Went through California, Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, and Oregon, again, to reach La Grande.  Drove through two time zones, and several temperature zones during this twelve hour trip.  My absolute favorite was the snow in the Sierra Mountains.  It got to be feet deep, the trees were just laden with snow, and it was coming down in big furry feathers.    Snow changed to rain in Reno and most of the Nevada desert.  Sun came through before we reached Idaho (beautiful farms) and it was "pretty" for the rest of the trip.  Oregon was mostly spring desert, but the country changed to trees, mostly in the hills, just before we reached La Grande.

La Grande is nestled in foothills and mountains and is very pretty.  I'm looking forward to exploring it during the next two weeks.  That's it for now, more later.  :-)

Am driving to Yuba City with Suzanne this afternoon... we will be staying overnight with Gladis and Mario, Janina's parents, then Suzanne will return to Sacramento in the morning, and I will ride up to Oregon with Mike and Janina.  Spent part of this morning wrapping presents, and packing.  Have to pack light, as there will not be much room in the car on the way up.  It's not so easy to pack light for two'n a half weeks, and bring some art supplies, and books for meetings.

Have been looking forward to this trip for quite a while now.  Mike says that this is a very nice time to visit as it will not be too warm, and spring is a very pretty time.  Wish I had been able to get the camera I've been eyeing, but funds (or rather the lack of...) prevents that right now. 

That's it for now as I have to finish getting ready.  Oregon here I come.  :-)