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.

Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Historical sites, Kids, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

The International Adventures of Chris the Puppy

From America's national parks to European cities, this post regales the many adventures of Chris the Puppy.

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.

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

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the oldest national parks in the US, first protected in 1864 by President Lincoln. The park sits in the Sierra Nevada mountains in central California and extends across four counties. Most of the park is considered wilderness, but its wild beauty attracts millions of visitors a year, consistently placing it in the top ten most visited national parks.