american west, california, Camping, Hiking, national parks, outdoors, safety, traditions, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Joshua Tree: Halls of Horrors and Cholla Gardens

In honor of Junior Ranger Day, we spent a lovely spring Saturday in Joshua Tree National Park. We explored more of the park, visiting the popular rock formation called Hall of Horrors and hiked among the interesting desert plants of the Cholla Cactus Garden.

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, california, Camping, Hiking, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Yosemite Adventures: Wapama Falls

With photos and story-telling, the Cranky Camper describes the hike from O'Shaughnessy Dam to the famed Wapama Falls in Yosemite's Hetch Hetchy Valley.

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

The 135th Tournament of Roses: 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.

american west, california, Food, Historical sites, Lunch, outdoors, Shopping, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Save Me San Francisco

San Francisco, California is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and famed landmarks. Despite the current economic climate, San Francisco is still a popular destination. In this post, I share my latest adventure, exploring the city with colleagues while on a work-related trip.