California country scenes........

A country drive - abandoned farm tractors.................

........minuscule country bakery where we munched on the best cranberry muffins ever.........

..............and inside some fabulous vintage baking treasures. 

You didn't think my stay in beautiful northern California would be without some "treasure hunting" did you?

Mailboxes country style.

Early morning, lakeside....................

A warming cup of coffee, after a 45 minute walk..........and the day starts on the lower deck as the mist rises from the lake.

Yes, the blanket is required at night, plus a cozy comforter!  Can't begin to tell you how great it feels to be cool again.

 Paula's dock complete with everything to ensure fun on the water.  Unfortunately I pulled a muscle in my back on my way to California so I'm not doing anything strenuous for a few days!

Mt.Lassen from Lake Almanor

Daytime temps. are in the perfect 80's - calm mornings with a light breeze in the late afternoon producing small white caps on the lake.  Evenings perfect for dining outside.

Good day.......I'm back!

Wish I could still be here this morning enjoying my morning coffee!

 

As the cool night air rose from Lake Almanor and the sun filtered through the pines, stepping out on to the lower deck surrounded by the glittering water meant the promise of yet another perfect Summer day.

By mid-morning the fabulous days spent here were sunny and hot with cloudless skies.  Calm, flat water allowed lots of fun water sports.  Picnics by mountain lakes, drives through scenic countryside, visits to a craft fair, browsing in thrift and antiques shops................and even an awesome flight around a volcano kept us very busy!

Lower deck at Lake Almanor.

Now I'm home again facing the usual mundane chores in hot, humid North Carolina.  Roll on Autumn days.......my Summer has been fun but I'm ready for a change.  I'll have more stories and images of Northern California to share after I edit my many photos.

My friend Paula's beautiful lakefront Summer home.

Thanks for the wonderful time Paula.......Jasmin and I enjoyed every moment.  Hope to return next year!