Another expedition into the Wilds… For literally decades I have wondered about the course of the unnamed tributary (pictured below) in Oregon House, California. Recently, on a trip to Oregon House with Brandon and Amanda, I made an offhand comment about my desire to explore this watershed and, although it was late in the day, … Continue reading
Tag Archives: Justin Ames
Return to Pinnacles National Monument
This trip in March and our previous trip in October are probably some of the best times of year to visit Pinnacles National Monument. You’re pretty much assured of good weather and it isn’t too hot. Also, the ecological cycle is in a much different phase in October than it is in March. So, even … Continue reading
Big Sur Part 1 (or Pieces In Our Time)…
We had visited Pinnacles earlier in the day and wished to return to Mountain View along Highway 1 instead of backtracking (which is something our family abhors). California’s scenic Highway 1 is the only road through the Big Sur region. To accomplish this goal, we drove down to King City and then headed west through … Continue reading
I guess all cops are(n’t) bad – Part 2
So, for the next stage of this ongoing and disagreeable saga the stage was set by a visit to Oregon House with Brandon and Amanda. Since night life in Oregon House consists of seeing how fast you can drive with your lights off, going to The Palace and looking at Bailey or going to the … Continue reading
Tourism in Afghanistan & Pakistan – 1 (or Afternoon Tea & Scones with Karen Sprague)…
I have been asked a great number of times why I am going to Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran… The comments/questions always follow the line of A) Why would anyone ever want to go there? or B) You’re going to die… The questioners/commenters may be right. I might get beheaded. However, they could die driving to … Continue reading
Highway 49 Road Trip – The Yuba River, Downieville, Sierra City, Sierra Valley And More…
Looking for a solid road trip through the Sierras? Look no further… This 317-mile long state highway, dubbed the “Golden Chain” Highway, meanders through nine counties in the heart of the California Gold Country. Oakhurst anchors its south end while Vinton and Loyalton are found to the north. The miles along Highway 49 described on … Continue reading
Marysville’s Silver Dollar Saloon & Bok Kai Temple – Part 2
So, once you walk out of the Silver Dollar Saloon (located at the corner of D and First Streets), directly to your left and behind the house (pictured below and allegedly the oldest house in Marysville) behind the Saloon will be the area encompassing the Bok Kai Temple… The building to the left is the … Continue reading
The Velvet Rocket 