Quest 2009

My sister Bobbe & I left Green Valley on our 4700-mile trek on July 1. After a sad parting with my babies (Zoe and Boomer) at the Creature Comforts kennels in Tucson, we struck out for Palm Desert, CA, to see close friends Mary Anne & Ralph. We took the southern route, turning north at El Centro, so we could take a look at Salton Sea. On the way we enjoyed seeing the big sand dunes near the CA/AZ border--Bobbe snapped a couple of good pictures as we sped past them.

Unfortunately, Salton Sea has died--algae all over the floor of the sea is killing all the fish. There is no more tourism, that we could see from the west bank, which, when you get within 20 feet of the water smells of rotten fish and garbage! It was sad to see such ravaging deterioration in the six short years since I had driven by there.

Mary Anne & Ralph are doing great! They are not only extended family to me, but they are also terrific hosts. We spent a fun afternoon at a casino, including a fabulous buffet dinner, at which we celebrated Bobbe's birthday a day early. Had a grand time! (I'll upload pictures in a couple of days.)

Popped over to Murrieta, CA (80 miles from Palm Desert) yesterday morning (July 3) to spend the 3rd/4th with another dear, dear friend, Carol H. She took us to an incredible Asian buffet for Bobbe's birthday! Wow! She has the most exquisite grandchildren whom we've gotten to know and love in the short time we've been here. It was great to see Carol's daughter Ellen, too--a terrific mom and a lovely and accomplished woman.

I beat Bobbe & Carol at Trivial Pursuits (computer edition) and Carol and Bobbe sailed past me in Perquacky!

Tomorrow morning (July 5) Bobbe & I will be zooming up the 5 to San Jose. More later!