaving Kofa and driving north through Quartzsite toward Parker, we traveled west toward Needles and Barstow on I-40. It was a long day from Arizona across the desert to Tehachapi, but we had reservations at the small park we found last winter. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-05-2024-Leaving-Kofa-and-Rain-on-HWY-58/i-zZSHqTF/0/d10f7592/L/02-05-2024%20Leaving%20Kofa%20and%20Rain%20on%20HWY%2058%20(8%20of%208)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-05-2024-Leaving-Kofa-and-Rain-on-HWY-58/i-zZSHqTF/0/d10f7592/L/02-05-2024%20Leaving%20Kofa%20and%20Rain%20on%20HWY%2058%20(8%20of%208)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>The rain across the desert was heavy throughout most of the day, but the roads were in good shape and we didn't have any problems despite the dire warnings coming to our phones.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-8RXvM2X/0/f18bf2a2/L/02-06-2024%20Camp%20site%209-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-8RXvM2X/0/f18bf2a2/L/02-06-2024%20Camp%20site%209-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>We slept well in the quiet park, and the sound of the rain on the roof throughout the night was soothing. The worst of the Atmospheric River passed through California on Sunday and Monday, and by Tuesday, when we crossed the pass on Highway 58 the clouds lifted and we could see all the way across the Great Valley of the San Joaquin River. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-xr94xCL/0/c2639bc6/L/02-06-2024%20Hwy%2058%20to%20Hwy%2099%20to%20Lodi%20(7%20of%2011)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="459" data-original-width="800" height="459" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-xr94xCL/0/c2639bc6/L/02-06-2024%20Hwy%2058%20to%20Hwy%2099%20to%20Lodi%20(7%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />It isn't often we are treated to clean, clear skies on this part of our drive through California and this time the skies were spectacular.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-LnvmpH3/0/4271f2bd/L/02-06-2024%20Hwy%2058%20to%20Hwy%2099%20to%20Lodi%20(8%20of%2011)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="800" height="390" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-LnvmpH3/0/4271f2bd/L/02-06-2024%20Hwy%2058%20to%20Hwy%2099%20to%20Lodi%20(8%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We pulled into Flag City RV Park in Lodi just after 3 in the afternoon, and to our surprise, the park was emptier than we had ever seen it. Only a couple more rigs showed up by evening. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-zXHk47f/0/e6cfd035/L/02-06-2024%20Hwy%2058%20to%20Hwy%2099%20to%20Lodi%20(11%20of%2011)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="800" height="418" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-zXHk47f/0/e6cfd035/L/02-06-2024%20Hwy%2058%20to%20Hwy%2099%20to%20Lodi%20(11%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />It might have been the severe storm weather that kept people off the road, or possibly there aren't as many people as there used to be. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-vVpzmNj/0/aef1f23f/L/02-06-2024%20Hwy%2058%20to%20Hwy%2099%20to%20Lodi%20(9%20of%2011)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-06-2024-Hwy-58-to-Hwy-99-to-Lodi/i-vVpzmNj/0/aef1f23f/L/02-06-2024%20Hwy%2058%20to%20Hwy%2099%20to%20Lodi%20(9%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We enjoyed a chicken parmesan supper at home in our own cozy space. No need to go out when I still have some great stuff in the freezer. I planned fairly well this time around for our month on the road and we returned home with just enough food left in the fridge and freezer. <p></p><p>We planned two nights in Lodi, with a full day to take our time enjoying one of our favorite locations to buy wine. We both love good Old Vine Zinfandel and Lodi, California, is the best place in the country for old vines and great wine. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-tT88pm6/0/845a0565/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(1%20of%2013)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-tT88pm6/0/845a0565/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(1%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Once again we visited our favorite little winery, an unpretentious place called Klinker Brick. We first discovered this winery three years ago and now whenever we pass through Lodi we try to purchase a few bottles of something good from them. Even on a rainy day, the winery was pleasant. I think possibly this particular winery might be a local gathering spot since everyone seemed to be chatting and to know each other. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-XcrtvdS/0/b5ac7af1/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(3%20of%2013)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-XcrtvdS/0/b5ac7af1/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(3%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Fancy charcuterie isn't necessarily a big thing in Lodi, unlike our Applegate Valley wineries. We were offered packaged cheese and crackers, but it was sufficient for our lunch. After enjoying Klinker Brick for a time we decided to try another winery in the area that was recommended to us.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-p9CV5sp/0/8e3ecc24/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(4%20of%2013)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-p9CV5sp/0/8e3ecc24/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(4%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Harney Lane Vineyards had a gorgeous tasting room, and the gardens would have been very inviting if it weren't for the rain. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-cjxnjKz/0/d31509c9/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(9%20of%2013)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-cjxnjKz/0/d31509c9/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(9%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We were happy to have a roaring fire, with real wood, not gas, and ordered a flight of red to share to try their wines. The winery was lovely, the sommelier was knowledgeable and helpful, and the ambiance was delightful. The wine, however, wasn't to our tastes and we didn't buy any. I guess it is back to Klinker Brink when we return to Lodi. We do love their wine.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-Msr5CHM/0/94bef014/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(10%20of%2013)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-07-2024-Wine-Tasting-in-Lodi/i-Msr5CHM/0/94bef014/L/02-0702024%20Wine%20Tasting%20in%20Lodi%20(10%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Some of the zinfandel vines in Lodi are more than 120 years old<div><br />We left Lodi by 8:30 the next morning, driving north on 5 through Sacramento and then fueling in Dunnigan at the Pilot, where we usually get the best gas price, this time at $3.19 per gallon. Dunnigan is a good place to fuel for us because a tank will then get us all the way home to Grants Pass where we no longer have to pay inflated California fuel prices. I will say that prices this year were a bit higher than in Oregon, but nothing like it has been in past years when we have traveled in California.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-08-2024-Homeward-Bound/i-Zdgn52d/0/3e63b12e/L/02-08-2024%20Homeward%20Bound%20(10%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="800" height="438" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-08-2024-Homeward-Bound/i-Zdgn52d/0/3e63b12e/L/02-08-2024%20Homeward%20Bound%20(10%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Starting down the last pass on I-5 just an hour south of home<p></p><p>As I said when I first started writing, it was wonderful to be home, wonderful to know that Deborah would be sharing the evening with us, happy to listen to our stories. </p><p>It is good to be home, to have the rain keeping us indoors, with time to relax and recuperate a bit before we start the spring cleanup outside. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-08-2024-Homeward-Bound/i-pJ4LNdF/0/f2f3dd83/L/02-08-2024%20Homeward%20Bound%20(14%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-08-2024-Homeward-Bound/i-pJ4LNdF/0/f2f3dd83/L/02-08-2024%20Homeward%20Bound%20(14%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We both had to laugh a bit because Mattie gets a bit disturbed when we get back home after traveling. She looks around and seems a little bit lost. All is well by the next morning, and with her routine snuggle time, she is happy as can be. I am also happy to have my comfy recliner and my warm slippers and a dog in my lap.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-55497115869573580352024-02-04T14:26:00.000-08:002024-02-04T15:25:47.942-08:0002-04-2024 Wide Open Spaces on Our Way to Tucson and Time With Friends<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-tbV5BvV/1/a6230df3/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(21%20of%2030)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-tbV5BvV/1/a6230df3/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(21%20of%2030)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Camping on Ogilby Road<p></p><p>Our time at Catalina Spa in Desert Hot Springs always feels like desert time. Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, and the entire Coachella Valley are in the desert. Our morning walks include fields of desert plants like creosote, brittlebush, desert verbena, and an occasional jumping cholla. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-xSt2Wj9/1/06aed8c9/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(11%20of%2030)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="286" data-original-width="800" height="286" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-xSt2Wj9/1/06aed8c9/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(11%20of%2030)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />But it takes getting out in the more remote desert landscapes to begin to fully feel the magic of what the desert is really all about. As we drove south on a Monday morning along the Salton Sea, I looked westward toward Anza Borrego. Anza Borrego is a magnificent State Park, with thousands of acres of wild and sometimes desolate desert landscape, punctuated by rough, craggy, faulted, and folded desert mountains. On this trip south, we simply passed by along the western perimeter of the park on our way to a place that for us is the epitome of the perfect desert boondock.<p></p><p>Many years ago, when blogging was still a "thing", many of our fellow bloggers often wrote about boondocking on Ogilby Road. Nina Fussing (read her review <a href="https://www.wheelingit.us/2011/12/14/boondocking-site-review-ogilby-road-imperial-countyyuma-caaz/">here</a>) seemed to love the area more than anyone, and I would read about her adventures there with Paul and the paws back in the days when they were still traveling in the United States. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-k8SpBCH/0/d8e189c9/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(16%20of%2030)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-k8SpBCH/0/d8e189c9/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(16%20of%2030)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Once again, as we traveled south, I wanted at least one night on Ogilby Road. We traveled south and east on the back road through the Imperial Dunes that blogger George Yates wrote about and suggested as an alternative to Interstate 8. This time there was no construction to slow us down and it seemed we crossed the dunes quickly.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-qgMJ56D/1/26915134/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(4%20of%2030)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="800" height="509" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-qgMJ56D/1/26915134/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(4%20of%2030)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Even though we have stayed there a couple of times, it wasn't in Mo's memory banks and it wasn't until we pulled into our empty space in the desert that she understood why I was so attached to staying here. In the past, we parked a few miles closer to the Mexican border where the phones were terribly confused much of the time because they kept trying to say we were in Mexico. <p></p>This time we pulled into an open area on the west side of the road that was completely empty of other campers and found a wide open, perfectly level spot, and parked the rig just in time for supper and a quiet sunset.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-hgKQ7bh/0/ba7efc47/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(25%20of%2030)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-29-2024-Traveling-to-Ogilby-Road-Camp/i-hgKQ7bh/0/ba7efc47/L/01-26-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Ogilby%20Road%20Camp%20(25%20of%2030)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The quiet emptiness of the place is mesmerizing, with long shadows reaching for hundreds of feet on the smooth surface of desert pavement created by constant blowing winds. We got lucky, and this time there was no wind during the evening, throughout the night, or the next morning as we departed for the eastern journey along Interstate 8 toward Tucson.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-30-2024-Traveling-to-Tucson/i-3QHZgBk/0/6948631d/L/01-30-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Tucson%20(1%20of%208)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="372" data-original-width="800" height="372" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-30-2024-Traveling-to-Tucson/i-3QHZgBk/0/6948631d/L/01-30-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Tucson%20(1%20of%208)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>We took our time leaving the quietness of the desert morning. At first, when we parked and opened the door for Mattie the prior evening after settling in, she seemed completely confused and a bit intimidated by the wide-open spaces in front of her. By morning she was fine, and wandered the desert freely, looking for the perfect spot to do her morning business.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-30-2024-Traveling-to-Tucson/i-82ZWsq6/0/f9bc5731/L/01-30-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Tucson%20(4%20of%208)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-30-2024-Traveling-to-Tucson/i-82ZWsq6/0/f9bc5731/L/01-30-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Tucson%20(4%20of%208)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Within a few short miles, we intercepted Interstate 8 toward Phoenix and Tucson and were delighted with the butter-smooth pavement throughout most of the miles until we reached the convergence of I-8 with the much busier and less smooth I-10 into Tucson.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-30-2024-Traveling-to-Tucson/i-mpsnhwM/0/e87d1349/L/01-30-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Tucson%20(8%20of%208)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-30-2024-Traveling-to-Tucson/i-mpsnhwM/0/e87d1349/L/01-30-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Tucson%20(8%20of%208)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-30-2024-Traveling-to-Tucson/i-x2KcsqN/0/188ead18/L/01-30-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Tucson%20(7%20of%208)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-30-2024-Traveling-to-Tucson/i-x2KcsqN/0/188ead18/L/01-30-2024%20Traveling%20to%20Tucson%20(7%20of%208)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Completely serviced "rest stops" were few and far between but we did find a couple of "parking areas" with a shade shelter, picnic tables, and garbage containers. Still don't understand why there is so much garbage all around the area with the giant containers so conveniently located.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-kW3P46r/0/695c0487/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(4%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="800" height="364" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-kW3P46r/0/695c0487/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(4%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />It was after 4 when we pulled into the main gate at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Although as a traveling companion to Mo, who is retired military, I am allowed on base as her guest, I must have a special pass to enter. The visitor center issued the pass, and after a short wait, we were on our way to the eastern edge of the base where the Family Camp is located. It was a bit confusing at first because I thought it was Apache Flats (which is farther south at Fort Huachuca) then remembered it was Agave Flats, and was more confused when we found the office for the Boneyard Vista RV Park. The name of the park had been changed. In the end, it all worked out and we found a perfectly level spot on the newly graveled surface in the overflow dry camp portion of the park. There was a waiting list posted on the office door for anyone wanting to get a full hookup site.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-Sbzhv4v/0/6622674f/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(3%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-Sbzhv4v/0/6622674f/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(3%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We didn't mind dry camping. The dump and potable water station are very close by, with excellent restrooms and showers and the best laundry we have found anywhere. Almost immediately after settling in we loaded up our three weeks' worth of laundry and headed for the laundry room. As I remembered, the machines were all in good working order, the cost was a buck to wash and a buck to dry, and the doors were never locked. We had plenty of time to finish and fold the laundry before we went to bed that night.<p></p><p>We originally planned to travel east to visit Janna and Mike east of Sierra Vista for a couple of days but Janna had warned us of an impending snowstorm. We canceled our visit to them for another time and extended our planned stay at the base for an additional day.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-SdtwJ9S/0/3c706299/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(3%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-SdtwJ9S/0/3c706299/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(3%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Gayle, Mo, and Wes in their Tucson kitchen<p></p><p>With the adjustment in plans, we had plenty of time to spend two full days with our friends Wes and Gayle James and still have an entire day to simply relax, regroup, and prepare for the long journey back west and north toward home in Oregon.</p><p>Wes and Galye have been good friends since we were neighbors in Rocky Point, Oregon, where Mo and I lived for many years and Wes and Gayle lived until they moved permanently to Tucson.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-z7sDTwN/0/8e8a910c/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(2%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-z7sDTwN/0/8e8a910c/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(2%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />It is always a treat to spend time with them, and we both look forward to the amazing meals that Gayle prepares for us. Gayle loves to entertain, and ever since we have known her we have marveled at her meal-specific dishware, her yummy and interesting meals, and always some amazing dessert to top it off.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-bjHWpMp/0/ccf80a38/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(5%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-bjHWpMp/0/ccf80a38/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(5%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We arrived at their home by 10 am and enjoyed snacks and conversation in the shade of the lovely ramada that was new to us and walked around Wes's beautiful gardens of desert plants. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-3WdNr6r/0/12ce7594/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(13%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-3WdNr6r/0/12ce7594/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(13%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>It was after 1 by the time we got in their comfy car and traveled south to the touristy town of Tubac.</p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/MoHoTravels2011/March-Desert-Trip/March-29-Military-FamCamp-and/i-H4F9cns/0/e911208d/L/Tubac%20(10)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/MoHoTravels2011/March-Desert-Trip/March-29-Military-FamCamp-and/i-H4F9cns/0/e911208d/L/Tubac%20(10)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We have visited Tubac twice before, the first time when we were in Tucson in 2011, visiting Mo's friend Joan, and then again in 2018 during a Tucson visit with Wes and Gayle. Mo and I had a specific reason for visiting Tubac, where there is a plethora of artsy outdoor art mostly from Mexico. Mo and I purchased two outdoor pieces for our newly built home in 2018 and Mo discovered a spot that needed one additional piece. We were pretty sure we would find something in Tubac.<p></p><p>Sure enough, at the first shop we visited, we found a beautiful sun and moon sculpture that was exactly the right size for the spot where Mo envisioned it. Photos will come after we get back home and it is up on the outside wall.</p><p>I also found a truly lovely piece of original art which will be photographed and shared once it is in place back at home.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-GfmRQ8h/0/b907e4bf/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(19%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-GfmRQ8h/0/b907e4bf/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(19%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We returned from Tubac in time to relax a bit before dinner. This time our meal was perfectly prepared lamb chops, which I discovered that I liked after all, fresh asparagus, and roasted potatoes with a delightful poached pear with ice cream for dessert.<p></p><p>It was after 8 when we left their home to return to the base. Tucson is a 'dark sky city' and it took a bit of getting used to as we attempted to travel the highways and byways back to the base in the dark.</p><p>The next day we waited until afternoon to visit and on our way south along Highway 19 saw a large white edifice in the distance that looked like some kind of church. It was the brilliant white towers of the San Xavier Mission that we saw. Once at Wes and Gayle's, when we mentioned the place, they were delighted to take us there for a visit. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-BTXPjPn/0/0f566b6d/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(10%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="799" height="324" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-BTXPjPn/0/0f566b6d/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(10%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Just a few miles north of their home, the mission is historically significant with a fascinating history. We read on the website that animals were always welcome in the mission so were delighted that Mattie could participate in the outing and not have to wait in a car. Wes offered to keep her company if there was any part of the mission that she couldn't visit.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-Tvw2P9X/0/e728beda/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(13%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="446" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-Tvw2P9X/0/e728beda/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(13%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="446" /></a></div><br />As we entered the courtyard, there was a young playful female pup that wanted to play. We thought she belonged to the couple ahead of us but discovered she was simply a stray dog that was hanging around greeting guests.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-3ZZf87c/0/6038fc86/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(14%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-3ZZf87c/0/6038fc86/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(14%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />The mission was fascinating, but even more so as we entered the chapel. The incredibly complex painted wooden carvings rivaled anything we had seen in any mission previously<p></p><p><a href="https://sanxaviermission.org/">San Xavier Del Bac Mission</a> was founded as a Catholic Mission by Father Eusebio Kino in 1692. Construction of the church began in 1783 and it was completed in 1797. The oldest intact European structure in Arizona, the church's interior is filled with marvelous original statuary and mural paintings.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-mw5GNN7/0/4cdef6eb/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(18%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-mw5GNN7/0/4cdef6eb/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(18%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />Constructed of low-fire clay brick, stone, and lime mortar, the entire structure is roofed with masonry vaults, making it unique among Spanish Colonial buildings within the U.S. borders. The architect, Ignacio Gaona, is credited with building another church in Sonora, Mexico.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-npS5xCc/0/6a7f5277/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(26%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="384" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-npS5xCc/0/6a7f5277/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(26%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="384" /></a></div><br />Little is known about the people who decorated the interior. The artwork was most likely created by artists from Queretaro in New Spain (now Mexico). The sculpture was created in guild workshops and carried by donkey through the Pimeria Alta to its destination at the mission. Craftsmen created gessoed clothing once the sculpture was in place.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-VW8LfNr/0/9f1d9ee3/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(21%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-VW8LfNr/0/9f1d9ee3/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(21%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Inside the church, in the glass case in the west transept, is what appears to be a mummy of some kind. It is not a mummy as some locals believe but a statue of the crucified Christ, originally located at Tumacacori Mission. When that mission was abandoned in 1849 due to Apache raiding, the people moved to San Xavier, bringing their saints with them. Along the way, the statue of Christ lost its legs. By the 1890's it was displayed in the west transept as the entombed Christ. Later, around the time of World War I, the statue was redefined as a reclining St. Francis Xavier and placed in a glass case where it remains today, an object of considerable devotion.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-nqgS6Jf/0/a2b904a1/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(30%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="800" height="553" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-nqgS6Jf/0/a2b904a1/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(30%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />After our lovely afternoon exploring the mission, we returned to Wes and Gayle's beautiful home to relax a bit before Gayle presented us with another delightful supper. This time we were treated to Korean Bulgogi Beef served with rice and a delicious Asian slaw and sliced cucumbers and radishes. I must say, Gayle really knows how to put a meal together.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-rNZBtks/0/a2b490eb/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(37%20of%2039)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/02-01-2024-Another-Day-with-the-James/i-rNZBtks/0/a2b490eb/L/02-01-2024%20Another%20Day%20with%20the%20James%20(37%20of%2039)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Dessert was an incredibly yummy bread pudding with a bourbon sauce that was literally the topping on the cake. Yum!!<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-G6XBSBJ/1/e18ebd26/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(25%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-31-2024-A-Day-with-Friends-Wes-and-Gayle/i-G6XBSBJ/1/e18ebd26/L/01-31-2024%20A%20Day%20with%20Friends%20Wes%20and%20Gayle%20(25%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gayles wine poached pear!</div><p>We had a perfectly lovely and relaxing time visiting our friends in Tucson and look forward to their visit to Grants Pass in August when Gayle requested a visit to the great wineries in our local Applegate Valley.</p><p></p><p>The trip back home to the base was much easier this time since we had some practice from last night and this afternoon getting back and forth to their place. We settled into a quiet time at home, sleeping to the sounds of a beautiful rain on the roof of the MoHo, which thankfully waited until we were back home to begin.</p><p>We spent our last day at the base quietly at home, except for a quick trip to the commissary for provisions, the Express for fuel, and preparing for our departure back west on Saturday morning.</p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-48022534894463332482024-02-02T13:31:00.000-08:002024-02-03T05:58:01.165-08:0001-29-2024 Two Weeks at Catalina Spa in Desert Hot Springs<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-xpbjhLF/0/439dbfbd/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(2%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-xpbjhLF/0/439dbfbd/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(2%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Sunrises and sunsets at Catalina Spa are almost always gorgeous<p></p><p>At the moment, I am watching huge gray and white clouds racing across the sky above Tucson, Arizona. The air is cool, in the mid-fifties, and the heavy rain that kept us company last night and for part of this day has eased. We are giving ourselves the delight of an extra day, a down day to regroup before we begin the long trek west and north toward home.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-rwJtfqx/0/66c13dba/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(4%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-rwJtfqx/0/66c13dba/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(4%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Catalina Spa has great pickleball courts, too bad we don't play<p></p><p>For the first time since we have been visiting Catalina Spa, we scheduled two full weeks at the resort. Looking back in time we used to stay just a couple of nights, then 4 or 5 nights, and in the last few years we have spent a full week immersed in the desert sunlight, or rain, or wind, whatever is offered. This year we decided on two full weeks, thinking that we would have plenty of time to do the things we like to do when we are in the area in addition to a bit of downtime.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-sgcB3fM/0/766d0863/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(9%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-sgcB3fM/0/766d0863/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(9%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Desert visitors usually know to give the jumping cholla plenty of room<p></p><p>As it turned out, we had lots of precious downtime and still managed to skip some of the things we often do. I wrote last week about our day visiting Joshua Tree, something always high on the list. I did manage a day visiting the one remaining quilt shop in the Coachella Valley. A few years ago there was a list of 4 really good shops to visit, but now there is only one left. With a visit to that shop and a quick drop-in to Trader Joe's, it didn't take up much of our day. Quilters will laugh when I say I only bought a single yard of fabric. In the past, my budget for this quilt shop could run in the hundreds.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-CQtW4rF/0/704912bb/L/01-26-2024%20A%20Quiet%20Day%20in%20the%20Desert%20(5%20of%2010)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="799" height="423" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-CQtW4rF/0/704912bb/L/01-26-2024%20A%20Quiet%20Day%20in%20the%20Desert%20(5%20of%2010)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />In past years we would often hunt for interesting hiking trails to explore, but this time spending our mornings and evenings walking a mile or so with Mattie in the desert was perfect for us. The open desert area just north of our spot in the park is a great place for dog walking and getting a bit of exercise in the open air. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-Wd5Tr59/0/9c365dbb/L/01-26-2024%20A%20Quiet%20Day%20in%20the%20Desert%20(8%20of%2010)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-Wd5Tr59/0/9c365dbb/L/01-26-2024%20A%20Quiet%20Day%20in%20the%20Desert%20(8%20of%2010)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Mattie loves it, especially when she can run off-leash. We have to keep an eye out for other off-leash dogs making sure they are friendly but most often the dogs do well together and play chase until they get bored. The dog park area in the park is tiny and has a dirt surface that isn't much fun.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-jc8gP7B/0/4edd40c7/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(13%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-jc8gP7B/0/4edd40c7/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(13%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We went swimming almost every single day we were there, most often beginning in the early hours of the morning before the sun rose. I love swimming at that time of day because it is quiet most of the time, and I can actually swim without having a lot of conversation interfering with my swim time. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-NKrTR97/0/72d3b4f2/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(20%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="703" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-NKrTR97/0/72d3b4f2/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(20%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="703" /></a></div><br />After our swims and showers, we would go home to breakfast, a bit of news, and our morning desert walks with Mattie. Sometimes I skipped the walk, but still managed to get in at least once per day. It felt great.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-WxTpMgf/0/102200db/L/01-26-2024%20A%20Quiet%20Day%20in%20the%20Desert%20(7%20of%2010)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-WxTpMgf/0/102200db/L/01-26-2024%20A%20Quiet%20Day%20in%20the%20Desert%20(7%20of%2010)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Mt San Gorgornio, more than 11,000 feet high, northwest of Desert Hot Springs<p></p><p>We thought perhaps we might hike Big Morongo Preserve during our visit. Instead, one day when our friends from Nevada City California, Nickie and Jimmy, who were camped just a few spots away from us went, we learned that it was hard to access thanks to some huge puddles on the entry road. So we skipped that adventure saving it for another year.</p><p>We also never had the inclination to pay the big bucks and take a day to wander the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. It was a long drive across the valley, and our relaxation time felt much too good to give it up for all that driving in traffic. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-X9Xhsq8/0/09e3cddc/L/20240121_102025-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-X9Xhsq8/0/09e3cddc/L/20240121_102025-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We did drive to Cathedral City one day during our first week in the park for a movie at the Mary Pickford It's D Place Theater. We do love that theater with the big recliners and beer or wine and pizza that didn't cost much more than Pepsi and popcorn. We saw the new version of The Color Purple which was a bit surprising, based more on the Broadway Play version than the book or the older movie.<p></p><p>Nickie and Jimmy arrived during the second week we were at the park and we had some good times with them. They are staying for an entire month, with a bit of a break at Anza Borrego. We also thought we might go to Anza Borrego and visit our friend Kathie who is a camp host there. Sadly, it rained on her day off when we planned to go, so we skipped that little extra adventure as well. Next year.</p><p>In case you might be thinking that our time at Cat Spa sounds a bit boring, I have to assure you that it was absolutely wonderful. The days slipped by filled with sunshine, good food, good conversation when we were in the mood for it, and surprisingly, a bit of music.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-8K2Spkc/0/707e0c99/L/20240119_132155-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-8K2Spkc/0/707e0c99/L/20240119_132155-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />On Friday afternoons a few musicians, including Shannon, wife to our early morning swim companion Mike, put on a wonderful music jam with whatever musicians wanted to participate. Shannon is the one who basically "herds the cats" as Mike put it, making sure all the musicians are playing in the same key and are in the same place in the music. They played songs that appealed to most of the guests, with music from the 70's and 80's high on the list with some country and blues thrown in for good measure.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-SVS3nLf/0/0bced9f6/L/01-26-2024%20A%20Quiet%20Day%20in%20the%20Desert%20(9%20of%2010)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-SVS3nLf/0/0bced9f6/L/01-26-2024%20A%20Quiet%20Day%20in%20the%20Desert%20(9%20of%2010)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We enjoyed those afternoons thoroughly. Shannon has a great voice, and we especially loved the cool guy on the keyboard who surprised us with his riffs every now and then.<p></p><p>We camp in what is called "the lower park" and our lower park game room had 3 nice tables and a large selection of excellent puzzles. We tried a couple and managed to finish one before our visit was over. It takes a bit of adjustment to work on a puzzle, walk away for a time, and come back to someone else working on the same puzzle, but it was still fun.</p><p>On the afternoon we planned to hike Morongo with Jimmy and Nickie, I was still tired from our trip to Joshua Tree the previous day (<a href="https://mohotravels.blogspot.com/2024/01/01-23-2024-visiting-joshua-tree.html">post here</a>) and begged off the hike for that day. Instead, we met them at 4 in the afternoon in Desert Hot Springs for a reasonably well-reviewed Mexican restaurant for supper. Casa Blanca has four locations in the Coachella Valley. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-7WLsHZN/0/2ba4b528/L/20240124_160852-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-26-2024-A-Quiet-Day-in-the-Desert/i-7WLsHZN/0/2ba4b528/L/20240124_160852-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p></p><p>Having dined in the past at three different Mexican restaurants in Palm Springs we thought a new place might be fun. I don't remember the food, which was basic Mexican, but what I remember most is the noise. Even at a table on the outside edge of the restaurant, the music was so loud and intrusive that none of us would ever return to this particular restaurant.</p><p>On another sunny day, the four of us crossed the Valley to Palm Springs for some time walking the streets, enjoying the shops, and finding a delicious meal. Before we went, I searched for the best salad in the area and in addition to a few very high-end places, came up with Tommy Bahamas. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-g2qKkVs/0/af24d904/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(2%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="800" height="559" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-g2qKkVs/0/af24d904/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(2%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We found a place to sit early for outside dining during the lunch hour. By the time we finished our meal, there was a long line of people waiting to be seated. I couldn't have picked a better spot for a great salad. Mo and Nickie had some kind of yummy salad with roast chicken, Jimmy had sweet little sliders, but my chopped salad with blackened shrimp was the best salad I can remember eating.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-Q2hfSSc/0/e29e116e/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(16%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="619" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-Q2hfSSc/0/e29e116e/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(16%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="619" /></a></div><p>The day was warm and sunny and as we walked the streets we were delighted to find "Forever Marilyn" once again gracing the city. Mo and I first saw the sculpture when we were in Palm Springs in 2013, but not long after that the statue was relocated to several cities around the country. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-rS3dWDS/0/94b35fd3/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(12%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-rS3dWDS/0/94b35fd3/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(12%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />Finally, in 2021, it was announced that Forever Marilyn would return to Palm Springs permanently thanks to the efforts of the non-profit organization PS Resorts. A dedication ceremony took place on June 30, 2021, marking the statue's triumphant return to the city that had embraced her so warmly nearly a decade in the past.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-LB5VwdX/0/6a6158d8/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(14%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-LB5VwdX/0/6a6158d8/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(14%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Another delightful find just one street west of the main drag of shops in Palm Springs was the location of the historic former <a href="https://www.palmspringslife.com/explore-palm-springs-the-desert-inn/">Desert Inn. </a> I linked to the history of the beautiful old inn rather than attempting to retype it in some kind of original fashion. We loved the grounds, the green lawns, the recently planted California Fan Palms, and the waterfall. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-fsPf5w5/0/3779db48/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(17%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="700" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-fsPf5w5/0/3779db48/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(17%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="700" /></a></div><br />Returning home in the afternoon, we were all delighted at the lovely simplicity of the day, the beautiful food, and the fun shops on Indian Canyon Road in downtown Palm Springs.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-SWbSWjV/0/be5d99ad/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(3%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-27-2024-A-Day-in-Palm-Springs/i-SWbSWjV/0/be5d99ad/L/01-27-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Palm%20Springs%20(3%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Winter flowers in planters on the main street of downtown Palm Springs<br /><p>On our last morning as we returned from the pool, a nice woman approached Mo and I and Mattie and said, "I know you." I said "Really?" "Yes," she said, "You are Sue and Mo and this is Mattie. I read your blog".</p><p>It has been a long time since we have been recognized on the road from our blog so it was a nice little treat. She said she had read the blog for years but never commented. Especially in this day and age, when blogs are less and less popular, it was fun to discover that these words and photos that I put out into the ether are actually read and enjoyed by people I never know. Thanks, Suzanne, for making our day.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-28542163382122278952024-01-25T16:03:00.000-08:002024-01-26T15:20:55.117-08:0001-23-2024 Visiting Joshua Tree National Park<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-59XH4Jf/1/12eb2cdd/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(59%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="800" height="370" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-59XH4Jf/1/12eb2cdd/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(59%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Mo and I have traveled south to Desert Hot Springs almost every year since 2010. One of the things we love about visiting Desert Hot Springs on the northwestern rim of the Coachella Valley is the proximity to Joshua Tree National Park. <p></p><p>We waited for an almost sunny, almost warm day during our visit this year to trek east to the southernmost boundary of the park. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-BBdNPjc/0/54d886a7/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(14%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-BBdNPjc/0/54d886a7/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(14%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />It all felt incredibly familiar as we approached the Mecca exit on I-10, memories welling up between us like old movies. We tried remembering which year we boondocked outside the park north of the freeway...2014. <a href="http://mohotravels.blogspot.com/2014/01/1-1-4-new-year-boondock.html">New Year Boondock</a> Which year did we drive out to Keys View overlooking the Coachella Valley toward the west and the magnificent eastern slope of Mt San Jacinto? 2013. <a href="http://mohotravels.blogspot.com/2013/01/back-roads.html">Back Roads</a><p></p><p>It was when we returned home late in the afternoon and I once again had access to the blog and photos that we realized that our last visit to Joshua Tree was back in <a href="http://mohotravels.blogspot.com/2015/01/01-15-2015-joshua-tree-heaven.html">2015 Joshua Tree Heaven</a></p><p>It seemed so familiar and impossible to believe that it had been nine years since we meandered along the road that bisects the park.</p><p>With two weeks at Catalina Spa and RV Resort, we had plenty of time to take a day and visit Joshua Tree once again. Established as a National Monument in 1936, it was renamed a national park by Congress with the 1994 California Desert Protection Act. Today the park protects 792,510 acres of which more than 80 percent is managed as wilderness.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-b8LJL3C/1/1e46138f/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(43%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-b8LJL3C/1/1e46138f/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(43%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The most familiar images of the park are the huge granite boulders that are so prominent in the northern portion of the park. The park can be accessed from the north through the community of Twenty-Nine Palms and from the south about 25 miles west of Indio north of I-10. The road that meanders through the park is narrow and a bit winding in places and the speed limit is kept below 45 mph. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-jZCPbNj/0/78e81f61/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(10%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-jZCPbNj/0/78e81f61/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(10%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />There are a few other 4x4 dirt roads that enter the park over remote mountain ranges. In 2013 Mo and I made an attempt to cross into the park via one of these back roads but were blocked by rocks and boulders too rough to navigate. After an entire day traversing dirt roads when we returned home that night and checked out our route on the internet we discovered that we were less than 1/4 mile from getting all the way through.<p></p><p>As we entered the park this week, memories of that trip bubbled up, in addition to New Year's Eve in 2014 when we watched the desert sky from the southern boundary of the park on our way to Florida.</p><p>This time we had no need to explore rough back roads even though the Tracker is fully capable of doing so. Instead, I wanted to stop in at the Visitor Center and see if there was a new tee shirt available before continuing north. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-3xWKDH5/0/13758345/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(20%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-3xWKDH5/0/13758345/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(20%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />There is something so incredibly spectacular about seeing miles and miles of unspoiled desert stretching in all directions. Here there are no telephone poles, no ramshackle desert trailers, no solar farms, and few fences to mar the view. I felt my eyeballs stretch out in ways that can only happen in the desert with unlimited vistas. I love that feeling.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-QSRQdnG/1/370c4565/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(51%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="480" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-QSRQdnG/1/370c4565/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(51%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />The namesake of the park is the wild armed Joshua Tree, growing on the southern edges of the Mojave Desert. Here in Joshua Tree, the Mojave meets the northern perimeter of the Colorado Desert, a subdivision of the greater Sonoran Desert. It is in the northern part of the park where most of the campgrounds are located, set among the picturesque granite boulders.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-w4fd3BT/0/acf749a8/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(26%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-w4fd3BT/0/acf749a8/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(26%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>A campsite in the Jumbo Rocks Campground<p></p><p>Two of the campgrounds are first come first serve but the main campground at Jumbo Rocks is now reservation only. I wanted to walk the short desert trail from the Jumbo Rocks Campground to Skull Rock. We hiked that trail on our last visit in 2015, when we were lucky enough to snag a campsite for a single gorgeous night.</p><p>Our drive north had been uneventful, with very little traffic until we arrived at the Skull Rock viewpoint. Cars were lined on both sides of the road for some distance from the actual trailhead. Mo and I looked at each other and said, "No Way!" </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-bs7p75V/1/a4adb839/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(33%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-bs7p75V/1/a4adb839/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(33%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We continued a mile or so north to the Jumbo Rocks Campground where there were many signs for the Skull Rock Trail, but many more signs saying no parking for trail. After meandering around the campsites a bit, we drove back to the main road and decided to park behind the long line of cars backed up to view the infamous rock. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-Cz2gGp3/0/41621936/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(30%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-Cz2gGp3/0/41621936/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(30%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We skipped the main route, walking south into the desert on what appeared to be a trail and within minutes we were on the actual Skull Rock Trail that I remembered hiking in 2015. The trail was lovely, and very nearly empty of people, but once we got closer to Skull Rock there were hordes of people on all sides of the road and climbing all over the rocks near the viewpoint. People were lined up in groups taking selfies and groupies, and climbing around in all directions.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-cKnrnVb/1/8c7b6886/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(39%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-cKnrnVb/1/8c7b6886/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(39%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-zZ5NnjH/0/85e1dc33/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(29%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-zZ5NnjH/0/85e1dc33/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(29%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-NCZt8TF/1/3ede0d32/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(32%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-NCZt8TF/1/3ede0d32/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(32%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />We waited a bit before attempting to get a photo or two before we walked back to the car along the busy highway. We traveled back east toward the Live Oak picnic area. Here a dirt road meanders past the bathrooms with easy pull-offs and great views. Despite the sunshine, the air was cool and the wind was chilly. We chose to eat our little picnic in the car.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-KFMkBwb/1/e1e52805/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(63%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-KFMkBwb/1/e1e52805/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(63%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />After relaxing a bit, we found another side road that led to an area that for some reason most cars avoided and enjoyed the peace and quiet and savored the uninterrupted views toward the south. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-RZ7gNZw/1/47332f32/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(56%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-RZ7gNZw/1/47332f32/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(56%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />On the way back out along the main road, we took a side road to another picnic area and trailhead called Split Rock. By the time we got there, that parking lot was almost completely full and once again there were people everywhere. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-97qvzTb/1/ee7dd190/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(67%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-97qvzTb/1/ee7dd190/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(67%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />I took the obligatory shot of Split Rock to prove we had been there and we hightailed it out of that area and turned back south toward the Cottonwood Visitor Center and the Southern Entrance.<p></p><p>Sometimes when we have visited the park we have traveled from south to north and then exited at Twenty Nine Palms and returned to Catalina through Yucca Valley and then down the hill to Desert Hot Springs. From experience, we knew that route was often heavily trafficked, and instead decided to return home the way we had come that morning.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-8Q2MCVK/0/53827ea2/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(24%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-8Q2MCVK/0/53827ea2/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(24%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We passed one of the more popular sites along that road, the Cholla Garden. The parking lot was packed by this time of day and I was glad that we had stopped for a photo or two earlier in the day as we passed by on our trip north.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-TtjJ4Rx/0/a89a7dbd/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(23%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-TtjJ4Rx/0/a89a7dbd/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(23%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />There is something about the way that the spines of the cholla cactus catch light that makes taking photos of them completely irresistible. Known as the "jumping cactus" they are notorious for getting caught on clothing and shoes and are extremely painful to remove. <p></p><p>The list of plants and animals that call this landscape home is long and varied. After winter rains, sometimes there is an abundance of wildflowers but we were a bit too early for that show this year. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-K3NhzSH/1/3576a3f5/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(55%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="386" data-original-width="800" height="386" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-K3NhzSH/1/3576a3f5/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(55%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We did see one lonely coyote cross the road, and a couple of ravens kept us company during our lunch.<p></p><p>The 25-mile section of I-10 is a bit harrowing with heavy truck traffic and narrow lanes due to construction, but once we made the turn to Dillon Road, it was an easy trip. Mattie was waiting patiently for our return after just six and a half hours alone in the MoHo. We are lucky that she is such a patient dog when it is called for. As with most National Parks, dogs are not allowed on the trails and we decided it was best to leave her at home in the cozy rig.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-88jQhJF/0/d170986c/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(7%20of%2071)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="800" height="408" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-23-2024-A-Day-in-Joshua-Tree/i-88jQhJF/0/d170986c/L/01-23-2024%20A%20Day%20in%20Joshua%20Tree%20(7%20of%2071)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />It was a wonderful day and I am sure will remain a highlight of our time spent in the southern deserts this year.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-51071370211062767242024-01-20T15:00:00.000-08:002024-01-20T17:11:16.391-08:0001-15-2024 Traveling South Part 2<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/Hawaii-November-2012/11-20-through-12-5-2015-Sea/i-H8DGTWM/0/178cb0f2/L/DSC_0131-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="530" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/Hawaii-November-2012/11-20-through-12-5-2015-Sea/i-H8DGTWM/0/178cb0f2/L/DSC_0131-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />A favorite photo of the Golden Gate Bridge that I took from the deck of a cruise ship in 2012<p></p><p>Just a quick shout out to a few of you who said you would be fearful of crossing the Golden Gate Bridge in a motorhome. It isn't difficult. The lanes are well-marked, and the lanes go where they are supposed to go. After crossing the bridge from the north, the RV lanes are also well marked and you don't even need to stop, just go slow enough for the license plate readers to scan your information and eventually, you will get a bill. The lanes are not terribly narrow. Stay on the right in a larger rig and you will be fine. I was much more nervous driving the MoHo on the interstate east of San Antonio with lanes narrowed horribly during construction. Crossing the bridge is truly gorgeous. Every time we do it I exclaim how much I have forgotten the beauty of this bridge.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/MoHoTravels2011/2011-December-California-Trip-/12-27-2011-Traveling-South/i-PhW6fZB/0/0f083f28/L/Travelin%20south_045-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="530" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/MoHoTravels2011/2011-December-California-Trip-/12-27-2011-Traveling-South/i-PhW6fZB/0/0f083f28/L/Travelin%20south_045-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/MoHoTravels2011/2011-December-California-Trip-/12-27-2011-Traveling-South/i-nfRg4rq/0/1d8dd1e4/L/Travelin%20south_040-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="530" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/MoHoTravels2011/2011-December-California-Trip-/12-27-2011-Traveling-South/i-nfRg4rq/0/1d8dd1e4/L/Travelin%20south_040-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>Above are a couple of photos I took from the passenger seat when Mo was driving back in 2011.</p><p>Once we passed Salinas, we were reminded of the legendary rough pavement of Highway 101. Everything in the rig that normally doesn't rattle much was making its presence known, and it was with great pleasure that we pulled into our overnight stop at Camp Roberts RV Park.</p><p><b style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">From Wiki: </b><b style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Camp Roberts</b><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;"> is a California National Guard post in central </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="California">California</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;">, located on both sides of the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salinas_River_(California)" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Salinas River (California)">Salinas River</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;"> in </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monterey_County,_California" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Monterey County, California">Monterey</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;"> and </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Luis_Obispo_County,_California" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="San Luis Obispo County, California">San Luis Obispo</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;"> counties,</span><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-CGN_1-0" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11.2px; line-height: 1; text-wrap: nowrap; unicode-bidi: isolate;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Roberts,_California#cite_note-CGN-1" style="background: none; color: #3366cc; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;">[1]</a></sup><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;"> now run by the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Army_National_Guard" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="California Army National Guard">California Army National Guard</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;">. It was opened in 1941 and is named after Corporal </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_W._Roberts" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Harold W. Roberts">Harold W. Roberts</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;">, a </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="World War I">World War I</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;"> </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medal_of_Honor" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Medal of Honor">Medal of Honor</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;"> recipient.</span><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-CGN_1-1" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11.2px; line-height: 1; text-wrap: nowrap; unicode-bidi: isolate;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Roberts,_California#cite_note-CGN-1" style="background: none; color: #3366cc; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;">[1]</a></sup><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;"> Nearby communities include </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Miguel,_San_Luis_Obispo_County,_California" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="San Miguel, San Luis Obispo County, California">San Miguel</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;">, Heritage Ranch (</span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Nacimiento" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Lake Nacimiento">Lake Nacimiento</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;">), Oak Shores (Lake Nacimiento), and </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bradley,_California" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Bradley, California">Bradley</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;">, all unincorporated. The nearest incorporated city is </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paso_Robles,_California" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Paso Robles, California">Paso Robles</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;">. Camp Roberts is roughly 25 miles (40 kilometers) southeast of </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Hunter_Liggett" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #3366cc; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Fort Hunter Liggett">Fort Hunter Liggett</a><span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-size: 14px;">.</span></p><p>Camp Roberts is one of the bases where Mo did her Army Reserve training when she lived in California. It was just before 5 when we arrived and the gate guard pointed us toward the camp without mentioning that we needed to check in at the billeting office in the other direction. It wouldn't have mattered because we found out later that the office closed at 4:30.</p><p>We had no site assigned, no email or text message confirming our arrival, and found out the next morning that the RV camp was in the process of switching the camp operation from billeting to the Military Welfare and Recreation office. Since I am not a military person, I had to research what billeting actually was, discovering it has to do with housing for military personnel. In the meantime, we only knew that we were to be in an area of the park with no hookups since all the full hookup sites were occupied by working military for the winter.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-14--2024-Camp-Roberts/i-p9QQJ6d/0/4e83b5ef/L/01-14%20-2024%20Camp%20Roberts%20(6%20of%206)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-14--2024-Camp-Roberts/i-p9QQJ6d/0/4e83b5ef/L/01-14%20-2024%20Camp%20Roberts%20(6%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We drove around a couple of times before deciding to settle in on the flat grassy area by some picnic tables. Opening the door to the western skies and open fields, we were thrilled by the open space and beautiful view. With Highway 101 just east of us we were happy that the sound didn't travel and we weren't troubled by noise at any time. We figured if we weren't supposed to be there, sooner or later someone would come and tell us.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-14--2024-Camp-Roberts/i-hN2GpwK/0/17108493/L/01-14%20-2024%20Camp%20Roberts%20(1%20of%206)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-14--2024-Camp-Roberts/i-hN2GpwK/0/17108493/L/01-14%20-2024%20Camp%20Roberts%20(1%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Our night passed without incident and at 8:30 the next morning the person in the billeting office answered my phone message. She let us know about the changes and took our payment of $5 for the overnight for the rig and an extra $5 for Mattie over the phone so we did not have to return to the billeting office. She entered our information into the system and told us that the next time we planned to stay at the camp it shouldn't be a problem.<p></p><p>We traveled south on 101 toward Paso Robles and turned east on Highway 46 toward Bakersfield. At first, the road was lovely, with rolling hills showing a touch of green. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-15-2024-Bakersfield/i-9nHk3h3/0/b53fc37c/L/01-15-2024%20Bakersfield%20(2%20of%204)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="800" height="494" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-15-2024-Bakersfield/i-9nHk3h3/0/b53fc37c/L/01-15-2024%20Bakersfield%20(2%20of%204)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />However, as we dropped down the slopes on the western side of the great San Joaquin Valley the lovely views deteriorated into a few miles of oil wells that covered the landscape as far as we could see. I know people complain about windmills, which I happen to think are quite lovely, especially compared to this. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-15-2024-Bakersfield/i-dSMNxpj/0/5a04531c/L/01-15-2024%20Bakersfield%20(3%20of%204)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-15-2024-Bakersfield/i-dSMNxpj/0/5a04531c/L/01-15-2024%20Bakersfield%20(3%20of%204)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />As we continued east and then onramped I-5 toward the south, we saw a huge billboard advertising Blue Beacon Truck Wash. We discovered this wonder on our trip east in 2022 and decided that a few miles out of our way to get the job done was worth every mile. With just over 100 bucks for both the MoHo and the Tracker, including RainX rinse and tire treatments for all ten tires, it was worth every penny as well.<p></p><p>We originally planned to clean the rigs at the free car washing area at Orange Grove RV Park, but that would have been a lot of work and it was wonderful to simply sit inside the MoHo and watch it get cleaned to a brilliant sparkle.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2016-MoHo-Travels/January-Trip-to-the-Deserts/01-18-2016-Continuing/i-pd38nbN/0/b9f4e021/L/Bakersfield%20to%20Desert%20Hot%20Springs-6-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="530" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2016-MoHo-Travels/January-Trip-to-the-Deserts/01-18-2016-Continuing/i-pd38nbN/0/b9f4e021/L/Bakersfield%20to%20Desert%20Hot%20Springs-6-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />A few miles later, we settled into Orange Grove RV Park, a destination we have enjoyed for more than a decade on our way to Desert Hot Springs. However, the cost is getting higher each year and the amenities are getting to be less of a draw. Silly as it sounds, the free fresh donuts and coffee in the office every morning are now only offered on Friday and Saturday mornings. The worst part is that the orange trees are mostly empty, and the few oranges Mo picked for us when she took Mattie for a walk were hard and sour. There is no longer cable or free WiFi as there used to be. For some reason instead of putting us on the nicer side of the park to the south, they keep cramming us into the shorter spaces and more cramped sites on the north side of the office. When I request a site on the south side, they say those sites are saved for bigger rigs. So much for that. I am reasonably certain that we will not stay there again, the era has ended.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2016-MoHo-Travels/January-Trip-to-the-Deserts/01-18-2016-Continuing/i-QPJn4rz/0/d2c524dc/L/Bakersfield%20to%20Desert%20Hot%20Springs-7-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="530" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2016-MoHo-Travels/January-Trip-to-the-Deserts/01-18-2016-Continuing/i-QPJn4rz/0/d2c524dc/L/Bakersfield%20to%20Desert%20Hot%20Springs-7-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>The last time we saw oranges like this on the trees at Orange Grove RV Park was in 2016</p><p>Instead, in the future, we will drive the extra 40 minutes or so from Bakersfield to Tehachapi and stay at the park we enjoyed last year on our trip south. I discovered last year that I can buy a huge bag of truly sweet oranges for just $8 just around the corner from Orange Grove RV. Just a short hop off of Highway 58 on our way up the pass in the future will ensure a great stash of sweet oranges during our time in the Southern California desert.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/01-January-to-the-Desert/01-09-2023-Tehachapi-to-Catalina-Spa/i-8L7nWMG/0/574bc0bd/L/01-08-2023%20Highway%20247%20(1%20of%202)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="800" height="444" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/01-January-to-the-Desert/01-09-2023-Tehachapi-to-Catalina-Spa/i-8L7nWMG/0/574bc0bd/L/01-08-2023%20Highway%20247%20(1%20of%202)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />The trip over Tehachapi Pass the next morning was uneventful, with little wind and mostly sunny skies. The desert looked as welcoming as ever, and it seemed that in no time we were driving down our familiar road toward Desert Hot Springs and a welcome two weeks of the simple life at Catalina Spa and RV Resort.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-LfpjKNZ/0/318b529c/L/20240119_094044-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="799" height="527" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-LfpjKNZ/0/318b529c/L/20240119_094044-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>Let the fun begin.</p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-31998082300988395912024-01-15T12:56:00.000-08:002024-01-20T15:06:06.822-08:0001-11-2024 Traveling South Part 1<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-rwJtfqx/0/66c13dba/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(4%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-rwJtfqx/0/66c13dba/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(4%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Catalina Spa has several pickleball courts<p></p><p>It happens almost every year. We know that the best way to survive chilly, foggy winters in Grants Pass is to leave, at least for a little while. We have traveled south to the deserts of Southern California for 14 years now. Sometimes leaving immediately after Christmas and other times waiting until February. Each year I think maybe we should have gone earlier or later, and sometimes our timing is absolutely perfect.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-15-2024-First-Evening-at-Catalina-Spa/i-hrLZdXX/0/451d9ac8/L/01-15-2024%20First%20Evening%20at%20Catalina%20Spa%20(5%20of%205)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-15-2024-First-Evening-at-Catalina-Spa/i-hrLZdXX/0/451d9ac8/L/01-15-2024%20First%20Evening%20at%20Catalina%20Spa%20(5%20of%205)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />This year it was perfect. We are settled in at our favorite little spot at Catalina Spa in Desert Hot Springs, delighting in the pleasant temperatures and lack of wind that can make visiting the Coachella Valley a bit challenging at times.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-15-2024-First-Evening-at-Catalina-Spa/i-Cm9zWGM/0/760138ca/L/01-15-2024%20First%20Evening%20at%20Catalina%20Spa%20(1%20of%205)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-15-2024-First-Evening-at-Catalina-Spa/i-Cm9zWGM/0/760138ca/L/01-15-2024%20First%20Evening%20at%20Catalina%20Spa%20(1%20of%205)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />After our morning walk, I checked in with family back in Oregon. My daughter Melody and her husband Robert are stuck at home with solid ice sheets all around them. Neighbors who have attempted to drive have had the unhappy experience of sliding sideways into fences. Not a time to go anywhere. The kids have no power and the house is cold. Their house, built in 1908, no longer has a fireplace, and their heat needs electricity to run.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-7SbNTFp/0/aae983e2/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(11%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="543" height="599" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-7SbNTFp/0/aae983e2/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(11%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="543" /></a></div>Daughter Melody and husband Robert live in the house on the left just past the telephone pole<p></p><p>My friend Jennnifer, from book club, just messaged me with a photo of down trees on her property and said we are lucky to be away since there is no power and no internet. I think we picked the right time to be gone this time around.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-xpbjhLF/0/439dbfbd/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(2%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-xpbjhLF/0/439dbfbd/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(2%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I watched the sunrise this morning, filling the sky with brilliant color by 7:00 AM. Within minutes we were in the pool, with water temperatures at a somewhat cool 85 degrees or so instead of the 95 degrees we are used to here. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-jc8gP7B/0/4edd40c7/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(13%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-jc8gP7B/0/4edd40c7/L/01-19-2024%20Days%20at%20Cat%20Spa%20(13%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Only managed half an hour before we retreated to the hot tub which was not as hot as usual but still wonderful. Seems as though there is some work happening on the wells that supply the resort. No worries, the sun is shining, the dog is napping in the warm light, and Mo is outside in shorts and a tee shirt doing computer work.<p></p><p>When we left on Thursday, January 11, the light snow from the previous couple of days had melted entirely. This time we decided to take an alternate route south, traveling over to the coast before continuing down Highway 101. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-tsXP6dr/0/b1810682/L/Screenshot%202024-01-19%20115004-L.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="800" height="514" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-19-2024-Days-at-Cat-Spa/i-tsXP6dr/0/b1810682/L/Screenshot%202024-01-19%20115004-L.png" width="800" /></a></div><br />Our route into California on Highway 199 was only delayed for 15 minutes or so with a pilot car navigating our line of vehicles along the worst of the damage from the summer fires along the Smith River. It is a curvy road with steep dropoffs, and the forced slowdown makes for a nice, easy, stress-free drive. There is even time to look at the gorgeous Smith River, flowing high and full after all the rain recently.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-11-2024-First-Day-Home-to-Trinidad/i-ccv3dCc/0/072ff8cb/L/01-11-2024%20First%20Day%20Home%20to%20Trinidad%20(1%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-11-2024-First-Day-Home-to-Trinidad/i-ccv3dCc/0/072ff8cb/L/01-11-2024%20First%20Day%20Home%20to%20Trinidad%20(1%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We traveled on a day when I knew that one of our favorite places would be open, the Chart Room in Crescent City. It isn't perfect, but their fish and chips are one of the best, with truly superb cole slaw and tartar sauce that tastes like my version, hot salty fries, and fresh cod done well. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-11-2024-First-Day-Home-to-Trinidad/i-G9ZRs6R/0/95ca300d/L/01-11-2024%20First%20Day%20Home%20to%20Trinidad%20(7%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-11-2024-First-Day-Home-to-Trinidad/i-G9ZRs6R/0/95ca300d/L/01-11-2024%20First%20Day%20Home%20to%20Trinidad%20(7%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p></p><p>We bought lunch and ate in the MoHo, watching the sea lions on the docks, and listening to their constant barking.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwTKH0SQyath9T01Pm36cROK7QDLoFPPLZbrpWZu-lQ64JhTq5KaQtG_jPbKJBRR7J1nbn82-bzY14BSOlOaQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />Highway 101 was open all the way, with a short stop at the slide that has been under construction and repair for years now. Our destination for the evening was the Heights Casino, with overnight camping without hookups for $20 bucks. It is money well spent. There is level pavement to park and all-night security which we appreciate. We went to the casino where we were required to sign up for a player's card that included $10 in free money to play. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-11-2024-First-Day-Home-to-Trinidad/i-hmcjCmr/0/bf88208e/L/01-11-2024%20First%20Day%20Home%20to%20Trinidad%20(11%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-11-2024-First-Day-Home-to-Trinidad/i-hmcjCmr/0/bf88208e/L/01-11-2024%20First%20Day%20Home%20to%20Trinidad%20(11%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />It is so funny because Mo and I have been to casinos rarely in the last few years and we don't recognize any of the machines. Penny machines have little signs that say the minimum bet for a single pull is 80 cents or more. You can drop 20 bucks in just a few minutes that way! Still, we basically broke even for the evening and enjoyed 90 minutes or so of entertainment. Our evening meal was the delightful leftovers from lunch, heated in a hot skillet to keep the fish and fries nice and crispy.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-11-2024-First-Day-Home-to-Trinidad/i-brS5cJ9/0/c0fc6887/L/01-11-2024%20First%20Day%20Home%20to%20Trinidad%20(13%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-11-2024-First-Day-Home-to-Trinidad/i-brS5cJ9/0/c0fc6887/L/01-11-2024%20First%20Day%20Home%20to%20Trinidad%20(13%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The next morning was still cloudy but no rain dampened our drive toward Santa Rosa where we had reservations at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. The northern portion of Highway 101 is spectacular, with butter-smooth pavement and the gorgeous redwoods on either side of the road. I took few photos, having traveled this route many times in the past, and it was my turn to drive. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2021-MoHo-Travels/02-February-Trip-to-California-with-Deb/02-13-2021-Day-1-Redwoods-and-Coast/i-DqbQd67/0/6d426fee/L/02-13-2021%20Redwoods%20and%20Coast%20from%20Deborah-8-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="780" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2021-MoHo-Travels/02-February-Trip-to-California-with-Deb/02-13-2021-Day-1-Redwoods-and-Coast/i-DqbQd67/0/6d426fee/L/02-13-2021%20Redwoods%20and%20Coast%20from%20Deborah-8-L.jpg" width="780" /></a></div><br />Settling into the RV park was a bit disconcerting, with a camp host who was less than understandable in her directions to our site. If you ever try to stay there, keep in mind that the campsite signs on the posts are opposite of the direction they should be and it was very confusing. We did settle in and enjoyed clam chowder from home for our supper that evening. We thought we could possibly go see some of Santa Rosa, but directions to any of the sites seemed excessively complex, so instead we simply found a WalMart to replace the small electric heater I managed to leave behind at home when loading the MoHo.<p></p><p>The weather was cool and damp and walking the parks didn't seem particularly enticing. We did at least have a chance to check out our route for getting back on the 101 Freeway the next morning before settling in for the evening.</p><p>My reason for booking the fairgrounds is that it was the most reasonably priced park close to San Francisco. Our route south included driving across the Golden Gate Bridge and down Highway 1 to Montara, where Mo lived for many years.</p><p>The next morning we departed by 8 and were delighted to see that traffic into the city on a Saturday morning wasn't too bad. I was especially happy to see this since I am the one who usually drives first in the mornings. The bridge was beautiful, even in the overcast skies, and following the Google Girl directions toward Highway 1 South and Half Moon Bay was easy. The toll booths are completely automated, with a bill to come in the mail based on our license registration. We have no idea how much it cost.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-13-2024-Half-Moon-Bay-and-Montara/i-Jm9GP5R/0/82b618e9/XL/01-13-2024%20Half%20Moon%20Bay%20and%20Montara%20(1%20of%2012)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-13-2024-Half-Moon-Bay-and-Montara/i-Jm9GP5R/0/82b618e9/XL/01-13-2024%20Half%20Moon%20Bay%20and%20Montara%20(1%20of%2012)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p></p><p>Mo's once-upon-a-time home in Montara</p><p>We parked the MoHo at the mall in Half Moon Bay, and unhooked the Tracker for a drive back to Montara, stopping in Moss Beach to check out the home Mo bought there before moving to the "ranch" in Montara. Mo was shocked at the changes in both towns and didn't recognize much as we traveled up the hills toward her Moss Beach home. The vegetation has grown so much that everything looks completely different. Mo was overwhelmed by the number of cars parked on the narrow streets and decided that the entire area was much too claustrophobic to ever consider living there again.</p><p>We then continued north toward Montara and after a bit of wandering finally found the road to her home that she owned until she moved to Oregon. The new owners love privacy and have surrounded the place with high impenetrable hedges making it hard to see the barns and pastures that were once occupied by horses that she boarded for people who became lifelong friends.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-13-2024-Half-Moon-Bay-and-Montara/i-L7JdPGv/0/cab7fd81/L/01-13-2024%20Half%20Moon%20Bay%20and%20Montara%20(6%20of%2012)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-13-2024-Half-Moon-Bay-and-Montara/i-L7JdPGv/0/cab7fd81/L/01-13-2024%20Half%20Moon%20Bay%20and%20Montara%20(6%20of%2012)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />As we peered through an opening in the hedge, Mrs. Navarro, a lovely lady who lived there when Mo did, stopped to say hi. Her family owned a nursery across the road from Mo's place and after all these years she remembered Mo and her dogs. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-13-2024-Half-Moon-Bay-and-Montara/i-dQqtfKf/0/1c09057f/L/01-13-2024%20Half%20Moon%20Bay%20and%20Montara%20(4%20of%2012)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-13-2024-Half-Moon-Bay-and-Montara/i-dQqtfKf/0/1c09057f/L/01-13-2024%20Half%20Moon%20Bay%20and%20Montara%20(4%20of%2012)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />I think she thought I was Mo's friend Carol, but she was incredibly sweet. She offered us branches of fragrant eucalyptus, but I said our car was too crowded. Mo has no idea of her age, but she was old when Mo lived there. It is amazing how well she has aged. When I asked her how old she was she laughed and said, "I am pretty sure I am over 55".<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-13-2024-Half-Moon-Bay-and-Montara/i-v7Tr685/0/7e154c40/L/01-13-2024%20Half%20Moon%20Bay%20and%20Montara%20(10%20of%2012)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="381" data-original-width="799" height="381" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2024-MoHo-Travels/January-and-February-Trip-South/01-13-2024-Half-Moon-Bay-and-Montara/i-v7Tr685/0/7e154c40/L/01-13-2024%20Half%20Moon%20Bay%20and%20Montara%20(10%20of%2012)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We drove back to Half Moon Bay and enjoyed some time walking the streets of what is now a very upscale little town. There were many "home decor" shops, art galleries, wine and cheese shops, and tucked away in the midst of it I found a delightful yarn shop. I walked out $130 bucks later with some gorgeous cashmere and alpaca yarns to hopefully stimulate my knitting habit once again. Yarn shops can be devastating to the pocketbook! <p></p><p>Mo was disappointed that our plans didn't include an overnight in the area. Next time we will plan for that so that Mo can connect with the many friends she has there</p><p>It was early afternoon when we departed the area and continued south on 101 toward Watsonville. The strawberry fields were green but it was much too early for the legendary flavorful strawberries that grow there. We saw no artichokes, another crop for which the area is famous. By the time we reached Salinas, home of John Steinbeck's famous novel East of Eden, the sun was out a bit.</p><p>Our destination was Camp Roberts.</p><p><br /></p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-49570822088778557322023-12-29T16:19:00.000-08:002023-12-30T11:26:05.497-08:0012-28-2023 The Best of the Season<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-4pdXJBB/0/a4ddc2df/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(3%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-4pdXJBB/0/a4ddc2df/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(3%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Mo's mother made the little guy second from the right, and the other two are mine from more than 20 years ago.<p></p><p>For me, there is nothing quite as delightful as the preparation for the Christmas holiday season. I don't have a huge family, so buying presents isn't an issue. I usually pick something from the Farmer's Market artisans in summertime, or from some random travel that we have completed during the year. I like that I no longer have the huge pressure of "buying, buying, buying" that used to be part of having kids waking up on Christmas morning all excited about Santa.</p><p>Each season of life has its own blessings, and those days with young ones are especially sweet, but the days now when my daughters are grown women and some of their kids have kids, I feel especially lucky that I can get them home for the holidays. Maybe not all at once, and maybe not all the grandkids, but no matter the number, I am so grateful for the people I love coming to our home to share in the delight of Christmas.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-qKbnD6g/0/58db66fc/L/11-28-2023%20nd%20of%20November%20and%20Lights%20Up%20(10%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-qKbnD6g/0/58db66fc/L/11-28-2023%20nd%20of%20November%20and%20Lights%20Up%20(10%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I usually start right after Thanksgiving, and this year was no exception, with Grandson Matthew giving his annual gift of climbing up on the roof to install the Christmas lights on the house. I have photos of homes where I did this myself as a young woman, but no more. No ladders for me or Mo either climbing up on the roof of our house, especially on the west side where the roof is more than 20 feet off the ground. Even though we have a single-story home, and where we enter is at ground level, the slope of our property creates a high wall on the far side of the house. Thank goodness for Matt who is still flexible enough to stand sideways on the roof and kneel and bend to get those lights up.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-vPtGGQb/0/1e4e16ab/L/11-28-2023%20nd%20of%20November%20and%20Lights%20Up%20(8%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-vPtGGQb/0/1e4e16ab/L/11-28-2023%20nd%20of%20November%20and%20Lights%20Up%20(8%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><p>It was wonderful that this year the hard freeze only lasted a day or two and the rain let up long enough for some sunny days for the job. Matthew figured out a new system of gutter clips that made the job much easier than it had been in the past. Yay, Matthew!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-37T5D8t/0/4b7c2678/L/12-03-2023%20Outdoor%20Decor%20in%20December%20(10%20of%2015)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-37T5D8t/0/4b7c2678/L/12-03-2023%20Outdoor%20Decor%20in%20December%20(10%20of%2015)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Mo and I managed to get the rest of the decorations up in time for the annual Christmas Light map published in the local paper. We are always tickled to see the little red light bulb at our address indicating that our house is one worth seeking out on the Christmas light tours around Grants Pass.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-fBjvPpS/0/122e3b81/L/12-03-2023%20Outdoor%20Decor%20in%20December%20(12%20of%2015)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-fBjvPpS/0/122e3b81/L/12-03-2023%20Outdoor%20Decor%20in%20December%20(12%20of%2015)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-WZnW2N9/0/3c55de82/L/12-03-2023%20Outdoor%20Decor%20in%20December%20(14%20of%2015)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-03-2023-Outdoor-Decor-in-December/i-WZnW2N9/0/3c55de82/L/12-03-2023%20Outdoor%20Decor%20in%20December%20(14%20of%2015)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>This year I had another reason for making sure that all the inside decor was up before December 9 when my daughter Deanna was to arrive for a short but sweet Christmas visit. Deanna lives more than 700 miles distant and she drove through the winter weather by herself so that she could visit her sisters and stay with us for a couple of nights in Grants Pass.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-09-2023-Downtown-with-Deb-and-Deanna/i-6hCR2LX/0/a933f91e/L/12-09-2023%20Downtown%20with%20Deb%20and%20Deanna%20(2%20of%2024)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-09-2023-Downtown-with-Deb-and-Deanna/i-6hCR2LX/0/a933f91e/L/12-09-2023%20Downtown%20with%20Deb%20and%20Deanna%20(2%20of%2024)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Mo and I enjoyed so much walking with the girls around the historic downtown area of Grants Pass after dinner to check out the local decor. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-09-2023-Downtown-with-Deb-and-Deanna/i-KZCfKv2/0/c6948d0e/L/12-09-2023%20Downtown%20with%20Deb%20and%20Deanna%20(9%20of%2024)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-09-2023-Downtown-with-Deb-and-Deanna/i-KZCfKv2/0/c6948d0e/L/12-09-2023%20Downtown%20with%20Deb%20and%20Deanna%20(9%20of%2024)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Grants Pass goes all out for Christmas, with a beautiful downtown tree, and the wonderful animated LED Christmas panels that are located on the sidewalks throughout town. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-09-2023-Downtown-with-Deb-and-Deanna/i-pWswsq3/0/d423e26c/L/12-09-2023%20Downtown%20with%20Deb%20and%20Deanna%20(13%20of%2024)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="800" height="558" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-09-2023-Downtown-with-Deb-and-Deanna/i-pWswsq3/0/d423e26c/L/12-09-2023%20Downtown%20with%20Deb%20and%20Deanna%20(13%20of%2024)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Tall wooden nutcrackers stand guard at the shops. It was a sparkly, sweet, and nostalgic glimpse at what Christmas can be.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-09-2023-Downtown-with-Deb-and-Deanna/i-JTqZbLZ/0/18bb17a6/L/20231209_190111-COLLAGE-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-09-2023-Downtown-with-Deb-and-Deanna/i-JTqZbLZ/0/18bb17a6/L/20231209_190111-COLLAGE-L.jpg" width="600" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Even though it wasn't actually Christmas, with the house all decorated and the girls spending the night it felt like it. Such a wonderful gift to us from Deanna.<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-vXb9spK/0/8215ac20/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(2%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-vXb9spK/0/8215ac20/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(2%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-9fvr4kL/0/3ad4cae2/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(5%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-9fvr4kL/0/3ad4cae2/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(5%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Here are a few of the Christmas decorations that I put up each year, with most of them having a story connected and a history of their place in our home during the season.</div><div><span> </span><span> </span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-mSx55gC/0/f0a5c036/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(8%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-mSx55gC/0/f0a5c036/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(8%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-Fr9vMkC/0/930c32e0/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(9%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-13-2023-Mid-December-Inside-Decor/i-Fr9vMkC/0/930c32e0/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard12-13-2023%20Mid%20December%20Inside%20Decor%20(9%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div>After Deanna left, Mo and I embarked on another Christmas tradition that we seem to repeat every December during the same week. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-nVVkBrX/0/447e34f0/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(24%20of%2040)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-nVVkBrX/0/447e34f0/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(24%20of%2040)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We traveled in the MoHo to Brookings for a short stay at Harris Beach State Park. I made the reservation in early November and was thrilled to get a spot on the A Loop with a view of the ocean.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-GspfNRW/0/3ffd6234/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(15%20of%2040)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-GspfNRW/0/3ffd6234/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(15%20of%2040)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Mo and I love Harris Beach, with its beautiful campground and easy access to the city of Brookings. We have camped there for many years, although not often during the summer season when it is crowded and often chilly and foggy. Winter is the best time for this part of the Oregon Coast.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-4QLhFGp/0/c0c6d9e7/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(18%20of%2040)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-4QLhFGp/0/c0c6d9e7/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(18%20of%2040)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Mattie loves the beach and as soon as we settled into our site we took her for an afternoon beach run. In addition to doing doggie zoomies in the sand, Mattie loves to climb the rocks. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-5pmwcfx/0/b6a82188/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(20%20of%2040)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-5pmwcfx/0/b6a82188/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(20%20of%2040)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I simply point to a rock and say climb it and she is climbing higher and higher before I can even get the words out of my mouth. Every year we have photos of her on the rocks with the ocean in the background. Sometimes even on the same day in December. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-NZMrJKM/1/48b180fd/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(33%20of%2040)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-NZMrJKM/1/48b180fd/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(33%20of%2040)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-hfBsfTt/0/b182b202/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(23%20of%2040)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/12-To-Brookings/12-14-2023-Harris-Beach-First-Days/i-hfBsfTt/0/b182b202/L/12-14-2023%20Harris%20Beach%20First%20Days%20(23%20of%2040)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The weather was perfect and in the evening there was no wind to interfere with our campfire time enjoying the warmth as we sipped a glass of wine.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-14-2023-Natures-Coastal-Holiday/i-fQpn5GD/0/0487857b/L/12-14-2023%20Natures%20Coastal%20Holiday%20(2%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-14-2023-Natures-Coastal-Holiday/i-fQpn5GD/0/0487857b/L/12-14-2023%20Natures%20Coastal%20Holiday%20(2%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />In addition, when traveling to Brookings at Christmastime, we have the lure of the most fabulous light show we have seen anywhere in the country. This year the Nature's Coastal Holiday Festival of Lights was even more spectacular than ever. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-14-2023-Natures-Coastal-Holiday/i-Jcr2TfL/0/d7fb9f4e/L/12-14-2023%20Natures%20Coastal%20Holiday%20(6%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-14-2023-Natures-Coastal-Holiday/i-Jcr2TfL/0/d7fb9f4e/L/12-14-2023%20Natures%20Coastal%20Holiday%20(6%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />With 3.5 million lights covering almost every square foot of the 33-acre Azalea Park, every step is filled with wonder. We took our time walking around this time, knowing that if we walked too quickly I would want to do it again and again, so this time we walked slowly and sat on benches strategically placed throughout the park. </div><div><br /></div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PW1jZvi7n_4" width="320" youtube-src-id="PW1jZvi7n_4"></iframe></div><br /></div><div>The animated light show was spectacular</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-14-2023-Natures-Coastal-Holiday/i-JFV5m6s/0/e59b5a51/L/12-14-2023%20Natures%20Coastal%20Holiday%20(13%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-14-2023-Natures-Coastal-Holiday/i-JFV5m6s/0/e59b5a51/L/12-14-2023%20Natures%20Coastal%20Holiday%20(13%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />The Scandinavian-styled chapel was open this year and beautifully decorated as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to the light show, we enjoyed fish and chips at Catalyst Seafood, a restaurant that has evolved over the years that we have visited. The restaurant has been updated and now has a bar with drink specials. The Cole Slaw is a modern version with jalapenos and who knows what else, but it wasn't to my liking. The fish however was as fresh and wonderful as ever, and we enjoyed it thoroughly, even though we only ate half our meal. Into the takeout boxes it went and those boxes stayed on the table when we left for the light show. It wasn't until we got home later that we realized we had forgotten to take home the rest of our dinner.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2021-MoHo-Travels/02-February-Trip-to-California-with-Deb/02-13-2021-Day-1-Redwoods-and-Coast/i-WSpjqGj/0/406ef81d/L/02-13-2021%20Crescent%20City%20and%20the%20Coast-6-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2021-MoHo-Travels/02-February-Trip-to-California-with-Deb/02-13-2021-Day-1-Redwoods-and-Coast/i-WSpjqGj/0/406ef81d/L/02-13-2021%20Crescent%20City%20and%20the%20Coast-6-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Better fish and chips for the money at the Chart Room in Crescent City where we will go next time.</div><div><br /></div><div>We returned home from the beach late on Friday afternoon with just enough time to unpack before dressing for a play put on by our local theater where my friend Lisa is working. The play was called "Nuncrackers" and was full of hidden sexual innuendos despite it being "ok for kids". My friend Kristin was there with her family and spent much of the time hoping her kids didn't understand some of the more racy stuff. Still, it was a fun time and a bit interesting to see our first play at the local theater after living here for more than 6 years.</div><div><br /></div><div>The very next evening was the Christmas party for our book club, held for the third time now at Kristin's house. It has become a tradition for Kristin to host the December club where we simply enjoy food, some simple games, and a secret book gift. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-16-2023-December-Book-Club-at-Kristins/i-RWg6L9m/0/c96b390c/L/12-16-2023%20December%20Book%20Club%20at%20Kristins%20(4%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="785" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-16-2023-December-Book-Club-at-Kristins/i-RWg6L9m/0/c96b390c/L/12-16-2023%20December%20Book%20Club%20at%20Kristins%20(4%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="785" /></a></div><br />Robyn and Jennifer are amazing young women who belly dance, and do fitness pole dancing, in addition to their techie jobs. Jennifer often offers to drive me to book club in the winter when it is dark and foggy and I hate driving at night in those conditions. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-16-2023-December-Book-Club-at-Kristins/i-kXSXvmM/0/b83f48a6/L/12-16-2023%20December%20Book%20Club%20at%20Kristins%20(6%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-16-2023-December-Book-Club-at-Kristins/i-kXSXvmM/0/b83f48a6/L/12-16-2023%20December%20Book%20Club%20at%20Kristins%20(6%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Kristin as always is a superb hostess with a lovely home and so much good food to share<br /><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-16-2023-December-Book-Club-at-Kristins/i-CRzpq5C/0/77d94636/L/12-16-2023%20December%20Book%20Club%20at%20Kristins%20(15%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="391" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-16-2023-December-Book-Club-at-Kristins/i-CRzpq5C/0/77d94636/L/12-16-2023%20December%20Book%20Club%20at%20Kristins%20(15%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="391" /></a></div><br />Lisa and I round out the generations in the group, adding a bit of perspective to all the young people. Lisa is close to my daughter's age, so I probably shouldn't include her in my generation. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-17-2023-Maryruth-Has-a-Christmas-Party/i-TfBgnmv/0/d48e1962/L/12-17-2023%20Maryruth%20Has%20As%20Christmas%20Party%20(15%20of%2045)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-17-2023-Maryruth-Has-a-Christmas-Party/i-TfBgnmv/0/d48e1962/L/12-17-2023%20Maryruth%20Has%20As%20Christmas%20Party%20(15%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The very next day we were invited to Maryruth's home for what has become an annual tradition for her. She hosts a Christmas party for the couples in her neighborhood where almost everyone is retired and from California. It was a fun time and Maryruth went all out making party food for the guests.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, it was Christmas week, and time to begin the Christmas baking. First and most important is the making of fudge, a favorite. It is good that I wait until just before Christmas to make it because otherwise, I would be eating way more than I should.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-DN4DfGj/0/c8538c7b/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(8%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-DN4DfGj/0/c8538c7b/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(8%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I made several kinds of cookies and some cranberry orange bread in addition to the fudge with enough to share Christmas plates with a few select neighbors.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-BqMpt7Q/0/23430204/L/20231220_130515-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-BqMpt7Q/0/23430204/L/20231220_130515-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-VSpbDN3/0/9f247337/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(1%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="800" height="573" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-VSpbDN3/0/9f247337/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(1%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Mo and I filled in the quiet spaces between baking with a couple of Christmas puzzles to enjoy on the rainy days that dominated the weather through Christmas.</div><div><br /></div><div>At last, it was Christmas Eve, with Melody and Robert arriving from their home north of Eugene before noon, and Deborah arriving from her place in Trail about an hour away at about the same time. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-2GCfGvn/0/cc60900c/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(15%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-2GCfGvn/0/cc60900c/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(15%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-PFRH6nb/0/dba4f5a6/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(18%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-PFRH6nb/0/dba4f5a6/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(18%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The afternoon seemed to disappear as we laughed and talked and prepared the traditional clam chowder for supper. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-W4ZH6Nk/0/22e07760/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(21%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-W4ZH6Nk/0/22e07760/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(21%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-NZBBw7j/0/07ead92c/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(23%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-NZBBw7j/0/07ead92c/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(23%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Robert spoils Mattie terribly, and she loves the new Christmas sweater as well as the treats</div><div><br /></div><div>Our family has traditionally opened presents on Christmas morning and Mo's family opened them on Christmas Eve. I thought maybe I could ask the kids if they would prefer one or the other, but within minutes of arriving Melody and Robert were passing out gifts. No one wanted to wait. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-PsFhBkq/0/58df6718/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(7%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="671" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-PsFhBkq/0/58df6718/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(7%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="671" /></a></div><br />Mattie was especially excited about the Christmas presents they brought for her, racing around the room and trying to decide which new toy she loved the most. It was so very much fun. </div><div>Our original plan was to go look at Christmas lights around town, but no one really wanted to go out on the chilly, foggy night, and we instead stayed home watching a very good Christmas movie. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-kvkmw8f/0/b87e0dfe/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(12%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-kvkmw8f/0/b87e0dfe/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(12%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Melody crocheted this string of adorable Christmas lights for us</div><div><br />With one pair in the guest room and Deb on the sofa, I went to bed with the warm happy feeling that only comes when my children are again close by on Christmas.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-QSnW6zW/0/62bb288a/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(35%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="800" height="524" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-QSnW6zW/0/62bb288a/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(35%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />The next morning was simple, with presents already opened we simply had to wait for the Christmas brunch ham to finish baking and for Maryruth and Gerald to arrive for our yummy brunch with Deborah's fabulous eggs benedict casserole as the star of the show. Of course, orange juice and champagne, Baileys, and some brandy made everything even more festive.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-RhTZWqD/0/26f2a569/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(37%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="800" height="506" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-RhTZWqD/0/26f2a569/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(37%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-9jnpKn2/0/effe5fd3/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(39%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-9jnpKn2/0/effe5fd3/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(39%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Ever try for a family photo where everyone is looking at the camera and smiling nicely?<br /><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-J4cKvpK/0/41f0e62b/L/FB_IMG_1703542615454-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-J4cKvpK/0/41f0e62b/L/FB_IMG_1703542615454-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Melody fiddled with her phone and came up with this composite, fuzzy but we are all in it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-9sbX6XV/0/5afc0d2b/L/received_2815668698586406-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-9sbX6XV/0/5afc0d2b/L/received_2815668698586406-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-RMS8hS7/0/cd1b2c95/L/received_386957520399099-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-RMS8hS7/0/cd1b2c95/L/received_386957520399099-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div>Melody and Robert decided that they would stay until the day after Christmas. After Deb and Maryruth and Gerald went home the four of us settled into a peaceful afternoon of knitting and talking and looking at photos on the big TV screen. Melody and Robert have taken up knitting and crocheting and the two of them knocked out a few hats that evening. I was shocked at how fast they are at their new hobby. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-rh2cfRd/0/f5ae2f1c/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(20%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="400" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-rh2cfRd/0/f5ae2f1c/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(20%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-MN3WhTv/0/b2d20774/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(53%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="605" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-MN3WhTv/0/b2d20774/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(53%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="605" /></a></div><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-WmHSrhs/0/5392b428/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(52%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="551" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-WmHSrhs/0/5392b428/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(52%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="551" /></a></div><br />Christmas was over. The next morning Melody and Robert packed up to travel back north through the fog to their home. Mattie knew they were leaving and started sulking even before they were out to the car. She refused to get off the couch pillow to say goodbye.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-LQjWgz6/0/f811af93/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(56%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-LQjWgz6/0/f811af93/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(56%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Melody and Robert are two of her favorite people and she was NOT a happy dog when they left. A funny story to share as I come to the end of this story of our Christmas: Mo and I mentioned to Mattie in the morning that Melody was coming. She got all excited and ran around the house impatiently. I forgot all about it until Mattie started barking and howling the special howl that she only does for her very favorite people. I thought the kids had arrived, but when I walked into the bedroom there was no sign of them. Mattie kept howling until I said, no, Mattie, they aren't here yet, but she didn't believe me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CZdHGSrZ3-Y" width="320" youtube-src-id="CZdHGSrZ3-Y"></iframe></div><br /><div>A full five minutes later the kids pulled into the driveway. Mattie had somehow sensed when they turned up our road from the main road about 1/2 mile away. I have no clue how, but it was amazing to me that she knew they were coming. Needless to say, the highlight of Christmas for Mattie was the arrival of her favorite people.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-Q6ZkWZW/0/432cbfd7/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(48%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="778" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-Q6ZkWZW/0/432cbfd7/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(48%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="778" /></a></div><br />Christmas is over, and the new year will begin in two days. I will then begin to undo all that I did in December, taking down the tree, packing up the village, and finally putting away all the outdoor lights before we leave for California in January.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-9j9wPfz/0/8107fe58/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(58%20of%2059)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Christmas/2023-Christmas/12-25-2023-Christmas-at-Sunset-House/i-9j9wPfz/0/8107fe58/L/12-25-2023%20Christmas%20at%20Sunset%20House%20(58%20of%2059)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />December was so full and I only realized as I attempted to write about it that there was no way that I could include our beautiful fall days in November without complete overload. Mo said, "Are you going to post December before you write about November??</div><div><br /></div><div>Yes, it seems that I am doing that. Fun stuff in November as well, but thank goodness not quite as much.</div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-85189948713769068482023-11-30T12:18:00.000-08:002023-12-30T16:05:48.788-08:0011-30-2023 November Beauty<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-11-2023-Fall-Colors-at-their-best/i-xWQJ5jz/0/407c91ca/L/11-11-2023%20Fall%20Colors%20at%20their%20best%20(5%20of%2018)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="800" height="449" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-11-2023-Fall-Colors-at-their-best/i-xWQJ5jz/0/407c91ca/L/11-11-2023%20Fall%20Colors%20at%20their%20best%20(5%20of%2018)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Yes, I am writing about November on the 30th of December, but you won't know it because I can set the posting date back in the past. In the blog book, which is the main reason I have to keep up the blog, November will be in the proper order. This will be a bit shorter post than the one I wrote yesterday about December and Christmas. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-LhHST2b/0/de9a5528/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard%20(26%20of%2041)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-LhHST2b/0/de9a5528/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard%20(26%20of%2041)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />It is quiet here this morning and Mo and I spent a few hours early in the day running MoHo errands. We are planning to travel in early January and before our Fred Meyer fuel discounts expire tomorrow, it was important to get the MoHo fueled before we leave for California where fuel prices will be exorbitant. Thirty cents per gallon isn't small change, and with the new expiration of fuel points in the works we didn't want to lose our credits. Along the route to Freddies, we pass the local station that sells propane and pull in. It isn't the cheapest propane in town but it IS the most convenient, with an easy in, attendants that know how to run the propane delivery system, and an easy out back into traffic. It is the little things that count. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-Gc8NPzH/0/ee2c087f/L/20231228_141052-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-Gc8NPzH/0/ee2c087f/L/20231228_141052-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />A nice little addition to my life in November was my new membership to a local fitness center. Club Northwest has lots of cool stuff I will never use but the best thing they have that I WILL use is the saltwater swimming pool. At 85 F it is fabulous. The facility is clean and beautiful, and when I swim a couple of days a week early in the morning the pool is nearly empty. I love my Garmin watch that has a "pool swim" function which keeps track of my laps, my strokes, my time, and all the other fitness stats of interest. It is wonderful and is the best exercise I can do for my legs and back. A funny little thing about my membership is that to shave 20 bucks a month off my fee I am required to send a photo each month of this sign posted in my yard. Worth it for sure.<p></p><p>It is raining again today, with the heaviest downpour behind us but more to come. It seems that the atmospheric rivers that spin toward the northwest and California are stacked up and keep dumping their wetness in our world. December has been very wet, and as I look back at photos from November preparing to write about that month I can see that most of those photos include gray skies as well. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-FVCB4M2/0/6768ed87/L/20231230_152149-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-FVCB4M2/0/6768ed87/L/20231230_152149-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Funny thing, there is a thin line of moss growing on my pickup in the space between the roof panels. I might need to use some kind of pick to get it out of there, but I don't suppose it is causing any harm. I drive the truck to the dump and back and sometimes to the store. She is a perfect truck at 21 years old, and I bought her new. No rush to replace the little Dakota, she has served us well. I guess you know you live in the Pacific Northwest when moss grows on your truck.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-5FFPzhn/0/94350628/L/20231230_152229-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-5FFPzhn/0/94350628/L/20231230_152229-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />She served us especially well in November when the truck was often used to haul the leaves to the local area compost facility. Someone asked if I could then get free compost. Nope. No matter how many loads of leaves I deliver for 8 bucks a load I will still have to pay 30 bucks for a pickup full of compost. Still worth every penny. When we first moved to Grants Pass we thought we could wait for burn days to burn the leaves. <p></p><p>It didn't work out well. Either the burn days came too rarely, or the leaves were too wet to burn well and the pile would smoke into the night, irritating both us and our neighbors. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Android-Uploads/i-v2jKDG6/0/be8b057e/L/20231127_151003-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Android-Uploads/i-v2jKDG6/0/be8b057e/L/20231127_151003-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />Mo and I used to share the fall raking job but this past year Mo is the one who does most of the raking. I can still manage the blower, getting everything into piles that she can then load into the trailer for going to the dump. Some years the leaves are nice and dry, but this year we had many more wet days than dry ones. It didn't help that I sprained my back attempting to transplant some roses and was down for a couple of weeks with all sorts of meds, unable to even turn over in bed for a time. It wasn't fun, but now thanks to Celebrex for the arthritis in my back and muscle relaxers, I am almost functional, at least most of the time. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-18-2023-Rainy-Fall-Day/i-ZZqM7LT/0/e0c4eb15/L/11-18-2023%20Rainy%20Fall%20Day%20(7%20of%2011)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-18-2023-Rainy-Fall-Day/i-ZZqM7LT/0/e0c4eb15/L/11-18-2023%20Rainy%20Fall%20Day%20(7%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-06-2023-Fall-Days/i-W4wZJ5L/0/b6234c27/L/11-06-2023%20Fall%20Days%20(1%20of%2014)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="800" height="449" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-06-2023-Fall-Days/i-W4wZJ5L/0/b6234c27/L/11-06-2023%20Fall%20Days%20(1%20of%2014)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />In the fall, even without doing the raking, I can still get in 9 or 10 thousand steps just walking around the property. Weeding trimming and clearing flower beds keeps me busy. The fall colors this year were truly spectacular.</div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-18-2023-Rainy-Fall-Day/i-GG5qNFF/0/a10f2c4d/L/11-18-2023%20Rainy%20Fall%20Day%20(5%20of%2011)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-18-2023-Rainy-Fall-Day/i-GG5qNFF/0/a10f2c4d/L/11-18-2023%20Rainy%20Fall%20Day%20(5%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-07-2023-Out-the-Bedroom-Window-in-Fall/i-k6HQBWk/0/3299a9dd/L/11-07-2023%20Out%20the%20Bedroom%20Window%20in%20Fall%20(2%20of%2011)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-07-2023-Out-the-Bedroom-Window-in-Fall/i-k6HQBWk/0/3299a9dd/L/11-07-2023%20Out%20the%20Bedroom%20Window%20in%20Fall%20(2%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Mo and I didn't do a lot during November, and for the first time in many years, we skipped a month going out in the MoHo. With the wet weather, it just wasn't high on the agenda. <p></p><p>Instead, we spent Sundays with daughter Deborah, making Sunday omelets and having a little shot of brandy together. On the 11th, we took advantage of Mo's military service to get a free meal for her at our local Applebee's. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/11-11-2023-Veterans-Day-and-Debs-New-Car/i-qsSjV7L/0/ca7f4ebd/L/11-11-2023%20Veterans%20Day%20and%20Deb's%20New%20Car%20(8%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/11-11-2023-Veterans-Day-and-Debs-New-Car/i-qsSjV7L/0/ca7f4ebd/L/11-11-2023%20Veterans%20Day%20and%20Deb's%20New%20Car%20(8%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>This time Deborah joined us, driving to Grants Pass in her brand-new Subaru. Deb decided that it was time for a new car and she once had a Subaru that she loved. I think she is going to love this one. I know I love it! Her previous car was an adorable little Mini-Cooper but I had a heck of a time dropping into the very low passenger seat. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/11-11-2023-Veterans-Day-and-Debs-New-Car/i-WFgxzP9/0/56db9f55/L/11-11-2023%20Veterans%20Day%20and%20Deb's%20New%20Car%20(15%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="800" height="412" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/11-11-2023-Veterans-Day-and-Debs-New-Car/i-WFgxzP9/0/56db9f55/L/11-11-2023%20Veterans%20Day%20and%20Deb's%20New%20Car%20(15%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/11-11-2023-Veterans-Day-and-Debs-New-Car/i-kW7vQfX/0/8444a401/L/11-11-2023%20Veterans%20Day%20and%20Deb's%20New%20Car%20(20%20of%2020)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="800" height="375" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/11-11-2023-Veterans-Day-and-Debs-New-Car/i-kW7vQfX/0/8444a401/L/11-11-2023%20Veterans%20Day%20and%20Deb's%20New%20Car%20(20%20of%2020)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Going to Applebee's is another tradition that Mo and I have upheld for at least ten years now. Funny thing, we rarely go to Applebee's except for this one day each year.<p></p><p>Thanksgiving was a treat of a different sort. When Mo and I visited Deb at her new home in Trail, we exclaimed at how adorable it was, and yes, how very small. With rents being completely ridiculous in our area, Deb found a little place that was something she could afford now that she had chosen to live alone. Housing in Southern Oregon is nearly impossible to find. When we helped Deborah as she was looking, we found horrid apartments in horrid neighborhoods, with dirty carpets and tattered plastic window shades for 1500 a month. It is simply crazy. So Deb was delighted to find this lovely, creative, artistic tiny place on top of an old barn in a rural area that was affordable.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-10-2023-Visiting-Deb-in-Trail/i-zZSfGGJ/0/82b8084e/L/09-10-2023%20Visiting%20Deb%20in%20Trail%20(10%20of%2015)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="800" height="389" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-10-2023-Visiting-Deb-in-Trail/i-zZSfGGJ/0/82b8084e/L/09-10-2023%20Visiting%20Deb%20in%20Trail%20(10%20of%2015)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Back to the story of Thanksgiving. When we walked into her small space, I made a joke, "Oh gee, maybe we can have Thanksgiving here this year!" We laughed a bit, and then the laughter turned to delight when we realized that yes, we COULD have TG at Deb's home. There would only be six of us and Deb was tickled at the idea. Deb is a lover of all things miniature, and we threw out the idea of creating miniature food that would be easy to eat without a big table where we could sit.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-GX4Zxq4/0/20194920/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(10%20of%2035)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="609" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-GX4Zxq4/0/20194920/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(10%20of%2035)-L.jpg" width="609" /></a></div><br />We spent a bit of time planning our tiny food, and Melody and Robert chose to join us in the tiny community of Trail on Thanksgiving day, a three-hour trip for them. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-3C8x95j/0/b489f129/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(14%20of%2035)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="800" height="549" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-3C8x95j/0/b489f129/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(14%20of%2035)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-m3RxJj3/0/92a049f9/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(15%20of%2035)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="680" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-m3RxJj3/0/92a049f9/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(15%20of%2035)-L.jpg" width="680" /></a></div><p>The day was a complete success with some of our tiny food choices a bit bigger than planned, but everything was easy to eat and small enough the still qualify as tiny food.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-rXFD4jh/0/3d78163b/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20from%20Deb%20(2%20of%206)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-rXFD4jh/0/3d78163b/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20from%20Deb%20(2%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Deborah's son Matthew<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-The-Food/i-V4hqzzR/0/149df517/L/11-23-2023%20The%20Food%20(8%20of%2010)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="570" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-The-Food/i-V4hqzzR/0/149df517/L/11-23-2023%20The%20Food%20(8%20of%2010)-L.jpg" width="570" /></a></div><br /><div>Turkey sliders with cranberry dressing and a hot honey mustard drizzle<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-The-Food/i-PbxkDr6/0/32b82801/L/11-23-2023%20The%20Food%20(7%20of%2010)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="398" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-The-Food/i-PbxkDr6/0/32b82801/L/11-23-2023%20The%20Food%20(7%20of%2010)-L.jpg" width="398" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tiny baked red potatoes with toppings</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-The-Food/i-3ttXdP3/0/5c8a7ad8/L/11-23-2023%20The%20Food%20(6%20of%2010)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="800" height="581" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-The-Food/i-3ttXdP3/0/5c8a7ad8/L/11-23-2023%20The%20Food%20(6%20of%2010)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Deb made some miniature sweet potato treats and created a do-it-yourself Waldorf salad in a cup. I made turkey sliders that weren't that small and were very messy but very good. Melody and Robert brought his famous hard-boiled eggs, and other goodies for our meal. Melody made some delicious apple hand pies instead of her traditional regular apple pies.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-D5Hn7Tg/0/0ab251bb/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(3%20of%2035)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="800" height="577" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-D5Hn7Tg/0/0ab251bb/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(3%20of%2035)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />It was a sweet afternoon sharing Deborah's space, enjoying the beautiful late fall sunlight pouring in through her windows, and appreciating every family moment that we had to share.<p></p><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-ZhJxCs8/0/aaf706b0/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(22%20of%2035)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-ZhJxCs8/0/aaf706b0/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(22%20of%2035)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />Melody and Robert left Deb's place and followed us home to spend the night here in Grants Pass. The next morning Deborah showed up so that she could check in on a neighbor she worries about and bring her some food. We all spent some quality time trying to untangle yarn.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-9TjSjKk/0/e4d8f2ab/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(28%20of%2035)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Thanksgiving/2023-11-23-2023-Thanksgiving-at-Debs/i-9TjSjKk/0/e4d8f2ab/L/11-23-2023%20Thanksgiving%20at%20Debs%20(28%20of%2035)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>The month of November closed with some truly gorgeous sunny days for me to begin preparing for Christmas. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-zrpsJ33/0/94a96d2b/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard%20(13%20of%2041)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/12-12-2023-Mid-December-in-the-Yard/i-zrpsJ33/0/94a96d2b/L/12-12-2023%20Mid%20December%20in%20the%20Yard%20(13%20of%2041)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-19560825391781265042023-11-05T05:59:00.001-08:002023-11-05T06:24:18.147-08:0011-05-2023 Another October to Celebrate<p> <a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-04-2023-November-Morning/i-6QbHPpV/0/08705811/L/11-04-2023%20%20November%20Morning%20(5%20of%206)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-04-2023-November-Morning/i-6QbHPpV/0/08705811/L/11-04-2023%20%20November%20Morning%20(5%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a><br /> November morning at Sunset House</p><p>October has come and gone and I am reminded that it is among the very best of times that Grants Pass has to offer. Mo and I walked outside Saturday morning, thrilled at the gentle fog rolling up the valley below us, with only the tips of the trees on our beautiful Cathedral hills showing above the swirling mists. The air was still a bit warm, with a low night temperature in the high 50s, maybe a bit unusual for early November. An atmospheric river is headed our way rolling in the magical circles of radar images that portend flooding and inches of rain, bringing with it the freshness of shifting weather, breezes, and the warm front preceding the coming rain. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-04-2023-November-Morning/i-czh44NX/0/d8209a49/L/11-04-2023%20%20November%20Morning%20(2%20of%206)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-04-2023-November-Morning/i-czh44NX/0/d8209a49/L/11-04-2023%20%20November%20Morning%20(2%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The rains came a bit earlier this year, and with them what around here in the drier parts of Oregon the locals refer to as "green-up". We love this time when at last the drip system is decommissioned and the reverse osmosis unit that makes our water palatable for the plants I love to grow settles into its easy wet season rhythm. It is so refreshing to stop worrying about water, about how much salt we are using to run the system, and how much wastewater is running down the ditch. It takes 2 gallons of raw water to produce a gallon of fresh water. At 2.5 gpm for our well, and a 1700-gallon cistern to fill with "good" water, that is a lot of wastewater. We have adjusted to the need to do this, it was a choice we made when we picked this very nearly perfect little spot of land with the view toward the coast range in the distance and Cathedral Hills a bit closer. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-04-2023-November-Morning/i-8rLvKQK/0/48d6752e/L/11-04-2023%20%20November%20Morning%20(4%20of%206)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/11-04-2023-November-Morning/i-8rLvKQK/0/48d6752e/L/11-04-2023%20%20November%20Morning%20(4%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />In the early morning darkness at 7 a.m., the changing leaves of our oaks were brilliant, echoing the brilliance of the warm lights inside the house. The coffee smelled good, Mattie did her morning thing pottying at the most distant spot she could find on the property and then patrolling the boundaries, smelling the rodents, the deer, and whatever else may have wandered through the yard during the previous night.<p></p><p>October was a month spent at home, enjoying some of the best that the Rogue Valley has to offer, and sharing special times and places with friends. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-29-2023-Dinner-at-Morrisons-Lodge/i-gkPxNrh/0/01cd9fcd/L/09-29-2023%20Dinner%20at%20Morrisons%20Lodge%20(3%20of%207)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="460" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-29-2023-Dinner-at-Morrisons-Lodge/i-gkPxNrh/0/01cd9fcd/L/09-29-2023%20Dinner%20at%20Morrisons%20Lodge%20(3%20of%207)-L.jpg" width="460" /></a></div>My best friend of 60 years Maryruth<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-29-2023-Dinner-at-Morrisons-Lodge/i-6GPfc95/0/447df53d/L/09-29-2023%20Dinner%20at%20Morrisons%20Lodge%20(4%20of%207)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="545" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-29-2023-Dinner-at-Morrisons-Lodge/i-6GPfc95/0/447df53d/L/09-29-2023%20Dinner%20at%20Morrisons%20Lodge%20(4%20of%207)-L.jpg" width="545" /></a></div>Maryruth's husband Gerald<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-29-2023-Dinner-at-Morrisons-Lodge/i-Sx7P8Wr/0/fe295aae/L/09-29-2023%20Dinner%20at%20Morrisons%20Lodge%20(6%20of%207)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="723" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-29-2023-Dinner-at-Morrisons-Lodge/i-Sx7P8Wr/0/fe295aae/L/09-29-2023%20Dinner%20at%20Morrisons%20Lodge%20(6%20of%207)-L.jpg" width="723" /></a></div>Mo and Sue enjoying time with our friends<p></p><p>A dinner at a delightful gourmet restaurant out of town on the Rogue River, cooked by an excellent chef. Except this time his meal was a bit strange and much less than perfect. It must have been a strange glitch, since meals before and since have been reported by friends to have been fabulous. <a href="https://morrisonslodge.com/dining/" target="_blank">Morrison's Lodge</a> is historic, and a truly fun place to go for a great meal most of the time. We shared it with Maryruth and Gerald. Maryruth and I have now shared 60 years of life and friendship together. Our "anniversary" is in October.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-01-2023-Afternoon-at-Hummingbird/i-9S4Zz2j/0/d0f01614/L/10-01-2023%20Afternoon%20at%20Hummingbird%20(7%20of%208)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-01-2023-Afternoon-at-Hummingbird/i-9S4Zz2j/0/d0f01614/L/10-01-2023%20Afternoon%20at%20Hummingbird%20(7%20of%208)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />On the very first day of the month, Daughter Deborah invited us to share wine flights and wonderful hors d'oeuvres at the beautiful Hummingbird Estate winery where she is a member. All of us love to drink wine and listen to music on the deck with the beautiful view. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-01-2023-Afternoon-at-Hummingbird/i-HtvBdmm/0/86064b1a/L/10-01-2023%20Afternoon%20at%20Hummingbird%20(5%20of%208)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-01-2023-Afternoon-at-Hummingbird/i-HtvBdmm/0/86064b1a/L/10-01-2023%20Afternoon%20at%20Hummingbird%20(5%20of%208)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p></p><p>A few days later Mo and I visited downtown Grants Pass on a sunny Sunday afternoon to enjoy Art on the Rogue, an annual celebration of the arts, with a few streets closed off for chalk painting, food trucks, and music throughout the downtown part of the city. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-08-2023-Art-on-the-Rogue/i-SwF655H/0/5d6729f6/L/10-08-2023%20Art%20on%20the%20Rogue%20(6%20of%2012)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-08-2023-Art-on-the-Rogue/i-SwF655H/0/5d6729f6/L/10-08-2023%20Art%20on%20the%20Rogue%20(6%20of%2012)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>A permanent mural honoring the local tribes was added to the sidewalk in addition to the ephemeral chalk art.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-08-2023-Art-on-the-Rogue/i-dRdjRnG/0/4c0e2893/L/10-08-2023%20Art%20on%20the%20Rogue%20(8%20of%2012)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-08-2023-Art-on-the-Rogue/i-dRdjRnG/0/4c0e2893/L/10-08-2023%20Art%20on%20the%20Rogue%20(8%20of%2012)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>The theme this year was blockbuster movies, some of which I didn't recognize, but it made for some great chalk paintings.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-08-2023-Art-on-the-Rogue/i-6WQvc59/0/75f303c2/L/10-08-2023%20Art%20on%20the%20Rogue%20(3%20of%2012)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/10-08-2023-Art-on-the-Rogue/i-6WQvc59/0/75f303c2/L/10-08-2023%20Art%20on%20the%20Rogue%20(3%20of%2012)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div>In early October the city is dotted with the brilliance of sweet gum trees, turning long before the oaks and maples begin their color change. The warm day and brilliant sunshine brought out big crowds for the event. A favorite local artist,<a href="https://catebattlesart.argosyodyssey.com/" target="_blank"> Cate Battles, </a>and her husband worked diligently on some additional permanent crosswalk murals which weren't yet finished when we visited. I am so looking forward to seeing their creations brighten the historic G Street in our town.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-16-2023-Around-the-Yard-in-October/i-4NCBWfb/0/d7dfcef6/L/10-16-2023%20Around%20the%20Yard%20in%20October%20(26%20of%2027)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-16-2023-Around-the-Yard-in-October/i-4NCBWfb/0/d7dfcef6/L/10-16-2023%20Around%20the%20Yard%20in%20October%20(26%20of%2027)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div>During the first half of the month, Mo and I embarked on a major project. We moved all the big roses that were languishing under the huge canopies and thick roots of our beautiful old oaks. I love the shade those trees give to us, but the roses not so much. This red rose is incredibly happy in the new spot, where there is a bit more sunshine and fewer roots to compete with. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-16-2023-Around-the-Yard-in-October/i-Xb8rKBh/0/fcf700a5/L/10-16-2023%20Around%20the%20Yard%20in%20October%20(17%20of%2027)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-16-2023-Around-the-Yard-in-October/i-Xb8rKBh/0/fcf700a5/L/10-16-2023%20Around%20the%20Yard%20in%20October%20(17%20of%2027)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />October is the month when all the summer flowers decide they can once again awaken to the cooler temperatures. It is almost like a second spring each year when everything brightens and smiles at the cool nights and rain.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-16-2023-Around-the-Yard-in-October/i-9VXPsQR/0/16ec6c65/L/10-16-2023%20Around%20the%20Yard%20in%20October%20(19%20of%2027)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="612" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-16-2023-Around-the-Yard-in-October/i-9VXPsQR/0/16ec6c65/L/10-16-2023%20Around%20the%20Yard%20in%20October%20(19%20of%2027)-L.jpg" width="612" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Even though it freezes here in the winter, I have never had to lift this dahlia which grows more than 7 feet tall every year. During the heat of summer, she is faded and pale but when fall comes her colors shine and glow until the first hard frost. This year that frost came just a few days ago, on Halloween.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-16-2023-Around-the-Yard-in-October/i-bh3xwDL/0/2e706e90/L/10-16-2023%20Around%20the%20Yard%20in%20October%20(15%20of%2027)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-16-2023-Around-the-Yard-in-October/i-bh3xwDL/0/2e706e90/L/10-16-2023%20Around%20the%20Yard%20in%20October%20(15%20of%2027)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div>Some garden stories here at Sunset House are simply strange. See those two big pointy things that look like palm trees? They are the "annual" dracaena that are added to flower pots at spring sales. They refuse to be annual, lasting through winter after winter in their pots, getting ridiculously big. I finally planted them in the ground and they just keep growing. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-P8VKn2K/0/55f5740e/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(22%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-P8VKn2K/0/55f5740e/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(22%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />A high point for October was the Eclipse on October 14th. With our area located in the central line of visibility for the eclipse, there were festivals and activities from Coos Bay on the coast all the way to the Klamath Basin. A local promoter took advantage of the event to organize a large gathering in the Wood River Valley not far from Crater Lake. <a href="https://eclipsefest23.com/" target="_blank">Eclipse Fest </a>was well promoted, with food trucks and RV sites, workshops, and a concert on Saturday night. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-NT54xJF/0/bdf3ce23/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(17%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="488" data-original-width="800" height="488" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-NT54xJF/0/bdf3ce23/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(17%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />The excitement of the event drew in people from all over, including some very well-known RV personalities. Chris and Cherie, famous for their <a href="https://www.technomadia.com/blog/" target="_blank">Technomedia</a> web presence traveled in their van all the way from Florida to attend. Some of us who remember the blog world before the influencers took over remember that Chris and Cherie are great friends of Paul and Nina, of <a href="https://www.wheelingit.us/2023/09/03/visiting-the-us-as-a-us-citizen-resident-abroad/" target="_blank">Wheelin It</a>. Nina has been in Southern France for the last 8 years but decided that the constellation of the eclipse, her good friends, and the chance to visit her beloved lighthouses on the Oregon Coast was enough. She planned a road trip through our part of the world and lucky us, Sunset House was along her route. Mo and I invited Nina to stay with us and were graced with her presence for an overnight stop.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-MLPNchN/0/4b395471/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(14%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="800" height="599" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-MLPNchN/0/4b395471/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(14%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div>We ate good food and talked a LOT about all sorts of things, including how to remember the magic of living and the magic of the world when things seem a bit dull and gray and difficult. I will carry some of the morning conversations I had with Nina for a long time. After she arrived, before our salmon dinner that I prepared, we took a drive through the beautiful Applegate Valley, stopping in to taste some wine and enjoy the beauty of the Applegate. As many times as Nina has traveled through Oregon, she hadn't visited this particular area, so it was a delight to share it with her. I was sad to see her go since Nina is an absolutely charming and entertaining guest with so much to share. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-BW8W5tw/0/dcb7b108/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(15%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-BW8W5tw/0/dcb7b108/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(15%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>Nina is a true dog lover, and Mattie adores her</div><div><br /></div><div>Nina probably had more followers than any blogger I know and when I heard her statistics I was amazed. Yet even Nina's great writing and photography cannot compete with the "influencers" the "YouTubers" and the "Instagram" people who have changed the online presence of RV writers and bloggers. It was an eye-opening conversation. Basically, blogging is pretty much dead. Made me laugh, and I realized again that I will not quit, I love my blog books and my journals that are the result of this blog. If blogging dies, so be it. I don't really care, and as I sit here this morning writing on my blog about the death of blogging it makes me laugh even more.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-Cpwcsfn/0/ce9ec72d/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(18%20of%2026)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="800" height="599" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-16-2023-Eclipse-Weekend-and-Nina-Visits/i-Cpwcsfn/0/ce9ec72d/L/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(18%20of%2026)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div>After the excitement of Nina's visit and Eclipse Fest, Mo and I settled into our fall routine of yard maintenance in between rains. Moving the roses did a number on my back and I managed to get a doctor's visit in time to make life a bit more bearable. Back soreness isn't fun, but back spasms are crazy and I couldn't do much of anything except lie around in my chair. Sleeping was impossible. My doctor was amazing, and I am so lucky to have a good GP right here in town just five minutes away. I even got an appointment within a week which is rare. A stint of steroids, muscle relaxers, and a new thing for me called Celebrex did the trick and after a week of that regimen, I am again walking around and actually doing something. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-28-2023-Axel-and-Py-Wedding/i-TTTwvKd/0/fec02359/L/10-28-2023%20Axel%20and%20Py%20Wedding%20phone%20(22%20of%2022)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-28-2023-Axel-and-Py-Wedding/i-TTTwvKd/0/fec02359/L/10-28-2023%20Axel%20and%20Py%20Wedding%20phone%20(22%20of%2022)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The end of the month was brightened by a beautiful and very different family celebration. My grandson Axel married his devoted spouse Pycho on October 28. The wedding was small, and the venue was perfect for a kid who basically grew up with my daughter Melody as a "theater kid". Melody was very active in the Albany Civic Theater when she lived there in the 2000s and knew the right people to rent the theater for the wedding venue.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-28-2023-Axel-and-Py-Wedding/i-Gt3GcrV/0/acf351e4/L/10-28-2023%20Axel%20and%20Py%20Wedding%20(14%20of%2063)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="800" height="449" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-28-2023-Axel-and-Py-Wedding/i-Gt3GcrV/0/acf351e4/L/10-28-2023%20Axel%20and%20Py%20Wedding%20(14%20of%2063)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div>The kids did all the cooking, spending three days at Melody's house making Axel's amazing curry with separate meats for those who wanted them, tons of amazing appetizers, and a truly epic wedding cake that honored the couple's commitment to natural farming and good food. They live in a small apartment that is filled to the brim with healthy growing things. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-28-2023-Axel-and-Py-Wedding/i-P9tHhxZ/0/6f16eab2/L/10-28-2023%20Axel%20and%20Py%20Wedding%20(12%20of%2063)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="800" height="449" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-28-2023-Axel-and-Py-Wedding/i-P9tHhxZ/0/6f16eab2/L/10-28-2023%20Axel%20and%20Py%20Wedding%20(12%20of%2063)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>The place was decorated with monstera leaves and elegant green cloths and napkins that matched the kid's hair perfectly. Mo and I drove north early in the morning with Daughter Deborah to attend, and after four hours of fun and food turned around and drove the four hours back home again. My back wouldn't let me spend the night in Melody's upstairs guest room. It was a beautifully perfect day and I so treasured being part of it. Axel and Py are so good for each other, and after three years together it is wonderful seeing my grandson bloom with the gift of someone who loves him exactly as he is, someone who is always in his corner. Everyone should be so lucky.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-28-2023-Axel-and-Py-Wedding/i-fFmKszV/1/ae4266f2/L/10-28-2023%20Axel%20and%20Py%20Wedding%20(55%20of%2063)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="800" height="562" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/10-28-2023-Axel-and-Py-Wedding/i-fFmKszV/1/ae4266f2/L/10-28-2023%20Axel%20and%20Py%20Wedding%20(55%20of%2063)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>The ceremony on the ACT stage was a traditional hand-fasting ceremony with the silken rope intertwining their wrists for each of the directions with each vow they made. Their vows were beautiful, with strong intentions spoken by each one for creating a good, solid marriage. Of course, I cried.</div><div><br /></div><div>The month ended with a cold Halloween, and any plans I might have had to drive over the Cascades to once again experience the evening on Pacific Terrace in my old Klamath Falls neighborhood fell by the wayside with the cold. Instead, I drove just a mile to Maryruth's house where I could enjoy her busy neighborhood which is a popular haven for trick-or-treaters, and get my fix.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Halloween/2023-Halloween-at-Sterretts/i-nQNZnJj/0/7b4ebefc/L/10-31-2023%20Halloween%20at%20Sterretts%20(18%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Halloween/2023-Halloween-at-Sterretts/i-nQNZnJj/0/7b4ebefc/L/10-31-2023%20Halloween%20at%20Sterretts%20(18%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>It was an evening filled with fun and laughter for all of us, with my friend Kristin and her family showing up at the door to make it nearly perfect. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Halloween/2023-Halloween-at-Sterretts/i-TW5rt9D/0/a8308d37/L/10-31-2023%20Halloween%20at%20Sterretts%20(25%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="413" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Halloween/2023-Halloween-at-Sterretts/i-TW5rt9D/0/a8308d37/L/10-31-2023%20Halloween%20at%20Sterretts%20(25%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="413" /></a></div><br /></div><div>Maryruth made some incredible shrimp ceviche and artichoke baguette toasts to keep us fed, with a bit of hot buttered rum to top it off. Good thing I only had a mile to get back home when it was over. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Halloween/2023-Halloween-at-Sterretts/i-9zRcVWR/0/b6e38839/L/10-31-2023%20Halloween%20at%20Sterretts%20(13%20of%2025)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="448" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Holidays/Halloween/2023-Halloween-at-Sterretts/i-9zRcVWR/0/b6e38839/L/10-31-2023%20Halloween%20at%20Sterretts%20(13%20of%2025)-L.jpg" width="448" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubGBWwqQCGIhnE2CrnjFsz0n_BKqnw7rI2AHER2t_Fx1PhVSMNGS1rt2X7k0uzoCZRRp4c0YSdrmu04PCq5IRm57DvgHOlKNkR_btArWHimMswcMdH7QLaKKCbs5JOzr8bVXCZmo4F7zRG06PLizQs2ctXKcyxjQFuBRVibQ6HCs7_M2_CFlNNDK_DLU/s3388/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(1%20of%2026).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="3388" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubGBWwqQCGIhnE2CrnjFsz0n_BKqnw7rI2AHER2t_Fx1PhVSMNGS1rt2X7k0uzoCZRRp4c0YSdrmu04PCq5IRm57DvgHOlKNkR_btArWHimMswcMdH7QLaKKCbs5JOzr8bVXCZmo4F7zRG06PLizQs2ctXKcyxjQFuBRVibQ6HCs7_M2_CFlNNDK_DLU/w485-h323/10-16-2023%20Eclipse%20Weekend%20and%20Nina%20Visits%20(1%20of%2026).jpg" width="485" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Would it be a real blog of our life if I didn't post the puzzles that we did this month? In between all the other stuff, we still managed to keep a puzzle going on the table most of the time. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZBBBVbtrjGWjhXh1SAXmGzrcH3YrULEVKQI_5-zFrvOk4aIWRf3BJgLs50xge6Tt5Z7plfu2nZ4uAMHBYxXPAwprVXhZo-eiMxk-3FFm8LGIghvJ1fQaHNBSPIO7HhrVV4ODtGchKyMXpQbA_Zd_7GmR5x9OEVY_W7InhbQSCk8zrwq87EBRj-5OJjk/s3039/10-08-2023%20Art%20on%20the%20Rogue%20(12%20of%2012).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2165" data-original-width="3039" height="347" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZBBBVbtrjGWjhXh1SAXmGzrcH3YrULEVKQI_5-zFrvOk4aIWRf3BJgLs50xge6Tt5Z7plfu2nZ4uAMHBYxXPAwprVXhZo-eiMxk-3FFm8LGIghvJ1fQaHNBSPIO7HhrVV4ODtGchKyMXpQbA_Zd_7GmR5x9OEVY_W7InhbQSCk8zrwq87EBRj-5OJjk/w486-h347/10-08-2023%20Art%20on%20the%20Rogue%20(12%20of%2012).jpg" width="486" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /><p><br /></p></div></div></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-31066733082869132892023-10-07T08:57:00.001-07:002023-10-07T09:27:25.789-07:0010-07-2023 Alone in the Lovely Dark at 4AM<p>Pre-Dawn Mental Meanderings:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-07-2023-Early-October-at-Home/i-3swcnmX/0/ebb193ec/L/10-07-2023%20Early%20October%20at%20Home%20(14%20of%2022)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/10-07-2023-Early-October-at-Home/i-3swcnmX/0/ebb193ec/L/10-07-2023%20Early%20October%20at%20Home%20(14%20of%2022)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /> I woke up at 3:30, lying in the silent dark except for the faint orange glow from the bedroom curtains. The glow is from the deep orange light bulbs for the porch lights that I found at Home Depot last week. It lends a spooky, perfectly gentle, warm light to early October darkness. I love October. I love Halloween, mostly for the happiness-inducing decorations that I put up not a day later than October 1 and sometimes a few days earlier. I read recently on some news page that putting up fall decor is good for one's mental health, and that orange is a happy color. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/09-28-2023-Fall-Flowers/i-DX2f7n7/0/992a36a3/L/04-08-2023%20The%20Trip%20Home%20(3%20of%2013)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="800" height="449" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/09-28-2023-Fall-Flowers/i-DX2f7n7/0/992a36a3/L/04-08-2023%20The%20Trip%20Home%20(3%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>I kept thinking about the month past, September, and could barely remember it. Talking with my daughter yesterday, she moaned that she had "completely lost September". I get it. I think I lost it as well. Thank goodness I have photos and a calendar to remind me of most of it, but it takes sitting down at the computer, in the dark quiet of pre-dawn, for me to actually remember September. I don't want to lose my memories, so I write them down. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/09-08-2023-Schmidt-on-a-Friday-Night/i-LBMc7Pc/0/0ef76b44/L/09-08-2023%20Schmidt%20on%20a%20Friday%20Night%20(2%20of%203)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="509" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Around-the-Rogue-Valley/2323-Around-the-Rogue-Valley-and-Beyond/09-08-2023-Schmidt-on-a-Friday-Night/i-LBMc7Pc/0/0ef76b44/L/09-08-2023%20Schmidt%20on%20a%20Friday%20Night%20(2%20of%203)-L.jpg" width="509" /></a></div><p>On a sunny Friday afternoon in early September, Mo and I enjoyed some music and wine at Schmidt Winery, a favorite.</p><p></p><p>I take way too many photos, simply to remember. In this latter part of my seventh decade, I know that remembering isn't what it used to be, so I write. Somehow, writing this way, in a blog, is so much different than a simple journal. Here I have to pay attention, I need to be a little bit creative instead of simply tracking the facts. </p><p>So I write about 4AM with a cup of good coffee wandering around the outside of the house, taking photos of the orange lights. The stars were bright and sharp, and the early morning moon was a quarter crescent rising in the east. Suddenly I was accompanied by coyotes, singing the morning awake. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/Soil-Survey/1987-Soil-Survey-Clearwater-Nez/i-wTqPLXr/0/f1ff89ab/L/1987%20Mapping%20on%20the%20Clearwater%20201-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="800" height="535" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/Soil-Survey/1987-Soil-Survey-Clearwater-Nez/i-wTqPLXr/0/f1ff89ab/L/1987%20Mapping%20on%20the%20Clearwater%20201-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Mapping in Nez Perce country along the Clearwater in 1987<p></p><p>Yes, Coyote is a friend of mine. Coyote said hello to me this morning and it made me smile. It was in the mid-80s when I was working alone in Coyote country in Idaho that I first realized that I had a special bond with the spirit of Coyote. It helped that I was also working with the Nez Perce, mapping their lands along the Clearwater River, spending time at the Visitor Center, talking and laughing with Nez Perce leaders, and reading the stories about Coyote and the special bond that the Nez Perce have with this spirit. I dreamed of Coyote often and in my dreams, he would speak to me. As my life changes, as I forget the magic of those years and live an ordinary life, I forget what that life felt like until I am out in the dark and hear coyotes sing.</p><p>Now back to September, and our everyday life. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-10-2023-Visiting-Deb-in-Trail/i-zZSfGGJ/0/82b8084e/L/09-10-2023%20Visiting%20Deb%20in%20Trail%20(10%20of%2015)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="800" height="389" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-10-2023-Visiting-Deb-in-Trail/i-zZSfGGJ/0/82b8084e/L/09-10-2023%20Visiting%20Deb%20in%20Trail%20(10%20of%2015)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Mo and I visited Daughter Deborah at her new magical forest tiny home in Trail early in the month. After we visited there, Deb followed us back to a fun restaurant that we discovered this summer, with the best patty melt I ever tasted and a cold PBR in the lounge portion of the Triple Tree Restaurant out in the middle of nowhere.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-10-2023-Visiting-Deb-in-Trail/i-gbtMrXT/0/7a800414/L/09-10-2023%20Visiting%20Deb%20in%20Trail%20(13%20of%2015)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="582" data-original-width="800" height="582" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-10-2023-Visiting-Deb-in-Trail/i-gbtMrXT/0/7a800414/L/09-10-2023%20Visiting%20Deb%20in%20Trail%20(13%20of%2015)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>I also had a birthday that I completely forgot until I wrote about it this morning and saw the photos. I was thrilled to receive the coziest, fluffiest bathrobe I have ever owned for a fabulous birthday present from Mo. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-15-2023-Birthday-Weekend/i-NQF68nS/0/c1096196/L/09-15-2023%20Birthday%20Weekend%20(2%20of%2011)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="414" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Family/2023/09-15-2023-Birthday-Weekend/i-NQF68nS/0/c1096196/L/09-15-2023%20Birthday%20Weekend%20(2%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><br />Mo and Deborah took me to dinner at the finest restaurant here in Grants Pass for a lovely birthday meal. <p></p><p>The rest of the first part of September was lost in late summer garden chores, me cleaning up and trimming all the overgrown plants, Mo doing maintenance projects on the MoHo trying to figure out the battery problem, and finally ordering a new sealed battery. </p><p>Mo has a goal that she has carried ever since she first bought the MoHo more than fifteen years ago. She wants to be sure that we get out at least once every month. It can be for a couple of days or even a simple overnight trip, or like last year, two full months on the road in part of August, all of September, and part of October. This year we have stayed closer to home. We decided last year when we returned from the "big trip" to New York City and the East Coast that summer trips during "watering season" would be limited to a few days at most. We love our home. I love the flowers and the trees and shrubs that we have planted that are thriving beyond any possible expectation in this Grants Pass zone 7, and maybe even zone 8 with a bit of global warming. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2021-At-Sunset-House/08-13-2021-Dog-Days-of-August/i-MJpxqX6/0/c3415779/L/08-13-2021%20Smoky%20Dog%20Days%20August%20Gardens-76-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="800" height="515" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2021-At-Sunset-House/08-13-2021-Dog-Days-of-August/i-MJpxqX6/0/c3415779/L/08-13-2021%20Smoky%20Dog%20Days%20August%20Gardens-76-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />I have never lived where I could leave a dahlia in the ground and watch it bloom year after year. It is good to be close in the summer and save the long trips for the seven months of the year that we don't have to think about the well or worry about the flowers.<p></p><p>Our September trip was a special one. When Mo and I camped just north of Portland on Sauvie Island last spring and visited the small towns where Mo grew up, we thought how much fun it would be to share a camping trip there with Mo's brother and his wife Chere. We made reservations months ago for Reeder Beach RV Park, two sites facing the river, side by side, for four days in mid-September. I looked forward to hearing Mo's stories of growing up along the Columbia River told from Dan's perspective as a young boy growing up in Columbia City, Oregon. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-18-2023-First-Eveming-at-Sauvie-Island/i-wZm9g8H/0/07b40bfd/L/09-18-2023%20First%20Eveming%20at%20Sauvie%20Island%20(2%20of%205)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-18-2023-First-Eveming-at-Sauvie-Island/i-wZm9g8H/0/07b40bfd/L/09-18-2023%20First%20Eveming%20at%20Sauvie%20Island%20(2%20of%205)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The drive north was an easy one, with very little traffic on the interstate and perfect weather. Dan and Chere were already settled into their site when we arrived. There were fire pits along the edge of the river. None of us wanted to walk the extra 50 feet or so for a campfire and Dan carried a metal firepit from another site and put it right in between our two rigs. We used that fire pit every evening, laughing and talking after supper as we watched the boat traffic on the mighty Columbia River.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-18-2023-First-Eveming-at-Sauvie-Island/i-MJbMhPW/0/831ac9eb/L/09-18-2023%20First%20Eveming%20at%20Sauvie%20Island%20(1%20of%205)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="800" height="463" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-18-2023-First-Eveming-at-Sauvie-Island/i-MJbMhPW/0/831ac9eb/L/09-18-2023%20First%20Eveming%20at%20Sauvie%20Island%20(1%20of%205)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Mattie loves to camp with Dan and Chere's dog, Sophie. They play and play and Sophie is so gentle with Mattie, getting down low enough to be on Mattie's level. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-bHhzLpt/0/2e391193/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(20%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="800" height="427" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-bHhzLpt/0/2e391193/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(20%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />All of us were amazed at the volume of boats that traveled that river day and night. We saw barges hauling grain that may have originated in the Palouse fields of Eastern Washington, loaded to the barge in Lewsiton, carrying as much grain in a single barge that could be moved by 17 railroad cars. The soft white wheat grown in the great fields of the inner Northwest is coveted by Asian countries for the fine noodles that it makes. Most of the wheat grown in Washington and Idaho makes its way there by way of the mighty Columbia, and then crossing the Pacific Ocean. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-fkxvLS4/0/8481211e/L/09-18-2023%20First%20Eveming%20at%20Sauvie%20Island%20(4%20of%205)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-fkxvLS4/0/8481211e/L/09-18-2023%20First%20Eveming%20at%20Sauvie%20Island%20(4%20of%205)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We saw fancy white paddlewheelers with a big red paddlewheel hauling invisible tourists along the river. We saw not a single person on deck on those boats. Maybe it was too cold, or maybe it was a dinner cruise and everyone was inside eating. Who knows. It was a mystery that we talked about every time one of those boats passed.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-37BFQ3T/0/53bb5ebc/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(3%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="800" height="484" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-37BFQ3T/0/53bb5ebc/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(3%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Sometimes huge gray ships of unknown origin with indecipherable logos entertained us. The noise of the boats and ships wasn't especially intrusive, even at night, and I slept like a baby the entire time we were camped. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-PG9HswG/0/adff7e80/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(7%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="800" height="468" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-PG9HswG/0/adff7e80/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(7%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-Bn7FGmf/0/bdeaab35/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(10%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="800" height="490" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-Bn7FGmf/0/bdeaab35/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(10%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-Bxvzd8D/0/8737315c/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(6%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-Bxvzd8D/0/8737315c/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(6%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-DBs2Sf8/0/1deb8d7d/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(11%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Boats-on-the-Columbia/i-DBs2Sf8/0/1deb8d7d/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(11%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The Columbia is a VERY busy river.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-mXkjfTF/0/5107c11b/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(1%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="799" height="447" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-mXkjfTF/0/5107c11b/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(1%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />On Tuesday, our first full day, we explored the island. In the morning we traveled north toward the refuge to determine where we might launch our kayaks. When Mo and I visited last Spring, most of the refuge waters were closed due to nesting migrating birds. We thought maybe in the late summer there would be fewer closures on the refuge and possibly a place to launch our kayaks.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-WGm2vtC/0/93d78854/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(24%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-WGm2vtC/0/93d78854/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(24%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />There are two lakes that show up on the refuge maps, but with a bit of driving we discovered that they may be open to kayaking, but late summer also brings low water and the muck wasn't the least bit inviting. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-dKMLzGN/0/eaab6318/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(25%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-dKMLzGN/0/eaab6318/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(25%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We did find a boat launch on the west side of the island on the Multnomah Channel that looked like a possible kayak site. It was a beautiful day, with full sunshine, but we planned to explore on this first day and then kayak on the next two days. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-9dXf2C3/0/3799e1ce/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(7%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-9dXf2C3/0/3799e1ce/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(7%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>An easy walk with the kayaks to launch on the Columbia River<p></p><p>We found a beautiful beach on the Columbia at the far northern extent of the road near the Warrior Rock Lighthouse trail. We knew that hiking the 3 miles to the lighthouse wasn't an option, but did have a bit of hope that we could make it there in the kayaks. On this gorgeous day, it might have been possible with the smooth water and no wind. We saved the plan for Thursday when the weather gods predicted another sunny day to follow a rainy Wednesday.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-LvgRspm/0/1b0251b1/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(15%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-LvgRspm/0/1b0251b1/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(15%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Sophie and Mattie loved running on the sandy beach. Sophie also loves to swim, but it wasn't enough to tempt Mattie into the water. The four of us simply sat on the logs enjoying the sunshine and watching more river traffic.<p></p><p>After meandering around some refuge roads near the lakes, we returned to camp for a bit of lunch and some resting time. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-6SR8dHG/0/0adc1d91/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(35%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="800" height="420" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-6SR8dHG/0/0adc1d91/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(35%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-PkCvVg2/0/900d5d5b/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(41%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-PkCvVg2/0/900d5d5b/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(41%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Our afternoon was spent exploring the southern half of the island, where there are many flower and pumpkin farms, and one especially inviting place with u-pick flowers, a coffee shop, a gift shop, and a big produce store. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-FvHFVBm/0/5dc1f802/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(36%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-FvHFVBm/0/5dc1f802/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(36%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I bought an especially delightful striped squash that was much too beautiful to eat and ended up as part of the October decor at home.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-fFMK8q2/0/37682fec/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(31%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="392" data-original-width="800" height="392" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-fFMK8q2/0/37682fec/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(31%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-dhpBv9J/0/25c2af8f/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(34%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="794" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-dhpBv9J/0/25c2af8f/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(34%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="794" /></a></div><br />The flowers on the island are gorgeous, with all sorts of creative displays adorning the roadways. The afternoon was perfect, and once we were back home, Dan and Chere took their chairs out to the riverside to watch the boats going by.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-W55ppKh/0/ea4cf891/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(29%20of%2043)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-19-2023-Second-Day-on-Sauvie-Island/i-W55ppKh/0/ea4cf891/L/09-19-2023%20First%20Day%20on%20Sauvie%20Island%20(29%20of%2043)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>Those beautiful puffy white clouds were a precursor to a beautiful rain that started falling during the night and continued into the next day. It was a perfect time for the four of us to drive north to Columbia City where Dan and Mo grew up. </p><p>Mo and I took so many pictures of the family home the last time we traveled this way that I didn't think to do so on this trip. Still, Dan was amazed at how well the old house had held up so beautifully and is well cared for.</p><p>As we drove around Columbia City and St Helens, Dan told many stories of his memories of growing up along the banks of the Columbia River. In a family with 2 girls and 3 boys, you can imagine the "boy stories" that we heard. We topped off the afternoon with a late lunch/early dinner at the Pour House on the Old Portland Highway, a comfortable tavern where Dan was fairly certain their father stopped for a beer now and then after work.</p><p>We knew that there was only one day of rainy weather before the sun was to return on Thursday. We left early to launch the boats at the location we found at the lighthouse trail. The water was a bit choppy due to the morning winds, but we launched without incident, hoping to make it to the lighthouse.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Kayak-on-the-Columbia/i-wwJPnjW/0/50a52ee3/XL/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(11%20of%2019)-XL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Kayak-on-the-Columbia/i-wwJPnjW/0/50a52ee3/XL/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(11%20of%2019)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>Dan was a bit worried that Sophie, being a water dog that loved to swim, might try to jump off the kayak. She was perfect, and now Dan doesn't have to worry any more about taking her out in the boat. He told us later that he had been worrying about this for days before the actual trip.</p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Kayak-on-the-Columbia/i-xsbGwBQ/0/9ded6b40/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(13%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="799" height="441" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Kayak-on-the-Columbia/i-xsbGwBQ/0/9ded6b40/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(13%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />What I didn't consider, however, was the effect of an upriver wind combined with an incoming tide and a downriver current. Those three things coming together made for a bit of a rough ride, and after a mile or so Dan and Chere decided to turn around. I was getting a bit nervous with the choppy water, but Mo paddled on ahead of me and I did my best to keep up.<p></p><p>Mo looked back and saw me with a very large ship bearing down on me. Of course, neither of us could hear each other, but we managed to get our boats to the shoreline in time to be ready for the wave from the ship. Suddenly it felt like the movies when a tidal wave approaches. With the approaching boat, the water receded and suddenly our boats were sitting on the muddy bottom of the river. Seconds later the big wave came back toward us. I was extremely glad that we weren't out on the river when that boat passed us. But with that bit of excitement, we decided we had enough of the Mighty Columbia and a kayak trip to the Warrior Rock Lighthouse would have to wait for another day, a day that would be less challenging without the tides and wind.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Kayak-on-the-Columbia/i-48xZTPx/0/8156719f/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(14%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Kayak-on-the-Columbia/i-48xZTPx/0/8156719f/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(14%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Mo and Mattie on the river and if you look closely you can see the Warrior Rock Lighthouse on the peninsula in the distance on the right side of the photo.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Kayak-on-the-Columbia/i-Dqd7f85/0/f86cc22e/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(17%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="424" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/09-September-Trip-to-Sauvie-Island/09-21-2023-Kayak-on-the-Columbia/i-Dqd7f85/0/f86cc22e/L/09-19-2023%20Visiting%20Sauvie%20Island%20(17%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br />We returned to camp, worn out but happy that we had managed to get the boats in the water at least once on this trip. The evening campfire started early and ended late into the evening after a joint meal of burgers on the grill and good conversation. <p></p><p>One very special thing about Dan is his willingness to help with any kind of mechanical problem that might be a bit too much for Mo to handle alone. Mo brought the new battery she had purchased for the MoHo and Dan said he was happy to help install it. We decided that I would take the car and Mattie and go home to Grants Pass and Mo would follow Dan home to their place in Beavercreek. Dan and Mo worked on the rig, installing the battery, doing generator maintenance and tune-up, and a couple of other things. With such difficulty finding anyone to actually work on a motorhome without a long wait, it is truly wonderful to have such help. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/09-25-rainbow-at-home/i-SNRLF9Z/0/632d9d14/L/20230925_075634-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/09-25-rainbow-at-home/i-SNRLF9Z/0/632d9d14/L/20230925_075634-L.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><br />Late September was beautiful, with a gorgeous soaking rain and cooler temperatures than we rarely see this early in the season. It was such a relief to see the thirsty pasture grass soak up the moisture and begin the return to the beautiful, soft green that I love. <p></p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-72140121791114639202023-08-29T17:20:00.013-07:002023-09-28T15:39:18.428-07:0008-29-2023 to 08-31-2023 A Perfect Escape to the Mountains<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><!--wp:image {"sizeSlug":"large"}-->
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-Gww5ScL/0/680f8265/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%281%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Waking to smoky skies over Medicine Lake</figcaption></figure>
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<p> We woke early with the smell of smoke strong in the air. Sitting in the camp chairs by the campfire this morning I watched the stillness of the lake shrouded in the smoke. The campfire rings in this campground are gorgeous, made of the dark volcanic rock that surrounds the caldera. </p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-NnXM3Zh/0/25cb1554/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%287%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Beautiful firepits at the Hogue Campground</figcaption></figure>
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<p>I don't know who built these fireplaces, but they are huge and strong, angled with the taller side facing the wind coming from the lake. They remind me of some of the CCC rock work we have seen throughout the country but I never read anything about the CCC working in this area.</p>
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<p>At first, I thought the gloom was morning fog, but no, it was actually smoke. Thick enough that the far side of the lake about a mile from us looked very vague, with just a hint of the meadow there that we often paddle to in the kayaks. The outside temperature at the lake this morning was 38F and inside the MoHo it was a brisk 49 degrees. We turned on the furnace and let it run awhile. Our house batteries are acting a bit strange, with nothing but the fridge running overnight and our juice down to 11.9, so we started up the generator.</p>
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<p>Mo took Mattie for a nice walk around the campground while I cooked a sausage/ English muffin sandwich for our breakfast. When we first got up, the lake was glassy smooth, and yet before 9AM a slight breeze from the west ruffled the surface. We bantered a bit about whether we should go out on the lake or not, with the smoke and the breeze, but decided to let the temps warm a bit more before we went out on the lake.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-rtJpxHt/0/966bfdd5/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2818%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mo and Mattie walking through the Hogue Campground</figcaption></figure>
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<p>In the meantime, we walked the campground together, paying attention to which reserved sites were level enough that we might be able to park the MoHo comfortably. At the upper part of Hogue Campground, there are two very large, very level sites that would be adequate for a big rig. Site 55 and Site 56 are roomy, but neither of them has a lake view other than a tiny sliver of water seen through the trees. </p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-PjPCtcv/0/20dc9b48/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2819%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Medicine, Hogue, and Hemlock campgrounds are on the north side of the lake</figcaption></figure>
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<p>There are a few things that we love to do when visiting Medicine Lake. Kayaking is our favorite, but the beautiful trails at Glass Mountain are a short drive north. On this day we decided that we could do both.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-8mf3RGN/0/d793b6cb/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2821%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Still breezy but the smoke is thinning</figcaption></figure>
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<p>We aren't a fan of kayaking in the wind, but the breeze coming from the west on the lake wasn't terribly strong and we launched our boats easily. We had brought them down from the car the night before so that we would be ready. There is a large log that is conveniently close to the water where we can tie up the boats and not have to bring them up until we are ready to load up for home at the end of the week.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-HJDscK6/0/d359b956/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2822%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Crystal clear waters of Medicine Lake</figcaption></figure>
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<p>We can kayak all the way around the lake in about two hours, but with the breeze decided that a shorter trip to the west side of the lake against the wind and then returning with the wind behind us was the best plan for the morning. As always, it felt fabulous to be on the lake once again. I think it is our favorite. When we were at East Lake last month we thought maybe it was our favorite, but no, Medicine Lake has a special sweetness that is hard to put into words.</p>
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<p>There is a spiritual quality to this place that feels as though all the spirits of all the indigenous people who have camped and fished and hunted here are all around us, doing their magic on anyone who cares to pay attention.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-nW3NFLD/0/ab52cd00/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2836%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mo in her kayak way ahead of me as we approach our campsite near the shore</figcaption></figure>
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<p>It was lovely to be on the water but we were happy to get back home in time for lunch and a bit of a rest from the wind. Our next outing for the day was a visit to Glass Mountain. </p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-KzTKm46/0/0e0b3041/L/glass%20mountain-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Glass Mountain Obsidian Flow (from the USGS website)</figcaption></figure>
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<p>We have been to Glass Mountain several times over the last couple of decades that we have visited Medicine Lake, but it never fails to be a thrill to walk among the sparkling rocks and listen to the clink of obsidian as we walk. Needless to say, we don't take Mattie with us when walking the trails in this area, with the sharp shards of obsidian that could tear up her footpads.</p>
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<p>Glass Mountain is a spectacular, nearly treeless, steep-sided obsidian flow that erupted just outside the eastern caldera rim and flowed down the steep eastern flank of Medicine Lake volcano. The Glass Mountain flow, draped over the east side of the volcano, is the youngest lava flow at the volcano, erupting less than 1,000 years ago.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-6CH5kxc/0/49219b07/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2845%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Two sticks and decent walking shoes helped me get up the trail</figcaption></figure>
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<p>I knew that parts of the trail were steep, but once up the steepest part, things level out nicely, although most of the trail is rocky and uneven. The trails meander around the flow in different directions, but like a magnet, the dark shining outcrop of black obsidian draws us toward it every time.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-cBQsg6b/0/a265cad3/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2851%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hard to capture the brilliant shine of the obsidian in a photo</figcaption></figure>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-vtK5bw4/0/597d8cd6/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2849%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Me attempting to take a selfie with the black rock in the background without falling</figcaption></figure>
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<p>Mo waited while I walked up to the outcrop, then asked if I wanted her to take my photo. I really didn't want to walk back to her, so instead tried for a selfie. Here is the selfie, and the next photo is Mo smiling at me while I attempt to take the selfie without tipping over.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-qrrdDJP/0/c832545e/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2848%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mo hiking the rocky trail at Glass Mountain</figcaption></figure>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-XQFRdXX/0/0729a379/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2857%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mo hiking up one of the more level trails around Glass Mountain</figcaption></figure>
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<p>We chose to return to camp taking the road that circles around Lyons Peak to the east where we were treated to a spectacular view of the desert and the extent of the smoke plume which had receded a bit since we began our day.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-H7CqwGg/0/e506412e/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2864%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">View from Lyons Peak toward the eastern Oregon </figcaption></figure>
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<p>It was wonderful to see that the smoke had cleared at Medicine Lake by the time we returned and we settled in for another wonderful supper and another perfect campfire as we watched the sunset over the lake.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-29-2023-Medical-Lake-and-Glass-Mountain/i-gf7ptz7/0/8fb7e0b9/L/08-29-2023%20Medical%20Lake%20and%20Glass%20Mountain%20%2868%20of%2068%29-L.jpg" /></figure>
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<p>The next morning when we woke it was a brisk 33 Degrees F. The batteries were low again, reading 11.6, and we turned on the generator at 7, hopefully not disturbing anyone. I was glad the sites were far enough apart that it wasn't much of a worry.</p>
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<p>The water was mirror smooth, without the slightest breeze to mar the perfect, smoke-free air. I picked 40F as the breaking point for getting out on the water, and sure enough we reached that temperature by 9:30 AM. We again headed west on the lake, this time aiming for the shallow water that supports an amazing floating garden of pink knotweed, sometimes called smartweed.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-30-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Little-Hoffman-Lookout/i-McJQ5hJ/0/d7653c6f/L/08-30-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Little%20Hoffman%20Lookout%20%288%20of%2033%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My hot pink kayak floating in a bed of smartweed.</figcaption></figure>
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<p>I love floating around in the pink flowers inside my pink boat. Makes me all happy inside. Mattie used to be a bit hesitant in the kayak but on this trip, she decided that kayaking was great fun and jumped right into Mo's boat even before we got into the water.</p>
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<p>Mo got out on the beach and let Mattie run around a bit while I paddled around enjoying the simplicity of just floating gently on the lake looking for fish beneath the flower carpet. It was a spectacular morning.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-30-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Little-Hoffman-Lookout/i-wBK6W8N/0/32ac9449/L/08-30-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Little%20Hoffman%20Lookout%20%2812%20of%2033%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mo and Mattie on Medicine Lake</figcaption></figure>
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<p>We followed the shore past the old cabin on the south shore and then crossed the lake to get home. It wasn't too windy but that beautiful glassy surface was a bit ruffled on our way back. I figured out an even easier way to exit my kayak. If I am deep enough in the water, I can use my sticks to push up from the boat. Works well if there isn't current or it isn't windy, and if Mo can keep my boat from floating away. Whatever works!</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-30-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Little-Hoffman-Lookout/i-jP4WbhV/0/e292b574/L/08-30-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Little%20Hoffman%20Lookout%20%2819%20of%2033%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Our camp in the distance across the lake</figcaption></figure>
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<p>Once back home we settled in for a quiet morning reading in the sunshine before lunch. One of the finer luxuries of camping is the nice nap I took with Mattie until 2 or so when Mo and I decided that a drive up to the Little Hoffman Lookout would be a perfect way to celebrate the beautifully clear afternoon. I wanted to see if smoke was still visible to the north and west of us.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-30-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Little-Hoffman-Lookout/i-gX8JCVT/0/6e0f5aa1/L/08-30-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Little%20Hoffman%20Lookout%20%2821%20of%2033%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mt Shasta visible toward the west of Little Hoffman Mountain</figcaption></figure>
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<p>It is about 5 miles of curvy dirt road to get to the lookout. We used to be able to drive to the top, but now they are locking the gate at the bottom of the steepest part of the road leading to the lookout. I read that they are now renting out the lookout for overnight camping for $75 per night. We hiked up the road to the top and were thrilled to see that all around us on all sides the skies were beautifully clear.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-30-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Little-Hoffman-Lookout/i-TH7Cdb9/0/e2c383ce/L/08-30-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Little%20Hoffman%20Lookout%20%2831%20of%2033%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mo and Mattie at the Little Hoffman Lookout</figcaption></figure>
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<p>The view from the top was gorgeous with most of the smoke pushed toward the northwest beyond Klamath Falls. My legs were screaming by the time we got back to the car but I loved the hike so much.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-30-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Little-Hoffman-Lookout/i-HSvD2gV/0/9804c306/L/08-30-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Little%20Hoffman%20Lookout%20%2826%20of%2033%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The lava flow below on the left side of the photo is Little Glass Mountain</figcaption></figure>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-30-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Little-Hoffman-Lookout/i-3Hz8jFL/0/f5a05693/L/08-30-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Little%20Hoffman%20Lookout%20%2832%20of%2033%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mt Shasta and Little Glass Mountains from Little Hoffman Mountain</figcaption></figure>
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<p>Back in camp, we settled in for more reading till dinnertime. I cooked burgers and made mac salad before we settled in for our last campfire of the trip and watched fish jumping until the full moon rose shortly after sunset.</p>
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<p>Once again I got up around midnight to see the full moon and saw the constellation Cassiopeia directly overhead. Cassiopeia is a constellation we love to track through our skies at home as we sit in the hot tub at night.</p>
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<p>We slept well on our last night at the lake, waking again to chilly temperatures in the low 30s. This time the generator was down to 9.6. Pretty sure this means we are due for new batteries for the MoHo. A side effect of the low battery output is the obnoxious beeping of the CO detectors every time we run the generator. We decided that if the temperature rose to 40F by 9am we would go kayaking one more time. </p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-31-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Howard-Bay/i-KF5M7zK/0/16c2f002/L/08-31-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Howard%20Bay%20%281%20of%2025%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The people who owned this boat went fishing every day</figcaption></figure>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-31-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Howard-Bay/i-WfXFsF9/0/5b026636/L/08-31-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Howard%20Bay%20%282%20of%2025%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Handy boat storage log</figcaption></figure>
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<p>Sure enough, with the skies clear and the water silky smooth, we paddled once again on our favorite lake. This time we traveled east along the shoreline in front of the campgrounds, explored the swim beach and the local boat launch, and paddled as far as the meadow before turning back toward camp.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-31-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Howard-Bay/i-GP5ztpV/0/aabe6110/L/08-31-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Howard%20Bay%20%287%20of%2025%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Silky smooth water and the meadow to the left</figcaption></figure>
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<p>It didn't take us long to load the kayaks and get the MoHo ready to roll. We left the campground before the official checkout time at 12 and traveled back through Klamath Falls toward home. </p>
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<p>The closer we got to Klamath, the more smoke was in the air, although it wasn't nearly as bad as it had been on our way through earlier in the week. We stopped at the cemetery to put some flowers on a family gravesite before continuing around Klamath Lake toward the mountains.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-31-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Howard-Bay/i-pNd4LM5/0/05f01e7a/L/08-31-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Howard%20Bay%20%2821%20of%2025%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The egrets seemed to like the barrier</figcaption></figure>
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<p>A somewhat shocking moment came as we saw the construction taking place along the narrow highway near Howard Bay on Klamath. Usually, this part of the lake is a resting and feeding spot for hundreds of white pelicans, great egrets, snowy egrets, many types of ducks and geese, and grebes. </p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-31-2023-Medicine-Lake-and-Howard-Bay/i-cDLp4Gr/0/0e1aedad/L/08-31-2023%20Medicine%20Lake%20and%20Howard%20Bay%20%2825%20of%2025%29-L.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Howard Bay on Klamath Lake adjacent to HWY 140</figcaption></figure>
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<p>The road is quite narrow and it seems that people don't recognize the need to slow down as they navigate the curves adjacent to the lake. There have been repeated accidents with cars going into the water, and some deaths. It still made me sad to see the devastation along the lake as they widen the highway. The floor of the lake is soft silt and it takes a lot of rock to fill it in. </p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/Views-Around-the-Klamath-Basin/2012/09-15-2012-Klamath-Lake-Howard/i-GcN4gXN/0/6e943631/L/IMG_0044-L.jpg" /></figure>
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<p>I will close with a photo from days past on Howard Bay.</p>
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<p> </p>
<!--/wp:paragraph--></figure>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-58284937239945705882023-08-28T17:09:00.001-07:002023-09-27T10:01:59.441-07:0008-28-2023 Escaping the Smoke to a Favorite Place<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-5kc76d8/0/d15c0f5d/XL/08-28-2023%20First%20Evening%20at%20Medicine%20Lake%20%281%20of%2023%29-XL.jpg" /></figure><p></p><p>When we woke early this morning, the sky was thick with smoke. It has been like this for several days because of the Smith River Complex fires, with most of the burning acreage south of the Oregon state line in northwestern California. Of the more than 80,000 acres burning, only 12,000 or so are in Oregon. Although the fire boundaries are many miles from us, the smoke is blown directly into the Rogue Valley by the dominant west and southwest winds that come our way from the Pacific. It was time for an escape. </p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-szNzRs3/0/5065c55c/XL/20230827_184221-XL.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Smoky skies on our route leaving Grants Pass</figcaption></figure><p>I use several different weather and fire maps to track where the thick smoke plumes originate and where they might go. We had planned to camp at our favorite little spot, Medicine Lake in northern California, toward the end of August. The window for camping there is short, with a big tribal medicine celebration in late July that closes the largest of the four campgrounds to the general public, and cold and snow beginning sometime in early September. There are only a few sites at the Hogue Campground that we like best that are available for reservations and none of them are close to the lake. As we often do, we decided we would take our chances and hope for a good spot available on a Monday afternoon, as well as hoping for a break from the smoke.</p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-WKj3gwt/0/3f67c8b5/XL/local%20smoke-XL.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">FireAirNow.gov website is good for tracking fire and smoke</figcaption></figure><p>When I looked at the app, it seemed that the boundary of the smoke plume was just north and west of our destination. Hoping for the best, we completed a few morning chores after breakfast and finished the last bit of loading provisions for the week into the MoHo. There was some extra watering needed to hopefully get the property through the next few days while we were gone. There were mole holes for Mo to deal with in the grass. Mo needed to top off the salt in our water system. I needed to do a fresh deer spray to keep the critters from completely decimating everything in the yard. Those little stinkers even eat our photinia shrubs, guaranteed to be deer-proof. </p><p>Even with all those little details, we managed to get out of the gate at 9:50, after agreeing to let ourselves relax a bit from our original plan to leave at 9. Our route south is easy and familiar. Traveling south on I-5, just a few miles to the Gold Hill exit, we turned east toward Klamath Falls. We could probably drive the Highway 140 High Lakes Pass over the Cascades in our sleep after so many years of driving back and forth between our little cottage in Grants Pass and Mo's house in Rocky Point on the eastern slope of the Cascades. It is a beautiful drive most of the time, but on this trip, even at the maximum elevation of the pass at over 5,000 feet, the skies were thick with smoke.</p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-FTn83Hc/0/836e2ff4/XL/08-28-2023%20First%20Evening%20at%20Medicine%20Lake%20%282%20of%2023%29-XL.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The view toward Mt Lassen on the left side of the photo from the road to Medicine Lake</figcaption></figure><p>Continuing east toward Klamath Falls and then south toward Tulelake on the California border, the smoke showed no signs of lessening. Then, magically, exactly where the FireAirNow website showed the smoke plume boundary, we were out of the smoke as we turned back west on the forest road near Tionesta that leads up the mountain to Medicine Lake. Glass Mountain is north of the caldera where the lake is located and the northern half of the obsidian flow that is the reason it is called Glass Mountain was in smoke and the southern half where we would be camping was crystal clear. It was an amazing thing to see, and to suddenly be in clear air and blue skies was such a relief after breathing thick smoke for so many days.</p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-vg2cdkk/0/21e74441/XL/08-28-2023%20First%20Evening%20at%20Medicine%20Lake%20%284%20of%2023%29-XL.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">View of Medicine Lake from Site 45 in the Hogue Campground</figcaption></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-gJ82Dkc/0/c6dfa060/XL/08-28-2023%20First%20Evening%20at%20Medicine%20Lake%20%285%20of%2023%29-XL.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nice little area for relaxing even though the picnic table is a bit far away</figcaption></figure><p>We settled into site 45, enjoying the sunshine and the view of the lake. We often take site 42, a bit more level and closer to the lake than our current site, but this time 42 was filled in with a family camping in tents. Even though 45 isn't level and the site for the MoHo is rather tight, we managed to get perfectly level and have room for the slide and the car on the side facing the road with our door facing the lake, just the way we like it.</p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-TZTw9Zn/0/583cccaf/XL/08-28-2023%20First%20Evening%20at%20Medicine%20Lake%20%2821%20of%2023%29-XL.jpg" /></figure><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-XgwH7qM/0/ddaf3410/XL/08-28-2023%20First%20Evening%20at%20Medicine%20Lake%20%2818%20of%2023%29-XL.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mo is the official excellent builder of fires</figcaption></figure><p>Mo built a fire while I heated up the green chile enchiladas I had prepared at home. After dinner, we sat by the fire until the almost full moon rose in the east over the lake. It was completely dark by 8:30, an indication that we are enough east of our location in the time zone in Grants Pass that the sun sets a bit earlier here than at home. I woke up at 4AM and stood outside in the chilly air to look at stars I hadn't seen at home for days because of the smoke. Even though we came to this lake mainly to kayak, I was looking forward so much to clear skies and night stars again.</p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-dR9k5Z3/0/359540d6/XL/08-28-2023%20First%20Evening%20at%20Medicine%20Lake%20%2823%20of%2023%29-XL.jpg" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A bit fuzzy from the phone, but you get the idea</figcaption></figure><p>One of the best parts of camping at Medicine Lake this time of year is the incredible privacy. It is very, very quiet, and the campsites are a considerable distance apart, with trees between sites that limit the view of adjacent campsites. Even if the campground had been completely full, there wouldn't be very many people within view of our motorhome as we look out over the lake.</p><p>We are both happy to once again be in our happy place at Medicine Lake.</p><p><!-- wp:image {"sizeSlug":"large"} -->
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<!-- /wp:image --></p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-Medical-Lake-Trip-in-August/08-28-2023-First-Evening-at-Medicine-Lake/i-RNHKCcn/0/4f1b6f06/XL/08-28-2023%20First%20Evening%20at%20Medicine%20Lake%20%2820%20of%2023%29-XL.jpg" /></figure>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-75680198276148855332023-08-11T17:32:00.004-07:002023-08-18T16:43:15.547-07:0008-08-and 08-09-2023 Last Days at East Lake<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-d95Lcqb/0/abb50338/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(3%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-d95Lcqb/0/abb50338/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(3%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We woke at 7 and were out of bed by 7:15. It was a bit chilly at 42F, but the skies were clear, and the lake was silky calm with a slight miasma blanketing the water. We planned to kayak again, but not quite as early as yesterday, giving the temperature a chance to rise a bit.<p></p><p>We started the generator, prepared breakfast on the stove, and decided that I could make coffee in the Keurig at the same time that Mo reheated day-old coffee in the microwave. Although we know better than to try to turn on the toaster and the coffee pot at the same time, it seemed that the microwave wouldn't be a problem because it is on a different circuit than the outlet for the coffee pot. Nope. Within moments the entire house went out. None of the circuit breakers by the bed seemed to have a breaker that took care of the issue. The generator wouldn't even start. Mo started dressing enough to go out in the chill and search the storage compartments for whatever fuse might be involved. We did finally get the generator to start, but none of the lights for any of the appliances came on. Still wondering what could possibly be wrong. </p><p>I thought about the fact that although I drive the MoHo, know how to hook her up, and deal with some of her inner workings I do not have a clue where the fuse boxes are located or how to even begin to manage them. Good thing I don't travel alone in the MoHo, no matter how independent I think I might be. We turned the generator off and let it rest a bit as Mo was preparing to go outdoors, and then gave it another try. The generator started and all the lights came on and everything was working perfectly. No clue what that was all about. Needless to say, we won't try to run two appliances that draw a lot of juice at the same time. We know better than to do that when plugged into shore power, and now we also know that the microwave is NOT on a separate circuit. Something to learn after 16 years with our rig.</p><p>We enjoyed our breakfast AND our coffee. Mo slept well last night, and I slept well after two leg pills and then finally at midnight a sleeping pill which did the trick. So grateful for the gabapentin that calms the nerve pain in my legs and for the occasional Ambien that makes sleep possible when I have overdone a bit.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-TWSmzZ8/0/c0bf4e4d/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(14%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="409" data-original-width="800" height="409" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-TWSmzZ8/0/c0bf4e4d/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(14%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />By 8:15 or so we were launched on the lake that was smooth as glass. The skies are clear, with high floating clouds, not big white puffies, but the wispy kind. Gaelyn, who studies clouds, would know what to name them. We paddled toward the left from the campground this time, with our destination clear. We returned to the beautiful small white sand beach on the west side of the lake at the base of the volcanic dome that separates the two lakes of the Newberry Caldera, Paulina Lake, and East Lake.<p></p><p>The skies were gorgeous and on that side of the lake, the water was exceptionally clear. It was much warmer than the water near the cliffs. On the way to the beach, we saw a couple of young ospreys, much too white on their breasts to get a good photo against the dark firs where they perched. Several ospreys were busy fishing, swooping over us as they watched the lake water for easy prey.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-sc3QtQv/0/94889766/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(5%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-sc3QtQv/0/94889766/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(5%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />As we approached the beach we saw a long line of ducks sunning themselves on the shoreline, what I think were common mergansers. We stayed far enough away to avoid disturbing them, but after we landed they took to the water. It was a quiet exit, so they didn't seem afraid, and they slid into the water moving toward the center of the lake.<p></p><p>We have been to this beach before, but in the past have been joined by fishermen plying the rich waters along this shoreline. This time there were a few kayakers and a couple of fishing boats, but none of them came close to shore and we had the entire beach to ourselves.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-DMmM4gK/0/fb2a06e3/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(16%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-DMmM4gK/0/fb2a06e3/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(16%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Mo let Mattie jump out of the kayak to the beach as we exited our boats. This time I exited in water that was about knee deep with Mo holding my boat steady and tipping it a bit to help out. I was able to rise without difficulty with the extra help of the deeper water so that was encouraging. This method is great, but only works on calm, quiet lakes with no current to deal with and no big rocks under the water.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-pMqmRcJ/0/4eadd0a9/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(28%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="800" height="768" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-pMqmRcJ/0/4eadd0a9/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(28%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Mattie ran up and down the beach, happily off-leash. She actually ran into the water on her own. Once. No amount of coaxing could get her back into the water. She swims well, but isn't that interested. Mo and I remembered how easily she ran into the water when we were visiting the beach at Cape Cod and all the dogs were chasing each other and going after balls in the water. Mattie joined right in.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-M55rHMD/0/8715df94/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(30%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="494" height="768" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-M55rHMD/0/8715df94/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(30%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br />Since we didn't have an extra dog along to entice Mattie, Mo picked her up and took her out into the water at a depth and distance that would allow Mattie to swim to shore. She is an excellent swimmer and it was a great way to get her cleaned up a bit without the much dreaded bath.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-MkJWS8F/0/bdc8ba6b/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(21%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-MkJWS8F/0/bdc8ba6b/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(21%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-hQ8GSjJ/0/dc272854/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(20%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-hQ8GSjJ/0/dc272854/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(20%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We meandered back to camp where I again used the deeper water, Mo holding the boat method for exiting the kayak. After changing clothes and relaxing a bit, we began the process of moving to our new spot in the adjacent number 2 campsite. Even though our current site was reserved for August 8 through the 12, no one ever showed up to claim the site that night or the next morning.<p></p><p>Our new site had been empty for the two nights we were in the campground and we knew that we could move over there at our leisure, with no need to wait until the official check-in time at 2PM. We packed up all our outside accouterments including chairs, bbq, rugs, and wood bin in the car, and drove the hundred feet or so to the new site. I followed with the MoHo and within a short time, we were settled into our new digs.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-XBW2stZ/0/4182af64/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(34%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-XBW2stZ/0/4182af64/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(34%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We were delighted with the move and especially enjoyed the new view of the lake outside our front window. The table was in a perfect place with the fireplace arranged so that we could sit in our chairs and watch the fire with the lake view just beyond. The part that surprised us was that the proximity to the boat launch was a positive bit of entertainment that we really enjoyed. Most RVrs know the delight of watching people set up camp and it is just as much fun to watch all the different people launching their various kinds of watercraft.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-rB8dkg6/0/d6eb289a/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(35%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-rB8dkg6/0/d6eb289a/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(35%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We met and visited with our new neighbors in site 1 and they told us that they go online exactly 6 months to the minute prior to their chosen date, always choosing site number 1. They fish, and love watching the boat ramp activity. After our sweet afternoon at site number 2, we decided that we would do the same, six months to the minute before sometime next August. We no longer want to leave the opportunity to camp at East Lake to chance. We even love the activity near the boat ramp and the wonderful view.<p></p><p>A bit after we settled into our site the camp host drove by and I waved her down. She and her husband were delightful, and when I asked about saving a site for Gaelyn they were agreeable. They wanted to be sure that she was really coming, and I assured them that she was. Mo and I sat in the warm sunshine with some light shade from the surrounding lodgepole pines watching the lake and the many boats on the water as we ate our lunch. </p><p>Gaelyn drove in around 1:30 and was surprised that we had managed to secure a site for her, not far from us in number 6. With her camper facing backward she wasn't able to enjoy the lake view from inside her rig, but the site was extremely level, which she liked.</p><p>I offered her a shower in the MoHo which delighted her completely. After she showered, she and I left Mo to enjoy her afternoon while we took the Tracker to the top of Paulina Peak. (Say Paw.Lie.Na so people don't think you are an outsider.) Mo and I traveled the crooked, washboard, curvy, steep road to the peak last time we were here so she wasn't too worried about missing out on the view.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-s2WmsQq/0/91c3a3d4/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(38%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-s2WmsQq/0/91c3a3d4/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(38%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />I took it slow going up the road, and even in 4-wheel drive we got bounced around a bit on the washboard, but once at the top, with that view spread out below us, it was all worth the trip. I love the view, and it is even more enchanting when I can share it with someone who hasn't seen it before. Gaelyn understands geology and landforms and was surprised that both lakes were in the caldera. <p></p><p>We could see the algae that accumulated around Paulina Lake near the store and the campgrounds. Paulina Lake is bigger and busier, and I am not sure that they have the ten-mile-per-hour boat speed limit that is on East Lake. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-vcN4TFH/0/ffb7ae58/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(42%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-vcN4TFH/0/ffb7ae58/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(42%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Paulina Lake to the left and East Lake is on the upper right. Notice the cinder cone/volcanic dome that separates the lakes and the Big Obsidian Flow in the foreground. The Newberry Crater National Monument is a classic volcanic landscape.<div><br />We wandered around the trails at the nearly 8,000 feet elevation enjoying the view in all four directions. It was interesting to me that there was thick smoke to the west, over the Cascades. The beautiful peaks were almost completely obscured. To the east, where Gaelyn had spent the last couple of weeks, we could barely see the outline of Winter Rim, and the dark exposed ancient caldera of Fort Rock. The smoke to the east was thick, and to the south, it was thick as well. Looking toward the north, where Gaelyn was headed next, the smoke was also hanging heavy over the landscape. What was most surprising was the lack of smoke at Newberry Crater. We had a magnificent view.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-4LBbfRj/0/a5ff2bef/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(41%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-4LBbfRj/0/a5ff2bef/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(41%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />After wandering around the peak and the viewpoint trails we drove back down the mountain. For some reason, the washboard didn't seem as rough going downhill, but I was glad to reach the pavement again after a few miles of that bumpy gravel.<p></p><p>After our return to camp, Gaelyn went home to relax in her space and Mo and I both enjoyed a delightful little nap for a couple of hours. The afternoon was so enjoyable that I didn't really want to sleep it away, so I looked out the window a lot as I rested.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-vkwZbTj/0/7e298bb2/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(43%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-vkwZbTj/0/7e298bb2/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(43%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />As evening approached, Mo built another beautiful fire to share with Gaelyn as we enjoyed supper together. We were regaled with amazing stories of Gaelyn's life on the road, for the last 40 years or so. It was a perfect evening, not chilly, and the view of the lake was a wonderful backdrop. The funny thing, I took no photos of our shared supper or our evening together. I am pretty sure Gaelyn has some when she gets to this part of her road trip.<p></p><p>I wore down around 9 and said, "Gaelyn, I am done". We laughed and she went home. Mo stirred the fire down and we went to bed without even doing the dinner dishes. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-Pj5r7D7/0/23794eec/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(36%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="800" height="581" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-Pj5r7D7/0/23794eec/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(36%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>If you sit quietly sometimes nice things happen<p></p><p>On Wednesday morning Mo and I both woke up a bit tired and achy. It felt chilly, although the temperature was actually a bit warmer than yesterday, maybe because we never turned on the heater the night before. Mo was a bit concerned about us taking the time for a kayak paddle and still being ready to leave at the official check-out time for the park. With a bit of back and forth and a short moment of disappointment, we decided to skip it. Mo offered to help me get in and out of my boat so that I could go for a paddle while she cleaned up the camp and started packing. That didn't seem fair or fun to me and within minutes I had let go of the desire to go for a paddle. Our choice was a good one. The wind was blowing and the lake looked rough which is unusual for this early in the morning. In addition, we had time to pack up without being rushed, and still leave before the official check-out time by noon.</p><p>Mo cleaned up the outside stuff and I turned on the hot water heater for a luxurious last-day dishwashing session. I cleaned up the MoHo and then cooked our traditional travel breakfast of a sausage muffin and coffee. It only took an hour to pack up and get ready to leave, but we then enjoyed some leisure time to visit with Gaelyn before we left and were on the road by 11.</p><p>As I watched people bobbing around on the lake in the wind I was really glad that we didn't try to kayak. Kayaking in the wind isn't fun in the least. We are planning to go to Medicine Lake before the end of August, so will have more time for kayaking the beautiful mountain lakes before another season ends. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-Wfz99Ck/0/99dc44de/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(19%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="800" height="425" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-08-2023-Third-Day-at-East-Lake/i-Wfz99Ck/0/99dc44de/XL/08-08-2023%20Third%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(19%20of%2046)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />The trip home was easy and seemed to go more quickly than the drive to East Lake. We stopped at a restaurant that we discovered recently in Sams Valley, on the road between our house and where my daughter Deborah lives. The three of us had lunch there a couple of weeks ago and knew that the burgers were the best around.<p></p><p>Mo had a burger and I had a patty melt with a very cold PBR, which I have come to enjoy very much since our visit last year at the historic Pabst Blue Ribbon brewery in Milwaukee. We got home before five and everything was in good shape in spite of the heat. Our automatic sprinklers did their job without breaking in our absence and everything managed to survive our absence. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/08-03-2923-Early-August/i-zhB73HL/0/2df2b7d8/XL/08-03-2923%20Early%20August%20(4%20of%209)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="800" height="451" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/08-03-2923-Early-August/i-zhB73HL/0/2df2b7d8/XL/08-03-2923%20Early%20August%20(4%20of%209)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>In August, if we aren't watering or weeding or worrying about the sprinklers, we are trimming.<p></p><p>We have decided that two or three nights away from home in the heat of summer is about the limit of what we should attempt. There is plenty of time to travel in the winter months when everything is dormant and we don't have to worry about water. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/06-06-2023-June-Sunsets/i-hSchsvT/0/6006097f/XL/06-07-2023%20June%20Sunsets%20(6%20of%2011)-XL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="800" height="449" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/06-06-2023-June-Sunsets/i-hSchsvT/0/6006097f/XL/06-07-2023%20June%20Sunsets%20(6%20of%2011)-XL.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Another great sunset from the porch at Sunset House<p></p><p>Our trip was very nearly perfect and I am really looking forward to our next one in a couple of weeks.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-9706913677944465952023-08-11T11:05:00.007-07:002023-08-11T11:47:57.010-07:0008-07-2023 Kayaking and Relaxing at East Lake in the Newberry Crater National Monument<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-gLwmJbK/0/53b9b4b7/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(5%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-gLwmJbK/0/53b9b4b7/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(5%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />On our first morning at East Lake, we woke around 6:30. The skies were cloudy and it was a bit chilly, enough to turn on the furnace. We try to use the big furnace as little as possible, but when dry camping with no hookups there is no other option. The little electric heater stays safely stashed in the bin in the shower. RVrs know all about storing stuff in the shower. At least ours has only two bins to remove before jumping in for a quick Navy-style shower.<p></p><p>We turned on the generator around 7, even though posted hours for generator use are between 6am and 10 pm. That is a fairly long window for allowing that low-pitched rumble. I am thankful that our generator is still fairly quiet. Mo made coffee in the dependable Cuisinart pot we have traveled with for years, and I treated myself to a Starbucks in the new Keurig pot that I use at home as well. Mo thinks Starbucks tastes burned, but since I first discovered good coffee at the original Starbucks in Seattle at Pike Street more than 40 years ago, I still love it.</p><p>After cooking a light breakfast we woke Mattie, all snuggled into her crate with her blankies, and I took her for a walk. I did the campground loop and visited a bit with the camp host at the far end of the loop. We had a little bit of a conversation about the flooding, the huge gullies throughout many of the campsites, and the fact that so many of the reserved sites were empty. She attributed that to the heavy rain, overcast skies, and cool temperatures. She told me that if someone hasn't arrived at their reserved site within 24 hours of the reserved time, she will wait one more day before putting the site up for anyone arriving after 2PM.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-XVBhf2K/0/28d12672/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(1%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-XVBhf2K/0/28d12672/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(1%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We decided that with the cool temperatures and cloudy skies, we would let Mattie rest in the MoHo while we went for our first morning kayaking on the lake. East Lake has one of our favorite launch sites in Oregon. The beach is fine sandy pumice, shallow water out for a dozen feet, and an old cement block with metal loops that are perfect for locking up the kayaks so that we don't have to carry them back to the campsite every day. The paved boat launch where we park the car to unload the kayaks isn't terribly steep and we can reach the boats on top of the car without much difficulty to take them down. So far, so good. We can still get the boats back up to the top of the car, even with aging shoulders.<p></p><p>We know this lake well and decided that on this first morning, we would travel east toward the springs and save the white sandy beach to the west for the next morning when we hoped for warmer weather. The lake was calm, and it didn't take long for us to get beyond the steep rock wall that marks the location of the spring. We could see that even this early in the morning there was someone at the spring. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-bKkLsDQ/0/25fbb46f/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(4%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-bKkLsDQ/0/25fbb46f/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(4%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>When we got closer, we saw that it was only one guy sitting there with his feet in the water. He was a biker and when we called to him we had a nice conversation. He was from Bend, first moving there for the snow and deciding to stay for good this past year. He had biked from Bend and then took the trail from the east side boat launch on the lake to the spring. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2013MoHoTravels/July-Camping-at-East-Lake/7-15-to-7-17-2013-At-East-Lake/i-4LtwZrD/0/19c44315/L/IMG_0095-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2013MoHoTravels/July-Camping-at-East-Lake/7-15-to-7-17-2013-At-East-Lake/i-4LtwZrD/0/19c44315/L/IMG_0095-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Mo's sister-in-law Nancy and I sitting in the spring when it was much higher on the landscape in 2013<p></p><p>In the past, it wasn't possible to walk to the spring along the shore from either direction, but the lake was lower this year and the trail was exposed enough to ride to the spring. It used to be that the only access was either by boat or by the trail that is high above the water and required a steep climb down to the spring. </p><p>The young man told us the water was very hot, maybe 104 degrees, and that the original location of the springs just a few feet away was dry. We left him to his soak.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-nK42Swb/0/4511606d/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(6%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-nK42Swb/0/4511606d/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(6%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p></p><p>We decided to cross the lake toward the steep volcanic cliffs on the north side of the lake. The twisted rock is evidence of the volcanic activity that created this great caldera and the beautiful lakes that are here. The quiet on this side of the lake is palpable, with sounds from the campgrounds muted by the distance and the water. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-VNkBw4n/0/838322ff/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(12%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-VNkBw4n/0/838322ff/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(12%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />There is something magical about these cliffs and the clear, dark water next to them. Huge moss-covered rocks are visible in the clear water. Trees grow in the rock crevices and ferns can be seen in the dark places in the cracks in the rock. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-WxHr2C7/0/2353493f/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(8%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="799" height="527" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-WxHr2C7/0/2353493f/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(8%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I tried to get some photos of Mo in her boat against the dark background, but they were a bit less than successful. Mo tried to get photos of me as well, but we discovered that the contrast between my white kayak shirt, my white hair, and the dark cliffs were more than the phone camera could handle.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-CPmBwxq/0/d7ef0d99/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(15%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="799" height="395" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-CPmBwxq/0/d7ef0d99/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(15%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />After some quiet time enjoying the cliffs and the silence, we turned toward the campground across the lake. It was about 9:45 am and the lake was still as calm as glass. I said something about the winds coming up around ten, and sure enough, as we approached the beach, the winds started ruffling the lake's surface. <p></p><p>It was a lovely first paddle, although exiting my kayak was a bit more difficult than I expected. I attempted to exit in about 4 inches of water and rolled onto my knees expecting to rise as I usually do. The water was too shallow to give me the angle I needed and I couldn't make my thigh muscles work. Mo had to pull me to a standing position and I learned that I needed to be in deeper water for my exit strategy to work effectively.</p><p>We locked the boats to the cement block, carrying our paddles and life vests back to our car parked at the campsite. It was a perfect paddle, in spite of the cool and cloudy weather. Upon returning to the MoHo, we turned on the heat to offset the morning chill.</p><p>Settling into the MoHo for a bit, we enjoyed the last of the apple galette I made before we left. Our Gravenstien apple tree is producing well this year, and the first of the apples ripened just before we left on this trip. I have a recipe for a galette that worked perfectly reduced to half the normal size. Mo and I can never manage to eat the entire thing if I make a whole one. </p><p>Later I decided that I would go to the Ten Mile Snow Park just outside the monument boundary to see if Gaelyn (<a href="https://geogypsytraveler.com/about-geogypsy/herstory/">The Geogypsy</a>) had settled in as planned. It was only a few miles from the campground, and sure enough, as I entered the huge parking lot, I found her rig parked all alone at the edge of the pavement. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-dznfqpb/0/60f84056/L/Gaelyn%20at%20the%20snow%20park-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-dznfqpb/0/60f84056/L/Gaelyn%20at%20the%20snow%20park-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />We had a nice visit, talking non-stop for almost two hours. I should say that Gaelyn did most of the talking, which was great. Anyone who knows and cares for Gaelyn knows that talking is one of her strong points. She is never boring and always has fascinating stories about her life on the road. She has been camping in the Oregon Outback on Winter Rim above Summer Lake for the last 12 days, one of our favorite places to camp in the Oregon desert. She was even visited by a young bear and many quail. She had lots of stories about this part of her summer road trip and will have a lot to write about on her blog.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-hJCn4TW/0/99142f1f/L/Gaelyn%20at%20Winter%20Rim-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-hJCn4TW/0/99142f1f/L/Gaelyn%20at%20Winter%20Rim-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Gaelyn's off-grid campsite at Winter Rim<p></p><p>I let Gaelyn know what the camp host said about available campsites and she spent a few moments deciding whether she would come to visit us at the lake and possibly stay overnight in the campground. We decided that Tuesday afternoon would be a good time for her to come and stay at the lake.</p><p>Back home around 1:30, I settled in for a quiet afternoon napping and reading. Mo enjoyed sitting outside for a time, but with the chill decided that it was better to relax inside the rig. That is until she decided to go out again. Mo loves to build and manage our campfires, and she had the fire ring all prepped with a nice little teepee of kindling long before it was time for supper. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-277ghcH/0/8859dfe8/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(18%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-277ghcH/0/8859dfe8/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(18%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We had some sun, some wind, and some rain, but things were beginning to clear around 5PM and we decided to go for a walk along the lake toward the spring. We have walked this trail in the past but were always stopped by the big rock fall that extended into the lake. This time we were delighted to see that we could get around the rock fall and walk to the spring.<p></p><p>I was in jeans and a sweatshirt when we got to the spring, and was wearing walking shoes. I so wanted to try out that hot water. I wrapped my sweatshirt around my waist, took off my jeans, took off my shoes, and walked gingerly over the rocks to the spring.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-KcNwTsD/0/916c2fd3/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(24%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-KcNwTsD/0/916c2fd3/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(24%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The water felt great and was so hot that the rocks on the bottom of the spring were almost too hot to leave my feet touching them for long. I love that little spring, even if it is only a foot and a half deep. As I was sitting there, a kayaker approached asking how the spring was. She had never visited this little spring before and asked if I minded if she joined me. Of course, I minded, but of course, I said, "Sure, come on in." She didn't last long in the hot water, and soon Mo and I had the spring to ourselves again. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-nvBsjsP/0/3d117895/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(27%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-nvBsjsP/0/3d117895/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(27%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Mo took this photo of me after I put my jeans and shoes back on thank goodness<p></p><p>Mo isn't as much of a spring lover as I am and was perfectly content to sit on a rock and enjoy the lake view as the evening light and clouds played shadows over the water.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-LHhKBPd/0/3b3b130d/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(31%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-LHhKBPd/0/3b3b130d/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(31%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />On our walk to the spring, we saw a woman running along the beach toward the campground. On our return walk, she approached us again, running back toward the resort on the east side of the lake. She was a delightful, adventurous person, reminding me a lot of my friend Jeanne, who loves to run.<p></p><p>She told us about the time she decided to run around the entire lake because her sister-in-law said she had done it. Just beyond the white sandy beach on the west side, she ran into a bunch of nettles, not recognizing them until she was surrounded and her skin was stinging terribly. She continued, and I asked how she managed to get around the steep cliffs on the opposite side of the lake. She said, "Well I tried to find a trail but it gave out, so I just swam.". That is something Jeanne would do, and I laughed out loud. Then she told us that her sister-in-law finally admitted that, well, she didn't actually run around the entire lake and turned around when she reached the cliffs. It was an entertaining story and she told it well.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-BNHMkcS/0/85d7a9fe/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(20%20of%2036)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-BNHMkcS/0/85d7a9fe/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(20%20of%2036)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />By the time we returned to camp, the wind was howling again and there was a huge black cloud hanging over the campground. We thought there might be a repeat of the last night's storm, but it never actually rained enough to get us wet. I cooked a chop on the grill and with a salad and some of last night's mac salad we had a nice supper. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dziHpJAqzhf-8NNHAyUlgHqr78b3SjhB8dUtZ6aQr_KPJcTSc4WOGJMMH8kA36qNi_sEiDnSUuTrG11qUjzvQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />We sat around the fire long enough for the coals to be low enough for me to roast one marshmallow. I still laugh at these campfire marshmallows because they are so incredibly huge. The first time I bought them was for a camp right here at East Lake when we camped with Mo's brother and his wife Nancy. Nancy and I laughed ourselves silly trying to get these huge things into our mouths. No need for chocolate or graham crackers, just a silly time with a silly marshmallow that I don't even like that much. It is a great memory of good times with Mo's brother who is now gone.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2013MoHoTravels/July-Camping-at-East-Lake/7-15-to-7-17-2013-At-East-Lake/i-c92FQjR/0/736d054b/L/east%20lake%20evening%20(16)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="530" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2013MoHoTravels/July-Camping-at-East-Lake/7-15-to-7-17-2013-At-East-Lake/i-c92FQjR/0/736d054b/L/east%20lake%20evening%20(16)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />A card game in the MoHo entertained Mo and me, before we retired with our Kindles for a bit of reading, was a perfect end to a very nearly perfect day. Only the next day turned out to be even more perfect. What a life.<br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2013MoHoTravels/July-Camping-at-East-Lake/7-15-to-7-17-2013-At-East-Lake/i-wpfFt5G/0/345c483b/L/IMG_0105-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="800" height="519" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2013MoHoTravels/July-Camping-at-East-Lake/7-15-to-7-17-2013-At-East-Lake/i-wpfFt5G/0/345c483b/L/IMG_0105-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>A bit of a postscript here: I found this photo of me kayaking with my cat Jeremy on East Lake in 2013 while I was searching for the photo of Nancy and me eating those marshmallows. I miss my soul cat. There will never again be another Jeremy, who passed in the fall of 2014.<p></p><span face="Roboto, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px; font-variant-ligatures: none; letter-spacing: 0.1px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> <br /></span><div><span face="Roboto, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-size: 16px; font-variant-ligatures: none; letter-spacing: 0.1px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div><br style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-variant-ligatures: none; letter-spacing: 0.1px; white-space-collapse: preserve;" /></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-51177220290926108382023-08-10T18:27:00.005-07:002023-08-10T20:18:53.357-07:0008-06-2023 Traveling to East Lake in the Newberry Caldera National Monument<p> <a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-4G3ZM4M/0/fba8ac6e/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(25%20of%2036)-L.jpg"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-4G3ZM4M/0/fba8ac6e/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(25%20of%2036)-L.jpg" /></a></p><!--wp:image {"linkDestination":"custom"}-->
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<p>The natural spring on the shoreline at East Lake is full again and hot this season</p>
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<p>It has been two years since we camped at East Lake. Our memories of our time there in 2019 are a delight, and I look at the photos often. Last year, with our planned trip to the East Coast, we never managed to get to East Lake for camping. I may have attempted a couple of times to get reservations, but last-minute sites at the campground are few and far between.</p>
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<p>Just a couple of weeks ago, after Mo and I returned from our cruise to the British Isles, Mo said to me, "Is there any chance we can go camping somewhere soon?". It was already mid-July, and knowing that sites are nearly impossible to find just about anywhere in Oregon, I told her I would at least make an attempt to see if something was open for us somewhere that we might enjoy.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-06-2023-First-Night-Out/i-Z3QK2GL/0/8268f049/L/08-06-2023%20First%20Night%20(4%20of%2015)-L.jpg"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-06-2023-First-Night-Out/i-Z3QK2GL/0/8268f049/L/08-06-2023%20First%20Night%20(4%20of%2015)-L.jpg" /></a></figure>
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<p>Site 3 at East Lake Campground</p>
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<p>Recreation.gov is the portal for camping at East Lake, and I thought maybe I would try there first, just on the minimal chance that something might show up. It is possible to get first-come/first-serve sites at that campground, or at least it used to be possible. This time when I searched the campground map for openings, there were no listings for any sites that were available on a first-come/first-serve basis. Imagine my shock when I saw two big CAPITAL A marks on only one site. I called to Mo, "There is a site available for just two nights next week. Should I book it?" Without a moment's hesitation, she said to go for it. I have discovered that if one is willing to check in often with locations that might be on the list of desires, sometimes magic happens and a cancellation shows up at just the right time.</p>
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<p>With our two-night reservation secured, a couple of days later Mo suggested that we check to see if there might be a third night available. Our plan was to camp for two nights and hope for an empty site due to a last-minute cancellation on the third night. Lo and behold, there was a site available for the third night, Site 2, just across from our first location at Site 3. Both sites looked a bit small and were surrounded on three sides by roads, which wasn't necessarily our preference, but we weren't about to be choosy when attempting to book something in the summer in Oregon just two weeks in advance. Our rig is small enough at 26 feet that we can fit in comfortably just about anywhere.</p>
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<p>We left home around nine, expecting to arrive around two at the campground when we could officially check-in. The route is a familiar one. South from Grants Pass just a few miles on the Interstate to Highway 234 which crosses a wide open valley toward Shady Cove and Trail, where we intercepted Highway 62, the main route from the west to Crater Lake. Just past Union Creek and the iconic Becky's Cafe (famous for their marionberry pies) Highway 62 makes a hard right toward the south entrance of Crater Lake and Highway 238 continues north toward Diamond Lake, the North Entrance of Crater Lake, and then drops down a long, straight stretch toward Highway 97. </p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2020-MoHo-Travels/08-Rogue-River-Explorations/08-18-2020-Boundary-Springs-Hike/i-CDnWP2s/0/e64fdf93/L/08-18-2020%20Driving%20Highway%20230-4-L.jpg" /></figure>
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<p><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2020-MoHo-Travels/08-Rogue-River-Explorations/08-18-2020-Boundary-Springs-Hike/i-CDnWP2s/0/e64fdf93/L/08-18-2020%20Driving%20Highway%20230-4-L.jpg"></a>Highway 238 on the way to Diamond Lake</p>
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<p>We stopped for a potty break for Mattie at the Mazama Overlook near the summit nearing the Crater Lake turnoff. There were seven cars parked there with people getting ready to hike the trail that goes to the headwaters of the Rogue River.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2020-MoHo-Travels/08-Rogue-River-Explorations/08-18-2020-Boundary-Springs-Hike/i-wG5G2Vd/0/7a9d4536/L/08-18-2020%20Boundary%20Springs%20Hike-10-L.jpg" /></figure>
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<p><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2020-MoHo-Travels/08-Rogue-River-Explorations/08-18-2020-Boundary-Springs-Hike/i-wG5G2Vd/0/7a9d4536/L/08-18-2020%20Boundary%20Springs%20Hike-10-L.jpg"></a>The hike to Boundary Springs passes through a lot of burned landscapes</p>
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<p>Two years ago, Mo and I found a dirt road that intercepted that trail and managed to cut off almost three miles of that hike. A very steep three miles at that. We laughed as we overheard the people wondering which way it was to Crater Lake. Not sure if they realized that the trailhead for the Headwaters would lead them nowhere near Crater Lake. Curious why people don't have a paper map. We saw them waving their phones around wondering why they didn't have a signal.</p>
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<p>Mo took over driving after pulling out the Diet Pepsi and Fritos, two items that seem to be traditional for us when on the road. As soon as I taste those salty tasty corn things, I am inundated with memories of the many long road trips we have shared over the last twenty years. Our route from home took us past Rogue Air Drive, where daughter Deborah lived until recently, and past her new turn at the tiny community of Trail where she now lives. We passed Lost Creek Reservoir Lake where we camped and kayaked for two gorgeous days last May. Yes, that blog post is another one waiting to happen. Continuing toward Union Creek and the beautiful Farewell Bend Campground along the Rouge River where we have spent some delightful times, and where our friends Nickie and Jimmy were camped during a year of fire with roads closed in both directions creating some stressful moments for them.</p>
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<p>From the junction at Highway 97, it was just a short jaunt to the Pilot station in Chemult where we usually fuel the MoHo. With just half a tank of fuel left, we wanted to be sure our tanks were as full as possible for three nights of dry camping with no power and the necessity to keep our batteries topped off with the generator. Besides, we do like to make coffee in an electric pot, having given up the messy French Press years ago.</p>
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<p><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-06-2023-First-Night-Out/i-NCWrZpC/0/e1734881/L/08-06-2023%20First%20Night%20(2%20of%2015)-L.jpg"></a>Cloudy skies in La Pine</p>
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<p>Surprisingly, the skies were overcast throughout the entire trip, and the temperatures were in the high 50s. In Grants Pass, it seems that the skies have been blue, blue, blue, for the last few months, and the gray skies were a welcome sight. With the cooler temperatures, there was a feeling of fall in the air, although I know that is a false flag since we are predicted to have another week of triple-digit temps in Grants Pass next week. But our route was east of the Cascades, and it is often at least ten degrees cooler on that side of the mountains.</p>
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<p>Later:We are sitting here relaxing after our delicious bbq hamburger supper. I made mac salad and only used half of the ingredients that I brought so I could have fresh salad for Gaelyn she arrives for an afternoon dinner with us on Tuesday.</p>
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<p>It's a really beautiful, peaceful, quiet evening. There is only one big rig next to us running their generator for a considerable length of time but otherwise, the sounds are just nice. Camping sounds. Crackling campfires, little dogs barking, big dogs woofing but not too much. Kids' voices as they play. Wind in the lodgepole pines. We're in a spot where we can see the lake. It's really a quiet, nice little spot. It's kind of a weird one because it's surrounded by trees and roads on three sides. When it became available for a reservation, we grabbed it, not expecting it to be as pleasant as it has turned out to be.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-KZkVdMJ/0/4f5a81f7/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(17%20of%2036)-L.jpg"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-07-2023-Second-Day-at-East-Lake/i-KZkVdMJ/0/4f5a81f7/L/08-07-2023%20Second%20Day%20at%20East%20Lake%20(17%20of%2036)-L.jpg" /></a></figure>
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<p>Deep gullies at the beach from the previous night of rain and hail</p>
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<p>According to one of the people we spoke to when we arrived there was a terrible storm last night with hard rain and hail. Our campsite is in a convex position so water runs off all around us and doesn't accumulate anywhere in our camp, which is a pretty nice thing because it might rain again. There are big, dark, gray clouds above us. My guess is that it will clear up for the morning and maybe cloud up again tomorrow afternoon. Whether it clears or not we will be on the lake tomorrow morning as long as it isn't windy. The first thing before breakfast is the plan.</p>
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<p>East Lake is a very special spot. Every time we come here, we'll remind ourselves how much we love it. The only other place that has been as special to us is Medicine Lake just south of the Oregon border in California in the volcanic plateau called the Medicine Lake Highlands.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2020-MoHo-Travels/10-October-Travels/10-13-2020-To-Medicine-Lake/i-gpQ2mJv/2/110ad90a/L/to%20Medicine%20Lake-33-L.jpg" /></figure>
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<p><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2020-MoHo-Travels/10-October-Travels/10-13-2020-To-Medicine-Lake/i-gpQ2mJv/2/110ad90a/L/to%20Medicine%20Lake-33-L.jpg"></a>Kayaking the incredible stillness of Medicine Lake in 2020</p>
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<p>It is another campground with a lake in a volcanic caldera. But now that we've moved to Grants Pass, Medicine Lake is harder to get to. It is only about five hours to get to Medicine Lake, and about 5 hours to get here to East Lake, but somehow it seems a bit longer.</p>
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<figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-06-2023-First-Night-Out/i-HzFsM37/0/43b9d726/L/08-06-2023%20First%20Night%20(15%20of%2015)-L.jpg"><img alt="" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-06-2023-First-Night-Out/i-HzFsM37/0/43b9d726/L/08-06-2023%20First%20Night%20(15%20of%2015)-L.jpg" /></a></figure>
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<p>We are feeling very happy this evening. Relaxed, no internet, no TV. Nothing to do but sit by the fire, maybe go inside and play a game of cards. Go to bed early and read our Kindles. I am reading an incredible book called "The Covenant of Water" which started slow but is one of those books that stays with me throughout the day.</p>
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<p>That's about it for today. Mo just reminded me to mention that there are no mosquitoes. Even though we had heard they were terrible this year. So far this evening we haven't seen a single mosquito. How perfect is that?!!</p>
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<p><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travels-in-the-MoHo/2023-MoHo-Travels/08-August-Trip-to-East-Lake/08-06-2023-First-Night-Out/i-Dt4BQR3/0/49809cd5/L/08-06-2023%20First%20Night%20(13%20of%2015)-L.jpg"></a></p>
<!--/wp:paragraph-->Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-51060551710087052522023-07-24T20:45:00.007-07:002023-07-24T20:46:42.310-07:0007-07-2023 Newcastle, England, a Sea Day, and Finally We Are Home<p>How about a moment from the present before I continue writing about the remainder of our cruise. The last couple of weeks since we returned home have been warm, no more than usual, but a few days in the triple digits, and most days above the mid 90's. We are used to this after living in this part of Oregon for almost 6 years.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-HxH8LNj/0/0ecd3d53/L/07-05-2023%20the%20Cascade%20Scarfe%20(5%20of%205)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-HxH8LNj/0/0ecd3d53/L/07-05-2023%20the%20Cascade%20Scarfe%20(5%20of%205)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><p>I have thoroughly enjoyed sitting in the office, with great air conditioning, writing about the cruise, reviewing the photos, and enjoying the memories. Liz Wicks, a follower who has been around for a time, sent an email asking for a photo of the lovely scarf that I purchased in the Orkney Islands. I opened the slim little box, lifted the lighter-than-air scarf into the sunlight, and attempted to take a one-handed photo. I finally managed to get a decent photo in the mirror.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-TCzJxzF/0/df3c5a67/L/07-05-2023%20the%20Cascade%20Scarfe%20(2%20of%205)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-TCzJxzF/0/df3c5a67/L/07-05-2023%20the%20Cascade%20Scarfe%20(2%20of%205)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />The delightful part about photographing the scarf is that the colors, art, and lightness of the fabric took me back to the beauty of the Orkneys. I had a feeling it would do that and was sad to learn I couldn't order any more presents for my daughters. The artist only ships to the UK. To my delight, after a bit more searching, I discovered that the jewelry artists would ship her jewelry to the US, and the scarves that were coordinated with the jewelry. So tickled.<p></p><p>I guess I now wish to slip back into thoughts about the last two days of our cruise. We were lucky that Scotland, Ireland, and England were so temperate for our visit since I have read that summer heat is increasing everywhere in Europe, and even on the British Isles. But for us, the last couple of days of cool, cloudy weather was delightful, partly because we knew of the heat we would return to at home.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-ZqwtSFr/0/7e941348/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(50%20of%2051)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-ZqwtSFr/0/7e941348/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(50%20of%2051)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Fire season has begun, with a big burn happening west of us in the Coast Range. We saw the cloud on the evening it ignited as we sat on the porch with our evening supper. At first, I thought it was a thundercloud, but no such luck. It started on July 15 and as of today, July 24, it has grown to more than 22,000 acres. The InciWeb report says that the fire was human-caused near the Oak Flat Campground near the Illinois River which flows into the Rogue River near Agness. Some of you may remember our Rogue River trip to Agness a few years ago. It is a remote outpost in a gorgeous, steep canyon wilderness.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-dkqn46z/0/c54d7a1c/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(51%20of%2051)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-dkqn46z/0/c54d7a1c/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(51%20of%2051)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />A few days later, this was the sun that we saw in the late afternoon. Somehow the phone camera isn't good at capturing the glowing blood red of the smoke-shrouded sun, but you get the idea. Most of the time we have been fairly lucky regarding smoky skies, with the winds taking the smoke toward the ocean. It only comes in sometimes in the later afternoon and evenings and is usually no longer visible in the morning when we wake.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-bM8gH4v/0/b0631bfa/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(28%20of%2051)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-bM8gH4v/0/b0631bfa/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(28%20of%2051)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />In the meantime, during the cool early morning hours, I walk the property, check on the water system, add a little more water here and there, and appreciate all the shade from our huge, old oaks. I do have to chase away the two big bucks that think our bird feeders are easy pickings, in addition to the apples ripening on our heirloom apple tree.<p></p><p>But, let's get back to our port near Newcastle. As I read about this city in my pre-cruise research, I learned that it was a large, industrial city, with much to see, but not much that I really cared about at this stage of the cruise. The many bridges that cross the Tyne River are interesting, but not enough so that I wanted to take a train to the center of the city, or an excursion that would view the bridges. A description of one of the tours touts the fantastic Georgian structures occupied by department stores and high-street retailers along Northumberland Street and the beautiful Grey Street. </p><p>There's lots to see in Newcastle, if you are on a leisurely vacation to the British Isles and wish to spend some walking time in a city that is quickly catching up to London as a center for culture, art, and trendy restaurants. The tour to Hadrian's Wall sounded interesting, but not enough so for us to sign up and spend another day on a bus.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-vprL9LR/0/5578f758/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(1%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-vprL9LR/0/5578f758/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(1%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />With a leisurely day ahead, we decided to take advantage of the shuttles that ran to the metro train station every 30 minutes from the port where Riviera had so conveniently docked. After our leisurely breakfast on the terrace, we ambled off the ship and to the waiting shuttle,<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-KDkcCqf/0/d6c66853/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(17%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-KDkcCqf/0/d6c66853/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(17%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The ride was short to a charming village Mouth of the Tyne, and we exited the bus at the gorgeous train station. Once again, it was a weekend and some shops were closed, but not so in the town where the streets were closed for a festival to begin that day but many of the shops were open.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-7Spjg7P/0/1df44f41/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(13%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-7Spjg7P/0/1df44f41/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(13%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-z6sdb6s/0/7ad6b270/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(18%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-z6sdb6s/0/7ad6b270/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(18%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>We walked through the town, down to the water and the entrance to the Tynemouth Priory and Castle, which might have been a fun tour if we had a bit more time and the lines weren't so long. The view from that area was beautiful, though, and the surrounding gardens were lush and colorful as I would expect in this part of Great Britain.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-jp8fJjc/0/37de2a69/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(24%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-jp8fJjc/0/37de2a69/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(24%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-PwqH64w/0/55aa2162/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(22%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-PwqH64w/0/55aa2162/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(22%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>Back up the street toward the town we found a couple of interesting shops to visit. Mattie would have loved it.</p><p><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-Cr6dxgD/0/36c603ee/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(28%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="477" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-Cr6dxgD/0/36c603ee/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(28%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="477" /></a></p><br /><p>The last shop we explored was full of colorful and artsy stuff from all over the world. It reminded me of the Pier One shops when they were at their most popular, but this one was even better. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-nnDnWVv/0/c75848c0/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(29%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-nnDnWVv/0/c75848c0/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(29%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Mo and I both loved all the colorful flowers in the entrance gardens, and I could have spent a fortune in there if I had just a little more time. I am not very good at meandering and shopping anymore, not like I used to.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-swzZNfM/0/eac4c6d8/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(32%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="799" height="498" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-swzZNfM/0/eac4c6d8/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(32%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>Even though we didn't have a formal tour, didn't learn a lot of history, or maybe because of it, our day was delightful. The weather was perfect, people-watching was entertaining, and simply seeing the wonderful architecture of the town was worth the bus ride. We very much enjoyed our walk and didn't spend a penny doing it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-FXr5MRd/0/27aa32ce/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(26%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-FXr5MRd/0/27aa32ce/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(26%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><div><br /></div>There were a great number of dog-friendly establishments in the town which made Mo and I really miss our little dog. Why go to a dog-friendly bar when we don't have our dog with us?!<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-8S74dTx/0/8a95dc05/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(35%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="798" height="322" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-8S74dTx/0/8a95dc05/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(35%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="798" /></a></div><p>I know parts of the photo are out of focus, thanks to the phone, but I wanted to include it because it captures the feeling of the charming English town at the Mouth of the Tyne River near Newcastle.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-BkbhP3j/0/cf99d379/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(45%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-BkbhP3j/0/cf99d379/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(45%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>When we returned to the ship, we found another charming area for relaxing and having a cocktail that we had somehow missed previously. We didn't actually sit here, but I had to take a photo of the gorgeous amethyst crystal lamp bases for my daughter Melody, a rock and mineral collector.</p><p>We enjoyed another simple dinner in the Terrace Cafe and went to the last production show of the cruise, "Lights, Camera, Music", including the entire Riviera Production Company, the orchestra, and the Brilliant String Quartet. Something that seemed a bit different is that the goodbye salute from the entire crew was a video, not the usual lineup of everyone on the stage where we could applaud and thank them for all we received on the cruise. We felt a little bit sad about that since it seems that more and more of the small details that make for a memorable cruise were missing.</p><p>Newcastle was the last port of our cruise, with one more day before we would disembark in Southampton, England. We had another day at sea, the only sea day of the cruise, and we had nothing scheduled except dinner at another specialty restaurant, Red Ginger.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-rHWRBhB/0/15bcc024/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(2%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-rHWRBhB/0/15bcc024/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(2%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-HGvBHn2/0/66bada0e/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(3%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-HGvBHn2/0/66bada0e/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(3%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Of course, right after breakfast, we returned to the game room, hoping that our puzzle was still in place. It was, and we spent the first half of our sea day enjoying the view from the game room and finishing the puzzle.<p></p><p>After lunch, we wandered around the ship one last time, finding art to photograph that I had missed earlier on the cruise. We ran into a couple of ladies doing the same thing and laughed together about some of the art. The artist in residence had gorgeous paintings, and I was sad that I wasn't able to sign up for the art classes, but they weren't available to me by the time I could choose them. The same was true for the cooking classes. Both of those extra treats available on Oceania ships seem to be sold to the suites and penthouses before ordinary folk have a chance to sign up.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-6fhmz2P/0/de42ead9/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(4%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-6fhmz2P/0/de42ead9/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(4%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-2gtRVQX/0/4d9ef705/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20and%20Food%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(12%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="440" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-2gtRVQX/0/4d9ef705/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20and%20Food%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(12%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><br />But the art that made us laugh were some interesting images, to say the least. One of the ladies said, "I find this art disturbing," and the other lady said, "I find it a LOT disturbing." It is all subjective for certain and was fun to explore.<p></p><p>Our last dinner aboard the ship was at Red Ginger, my least favorite restaurant. The ambiance was very modern and rather spare. My least favorite aspect was the lack of windows. Even though the restaurant was on the fifth deck and did have windows, the shades were drawn and heavy and it was obvious they were not intended to be opened.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-Q8nc58t/0/86c77c93/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(39%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="800" height="569" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-Q8nc58t/0/86c77c93/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(39%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Our dinner was so-so but may have had to do with the menu choices that we made. Mo had chicken teriyaki and I enjoyed a salad that was interesting and rather good. I can barely remember anything else that we ordered, as my note-taking ability by this point in the cruise was sadly lacking.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-5jCQK2g/0/edd04269/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(38%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-5jCQK2g/0/edd04269/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(38%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-VvCkCQz/0/654b5d7b/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(40%20of%2045)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="489" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-07-2023-Mouth-of-the-Tyne-and-Newcastle/i-VvCkCQz/0/654b5d7b/L/07-07-2023%20Mouth%20of%20the%20Tyne%20and%20Newcastle%20(40%20of%2045)-L.jpg" width="489" /></a></div><br />I can see items on the menu that we might have chosen with a better outcome but in retrospect, I still wasn't that enamored with the food or the service that we received that evening. We were happy to fall into bed, ready to be lulled to sleep on our last night at sea.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Flying-Home/i-6ZQ5gWQ/0/e7e5ed34/L/07-08-2023%20leaving%20the%20ship%20and%20flying%20home%20(2%20of%207)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Flying-Home/i-6ZQ5gWQ/0/e7e5ed34/L/07-08-2023%20leaving%20the%20ship%20and%20flying%20home%20(2%20of%207)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>The ship docked at Southampton at 7 and our group wasn't called until a bit before 9. Once we disembarked I was delighted at the efficiency of the process. The long ramps leading from the ship to the port were easily navigable with my walker, with no steps or steep ramps involved. Our luggage, marked with our disembarkation tags, wasn't difficult to find in the appropriate group. We were then funneled through the various security screenings and before we knew it were loading onto the bus taking us to Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport. All were very quick and very efficient, which is somewhat different than other cruises we have experienced. I would say that the embarkation and disembarkation process with Oceania was among the best and quickest we have seen, a plus for the cruise line.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Flying-Home/i-QTm7ThH/0/92676cc6/L/07-08-2023%20leaving%20the%20ship%20and%20flying%20home%20(3%20of%207)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="415" height="599" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Flying-Home/i-QTm7ThH/0/92676cc6/L/07-08-2023%20leaving%20the%20ship%20and%20flying%20home%20(3%20of%207)-L.jpg" width="415" /></a></div><p>Once at Heathrow, we had several hours before our flight with some time to explore the airport. I have flown through Heathrow a couple of times and my memories of that airport are of a crowded, dingy place with a LOT of people. We were surprised at the updated facility, the extensive and fabulous shopping, and the many restaurant choices that were available to us. We decided to lunch at Gordon Ramsay Plane Food and had what was probably the best fish and chips I have had in a very long time. Even those silly smashed peas were green and tasted fresh. Our wait wasn't more than ten minutes for a table and the service was excellent.</p><p>We were exceptionally lucky that we experienced no delays, no long waits on the tarmac for anything, and we had our chosen seats for the flight. I attempted to beat the system by choosing an aisle and a window seat, offering my aisle seat to a young woman so that I could take her seat in the middle to be next to Mo. That didn't work out well, and I spent the next 9 hours sitting next to an entitled rather snarky person who rolled her eyes and made huge huffing noises when I asked to go to the lady's room. Twice only, in nine hours. Give me a break. Next time SHE can sit in the middle.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Flying-Home/i-tf6gMsb/0/0f9fcdda/L/07-08-2023%20leaving%20the%20ship%20and%20flying%20home%20(5%20of%207)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="683" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Flying-Home/i-tf6gMsb/0/0f9fcdda/L/07-08-2023%20leaving%20the%20ship%20and%20flying%20home%20(5%20of%207)-L.jpg" width="683" /></a></div><br />Mo got some beautiful photos of the glaciers and ice over the Arctic as we flew over. Neither of us slept, however, and the flight was too long to be enjoyable. Once we landed at the Portland airport, only an hour late, Dan and Chere picked us up at the baggage claim area.<p></p><p>I do have to speak a bit about the Portland airport. Sadly, it was a mess, with the right hand not having a clue what the left hand was doing. We have never flown in or out of the International terminal at Portland and will do whatever we can to avoid it in the future. The baggage claim was a mess, with folks from Iceland not finding their luggage and ours mixed up and delayed for a very long time. Passport Control and Customs were also a mess, with long lines snaking everywhere and no separate lines for disabled people. There was no direction as to where we should go to get to the main terminal of our airport where our ride awaited. Finally, we were put on a shuttle bus with a bunch of people who had missed flights or were running late. I was very happy to get out of that shuttle and find our way to the exit doors of that airport. It felt like a third-world airport, especially after such a stellar experience at Heathrow.</p><p>We wanted to thank Dan and Chere for the ride to and from the airport with dinner out on the way home. I barely remember anything about that dinner except I did have a Perfect Marguerita and a decent meal at Applebees. It was a good choice for a couple of very tired people who might have had a hard time making any kind of choices at any place else. For us, Applebees has always been a fine place to eat a simple meal with good service.</p><p>After sleeping at Dan and Chere's, we were up early for the drive south. Both of us were so excited to see Mattie, and when we arrived at Melody's Mattie was beside herself with joy. But on the trip home, she seemed a bit confused, and a little bit sad, obviously wondering where her buddy Melody was. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Home-with-Mattie/i-4nhNJvs/0/eb76dec7/L/07-09-2023%20Home%20with%20Mattie%20(1%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="531" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Home-with-Mattie/i-4nhNJvs/0/eb76dec7/L/07-09-2023%20Home%20with%20Mattie%20(1%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="531" /></a></div><p>Once we arrived home, it was wonderful to see that everything was in great shape. Daughter Deborah had taken good care of the place for us, with water handled and lawns mowed. The house felt fabulous.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Home-with-Mattie/i-4vxZ2tx/0/3827e220/L/07-09-2023%20Home%20with%20Mattie%20(4%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="459" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-09-2023-Home-with-Mattie/i-4vxZ2tx/0/3827e220/L/07-09-2023%20Home%20with%20Mattie%20(4%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="459" /></a></div><p>It took Mattie a couple of days to lose that worried look, and she would look up at us as if to ask whether or not things were going to change again.</p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-2hV9GdP/0/2b330f4b/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(35%20of%2051)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="800" height="592" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-2hV9GdP/0/2b330f4b/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(35%20of%2051)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />In no time at all, she was feeling as chipper as ever, settling back into her everyday routine. We felt pretty good too, once we got unpacked and got a couple of good nights' sleep. It was wonderful to experience such a great cruise to a new place, and especially wonderful to be back home again.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-R8G4jhg/0/4f47fb14/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(30%20of%2051)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/07-15-2023-Mid-July-at-Home/i-R8G4jhg/0/4f47fb14/L/07-15-2023%20Mid%20July%20at%20Home%20(30%20of%2051)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-52940821327177697642023-07-22T18:27:00.005-07:002023-07-22T19:08:39.847-07:0007-06-2023 Visiting Edinburgh, Scotland<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-2FPGGHv/0/edb173f5/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(3%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="800" height="382" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-2FPGGHv/0/edb173f5/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(3%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Approaching the east coast of Scotland<p></p><p>As I read over the comments on my previous posts, I can see that some might think that this trip was a disappointing one. As I said to Nickie, I am sorry it sounded as if I was disappointed with our cruise. It might seem that way because when writing about our memories and our experiences I do attempt to cover all of it, the good, the great, and some of the not-so-good. We don't in the least regret our choice to experience this cruise on a beautiful ship to beautiful locations. </p><p>There were momentary disappointments, sure, but in retrospect, as I write, I am so grateful that we did the trip. I am grateful for Oceania, and even for the tours. As Mo said this morning, "For the time we had, the places we wanted to see, the area to cover in just a short time in port, I think the tours did a very good job."</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-TCK8Rsw/0/43e7a60c/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(1%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="330" data-original-width="799" height="330" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-TCK8Rsw/0/43e7a60c/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(1%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Approaching Edinburgh along the eastern coast of Scotland<p></p><p>There are only so many ways to experience the outer islands of Scotland, the Hebrides, the Orkneys, and the Shetlands. Fly there directly, fly there from Scotland, or take a ferry from the mainland to each of the islands. Any of those choices would require a lot more time and money than we chose to spend. Our beautiful cruise on a beautiful ship allowed us to see parts of the country we might not have seen on a land tour.</p><p>So, as I continue to write about this trip, if I sound a bit negative about some things here and there, please understand that in the end, overall, it really was a great trip. It just takes a bit of time to return home, rest up, review the photos, and begin to integrate the experience into our life.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-Gc4cKsV/0/78f0cd53/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(2%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="800" height="389" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-Gc4cKsV/0/78f0cd53/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(2%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>The Queensferry Crossing bridge on the Firth of Forth<p></p><p>On this day, as we cruised along the coast of Scotland and up the Firth of Forth, with the Queensferry Crossing bridge in the distance beyond Edinburgh, I was excited. I learned that a "firth" is basically an estuary, but in this case, the Firth of Fourth is geologically a fjord, formed in the last glacial period between 11,000 and 100,000 years ago.</p><p>This was the heart of Scotland and a city I had wanted to see since forever. Before we left home, I didn't book a tour for visiting Edinburgh, thinking that we could find public transportation easily and visit the city on our own. Early in the cruise, however, we realized that the possibility of visiting a port on a short day was limited by tender service and the distance to the city center from the pier.</p><p>On day three of our cruise, I went to the Destination Services desk to inquire if there was any chance of a tour to purchase for our day in Edinburgh. We got lucky, and for a reasonable price were able to get two tickets for "The Royal Mile Walking Tour". This tour didn't include a visit to the castle in Edinburgh, but we loved the idea that we would get transportation from the port to the downtown area with some interesting tidbits about the city as we walked.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-BWgLWXf/0/b138211e/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(9%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-BWgLWXf/0/b138211e/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(9%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We enjoyed a nice morning on the ship, with breakfast on the terrace of the Terrace Cafe, one of the first mornings when the weather was actually nice enough to dine outside. Above is a photo of one of the waitstaff that cared for us often, and sadly I have forgotten his name, but never his smile. He was from Indonesia, as were many of the employees on the ship. It seemed that the happiest people were the folks who told us they were from Bali. Such smiles!<p></p><p>We had some time to play with our puzzle, enjoy the views as we approached the city, have a light lunch, and read a bit as we waited for our afternoon departure for the city.</p><p>When visiting Edinburgh, a walk on the Royal Mile leading up the hill toward Edinburgh Castle is a must-do. The Royal Mile is a group of streets that form the main thoroughfare of the Old Town of the city. It is the traditional processional route of monarchs, between Edinburgh Castle, occupied by humans since the Iron Age, to Holyrood House, the official residence of King Charles III when he is in Scotland at the beginning of summer. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-JBtt84N/0/d7884199/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(23%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-JBtt84N/0/d7884199/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(23%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>The ride from the pier to the city was about 20 minutes through interesting complex neighborhoods, and once we reached the downtown area we were especially happy that we hadn't attempted this part of Edinburgh on our own.</p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-7j988Fq/0/4d80d918/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(22%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-7j988Fq/0/4d80d918/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(22%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />There were so many huge buses and so many people trying to get off the buses that it was nearly impossible to keep track of our tour guide. We nearly got lost in the crowds, and with the craziness, I was very grateful I had my little red walker as a sort of buffer between all the people.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-CrLpjkK/0/c17d93fa/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(24%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-CrLpjkK/0/c17d93fa/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(24%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Our guide was quite short and used a small umbrella as her marker for us to follow. The problem was that she didn't hold it high enough above her head and it was difficult to find her in the crowds, much less hear her commentary. After a bit of squeezing through the thousands of people trying to do what we were trying to do, she led us up some stairs to show us a view of Edinburgh Castle. It was a bit of a bust however because Rod Stewart was setting up for a big show that night and we couldn't see anything. The castle was actually closed for the day because the new King Charles III was visiting Scotland, so I was glad we hadn't booked a castle tour.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-kkGZtVF/0/bf3df676/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(25%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="800" height="380" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-kkGZtVF/0/bf3df676/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(25%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>After that bit of wasted time walking through the crowds toward the castle, our tiny tour guide took us back down the main road and then suddenly slipped into a hidden quiet courtyard. It was so different from the crazy bustle of the Royal Mile that it was almost disorienting. </p><p>Here she explained to us about living in the "tenements", actually very nice apartments with private and quiet courtyards on the side streets of downtown Edinburgh. I noticed the plumbing attached to the outside walls of the buildings, which I found a bit fascinating. I guess with thick stone walls there isn't much room for plumbing, or wiring for that matter. I wondered about the wiring.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-gkJWW7b/0/e09311bb/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(34%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-gkJWW7b/0/e09311bb/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(34%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-9PNgGW6/0/0eb8999f/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(36%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-9PNgGW6/0/0eb8999f/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(36%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><p>She led us through more side streets to Makar's Court, with another ancient stone building that housed the Edinburgh Writer's Museum, which we didn't have time to visit.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-gtcNhtC/0/4502dae9/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(35%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-gtcNhtC/0/4502dae9/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(35%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The juxtaposition of these ancient stone and cement buildings stacked with what appeared to be modern apartments with more outside plumbing was endlessly fascinating to me.<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-kHmCjkx/0/a39b2699/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(33%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="623" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-kHmCjkx/0/a39b2699/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(33%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="623" /></a></div><br />I do have to share a photo of my dazed expression that I took, trying to get a selfie amid the Royal Mile Crowds.<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-ZjKBVbL/0/08440b5f/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(47%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="800" height="478" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-ZjKBVbL/0/08440b5f/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(47%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />What struck me most about Edinburgh, and Scotland in general is how old it is and how massive the architecture is. I felt like I was wandering through the dark castles of Game of Thrones, with such huge stones blackened with age everywhere I turned.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-hKMzWLC/0/e2b71bf1/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(46%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-hKMzWLC/0/e2b71bf1/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(46%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a>St Giles Cathedral</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-WDx3WdB/0/665e8b33/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(41%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-WDx3WdB/0/665e8b33/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(41%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /></div></div><div>St Giles crown steeple is one of Edinburgh's most famous and distinctive landmarks. The steeple has been dated between 1460 and 1467, and it has been said that Edinburgh would not be Edinburgh without it.</div><div><br /></div><div>A visit to the interior of the St Giles Cathedral wasn't included in our tour, but our guide provided a great deal of information about the cathedral, the famous tower, and surrounding landmarks in the square. Sadly, due to the crowds and her lack of voice projection, we couldn't hear much of what she was saying.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-kFLtSSb/0/733334e0/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(53%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-kFLtSSb/0/733334e0/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(53%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I had hoped for a bit of shopping for some Harris Tweed or tartan woolens for gifts, but our tour kept moving with no time for meandering or entering any of the dozens of shopping venues. The finer shops were at the upper end of the Mile, close to Edinburgh Castle, with the more touristy (read inexpensive) shops down the hill toward our final stop at the Holyrood Castle.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-KKS8hRw/0/0abeafbc/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(56%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-KKS8hRw/0/0abeafbc/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(56%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />At the end of our tour, we were given 20 minutes of free time to shop, find a pub, drink a beer, and get back to the courtyard. It was daunting to make a decision as to what to do, but finding an open pub in the crowded city was a priority, and with a couple of new ship acquaintances, we finally found a space open with an available table. I looked longingly at the shops but knew that there wasn't time for both and I was tired from all the walking and noise and really looked forward to relaxing, if only for a few moments.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-BGDnSBX/0/080c0216/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(60%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="800" height="351" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-BGDnSBX/0/080c0216/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(60%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />After meeting our guide again in the courtyard of the cathedral, we walked to the Holyrood House, where King Charles was currently in residence. We could only take photos through the heavy wrought iron gates and no tours are available when the King is at home.<p></p><p>Scotland is steeped in legend and history, and no place more so than Edinburgh. I would love to stay at an Airbnb just on the edge of town and walk everywhere for days and days, reading about the history and experiencing the city in ways that are only possible on a more extended land tour. Still, I was thrilled to spend even a few hours immersed in all the dark stone surrounded by gargoyles and colorful family crests. Below is the crest for the joining of the royal houses of Scotland represented by the unicorn, and the royal house of England, represented by the lion.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-5kRFdRX/0/f767ded7/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(51%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="410" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-5kRFdRX/0/f767ded7/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(51%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="410" /></a></div><p>Listening to our guide recounting so much of the complex history and relationship between Scotland and England was fascinating as well, even though we couldn't hear all that she said. I am a fan of Outlander and understood a bit more of that complex history after visiting Edinburgh, but still, so much to learn and understand. My Kindle list of books to purchase now includes several volumes of Scottish history, both real and fictional.</p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-Dq65jSW/0/561907e6/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(68%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-Dq65jSW/0/561907e6/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(68%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />Back on the ship, just in time for the sail-away, we changed our clothes for another dinner at a specialty restaurant. This evening our restaurant would be Jacques, the fine French restaurant, on the 5th deck. I was delighted that there were windows and our waiter offered to open the curtains for us so we could watch the sail-away.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-bThFFsv/0/3b21adc0/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(62%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="394" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-bThFFsv/0/3b21adc0/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(62%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="394" /></a></div><br />Dinner was truly superb, and when I couldn't decide between the Coquille St Jacques, so classicly French, or the Maine lobster baked in the shell with a mushroom cream sauce, the waiter said, no problem, I will bring both to you. <p></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-QxHVxPB/0/f87d4ebb/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(63%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="462" height="599" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-QxHVxPB/0/f87d4ebb/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(63%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="462" /></a></div><br />The scallops won hands down, with a divinely silky sauce that I wanted to eat like soup. <p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-ScXCLFM/0/2dfcce56/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(64%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="416" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-ScXCLFM/0/2dfcce56/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(64%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="416" /></a></div><br />Mo enjoyed a beautiful herb-roasted chicken that was done in the Julia Child French style, and it was perfect. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-JxXfTSk/0/cc14aa03/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(61%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-JxXfTSk/0/cc14aa03/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(61%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />The wine we chose for our meal was a surprise to the waiter, who recommended all sorts of French wines, but when we chose a great pinot noir from our own Willamette Valley, he gave us a great big smile. A good price point and a truly delicious wine that went perfectly with our dining choices.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-DNs4LwC/0/47527741/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(65%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-DNs4LwC/0/47527741/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(65%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />The cheese cart for dessert was delightful as well, and I have no idea what this hard French cheese was that our waiter cut with a spinning knife, but I loved it with the wine we still had left from the meal. In fact, we only drank half the bottle and once again had the rest of the bottle sent to our room for the next day.<p></p><p>I really can't say which of our two favorite restaurants, Jacques or Toscana, I enjoyed most, with the food at each one being simply superb. I watched the coast of Scotland slipping away on the western horizon as we finished our dinner and sailed toward Newcastle, England.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-gFtFTJ3/0/5e232d29/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(66%20of%2077)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-06-2023-Visiting-Edinburgh-and-Around-the-Ship/i-gFtFTJ3/0/5e232d29/L/07-06-2023%20Visiting%20Edinburgh%20and%20Around%20the%20Ship%20(66%20of%2077)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><p>After our long day visiting Edinburgh and our delectably slow delicious dinner, neither of us felt like doing anything but returning to our stateroom for the rest of the evening. There is entertainment on board for the taking after the dinner hour, but Mo and I weren't inclined to stay out late partying and dancing. I guess that just isn't our style.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><br /><p style="background-color: white; color: #202122; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0.5em 0px;"><br /></p></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-85906343616350330392023-07-21T15:14:00.003-07:002023-07-21T17:55:30.329-07:0007-05-2023 Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-HSKkCVt/0/8eadc1d1/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(1%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-HSKkCVt/0/8eadc1d1/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(1%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>This was the view from our stateroom early on this morning approaching the mythical Orkney Islands and the town of Kirkwall. As you can see, the seas were smooth as glass, and the skies promised some sunshine in between possible bouts of rain.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-rmFbnFx/0/bbc6ba3c/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(2%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-rmFbnFx/0/bbc6ba3c/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(2%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>I say mythical because the ancient cultures of the Orkney Islands have fascinated me for a very long time. When we booked the original cruise for 2020, the visit to Kirkwall and the Orkney Islands was high on my list of reasons why I wanted to do this cruise. Our current cruise altered many of the ports that we visited, but Orkney and the town of Kirkwall were still on the list of places we would see. I was thrilled. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-pBV4ZFh/0/52842adf/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(98%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="799" height="380" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-pBV4ZFh/0/52842adf/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(98%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Riviera anchored in Kirkwall Bay with a German cruise ship docked closer to town<p></p><p>Originally, our friends Erin and Mui were to be with us on this cruise. Erin often arranges private tours for the ports she visits, and we would have enjoyed her private tour with a woman Erin arranged for that year. When the cruise was moved to 2021, and Erin wouldn't be aboard, I arranged a private tour with the same person. I am sure it would have been wonderful. </p><p>By 2023, when we finally sailed with Oceania, I was mentally exhausted and decided to simply book one of the three ships tours that were complimentary for us with our O-Life package. After all the changes to planning and sailing dates and ports, I chose to skip the extra stress of planning a private tour.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-349RVhq/0/600d87ca/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(56%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-349RVhq/0/600d87ca/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(56%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a><span style="text-align: left;">Our photo from the bus window as we passed the archeological site of Skara Brae.</span></div><p></p><p>We picked one called "North Orkney Exploration", touring the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney, a World Heritage Site. What I realized later was that we would not be visiting one of the most interesting ancient sites on Orkney, the Skara Brae Prehistoric Village, occupied from roughly 3180 BC to about 2500 BC and Europe's most complete Neolithic village. Although I was a bit disappointed that we wouldn't be visiting Skara Brae, our chosen tour passed by the site, crowded with visitors, and a bit smaller in reality than I had imagined. I can read about the village, the history that has been uncovered carefully, and the story of the restoration, all at length on the internet. I was less disappointed as we passed by the site, happy with the parts of Orkney that we did get to see on our tour.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-hLWM5xb/0/0261b9df/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(102%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-hLWM5xb/0/0261b9df/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(102%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Once again we were anchored off Kirkwall Bay, with tender service to the pier just a short walking distance to the lovely town of Kirkwall. The city is first mentioned in the Orkneyinga saga in 1046 when it is recorded as the residence of Rognvald Brusason, the Earl of Orkney. Kirkwall dates back to Norse times when it was called Kirkjuvagr (Church of the Bay). At that time, the sea lapped at the steps of the great cathedral which we explored on our visit, but now much of that land has been reclaimed and the sea is a bit away from the town.<p></p><p>We enjoyed our morning on the ship before departing at 10 when the tenders first began taking passengers to shore. We wanted as much time as possible to explore the city before meeting our tour bus at noon on the pier. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-J8kXJfs/0/34747ef7/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(17%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="389" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-J8kXJfs/0/34747ef7/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(17%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="389" /></a></div><br />Kirkwall was a huge surprise. After visiting the previous towns on our cruise, where shopping was limited, I was enthralled with the charming streets of Kirkwall, lined with amazing shops, wonderful shop windows filled with Harris Tweed, original art, beautiful handmade crafts, and flowers. <p></p><p>I was meandering about, and Mo waited outside with my walker as I slipped into a small shop filled with beautiful jewelry, sculptures, paintings, and painted silks. I chose a scarf, made of thin airy muslin, painted by one of the artists in concert with a jewelry maker. They made the two items to be worn together, but the jewelry was something I didn't want or need. I am a scarf wearer, and this lovely thing is painted with the soft sea and land colors of Orkney, and I will treasure it as my favorite keepsake of the trip.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-dGNbs73/0/6a597f69/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(20%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-dGNbs73/0/6a597f69/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(20%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Once back outside, Mo was a bit impatient with me. She isn't much of a shopper, but her main concern was that we needed to find the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral. The skyline of the city is dominated by the great cathedral, and it didn't take long for us to find it. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-PwMZZMB/0/616a6161/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(27%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-PwMZZMB/0/616a6161/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(27%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Stepping into the great sandstone cathedral was a breathless moment for both of us. The huge red sandstone pillars are massive, dominating the view toward the center of the nave. The warmly colored red sandstone was quarried near Kirkwall, with yellow sandstone from Eday adding more warmth.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-hGJPSw3/0/47b0b779/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(25%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-hGJPSw3/0/47b0b779/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(25%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />St Magnus Cathedral was founded in 1137 by Earl Rognvald, nephew of St Magnus, who was the Earl of Orkney in the early 1100s. When it was first built, the cathedral was part of the Archdiocese of Nidaros (Trondheim) in Norway. Orkney became part of Scotland in 1468, and a few years later, the cathedral was given to the people of Kirkwall by the Scots king, James III. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-Mm6VXc4/0/678a9147/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(33%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-Mm6VXc4/0/678a9147/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(33%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>A memorial to Dr, John Rae, an employee of the Hudson Bay Co and explorer of the Canadian Arctic<p></p><p>After the Scottish Reformation in 1560, the cathedral was used for Protestant worship. Today, the cathedral belongs to the people of Orkney and is looked after by Orkney Islands Council. It has a Church of Scotland congregation, and by arrangement can be used by any Christian denomination.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-vqDnS35/0/d7d76507/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(26%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-vqDnS35/0/d7d76507/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(26%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />Several restorations took place, in the 1850s, and again from 1913 to 1930. The present floors, the woodwork, stained glass windows, and the spire were installed at that time. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-8Ft7Qrk/0/61315dd5/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(32%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="367" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-8Ft7Qrk/0/61315dd5/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(32%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="367" /></a></div><br />The cathedral structure is constantly monitored to safeguard this magnificent example of medieval architecture that remains in Great Britain.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-KNj6sqx/0/f84733a0/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(22%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-KNj6sqx/0/f84733a0/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(22%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>I wished for more time to explore the stones in the church cemetery, but we just had time to get back to the pier for our excursion departure.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-QNFHNJv/0/ce372d9e/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(42%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-QNFHNJv/0/ce372d9e/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(42%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Once on the bus and out in the countryside, it began to rain. Our destination was a visit to the Standing Stones of Stennes, a 5,000-year-old circle of stones. People throughout the world are familiar with Stonehenge, the standing stones in England, but there are many standing stone sites throughout the British Isles, including the two sites we would see today on Orkney Island.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-qx2LjmV/0/1a292085/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(45%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-qx2LjmV/0/1a292085/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(45%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />By the time we reached the shores of the Loch of Stenness, the rain lessened. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-F2CbMVL/0/b1f724eb/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(46%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-F2CbMVL/0/b1f724eb/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(46%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Our first view of the stones was impressive, even from the parking lot and surrounded by tourists. First cut from Orkney flagstone and erected before the Egyptians began constructing the pyramids, Orkney's stone sentinels have withstood rain, sun, and wind for millennia. Visiting these stone circles was as high on my list of must-sees as Skara Brae. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-k3H2tDr/0/44d887c7/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(50%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="451" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-k3H2tDr/0/44d887c7/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(50%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="451" /></a></div><br />Only four of the original stones remain, with the tallest about 19 feet high, The stones were originally laid out in an ellipse. Although it was thought that the monument was once made up of 12 megaliths, excavations in the 1970s suggest that the ring was never completed, with at least one or possibly two of the 12 stones never erected. Radiocarbon dates from the excavation show that the site dates from at least 3100 BC, making the Standing Stones complex one of the earliest stone circles in Britain. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-gMnnpz2/0/b7ebfabf/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(51%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-gMnnpz2/0/b7ebfabf/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(51%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The stones are behind a gate designed to let people in and keep the sheep from getting out. The guide made sure to warn us that sheep do leave poop around and that we should watch our step.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-hzpgDKZ/0/06ff16ef/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(49%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-hzpgDKZ/0/06ff16ef/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(49%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>We made our way back to the bus, sad that we only had 20 minutes or so to actually visit the stones, or to sit quietly and contemplate the possibilities of the culture that created these circles. The bus did make a slight detour from the main road to drive us past the Ring of Brodgar, just about a mile west of the Stones of Stenness.<p></p><p>Because the interior of the Ring of Brodgar has never been fully excavated, or scientifically dated, the monument's actual age is uncertain. However, it is generally assumed to have been erected between 2500 BC and 2000 BC and was the last of the great stone circles to have been built on the Island. It was thought that there were originally more than 60 stones in this circle, however today, only 27 stones remain. Of course, we saw this one from the bus window. So much to see and so little time on a bus for more than 4 hours on North Orkney Island.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-tHrxRHr/0/f9225df4/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(58%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="800" height="370" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-tHrxRHr/0/f9225df4/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(58%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>Our bus continued on our circular route around the island with wide open views of the countryside. The Orkneys seemed to be a bit less rocky than the Hebrides Islands that we visited yesterday, but were still just as open, without trees in the way of the expansive views.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-NbLxFz5/0/e0398e3a/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(67%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-NbLxFz5/0/e0398e3a/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(67%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We reached the lakeside town of Stromness with time for a short visit. The guide showed us the line for ice cream and a crowded tiny establishment, and we declined. She said, "You have fifteen minutes, that is where you get your ice cream". Um. Nope. We also needed bathrooms and they were about a block away. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-Xk9CZ2j/0/894a1fcb/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(68%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-Xk9CZ2j/0/894a1fcb/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(68%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div>Stairs in Stromness...nope<p></p><p>Mo and I found another small shop that did have ice cream and managed to get a cone for each of us before we returned to the bus. The little town of Stromness looked charming and historic, and we would have loved to explore it a bit more.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-xXdqJCs/0/ddc4b46a/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(81%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-xXdqJCs/0/ddc4b46a/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(81%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Back on the bus, we traveled north toward what turned out to be a beautiful stop at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The walk at low tide to the lighthouse would have been doable if we had more time. Still, it was a beautiful place to walk around and rest a bit and listen to the ocean.<p></p><p></p><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 13.3333px;"></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-sh5S8f9/0/045acbbc/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(85%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-sh5S8f9/0/045acbbc/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(85%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-Xgc6vxb/0/ecb0ce6f/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(82%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="800" height="553" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-Xgc6vxb/0/ecb0ce6f/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(82%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div>I am not sure why these tours seem so rushed. The buses travel from place to place with very little time to actually explore or enjoy each site. Is it important enough to show everything possible in an afternoon rather than exploring fewer sites with more time at each one? </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-6G62sTZ/0/0e7104b2/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(94%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="800" height="366" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-6G62sTZ/0/0e7104b2/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(94%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Ripples marking the meeting of the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, another bus window photo</div><div><br /></div><div>I don't understand how these tours are created or who is actually responsible for choosing the tours that are available. But after experiencing three of Oceania's available ship tours I very much understand why Erin spends so much time planning private tours whenever possible. I think I learned a lesson here, but I also don't expect to be traveling on a cruise ship again any time soon. When and if we do, I will be more diligent about researching private tours.</div><div><br /></div><div>We returned to the port of Kirkwall just in time for the very last tender, which was too full for the rest of our group. Instead, we were loaded onto a ferry that carried many more people than the tenders could carry. It was a fun trip back to the ship, if a bit slower.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-8sRLz9s/0/86fb08f9/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(101%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="799" height="395" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-8sRLz9s/0/86fb08f9/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(101%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div></div><p>We were just barely back in our staterooms when Riviera set sail and we traveled into the Atlantic Ocean, leaving the Orkney Islands in the rear view mirror of memories. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-qHgKtDD/0/df168e8c/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(103%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-qHgKtDD/0/df168e8c/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(103%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I felt a bit sad. It had passed so very quickly, these two days on the outer islands of Scotland, and I was hungry for more. Tomorrow we would visit Edinburgh, on the mainland of Scotland, so I had one more day to get a feeling for the country that bred my ancestors.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-BnSQ5Fz/0/2d4d9f38/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(104%20of%20105)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="800" height="338" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-05-20023-Krikwall-Orkney-Islands-United-Kingdom/i-BnSQ5Fz/0/2d4d9f38/L/07-05-20023%20Krikwall%20(Orkney%20Islands%20United%20Kingdom)%20(104%20of%20105)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />+<p></p><p> </p></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-12933054085438577442023-07-20T16:11:00.000-07:002023-07-20T16:11:27.829-07:0007-04-2023 Scotland at last, on the Hebrides Islands<p> <a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-3hkZHBc/0/06d6b0fc/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(34%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="800" height="350" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-3hkZHBc/0/06d6b0fc/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(34%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a>Gearrannan Blackhouse Village</p><p></p><p>For me, the next three days that we spent in Scotland were the most exciting part of our cruise. Mo and I have been to Ireland, and Mo was in Scotland as a young woman, but I had never been there and we had never traveled to Scotland together. This was our first taste of a country with centuries of history plugged into my own genes. With the introduction of DNA testing, I discovered I have much more Scottish heritage than I do Irish or any other origin.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-76kGcKf/0/846775cb/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(1%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-76kGcKf/0/846775cb/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(1%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>Once again we were anchored offshore from the port at Stornaway, the largest town of the Outer Hebrides islands of Scotland. Mo and I departed as soon as tender service allowed because we wanted to visit the town on our own before meeting our tour group on the pier at 2:30 for a tour of "Historic Lewis", designed to showcase the history and culture of the island of Lewis, the largest and most populated island in the Outer Hebrides chain. </p><p>The Isle of Lewis is shaped by the sea and harsh climate. Steeped in history, the island has been inhabited for over 6,000 years, with nothing between it and North America. Although we were to pass near the Standing Stones of Callanash, there was a message in LARGE PRINT in the Currents magazine to be certain that we knew that visiting the stones was not part of our chosen tour. The tour that visited the stones was sold out before we were allowed to make tour choices, so I was aware that we wouldn't see them.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-CqDcPKz/0/80425620/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(18%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-CqDcPKz/0/80425620/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(18%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We spent a couple of hours in Stornoway, exploring the small side streets, with me attempting to navigate the very narrow sidewalks with the walker. I was glad I had it, however, since there were a few hills and a lot of walking involved in our explorations. It was great to have a place to sit when I needed it.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-286cZmj/0/461f60d6/L/lews%20castle-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="800" height="469" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-286cZmj/0/461f60d6/L/lews%20castle-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />The Neogothic Lews castle rises on land above a beautiful park on one side of the town, but we decided against visiting there and instead decided to spend our time exploring the town. Stornoway is the center for the manufacture of Harris Tweed and tourism is also important to the economy. The town was established by Vikings in the 9th century, with the settlement growing slowly around the natural harbor. The economics of Stornaway is built on traditional industries like fishing, making Harris Tweed, and farming, but currently, it is influenced by tourism and the oil industry.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-m4MWxcL/0/46060895/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(4%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-m4MWxcL/0/46060895/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(4%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-x3n9p4C/0/cd31f55a/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(3%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-x3n9p4C/0/cd31f55a/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(3%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />On the main street closest to the port, we saw an outstanding and very photogenic local landmark, the Stornaway Town Hall. The building is important in the history of Stornoway and is an iconic building on one of the most prominent sites in the town.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-9m8qJ2c/0/c0004619/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(6%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="799" height="461" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-9m8qJ2c/0/c0004619/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(6%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />There were a few shops, and with a short time to explore, we skipped the shops to make an attempt to find the churches, which were highly touted in the city guide.<p></p><p>In this case, I was glad that I had taken the time to download the Google map for the island, and we used it to make an attempt to find the church. The city maps are often very poorly made, not to scale, and often not oriented in any particular direction.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-VgghKvw/0/9faa42b1/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(8%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-VgghKvw/0/9faa42b1/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(8%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div></div><br />With a bit of walking, we found the Scottish Episcopal Church, but it was not open for visiting. We saw tiny gates leading to charming gardens, but no possible way to enter with my walker. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-cMRWtCr/0/b86e1722/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(5%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-cMRWtCr/0/b86e1722/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(5%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />After walking around several blocks looking for the church entrance, we gave up and continued on toward the much larger Free Church of Scotland in another direction.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-sNXXJ4K/0/986f0fe6/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(15%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-sNXXJ4K/0/986f0fe6/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(15%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><p>There were helpful docents at this church and we were invited to enter and watch a video about the beliefs of the Free Church of Scotland. It was an interesting visit, and the austere interior reflected the somewhat austere version of Protestantism represented by this denomination.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-BVBd8V3/0/d4363734/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(17%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="422" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-BVBd8V3/0/d4363734/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(17%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="422" /></a></div><p>The kind woman who showed us the church offered to take our photograph and would have spent more time with us, but we needed to be on our way for our tour of the rest of the island.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-HzGNJDQ/0/e910c86e/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(27%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-HzGNJDQ/0/e910c86e/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(27%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We met at the pier to board our bus that would lead us on a circular tour of the northern half of the Island. Our tour guide was a young woman with a lilting Norwegian accent, not quite as funny or charming as our Irish guide had been the previous day. But as she told of the history of the Outer Hebrides and their Viking past, it made a bit more sense to have a Norwegian guide. She told us she had recently relocated to the island for good and loved living here. We enjoyed her stories about her Pentecostal Church of Scotland membership and other church services that she attended, which seemed to be her major social activity on the island.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-PjJ2N4j/0/d9d1223c/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(28%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-PjJ2N4j/0/d9d1223c/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(28%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Our first stop was at the black house village of Gearrannan, steeped in history, in a location of outstanding beauty. The village's history only goes back to the early 1900s, and yet it looked much like some of the sets on the Outlander series, set a couple of centuries earlier in the story. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-4vGgcx8/0/82d0d25f/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(37%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-4vGgcx8/0/82d0d25f/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(37%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Since 1989, a local community trust has been painstakingly restoring the once derelict properties and croft (small farm) land to recreate an authentic settlement.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-3hkZHBc/0/06d6b0fc/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(34%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="800" height="350" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-3hkZHBc/0/06d6b0fc/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(34%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Traditional methods have been used to recreate the dry-stone masonry and thatched roofs of the original croft houses. A typical "blackhouse" was a long rectangular building forty to fifty feet in length, with an interior width of 10 to 12 feet. All the corners in the outside walls were rounded, and great care was taken to ensure that the outer walls, which were of undressed stone, had a slight slant to allow the rain to drip off and not seep into the interior. The thatched roof was a fundamental characteristic of the blackhouse and thatching was a family or community activity with the skills passed from generation to generation. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-zhK5B5T/0/028455e6/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(39%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-zhK5B5T/0/028455e6/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(39%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The small rocky paths that led to vistas of the surrounding landscape and the distant ocean were covered in blooming heather and brilliant green grasses. It was extremely quiet, even with all the people from the tour milling about. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-PsmpjFt/0/587e4d77/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(43%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-PsmpjFt/0/587e4d77/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(43%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />As was often the case on our tours on this trip, we were given just 15 minutes of free time to walk around, visit the museum, and peruse the small artists' shop, where I didn't have enough time to make a thoughtful purchase. Another moment that I wish now that I had managed differently because some of the small art pieces would have been good gifts for my daughters.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-gdcJ5zN/0/44c1285a/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(45%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-gdcJ5zN/0/44c1285a/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(45%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Yes, I did manage to snag the front seat of the bus for this tour!<p></p><p>Once on the bus again, we traveled a short distance further along the rugged coastline on Loch Carloway, to the exceptionally well-preserved Carloway Broch, a 2,000-year-old circular, dry-stone-built, fortified tower. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-927bGHq/0/3f400719/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(47%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-927bGHq/0/3f400719/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(47%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Here we viewed the collapsing stonework which made the interior galleries and stairways visible. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-SdkTV4C/0/c30ee2a3/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(48%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="396" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-SdkTV4C/0/c30ee2a3/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(48%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="396" /></a></div><br />Several folks from our group climbed the steep narrow stairs to the upper levels of the broch, but neither of us was even slightly inclined to try it. I had a hard enough time trying to get through the low, narrow doorways to the interior of the ancient building.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-Z4mTwCr/0/e93ae273/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(58%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-Z4mTwCr/0/e93ae273/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(58%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The broch was on a high hill with another view of the Loch Carloway, and several farmhouses scattered about the landscape. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-XmvHHdf/0/4c6cb2a2/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(61%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-XmvHHdf/0/4c6cb2a2/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(61%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />There were sheep, and old stone ruins scattered about as well.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-GX9RVwn/0/7adf048b/L/hebrides-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="800" height="463" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-GX9RVwn/0/7adf048b/L/hebrides-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Google image of the Outer Hebrides west of the coast of Mainland Scotland. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-54vPgf5/0/8559cbbc/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(57%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="401" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-54vPgf5/0/8559cbbc/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(57%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="401" /></a></div><br />When we left the broch, our circular itinerary took us along the west coast of the Hebrides, pounded by the force of the Atlantic Ocean. We motored across the moors on our way back to Stornaway. However, along the way, our guide pointed out the Callanish Standing Stones, barely visible through the bus windows in the distance.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-XMhpZBd/0/45185f8a/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(63%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-XMhpZBd/0/45185f8a/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(63%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I took a photo but stole the second photo below from the internet to show what we missed. Throughout the Outer Hebrides, and the Orkney Islands which we would see on the next day, there are numerous ancient sites of standing stones, brochs, and other prehistoric ruins. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-62wHgZg/0/caaa9206/L/callanish-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="800" height="364" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-62wHgZg/0/caaa9206/L/callanish-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div> Photo from the internet of the Callanish Standing Stones<p></p><p>I would love to return to Scotland, but it would require a minimum three-hour ferry ride to get to the island from the mainland, so I am glad we were able to see these islands from the ease of a cruise port.</p><p>Once we returned to the ship, we decided that it was a good evening to see if the 24-hour room service was a good option for a relaxing evening in our stateroom. Our dinner was just OK, in fact, I wrote that it was "ok" in my notes, and never took note of what we ordered.</p><p>That evening the Riviera Lounge entertainment was to be a Concert of Movie Themes, performed by the Brilliant String Quartet at 9:30. We chose instead to stay in our room and relax in preparation for our next day of touring, the third day in a row with a formal tour.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-8Brhpc9/0/1b999ff0/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(8%20of%208)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-8Brhpc9/0/1b999ff0/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(8%20of%208)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />On a different day, I caught of the lovely musicians performing in the Grand Bar.<p></p><p>The photo below I took from our veranda at 11 PM as we rounded Cape Wrath on the northwest coast of Scotland.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-TcsCCNj/0/2154dd94/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(64%20of%2065)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-04-2023-Stornoway-Hebrides-United-Kingdom/i-TcsCCNj/0/2154dd94/L/07-04-2023%20Stornoway%20(Hebrides%2C%20%20United%20Kingdom)%20(64%20of%2065)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-88910615583195301622023-07-19T17:10:00.002-07:002023-07-19T17:17:59.656-07:0007-03-2023 Killybegs, County Donegal, Ireland<p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-3Kw2CTf/0/1900f363/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(14%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-3Kw2CTf/0/1900f363/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(14%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">A typical view of the rolling landscape of County Donegal</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As mornings go, this one was simple and beautifully forgettable, as it should be. Our breakfast in the Terrace Cafe was fine once we learned to eat fruit, bagels, and English muffins. For some reason, bacon seems to be an item that any cruise ship or any tour we have been on for the last 20 years hasn't managed to do right. It is either limp, or overcooked, and has no flavor. By this time, halfway through our cruise, we learned what to eat and what to avoid, and had a lovely time eating breakfast with a nice table by the window. We actually slept in on this sparkling morning, with the curtains closed we had no idea what time it was and woke at 9. That is unheard of for us.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-kMBtw4q/0/9177532f/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(1%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-kMBtw4q/0/9177532f/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(1%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">These are the base towers for windmills that power most of County Donegal</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Our port in Killybegs was at the dock, no tender was needed. The seas had calmed as well, so there was no more rocking and rolling to contend with. However, looking out over the port of Killybegs wasn't particularly exciting. The cruise ship provided a bus for the 20-minute ride to the city center, but we had a tour of County Donegal at noon, so decided to relax on the ship until it was time for our tour.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/TravelsOutsidetheUS/2015-Ireland/10-02-2015-Sligo-to-Derry-via/i-Kz28XCr/0/41b87b65/L/Sligo%20to%20Derry%20via%20Drumcliffe%20(67%20of%2068)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="534" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/TravelsOutsidetheUS/2015-Ireland/10-02-2015-Sligo-to-Derry-via/i-Kz28XCr/0/41b87b65/L/Sligo%20to%20Derry%20via%20Drumcliffe%20(67%20of%2068)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">This was our view of County Donegal from the bus in 2015</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We were thrilled to get a different perspective of County Donegal, since in 2015 we simply saw it from the northeastern boundary on our way from Sligo to Derry, with the tour director pointing out the beautiful ocean far to the southwest, and regaling us with stories of the glorious County Donegal, home to artists and fishermen and beautiful rolling green hills.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-H8BpW5B/0/e8a53c97/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(24%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-H8BpW5B/0/e8a53c97/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(24%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Today we would see it differently, albeit still from the window of a bus. Sometimes there is just no other way to get around to see some of the sights in a single day.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-Zc7vqNb/0/7f59b09d/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(3%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-Zc7vqNb/0/7f59b09d/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(3%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Our tour departed right on time just after 12:20 pm, and the tour director explained to us the importance of the wind turbines that provide almost all the power for this part of Ireland. The huge blades are delivered to this port for distribution throughout Ireland. We never did learn where the blades were made.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-Z66Bjd2/0/28734d23/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(4%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-Z66Bjd2/0/28734d23/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(4%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Moving quickly along the narrow roads, through the countryside, we saw coke ovens and heard stories about coal mining which was important at one time for this part of Ireland as well, but no longer. Our guide had a strong Irish accent but was easily understandable. He also had delightful Irish humor and made the 3.5-hour bus ride thoroughly enjoyable.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-rSHJtR9/0/53491798/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(32%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-rSHJtR9/0/53491798/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(32%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Amazed me how these tour bus drivers stay between the lines on these narrow roads</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The drive was an immensely panoramic meander, following a circuitous route to the village of Crolly, and back. Throughout the tour, we rolled through the heart of Ireland's second-largest county, a northwest landscape punctuated by sleepy villages, long valleys, and a rocky, barren coast.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-7DhPZ4b/0/e7160d1a/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(27%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-7DhPZ4b/0/e7160d1a/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(27%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />We stopped at a rest area on the banks of a beautiful river. When I took a photo of this sign, written in Gaelic, I thought it would help me remember the name of the river. Instead, it is the name of the town nearby.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Leitir Mhic a Bhaird (anglicized as Lettermacaward) is a village in the Rosses region of County Donegal. Understanding the Gaelic signs is not necessarily very intuitive. It was a beautiful river, though, strongly affected by tides from the nearby Atlantic Ocean, and lined with green seaweed. We were told that the seaweed is a sign of the good health of the river. When it turns brown and dies, it means the river has a problem.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d5156;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-SxdpzCG/0/1aecf407/L/Gweebarra%20Bridge%20on%20the%20river-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="800" height="570" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-SxdpzCG/0/1aecf407/L/Gweebarra%20Bridge%20on%20the%20river-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Here is a google map for reference, with the name of the river conveniently written in English. We were on the banks of the Gweebarra River, closer to the ocean than I realized. Usually I download an offline map for towns we are visiting where I won't have internet, but on this day I didn't do so. It was a mistake because I had no clue where we were most of the time. Understanding the Gaelic signs is not necessarily very intuitive. It was a beautiful river, though, strongly affected by tides from the nearby Atlantic Ocean, and lined with green seaweed. We were told that the seaweed is a sign of the good health of the river. When it turns brown and dies, it means the river has a problem.</span><p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d5156;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-sDjrXqG/0/6a686378/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(28%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-sDjrXqG/0/6a686378/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(28%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The stop was a short one, with only ten minutes or so to exit the bus, take a photo or two, and right back on the bus, continuing through the village of Gweebarra. Here are a few bus window photos of some of the villages that we passed through on our route.</span><p></p><p><span style="color: #4d5156; font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #4d5156; font-family: arial;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-HTGRCzm/0/7b70dbd3/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(18%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-HTGRCzm/0/7b70dbd3/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(18%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #4d5156; font-family: arial;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-wDMvFfR/0/be63f5ac/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(19%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-wDMvFfR/0/be63f5ac/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(19%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-6s7vB63/0/b5b2997a/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(20%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-6s7vB63/0/b5b2997a/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(20%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><p>The Irish singer Enya, and her family, who make up the group Clannad, are from Crolly, and our destination was the pub in Enya's hometown, currently owned and run by her brother, who took it over when their parents retired.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-G6rfH8B/0/b410036b/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(38%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-G6rfH8B/0/b410036b/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(38%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>Leo's Tavern is quite well known, with Enya often returning home for casual performances in the bar with her family. Bono drops in now and then, and Paul McCartney has also been seen there. There was quite a bit of name-dropping going on as we all entered the tavern and settled in for some music, some Irish dancing, and an Irish Coffee.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-wqRDHGX/0/812eb810/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(34%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="799" height="476" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-wqRDHGX/0/812eb810/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(34%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />It was a fun time, and Mo and I chose again to sit at the bar for the festivities. It was important to get another one of those bar mirror photos. Not our first, and I hope not our last.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-Bdbvdct/0/c4bfe65d/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(33%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-Bdbvdct/0/c4bfe65d/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(33%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>The young girl who performed an Irish jig for us was Leo's granddaughter. My video isn't blog worthy but it is a charming remembrance for Mo and for me. You can see her in the photo below with the long blond ponytail.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-BP9DH3D/0/38537a24/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(35%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-BP9DH3D/0/38537a24/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(35%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-RXQRdBm/0/e7341df5/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(36%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-RXQRdBm/0/e7341df5/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(36%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><p>Enya's brother, seen in the photo above, introduced his older uncle (in the photo on the wall on the right) who played the accordion and sang an Irish ballad for us as well. Overall, a delightful and relaxing visit to a fun place.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-VNzVpLH/0/76c9d1f0/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(40%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-VNzVpLH/0/76c9d1f0/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(40%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The 90-minute ride returning to the ship was beautiful, with many views of County Donegal. It is a rural place that has been found by artists and creative people from all over the world. In addition, with the advent of online work for many people, entrepreneurs working from home have discovered County Donegal. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-m4FbShx/0/cae083f5/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(8%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="278" data-original-width="800" height="278" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-m4FbShx/0/cae083f5/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(8%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />The area abounds with good entertainment, good food, and lots of art and music as would be expected in a place frequented by an artistic community of people. Homes are not inexpensive, with rents running 1500 euros per month for a 2 bedroom apartment. Rent creep is everywhere, I guess.<p></p><p>We returned to the ship just in time for the 5:30 PM departure from the port at Killybegs. Our evening was another quiet one, with a simple dinner in the Terrace Cafe and the choice to skip the magic show in the Riviera Theater at 9:30 PM. Once again, we relaxed on our veranda and enjoyed the slight motion of the ship as it sailed from the port of Killybegs into the Atlantic Ocean toward the Hebrides Islands of Scotland.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-j9n2q3q/0/b183c97b/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(42%20of%2046)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-03-2023-Killybegs-and-County-Donegal/i-j9n2q3q/0/b183c97b/L/07-03-2023%20Killybegs%20and%20County%20Donegal%20(42%20of%2046)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p></span><p></p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-82768550795822494782023-07-18T14:20:00.004-07:002023-07-18T14:20:52.855-07:0007-02-2023 High Seas, High Winds, and a Tiny Port, Visiting Bantry, Ireland<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-ccX9z4z/0/13f09c7a/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(1%20of%2033)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-ccX9z4z/0/13f09c7a/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(1%20of%2033)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Beautiful Bantry Bay with scallop traps floating on the water<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-tmJHH29/0/5a029615/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(3%20of%2033)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-tmJHH29/0/5a029615/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(3%20of%2033)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><div><br /></div>It took some time and a bit of research before we figured out what all these black floating things were. That research led us down a rabbit hole of information about scallop and mussel farming in this part of Ireland and the effects on the salmon industry. Many of the articles were from the early 2000's so I assume the environmentalists backed down and the beneficial economics of a good industry for this part of Ireland won. <p></p><p>If you look at the map of our cruise route around the southern edge of the Republic of Ireland, you will see that even though Cobh and Bantry might be more than 100 sea miles apart, they are quite close together on land. This might explain why the shore excursions for Bantry were very limited and didn't entice me to purchase one when we planned our outings for this cruise. Much of what was offered was similar to excursions offered the previous day from Cobh. In addition, departures were very early for a few hours touring the countryside in a bus with few stops. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-BS8TGVJ/0/ffa7441e/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(2%20of%2033)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-BS8TGVJ/0/ffa7441e/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(2%20of%2033)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Bantry looked quite beautiful in the early morning light as we cruised in the picturesque Bantry Bay. The winds were blowing and the seas were still quite rough. In fact, the previous night I took my first meclizine tablet to be certain that I didn't get seasick. I had a prescription for the scopolamine patch, but really wanted to avoid them if possible. It turns out that I never needed the patch during the entire cruise for which I was grateful.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-3xmjkdz/0/7c157e0c/L/Tenders%20for%20Riviera-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="514" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-3xmjkdz/0/7c157e0c/L/Tenders%20for%20Riviera-L.jpg" width="514" /></a></div><br />As we watched the tenders rocking and rolling on their way to the port, we were very happy that we hadn't signed up for anything. Our plan was to take our time, and perhaps ride a tender into town later in the day to explore a bit. Reading up on the sights to be seen in Bantry, we weren't very impressed with the possibilities available to us on foot. Later that evening we learned that the tenders had a very difficult time getting back to the ship that afternoon, with some trips taking more than 90 minutes while they tried to line up with the ship for the passengers to return. The ship was a couple of hours late departing the port that evening as well. <p></p><p>The bay is deep and large, with one of the longest inlets in southwest Ireland. There are several islands in the bay where there are small villages and a castle. There was no way to see these islands without more time than we had to spend. Whiddy Island is at the head of the bay and is the main petroleum terminus for Ireland, with the harbor suited for large oceangoing tankers. The historic Bantry House and gardens are high on a hill overlooking the town. There is a rope walk that leads along the shoreline for a few miles that would have offered dramatic views, but I wasn't sure I could manage that kind of hike. The town has a lively Friday market, pubs, restaurants, and some shopping. However, it was Sunday, and we were warned that most establishments might be closed. The Currents newsletter offered daily on the ship touted the lively nightlife and music in Bantry that echoes through the summer night. Not an option for us, since we were sailing at 5pm.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-bFRHfSr/0/43e84441/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(3%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-bFRHfSr/0/43e84441/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(3%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Even with the strong winds, it was a perfect day to stay on the ship with time to explore more of the nooks and crannies tucked away on the different decks. After breakfast, we tackled one of my favorite things to do on a ship, get to the very topmost deck for the views.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-CjgJfCt/0/bfeaee49/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(5%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-CjgJfCt/0/bfeaee49/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(5%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />This time around, we stopped to play 9 holes of miniature golf. The game involved much laughter because the combination of the rocking ship and the high winds made predicting where the balls might go impossible. The winds even blew the balls several feet away from their intended course.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-vkPwBSj/0/5acbdfd4/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(6%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-vkPwBSj/0/5acbdfd4/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(6%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We saw the cute little pickleball court but weren't the least bit inclined to play after our bout with the winds for our golf game.<p></p><p>By lunchtime, we had enough of the wind and rolling seas and decided to explore the several lovely spaces available to us. We were especially impressed with the library.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-7F9F7FV/0/bd0ebaa5/L/07-005-2023%20the%20library%20and%20game%20room%20on%20Riviera%20(1%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-7F9F7FV/0/bd0ebaa5/L/07-005-2023%20the%20library%20and%20game%20room%20on%20Riviera%20(1%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-tcQScvf/0/8270892f/L/07-005-2023%20the%20library%20and%20game%20room%20on%20Riviera%20(6%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-tcQScvf/0/8270892f/L/07-005-2023%20the%20library%20and%20game%20room%20on%20Riviera%20(6%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Just two of the six well-appointed rooms of the ship library<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-MSRsnMS/0/69b1d2b0/L/20230705_094825-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-MSRsnMS/0/69b1d2b0/L/20230705_094825-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The game room was enticing as well, with comfy chairs and four square top tables for games. There were all sorts of games in the cupboards. We actually found several Dowdle puzzles, one of our favorite brands, and before the cruise was over managed to complete a 500-piece puzzle of the Bahamas. It was a relief to discover the puzzle as we had left it when we returned the next day to finish it.<div><br /></div><div><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-RG5Xbsb/0/71ed8e80/L/07-005-2023%20the%20library%20and%20game%20room%20on%20Riviera%20(4%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-RG5Xbsb/0/71ed8e80/L/07-005-2023%20the%20library%20and%20game%20room%20on%20Riviera%20(4%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>On another afternoon we played cards in the room of the library in the photo above when we found all four tables of the game room in use. It might be a good idea to convert one of the library rooms to a game room in my opinion.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-5pFKzWZ/0/641fd3e6/L/07-06-2023%20Horizons%20Lounge%20on%20the%2015th%20deck%20on%20Riviera%20(5%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-5pFKzWZ/0/641fd3e6/L/07-06-2023%20Horizons%20Lounge%20on%20the%2015th%20deck%20on%20Riviera%20(5%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We explored the Horizons Lounge, where afternoon tea at 4 is an elegant affair, with scones and little sandwiches. Sadly, we never made it to afternoon tea on this short cruise, with too many choices taking our time.</div><div><br /><div><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-nVDTZPr/0/78fd257f/L/07-06-2023%20Horizons%20Lounge%20on%20the%2015th%20deck%20on%20Riviera%20(4%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-nVDTZPr/0/78fd257f/L/07-06-2023%20Horizons%20Lounge%20on%20the%2015th%20deck%20on%20Riviera%20(4%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-X52KHgs/0/90aee768/L/07-06-2023%20Horizons%20Lounge%20on%20the%2015th%20deck%20on%20Riviera%20(6%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-X52KHgs/0/90aee768/L/07-06-2023%20Horizons%20Lounge%20on%20the%2015th%20deck%20on%20Riviera%20(6%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Mo and I are not night people, preferring the early mornings, so we never made it to the nightlife affairs of music and dancing that are held after 11 PM in this lovely lounge.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Instead of going to "tea" on this day aboard the ship as we originally planned, Mo and I napped a bit and prepared for an exciting evening of dining and another great production show.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-WTRxz5k/0/ab281902/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(22%20of%2033)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="421" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-WTRxz5k/0/ab281902/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(22%20of%2033)-L.jpg" width="421" /></a></div>One of my favorite photos of Mo from our cruise</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Our reservation for Toscana, the Tuscan-style restaurant on the 14th floor, was for 6:30. I planned that hour specifically for dinner so that we would have plenty of time to eat before the 9:30 production show. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-fwJN6Ct/0/bc8428e9/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(26%20of%2033)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="537" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-fwJN6Ct/0/bc8428e9/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(26%20of%2033)-L.jpg" width="537" /></a></div><br />Dinner was every bit as wonderful as I expected, without the tiniest imperfection in the food or the service. Mo had a Tuscan-style filet and I enjoyed a treat that I only eat once every decade or so, Osso Bucco. Don't remind me that I am eating a baby cow. Please. It was perfect, as was Mo's steak. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-P2ZjtgN/0/5602afc1/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(20%20of%2033)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-P2ZjtgN/0/5602afc1/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(20%20of%2033)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>We loved the fancy Italian-style breads but the favorite of the evening was the rolling cart loaded with some of the finest olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars that Italy has to offer. I found one that was very similar to the treasured bottle I brought home from Italy in 2018 and have yet to replace. Drizzled in the olive oil for bread dipping, and over my delicious roasted veggie salad was a bit of heaven. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-b53TH2Q/0/41f0b4f8/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(25%20of%2033)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-b53TH2Q/0/41f0b4f8/L/07-02-2023%20Bantry%20Ireland%20(25%20of%2033)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh, I mustn't forget my second course of pasta carbonara, possibly the best thing I ate on the entire cruise. A truly epic dinner at a lovely table with a view of the Atlantic Ocean as Riviera departed the Bay of Bantry.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our sea day aboard the ship ended perfectly. We were well rested and ready for the next three days of the cruise, with an excursion booked for each of those days.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-MpNC5xt/0/7facaa44/L/sailing%20from%20Bantry%20from%20our%20toscana%20window%20table-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="656" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-02-2023-Bantry-Ireland/i-MpNC5xt/0/7facaa44/L/sailing%20from%20Bantry%20from%20our%20toscana%20window%20table-L.jpg" width="656" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-69203505497934999612023-07-16T16:59:00.005-07:002023-07-17T15:14:45.722-07:0007-01-2023 Visiting the Delightful Port Town of Cobh, Ireland<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/TravelsOutsidetheUS/2015-Ireland/09-27-2015-Cobh-the-Blarney/i-qRxjbzt/0/9e9d48b6/L/Port%20of%20Cobh%20(27%20of%2027)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="534" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/TravelsOutsidetheUS/2015-Ireland/09-27-2015-Cobh-the-Blarney/i-qRxjbzt/0/9e9d48b6/L/Port%20of%20Cobh%20(27%20of%2027)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Since I took this photo in 2015, the port at Cobh has been dredged to make room for bigger ships<p></p><p>When Mo and I visited Ireland in 2015, we spent some time in Cobh as part of our land tour from our hotel in Killarney. Reading about the tours offered by Oceania for our short time in Cobh, I realized we had done most of what was offered on our last visit. I had already kissed the Blarney Stone, we had ridden in a horse-drawn carriage in Killarney National Park, and seen much of the countryside of County Cork. You might enjoy reminiscing with me about what we saw in Cobh on that trip by clicking on the link to the blog for that day <a href="http://mohotravels.blogspot.com/2015/10/09-27-2015-cobh-blarney-castle-and.html">here</a>. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-nBmwLrf/0/5f502a2f/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(7%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-nBmwLrf/0/5f502a2f/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(7%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Sue and Mo in 2023 in Cobh, Ireland<p></p><p>In addition to me trying to lean backward toward the Blarney Stone, you will see photos of us 8 years ago standing next to the same statue of Annie Moore that Mo and I posed with today. Annie Moore, at 15 years old, was the first immigrant to be processed at the newly opened Ellis Island in New York in 1982. </p><p>What I realized as I looked at our photos from 2015 and read my blog is that back then we were longing to have more time in the little town of Cobh to explore. Tada! We needed no formal tour on this day. We planned to enjoy our time walking the town and hopefully finding the legendary Irish potato "chips", and a Guinness.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-xxPBnbF/0/6345d876/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(9%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-xxPBnbF/0/6345d876/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(9%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />This morning we disembarked easily at the dock where we anchored right at the edge of the colorful, and charming town. We had no need to visit the wonderful <a href="https://www.cobhheritage.com/">Cobh Heritage Center</a> because we did that the last time. Instead, we decided to walk the streets of the town and enjoy the shops and eventually reach the cathedral at a high point above the town.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-wx8fJ2S/0/4e0220bf/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(10%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-wx8fJ2S/0/4e0220bf/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(10%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Cobh is incredibly colorful and picturesque. On this day, it was also very busy with tourists from the cruise ship and I was grateful our ship only carried 1200 passengers and not 5000. With a population of just 12,800 people, I can imagine that the influx of tourists from a big ship might be overwhelming.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-XG6hPQw/0/a951e364/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(23%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-XG6hPQw/0/a951e364/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(23%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />What I didn't know as we walked the charming streets along the river Lee, is that this would be our only chance to "shop" for the rest of the cruise. While shopping isn't high on my list of priorities, I did hope to find a few keepsakes and possibly some small gifts for friends and daughters. We stopped at a little place with a slightly grumpy proprietor who cheered up considerably when I actually bought something. Three pretty Irish dishtowels hardly qualified as a big purchase, but he appreciated it. <p></p><p>He gave us directions for reaching the cathedral at the top of the hill that avoided the steep stairs leading there directly from the city center. Our meandering route wasn't difficult, and I did manage to maneuver my walker along the narrow sidewalks and up the hill. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-kTwDhQt/0/d95c0f2d/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(40%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-kTwDhQt/0/d95c0f2d/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(40%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Once we reached our destination, the view of the port was wonderful, with the sleek and elegant Riviera docked below. I loved the colorful houses stair-stepping up the hill behind the cathedral with small gardens along the pathways in front of the houses.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-LStvfK2/0/17fa0328/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(21%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="799" height="477" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-LStvfK2/0/17fa0328/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(21%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />St Colman's Cathedral was built on the site of the existing parish church built in 1808. The planning stage for the "new" cathedral lasted ten years, from 1857 to 1867. The first mass was held in 1879 and the church was restored between 1992 and 2002. As European churches go, it is a fairly young building but very lovely with the afternoon light illuminating the many stained glass windows.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-7p2Z874/0/07febe59/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(32%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-7p2Z874/0/07febe59/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(32%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-N7Qmmrx/0/3d5ade54/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(31%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-N7Qmmrx/0/3d5ade54/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(31%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-HdjMnS2/0/08a61bcc/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(35%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-HdjMnS2/0/08a61bcc/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(35%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />After a leisurely visit to the cathedral, Mo and I retraced our moderately sloping route back to the center of town, skipping the steep stairs once again. Near the main square, we found a small pub and slipped inside to sit at the bar for a brew. We had hoped for some of the famous Irish fries, but the pub didn't have a kitchen. The bartender was very helpful, however, and pointed us in the direction of a place that just might have some original chips, but said that most of the pubs didn't actually have kitchens, so finding both beer and chips in one place might be difficult.<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-d8rpz6c/0/cfb9930f/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(46%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-d8rpz6c/0/cfb9930f/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(46%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><div><br /></div>I took a photo of the two of us in the bar mirror which has become somewhat of a tradition for us when we find ourselves something to drink in a bar. This is one of many over the years, but wouldn't be the last one on this trip.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-Z9DDQ6V/0/4c710179/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(44%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-Z9DDQ6V/0/4c710179/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(44%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />After relaxing and listening to the lilting voice of the barmaid as she chatted with her customers, we left the bar in search of the chips part of beer and chips. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-Q57NDRq/0/7126c1da/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(48%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-Q57NDRq/0/7126c1da/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(48%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />With just a little bit of walking, we saw some folks enjoying what looked to be fresh burgers with some perfect-looking chips. Sure enough, we finally had our Irish chips as we sat and enjoyed people-watching in the square.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-DQ8sPcF/0/3c4a5afc/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(49%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-DQ8sPcF/0/3c4a5afc/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(49%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We returned to the ship in time to rest a bit before dressing for the evening meal in the Grand Dining Room. Oceania doesn't require reservations for dining in this venue, and we were happy to see that there were several tables for just the two of us. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-mjPtvCn/0/2b6096b2/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(52%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="494" data-original-width="799" height="494" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-mjPtvCn/0/2b6096b2/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(52%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Mo and I don't particularly enjoy sitting at a large table for six or eight dining with people we don't know. Some people love this aspect of cruising, with a chance to meet and visit with people from all over the world. Sometimes it can be interesting, but sometimes it can be a bit of a nightmare, and you never know what it might be. We still remember our first cruise where we had to sit with the same truly boring and tiresome people every single night. Another time on our cruise to the Panama Canal we were seated at a table for eight where one person ruined the dinner for everyone with her obnoxious very loud voice dominating the entire evening. So, no, we will do whatever we can to be seated at a table for two where we know we will enjoy the company. <p></p><p>Our meal in the Grand Dining room was nice, if not spectacular. The ship sailed at 7 and it took nearly three hours for us to complete our meal, including dessert. I cannot remember what we ate, and I didn't keep track of the menu in my notes. Who knows. I do not remember what this dessert was called but the name was enticing. The dessert was ok, but not nearly as exciting as the creme brulee I had on the previous night.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-k268L4n/0/660818a5/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(57%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="421" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-k268L4n/0/660818a5/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(57%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="421" /></a></div><p></p><p>We were tired from our day of walking the town and decided that staying up until the 9:30 show in the Riviera Lounge was a bit too much. In retrospect, I wish I had researched the show more than I did. The artist was a well know flautist, performing "Irish Party in Third Class". I saw "flautist" and let it go at that, thinking there was no way I would stay awake. I later read that this may have been the most truly Irish entertainment we might have experienced on the cruise.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-Dr7Q3ZZ/0/2e800c52/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(61%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-Dr7Q3ZZ/0/2e800c52/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(61%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Instead after our dinner, we settled happily into the incredibly comfortable bed and let the ship rock us to sleep as we made our way to our next port in Bantry, Ireland. Cobh was one of my most favorite ports on this cruise.<p></p><p><br /></p><br />Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-37794100402907998202023-07-15T14:44:00.003-07:002023-07-15T14:44:39.053-07:00June 30 2023 A Day Seeing Dublin from a Distance Cruising with Oceania<p>Mo and I visited many sites in Dublin when we enjoyed a land tour of Ireland in 2015, including a visit to the iconic Temple Bar</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/TravelsOutsidetheUS/2015-Ireland/09212015-Getting-to-Ireland/i-L37qJW5/0/708ab747/L/Temple%20Bar%20(1%20of%201)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="534" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/TravelsOutsidetheUS/2015-Ireland/09212015-Getting-to-Ireland/i-L37qJW5/0/708ab747/L/Temple%20Bar%20(1%20of%201)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>When we woke on this first full day of cruising this morning, my first thought was to get downstairs to the medical offices which opened at 8. Breakfast began at 7 AM so there was time for a bite before I attempted to see what was involved in getting replacement prescriptions for the ones I had lost.</p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-HJMqz4k/0/4614243b/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20and%20Food%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(8%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-HJMqz4k/0/4614243b/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20and%20Food%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(8%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We found breakfast upstairs in the Terrace Cafe to be a somewhat lackluster affair. The presentation was lovely, and the best part of breakfast on this entire cruise was the beautiful fruit. On this first morning, however, I decided to order an omelet from the omelet station, freshly made in front of my eyes. In spite of the delicious ingredients I chose, the omelet was rather terrible, flat, and tasteless. The hash browns looked like the ones you get at Macdonald's, except they were tasteless and soggy. I think the problem with the omelets was the big vat of mixed-up eggs that were used to create them. I never tried one again. After a few days on the ship Mo and I learned to eat fruit, bagels and cream cheese, and an English muffin now and then. I did try a pancake one morning and it was also soggy and I couldn't eat it. Mo tried the french toast one morning, one of her favorites, and it was a very large, very thick piece of doughy bread with only a bit of coating, and again, tasteless.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-bJV2V2T/0/2535db51/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20and%20Food%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(9%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-bJV2V2T/0/2535db51/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20and%20Food%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(9%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />I would have to say this was the biggest disappointment we found on our cruise. This highly-touted luxury cruise couldn't seem to manage a tasty, hot breakfast. Even the yogurt came in paper cups, or in a parfait cup with soggy tasteless granola. I found myself daydreaming of the thick, rich yogurt that I enjoyed while traveling in Turkey, with honeyed apricots and other fruits. Certainly wasn't something we would find on this cruise. I also remembered tasty ground oats on the coast of Ireland at a hotel that served a condiment table for the oats with everything my heart could desire, including Irish Cream. The oats on the ship were runny, and there were no raisins or brown sugar to disguise the taste. Ah well. It is a cruise for seeing the world, not necessarily for the food. Except...wait...isn't a cruise often about the food? We would experience some grand food on this ship, but never at breakfast.<p></p><p>After breakfast, Mo returned to our stateroom while I rode the very fast, and always-ready elevator down to the medical office on the 4th deck. The nurse was quick and efficient, and within minutes the doctor had prescribed my needed medications and I was on my way. No questions asked, just a hefty bill, with 28 synthroid pills for my thyroid coming to a hefty 240 bucks!! The visit was $150 and the gabapentin was only a few dollars. Never could figure out the thyroid thing, and I certainly could have done without it for two weeks if I had known the cost. The gabapentin I need for leg pain and such related to my disease, so whatever the cost it was worth it. When I returned home, instead of turning it into my travel insurance, I needed to claim it on my blue cross plan. We will see what happens when they get that processed for overseas care after a minimum of 30 days.</p><p>Mo and I had decided that since we spent several days in Dublin in 2015, we didn't need to pay for an excursion to enjoy the city. We discussed using the tender to get to the dock at Dun Laoghaire but then learned that it would be a considerable distance on public transportation to get to the part of the city where we could pick up the "Hop on Hop off" bus to possibly get to the Temple Bar for old times sake. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/TravelsOutsidetheUS/2015-Ireland/09-24-2015-A-Day-Exploring/i-JsSNJLT/0/a30ed9df/L/Exploring%20Dublin%20(35%20of%2094)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="698" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/TravelsOutsidetheUS/2015-Ireland/09-24-2015-A-Day-Exploring/i-JsSNJLT/0/a30ed9df/L/Exploring%20Dublin%20(35%20of%2094)-L.jpg" width="698" /></a></div>The beautiful library at Trinity College, where the Book of Kells resides<p></p><p>Reading about all the things to do in Dublin was simply checking off all the things we had already done during our previous visit. There were caveats for the onshore excursions stating that the visit to Trinity College no longer included a view of the Book of Kells. Been there, done that, and loved the college, the library, and seeing the book. We also loved our time at the Museum of Archeology where we viewed the incredible bog people of Ireland. We had visited the cathedrals, and the churches and walked along the River Liffey, and the only thing left on the list was a visit to the Guinness Brewery. We decided not to waste our time doing that in 2015 and certainly didn't need to deal with tenders and buses to try to do it on this trip.</p><p>Instead, we relaxed and spent our day exploring the ship a bit, and yes, taking a nice long nap. It was a wonderful way to spend a rainy day in Dublin, or at least in the vicinity of Dublin. We enjoyed a very good lunch in the Terrace Cafe, with a Mexican theme, which appealed to both of us. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-3dDFvQC/0/b01b88f7/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20and%20Food%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(7%20of%2019)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-3dDFvQC/0/b01b88f7/L/07-06-2023%20Art%20and%20Food%20on%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(7%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>The Terrace Cafe is a pleasant space and was rarely overcrowded<p></p><p>Another walk around the ship to the very top deck where we found a small pickleball court and a creative 9-hole golf course. The big surprise on the ship was the beautiful library on the 14th deck. There were six well-appointed galleries with comfortable chairs and tables and a great selection of books in many categories. Not surprisingly, all the travel books for Ireland and Scotland were gone.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-CjgJfCt/0/bfeaee49/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(5%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-CjgJfCt/0/bfeaee49/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(5%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-bFRHfSr/0/43e84441/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(3%20of%206)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-bFRHfSr/0/43e84441/L/07-02-2023%20The%20upper%20decks%20of%20Riviera%20(3%20of%206)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Yes, I did go in the pool and the spa, but only once since the weather was quite chilly <p></p><p>We were too worn out from our relaxing day to go back upstairs to the Horizons Lounge at the very top of the ship for the Captain's Cocktail Celebration, with music and complimentary cocktails (proper attire required). I guess afternoon jammies wouldn't do. I guess this is one of the nicer gatherings on the ship and in retrospect I wish we had made the effort to participate.</p><p>Back to the stateroom for some quiet time and a nice shower in order to dress for our anticipated dinner at the Polo Grill. This was to be our first dining in one of the four specialty restaurants on board and we were looking forward to the experience.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-kCNfVt3/0/d59d61b0/L/06-29-2023%20Photos%20from%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(4%20of%207)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-kCNfVt3/0/d59d61b0/L/06-29-2023%20Photos%20from%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(4%20of%207)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />The restaurant is on the 14th deck aft. Walking into the lovely space was a delight, with claret leather chairs, white tablecloths with several layers of cutlery and a beautiful view from the windows. With our reservation at 6:30, we were among the first of diners for the evening and were led to a lovely table for two by the windows.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-30-2023-Spending-the-day-on-board-Oceania-Riviera/i-gztnsMH/0/44ac80b5/L/06-30-2023%20Spending%20the%20day%20on%20board%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(12%20of%2023)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-30-2023-Spending-the-day-on-board-Oceania-Riviera/i-gztnsMH/0/44ac80b5/L/06-30-2023%20Spending%20the%20day%20on%20board%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(12%20of%2023)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-30-2023-Spending-the-day-on-board-Oceania-Riviera/i-9LNkb9F/0/ce5b506b/L/06-30-2023%20Spending%20the%20day%20on%20board%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(15%20of%2023)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-30-2023-Spending-the-day-on-board-Oceania-Riviera/i-9LNkb9F/0/ce5b506b/L/06-30-2023%20Spending%20the%20day%20on%20board%20Oceania%20Riviera%20(15%20of%2023)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />Dinner was superb, with a lovely prawn cocktail for me and a Caesar salad for Mo. But first I had to try the pork belly appetizer, which was tender and crisp and perfectly flavored. Mo's filet was a tiny bit less than perfect but my ribeye, cooked medium rare and slathered with not only blue cheese but bearnaise sauce was delicious. We ordered a bottle of wine with dinner, consumed only half of it, having the bottle sent to our room to be delivered by room service when we returned. Somehow I took photos of the appetizers and the desserts and never managed to take a photo of the rest of our meal. Fun side note about cruising, you can order as many desserts as you might like, notice the cheesecake AND the creme brulee. I discovered when I returned home that I had lost 4 pounds overall on the trip. Lucky me.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-LFfp4MZ/0/e55aa501/L/07-02-2023%20The%20Riviera%20Lounge%20with%20the%20production%20cast%20(1%20of%202)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-LFfp4MZ/0/e55aa501/L/07-02-2023%20The%20Riviera%20Lounge%20with%20the%20production%20cast%20(1%20of%202)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-jncnq4j/0/8cab368b/L/07-02-2023%20The%20Riviera%20Lounge%20with%20the%20production%20cast%20(2%20of%202)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-jncnq4j/0/8cab368b/L/07-02-2023%20The%20Riviera%20Lounge%20with%20the%20production%20cast%20(2%20of%202)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />After dinner, we found our way back down to the 5th deck where the show of the evening would be performed. On this night we were treated to a stellar performance of Broadway in Concert starring the Riviera Production Vocalists, accompanied by the Riviera Showband. The music was wonderful, the voices were good enough that my vocalist daughter Melody would have approved, and she is a stickler for perfect pitch. We enjoyed the show immensely. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-WB29KtR/0/fe9c4260/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(60%20of%2062)-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/07-01-2023-The-lovely-port-of-Cobh/i-WB29KtR/0/fe9c4260/L/07-01-2023%20The%20lovely%20port%20of%20Cobh%20(60%20of%2062)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Dublin is on the 53rd parallel north, approximately the same as the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia, and Edmonton, Alberta. This far north, the sun rises early and sets very late. We fell into bed accompanied by a lovely sunset toward the west as the ship sailed south from Dublin toward the next port in Cobh, Ireland. With just a gentle rocking that evening, I slept like a baby, without a hint of motion sickness. <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6915357815051575646.post-84623589469775877152023-07-14T16:28:00.010-07:002023-07-14T16:43:03.807-07:0006-29-2023 Embarking on a Long Awaited Cruise <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-27-2023-Leaving-for-the-Cruise/i-HRCMDLD/0/56422125/L/06-27-2023%20Leaving%20for%20the%20Cruise%20(1%20of%2013)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="421" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-27-2023-Leaving-for-the-Cruise/i-HRCMDLD/0/56422125/L/06-27-2023%20Leaving%20for%20the%20Cruise%20(1%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="747" /></a></div>Our drive north on I-5 to Melody's house always includes a stop at this lovely rest area for a Mattie run<p></p><p>Yes, it has definitely been a while since I last wrote. Anyone who has followed my blog for any length of time has experienced these periods of silence. When life gets a bit too complex, I slip away mentally with barely enough energy to deal with the stuff of every day. Writing slips into the background. I was brought up short when a distant friend and follower sent me an email asking if everything was OK. I immediately wrote back to Liz, and let her in on the many happenings of the last three months. I had full intentions of writing a blog that day, and yet here it is, a month later, with nothing written. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/06-06-2023-June-Sunsets/i-kT4jHxL/0/c4dd079f/L/06-07-2023%20June%20Sunsets%20(5%20of%2011)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="800" height="449" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Around-Home/The-Sunset-House/2023-At-Sunset-House/06-06-2023-June-Sunsets/i-kT4jHxL/0/c4dd079f/L/06-07-2023%20June%20Sunsets%20(5%20of%2011)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>We had a few lovely sunsets to view from our deck at home during June<p></p><p>Somewhere on my desk is a notepad with a synopsis of what I need to write about, but it is lost in the shuffle of airline and cruise itineraries, receipts for water system upgrades, calendar notations for chores that need to be completed, and yes, schedules for some fun times that we slipped into our everyday lives as well. But there will be time enough to catch up on the past three months since I last wrote after I write about our most recent adventure.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-27-2023-Leaving-for-the-Cruise/i-8j87b4F/0/6ac7f82d/L/riviera-main-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-27-2023-Leaving-for-the-Cruise/i-8j87b4F/0/6ac7f82d/L/riviera-main-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />A very long time ago, before COVID changed everything, Mo and I decided to sail with Oceania Cruise Lines on a trip around Scotland and Ireland. It was in 2019 when we made our first deposit for the cruise, excited that we would be sharing ten days on the Sirena with friends Erin and Mui. I vaguely remember that they were on a much longer cruise, but the segment around the British Isles was the portion where we would be sailing together. <p></p><p>For years we have read about our friends' extensive cruising with Oceania and knew we could trust their recommendation. We heard about the cruise through Mo's Alma Mater, Oregon State University, when they sent a flyer about this cruise, and we originally booked with the travel service through OSU. All that changed when COVID shut down cruising, not only for our booked cruise date in 2020 but for the second booking in 2021, which was also canceled. When it came time to roll our money over one more time for the same cruise in 2022, we had already paid for our RV trip in New York City with Adventure Caravans, and there was no way we could fit a cruise in before that long trip.</p><p>Once again, we rolled over the money and booked a cruise with Oceania for 2023. It wasn't exactly the same cruise. It was on a different ship, the Riviera, with a bit of difference in the itinerary, and sadly, Erin and Mui would be somewhere else on an extended cruise during the dates in 2023 so we wouldn't be sailing with our friends. </p><p>We spent much of June packing and making arrangements for home care, dog care, and dealing with some water issues, but that is another story.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-27-2023-Leaving-for-the-Cruise/i-Ft9BmVq/0/eb4813d7/L/06-27-2023%20Leaving%20for%20the%20Cruise%20(7%20of%2013)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="395" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-27-2023-Leaving-for-the-Cruise/i-Ft9BmVq/0/eb4813d7/L/06-27-2023%20Leaving%20for%20the%20Cruise%20(7%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="395" /></a></div>Mattie adores Melody and Robert so we knew she would be in good hands<p></p><p>By the time June 27 rolled around, everything was arranged. The most important arrangement for the day was delivering Mattie to her home away from home with daughter Melody and husband Robert. As anyone who follows my Facebook knows, Mattie adores Melody and Robert. When some previous arrangements for Mattie's care fell through, we were thrilled and relieved when Melody and Robert agreed to keep her for the two weeks we would be gone.</p><p>This isn't exactly a small request. Melody and Robert have two very spoiled cats that tolerate Mattie but don't exactly adore her. They also don't have a fenced yard, and keeping the dog would require morning and evening walks, and all the other needs that little dogs have that are not quite the same as living with cats. In addition, the cats have food down all the time, and Robert's first comment was, "Well, I guess we will have to figure out the feeding thing".</p><p>Our departure for the cruise was arranged by Oceania, with a flight from Portland, Oregon to Vancouver, British Columbia, and then from Vancouver directly to Dublin, Ireland. We were scheduled to leave Portland on the 28th at the reasonable hour of ten AM. Our trip north to Portland wasn't difficult. We dropped Mattie off with Melody at lunchtime, enjoyed a visit with her, and then continued north to Mo's brother Dan and wife Chere's place not far from Portland. They kindly offered to take us to the airport, keep the car so we didn't have to pay for parking, and then pick us up when we returned. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-27-2023-Leaving-for-the-Cruise/i-v6NKKvN/0/218a8f58/L/06-27-2023%20Leaving%20for%20the%20Cruise%20(10%20of%2013)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-27-2023-Leaving-for-the-Cruise/i-v6NKKvN/0/218a8f58/L/06-27-2023%20Leaving%20for%20the%20Cruise%20(10%20of%2013)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />We arrived at their place in the late afternoon, with plenty of time to visit and enjoy a lovely supper that Chere prepared for us. The guest room was waiting with Chere's beautiful quilts that I always enjoy and a comfortable bed. <p></p><p>The morning was easy, with a light breakfast before we traveled to the airport, arriving at 8, about 3 hours before flight time. Check-in was easy, and everything was smooth as we navigated the security lines and enjoyed a coffee as we waited at the gates for our on-time flight to Vancouver.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-h3PGznP/0/ab45b6fc/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(4%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-h3PGznP/0/ab45b6fc/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(4%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Seeing the City of Portland from the air is always a treat<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-4Kdwrbn/0/058e90c3/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(5%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="379" data-original-width="800" height="379" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-4Kdwrbn/0/058e90c3/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(5%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>We got a great view of Sauvies Island and the Columbia River where we camped last spring<p>Once in Vancouver, we had four hours of layover time to deal with passport control and get our boarding passes for British Airways. I had requested assistance before boarding, and in Vancouver wheelchair assistance, and once we were through passport control, we were provided with a ride on a golf cart to the correct terminal for our flight to Dublin. For some reason, we weren't able to use the phone app for this airline and needed paper boarding passes, even though I had completed all the online check-in procedures.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-kRPSsqK/0/d70aaa7c/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(2%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="800" height="549" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-kRPSsqK/0/d70aaa7c/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(2%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>Our first flight was on a plane with two seats per row which was quite nice<p></p><p>It wasn't until after we enjoyed a nice lunch in the airport that I noticed with chagrin that our seat selections had been changed and we were no longer seated together. I went immediately to the gate the second it opened and managed to get our seats changed, but the seats we were assigned together were in the second to the last row of the plane. Not a good choice if you care about noise on a ten-hour flight.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-R4dKfD5/0/f6a84d81/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(1%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="333" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-R4dKfD5/0/f6a84d81/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(1%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>My interesting clothing choices are so that my heaviest shoes and pants weren't in my suitcase and I expected to be chilly on the outer islands of Scotland. Mimosas in the Vancouver Airport.<p></p><p>We were both happy that we had enjoyed such a great lunch when the meal service started. We were informed that there were no other choices except for some kind of vegetarian food which was very strange, and we aren't new to vegetarian food. The other two choices of chicken and something else were long gone by the time the food service trolley reached our row. </p><p>I am not a fan of British Airways. The seat spacing is the tightest I have yet to experience on an airplane, and the seats are hard and very uncomfortable. We were in a window and center seat and were lucky that the young man from Ireland seated on the aisle in our three-seat row was quite delightful. He talked a bit, but not too much, and was always kind when I had to climb over him to get to the bathrooms. It was nice that the bathroom was just a row behind us, but that also meant that we had a lot of traffic coming and going past our seats.</p><p>The young man and I conversed a bit during the long flight, and I learned he was from Sligo, not far from the hotel where Mo and I stayed when we were in Ireland in 2015. He told me that it was the first time he had to fly separated from his mum and twin brother who were several rows ahead of us. At the end of the flight, he asked to hug me and thanked me for being so kind to him and that it had made his flight much easier. I will always remember his sweet smile, his curly red hair pulled back in a ponytail, and his kind blue eyes.</p><p>I did try to sleep, but the cramped seats and lack of legroom were pretty hard to take, and my legs started cramping and jumping about halfway through the flight. I finally decided to take some of the prescription gabapentin that helps with this problem and dug deeply into my carry-on bag to find the med container I had carefully packed. What I didn't know until bedtime on the ship was that in the crowded craziness of the airplane, I somehow managed to lose the little pill container I had so carefully packed. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-LWfdThT/0/d348e1f5/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(12%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-LWfdThT/0/d348e1f5/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(12%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div>Our lovely terrace overlooking the port of Belfast<p></p><p>We arrived in Dublin on time at 8:30 in the morning, Dublin time, and managed to get through immigration/passport control without incident. I did have my walker with me on this trip, and it was a godsend for getting us past long waiting lines through special gates for those of us with trouble walking. Not a bad thing. Oceania had a representative waiting for us at the baggage claim but so many people were having trouble getting their checked baggage that it was a long wait before we got on the bus to Belfast.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-H6b2mQv/0/0e4ed558/L/20230714_161514-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-H6b2mQv/0/0e4ed558/L/20230714_161514-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />Now this seems a bit crazy, but we were flown directly to Dublin, and we had arranged transport with Oceania, which was a godsend since we had to get to the ship port in Belfast to embark the ship. We would then set sail that evening for the next morning's arrival back in Dublin. I think this must have had something to do with Dublin lacking a large cruise port, but perhaps Belfast had issues with certain airlines. We never did figure this out. The drive to Belfast took about 2 hours and I found myself nodding off a few times before we arrived.<p></p><p>Once in Belfast at the cruise terminal, the embarkation process was quick and efficient. I must say we got on that ship more quickly than we have ever managed to do on a cruise. Our concierge-level room wasn't available for another hour, but the regular staterooms had to wait much longer. We took advantage of the time to enjoy a simple burger for lunch from the Waves Grill and explore the ship a bit.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-Zv2dV3g/0/579cd9b0/L/20230714_161615-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="799" height="450" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Photos-from-Oceania-Riviera/i-Zv2dV3g/0/579cd9b0/L/20230714_161615-L.jpg" width="799" /></a></div><br />When we opened the door to our stateroom, we were delighted to find it roomy and comfortable. Our complimentary bottle of chilled champagne was waiting for us on the table. I immediately checked out the bed and was thrilled to discover a perfect mattress with fabulous bedding. Opening the bathroom door was an even bigger surprise, beautifully redone in the most recent ship upgrade. The bathroom was bigger than we have ever enjoyed on a ship, and much bigger than most RV bathrooms, with a roomy shower and lots of extra drawers and cupboards.<p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-8J97pxL/0/a5ba0703/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(16%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-8J97pxL/0/a5ba0703/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(16%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-zW55R6G/0/25d29750/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(15%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="338" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-zW55R6G/0/25d29750/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(15%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br /><br />Mo napped at bit, but I was too excited to sleep, even though I was exhausted. Supper that evening at the Terrace Cafe dinner buffet opened at 6:30. <p></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-W93gzPj/0/d7ddd44d/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(19%20of%2019)-L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="406" height="600" src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Travel-Photos/Cruises/2023-Oceania-Cruise-Legends-of-Ireland-and-Scotland/06-29-2023-Day-1-Embarkation-Belfast/i-W93gzPj/0/d7ddd44d/L/06-29-2023%20Day%201%20Embarkation%20Belfast%20(19%20of%2019)-L.jpg" width="406" /></a></div><p></p><p>The Riviera is a lovely ship, with just 1200 guests and all the amenities you would expect on a luxury cruise ship. There were a total of 16 decks, and we were on deck 9, reasonably close to the elevators. In addition to the traditional Grand Dining Room, there is the Terrace Cafe, serving buffet meals, the Waves Grill for burgers and pizzas, and four wonderful specialty restaurants. We had reservations scheduled for a night at each specialty restaurant. Even though the ship is moderately sized based on current cruise ship standards, it has a nightly production show, music in the lounges, and afternoon tea served on deck 15 in the beautiful Horizons Lounge. We had great expectations for this cruise.</p><p>After our lovely dinner we settled into our room and at that point I discovered that my prescription medications were missing. It was a bit terrifying, but I realized that I might be able to get replacements the next day at the onboard medical office. I was so exhausted that with the help of a benadryl I managed to sleep soundly until morning when we docked in Dublin.</p><br />Sue Malonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00332448503740101970noreply@blogger.com8