I went to the bank this morning to get some cash and also picked up a free bag of popcorn. I ate it all loving the salt and butter.

I like to use cash for my life rather then a credit card. I feel prosperous when I am carrying money.

What I learned at Tassajara is that the raccoons did not return after the 2008 fire but the caution around raccoons still exists. We locked our room at night to keep them out. They used to find any hidden food in the quest rooms.

I wonder if we should start a fund to return the raccoons to the valley.

Still trying to decide what books I will take for my four days at Tassajara. I realize I can leave extra ones in the car in case I choose the wrong ones.

Took the car into Sullivan's tire shop. Had a nail in one tire that needed it to be repaired. Don't want to break down on the road trip.

I am almost ready

Went to get milk out of the old refrigerator. It was silent and the light did not come on. I check that there was still electricity, yep and the fuses were OK. Well, this is an old refrigerator so I went on line to find a replacement.

Scott came home and told him what happened.
We would have to live without a refrigerator for awhile. And then the appliance started up but the light was still out. Scott pulled out the dead bulb and will replace it tomorrow.

Saved by the bell.

Spent the morning with the plein air writing group at Hopkins Marine station in Pacific Grove. The campus is on the edge of the ocean. We were given the use of picnic tables and allowed to walk around the place. It was so beautiful and such a wonder that most of us had not spent time there before.

I feel so lucky to be a part of this group.

We met for lunch at Ken's old orchard. The trees were full of leaves and some had fruit. He still doesn't know what kind of fruit these dozens of trees will have.

This is what happens when you buy an old orchard in cold Pacific Grove. Next month we may know more.

My feet really hurt tonight. I cooked a pasta dinner for the book group and then did all the dishes. I enjoyed the seven people that came. I cooked enough for many more. I just can't figure out proportions. I have left overs for the week.