american west, california, coffee, Family, Hiking, outdoors, safety, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Adventure and Misadventures in Calaveras County

Calaveras Big Trees State Park is a magical setting in the snow. Unfortunately, driving in a snowstorm can prove futile and even dangerous if caught unawares.

american west, Camping, Family, Hiking, national parks, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Old Pinnacles

Even with inclement weather presenting challenges for a President's Day camping trip, Pinnacles National Park offered up some new hiking adventures. In this post, the Cranky Camper highlights the lushness of the Bear Gulch and Rim trails, as well as a new hike along the Old Pinnacles trail.

Beaches, Camping, Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Food, Hiking, Historical sites, holidays, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, wine, wine and drink, writing

Where Sand Meets Sea: the Costa Brava

The sunny shores of Baeleric Sea, part of the Mediterranean, enjoy relatively mild weather, even late in the year. The Cranky Camper visits the Costa Brava, Spain's northern 'rough coast.' At the end of this post is a bonus recipe for sangria.

Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Opinion, safety, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Burgled in Barcelona and Other Lessons Learned

With raw feeling and a touch of humor, the Cranky Camper shares her experiences with being robbed abroad, along with other lessons learned.

american west, california, Dog, dogs, Family, holidays, new years day, Pets, Style, traditions, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

The 135th Tournament of Roses and Feeding the Love

Our coverage of the 135th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California- with special attention paid to the Pasadena Humane Society's floral entry.