american west, california, Camping, coffee, Deserts, Dessert, dinner, Food, Hiking, Lunch, national parks, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Great California Road Trips: Fun on the U.S. 395

This is the first post dedicated to adventures along U.S. 395. On this trip, Sami and I visited the Alabama Hills, Whitney Portal, and Mono Lake. There is much to explore on this highway that connects California to the Canadian border.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, Historical sites, history, Museums, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Sunny San Diego: Beyond the Beach

While San Diego, California is known for its scenic beaches and craft beer, there are also many opportunities for hiking and recreation a bit further inland where the sea breezes still blow.

california, Camping, Hiking, Museums, national parks, outdoors, photography, Travel, Vacation

A Day Among Giants: Sequoia National Park

The Cranky Campers pay a visit to the largest trees on earth: the giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park. We also learn a few things while on the trip about having grace for each other and learning when to slow down.

Family, Kids, Opinion, School, traditions, Uncategorized, writing

Celebrations in the Time of Covid

As the Covid19 pandemic wears on, birthday and graduation celebrations have looked significantly different from before. While there were some disappointments and tears, there have also been unexpected blessings- like pets being able to participate in graduation parades.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized

Hiking the Angeles: Mt. Islip

In the Angeles National Forest, we took the beautiful hike up to Mt. Islip and Windy Gap starting from Crystal Lake.