RoadNotes: Bro’(Broila’) and Sisila’

Elks Lodge, Monterey, CA – August 2 through 7, 2013

We left Tehachapi early (7 AM) because unlike our normal practice, we didn’t fill up Big Guy when we arrived. The price of diesel fuel at the truck stop was disappointing and we hoped to find something cheaper in town. The search for cheaper fuel was a bust (yep, we’re in CA alright), so it was back to the truck stop this morning for fuel, coffee, and breakfast sandwiches. Just after we got on the road Dad called and he was surprised we were almost to Barstow already. But the method to the madness of our early departure was to arrive in Monterey before rush hour. EJ’s brother and sister-in-law live in Pacific Grove and are the reason for this part of our adventure.

The drive was not too bad and had very differing landscapes. We saw desert, goats, oil rigs, vineyards, almond trees, tumbleweeds and some crops growing under cover that we weren’t sure of.

We were making pretty good time. It is a 300 mile day and we actually got on Hwy 101 by 11 AM. Starting early does pay off. We only made a few stops for lunch and fuel. Finding fuel is a little easier using an app called Gas Buddy. We have found it to be pretty accurate with the location and prices. It sure beats wondering if there is fuel at the next exit and how much.

We arrived at the Monterey Elks Lodge around 3:00. It was a winding, hilly, narrow climb up the hill to the lodge and the parking spots for the RV’s were pretty skinny. They have 12 sites and we were the fourth one there. Once we were set up between our white lines, the slides were on one and the door opened on the other. Sure hope it doesn’t get too full.

We headed into the lodge to sign up for our 3 day limit and were we ever surprised by the view. They have a pool area that overlooks Monterey Bay. Even though it was foggy it was still very impressive and very cool temp.

Since we had a long day and John & Masiah hadn’t seen BG yet, we decided they should come see us tonight. We had happy hour, snacks and talked, talked, talked. This location is going to work out great since it is only about 15 minutes away from their house. Already loving the cooler weather, time for an extra blanket tonight.

The next several days were busy checking things out around town, going to a Blues concert in Seaside and enjoying hanging with the family. All of the towns seem to run together and the traffic was pretty heavy and lots people. Also, Pacific Grove is where the Monarch Butterflies stop on their migration.

Of course we had to check out the Wharf area and all of its inhabitants.

We drove down the coast toward Carmel and checked out Point Lobos and the views.

And once again we were able to experience the local farmers market. Lots of people, fresh produce, beautiful flowers and curiosities.

We were able to extend our stay at the Elks another 3 days, but it did in fact get a lot busier. There was a group of 6 RV’s that came in just after we renewed. Lucky timing on our part.