american west, california, Family, holidays, new years day, School, Style, traditions, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

The Magic Returns: The 133rd Tournament of Roses

After a hiatus due to the Covid19 pandemic, the Tournament of Roses parade returns to Pasadena, California- and with special significance for the Cranky Camper family.

coffee, Dessert, Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Food, Hiking, Historical sites, history, Lunch, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, wine, wine and drink, writing

Adventures in Karlovy Vary: Svatý Linhart, Diana, and a Casino Royale

Adventuring past Prague, the Cranky Camper family celebrates Emily's birthday with an outing to Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. We rode the Diana Funicular Railway to Výšina přátelství and explored the Svatý Linhart Preserve. The visit to Karlovy Vary would not have been complete without dessert at the Cafe Pupp in the historic Grandhotel Pupp, where scenes from the 007 flick 'Casino Royale' were filmed.

Family, traditions, Uncategorized, writing

The Last Good Day

With both sadness and gratitude, the Cranky Camper reflects on the last celebration before the Covid19 shutdowns: Jacob's Eagle Court.

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.