The beginning of the second day (actually the first on the Dennis plan) began about 8:30 with a ice and food (OK coffee) stop and we were on the road. I-5 was as exciting as ever with feedlots providing aromatic stimulation. The day heated up quickly and by the time we got to Bakersfield, it was in the low hundreds. The rest of the trip was uneventful except for a stop at Murray Ranch produce facility. I don't agree with some of their caged attractions, but their farming method was A-list organic and it was reflected in their produce. Emily being an organic, sustainable gardener applauded their methods There is not much you can say about Barstow, but when it is 108, however an image is worth a sentence or two. Imagine a snake cooling off ... read more

This trip to Santa Fe, NM started while reading the latest Santa Fe Opera E-mail in December 09. I realized it had been almost 5 years since the last visit and I felt like I was missing the most enjoyable part of my musical world. Now going was not a problem, who could I go with was, as I knew very few people who would be willing to go with me across the street much less 1500 miles. KC was a possibility, but I would have to leave him in a kennel during the operas - vote no on KC. I had recently met a woman named Emily Beals who was introduced by our mutual hair-cutter person. Emily loved all kinds of music including opera and had a venturing spirit. After several discussions, she thought the ... read more