It's funny the pattern the clouds have. During the day, they build up in the mountains being dramatic and moody. They hint at a wonderful splash of color at sunset, then just about as the sun goes down, they dissipate completely. Hmmm. I'm sure there must be a reason, but I find it peculiar.
Stormclouds over the Sierras
Manor Market is the place, but this looks a bit sketchy to me. It has more the appearance of an old "Convenience store" including a gas station! Some recommendation. Inside it's a little better than expected. At least the merchandise doesn't look like it's been there for a long time. Then I notice some items that shouldn't stand out, but do, in this food desert- Tasty bites? Good chocolates? Woah, a bulk food section with a good assortment of non-sugarized nuts, grains and snack mix- OK, so this is the place for me! Produce that's not a leftover. I'll update my opinion/ assumption- happily.
$7.57 is the going rate these days for Diesel
Housekeeping tasks today, diesel, propane, groceries, hardware to fix the heater, and a place to crawl under the van and do the fixin'. After a very cold last night without heat, that was kind of a priority- It sure feels good to have those things done. :)
Researching some mountain bike trails for today/ tomorrow. Trailforks has quite a few suggestions for the area, it's time to explore some. After having some lunch I set out on the Fly Away trail. It's hard to predict which way these rainclouds are moving. As I near the end of the out and back trail, it starts snowing! Geez. At least it's downhill going back. Nice trail, but a bit short, maybe tomorrow I can connect to some other trails in that area. I should find long pants though- the brush is hard on the shins.
I did some workout explore trails this afternoon in the Poleta open area- it's challenging! I think it's designed for ATVs and motorcycles, but I managed to get some exercise. The trails are very loose rock, and sand which would be ok, except they're also very steep! That's even a challenge going down, without going down! Keeping the bike on the trail, and balanced is challenging in these conditions. I drove down to the ponds below this afternoon, and saw a few birds, but not too much for the habitat, maybe because it's still wintry conditions?
Yesterday a beautiful bird flitted past when I drove up slope to my camp. I was super intrigued by his size, coloration and mannerisms. With Merlin's help, I guessed it was a Kestrel, I saw him again today and am certain he's a Kestrel, beautiful!