California Here We Come (Back)

Monday morning we pulled out of Reno before 9:00 AM.  That would normally be quite early for us, but it is much later than our leaving for work the past six weeks.  The weather was great, so crossing Donner Pass was not difficult at all. 

Interstate 80 brought us down the western slope of the Sierras into California’s central valley.  We went from high and wooded scenery to low and flat in a very short time.  After a left turn near Sacramento onto CA99 we continued south through Manteca, Modesto, Merced, and Madera.  We don’t know anything about these communities, but liked the series of “M”-names.

 

To the east of Madera and north of Fresno, we left the valley and climbed back into the foothills of the Sierras where the Escapees have a co-op RVpark outside of Yosemite National Park.  We put our coats away now that the cold is behind us.  Overnight temperatures were in the balmy 30s with forecasted highs in the 60s.  It took no time at all to get used to these temperatures.

 

This campground is unique – no flat sites all in a row.  There are winding roads/sites through the hills here.  We’re on top of a small hill with a terrific view all around of the hills and valleys.  We have a nice patio with picnic table and swing where we can sit and enjoy the view.  No neighbors right next to us but within sight.  We were also told there are a couple of other former Amazonians recuperating here.

 

Later today, we will pick up our mail and explore a couple of small towns near Yosemite and see how much of the park is open this time of year.  There is a Methodist Church nearby with a Christmas Eve service at 7 pm which we will attend.

 

Tomorrow there will be a Christmas Dinner at 4 pm in the community room of the park.  They are serving turkey and prime rib.  We’re looking forward to that since we won’t be able to be with our family.  It’s a very friendly and welcoming group here.

 

We’ll be here until Friday when we leave for the LA area and the Rose Parade festivities.

 

Again – Merry Christmas!!