Our day began at full tourist speed with no signs of slowing down.

This is Jenny's view from her deck. She is stuck at home recuperating from surgery but graciously offered us her kayaks for a morning of meandering on the Lake.


Mark Twain said it best, “As it lay there with the shadows of the mountains brilliantly photographed upon its still surface, I thought it must surely be the fairest picture the whole earth affords."


Hahaha... at our skill level, this was not a problem.
After a delightful lunch at home, our afternoon was spent at the Meyers Mountain Market.


We even found a new, fun snack at the Grandma Stags seasoned pretzel booth.
Whenever possible I try to have a photo opportunity here. This iconic South Lake Tahoe "Welcome Sign" is one of the most photographed landmarks in the South Shore. It was envisioned in 1993 by then Planning Commissioner Hal Cole, and designed and built by Cole and local artist Dan Jones in 1994. It was built entirely with donations from community members, including a generous donation from Bill Ledbetter.
Our long held plans were to end our day here.
Julie is a big Eagles fan so I secured tickets to the Valhalla Boathouse's sold-out performance by Life in the Fast Lane: A Tribute to the Eagles.
Since their debut in 1993, this incredibly talented quintet has earned their place in the music industry as "America's Most Authentic" Eagles Tribute Band. Performed with enthusiasm, style and conviction, LIFE IN THE FAST LANE brilliantly re-creates the harmonic sounds of the legendary Eagles.
Until tonight, I never realized I was an Eagles fan. These guys ROCKED.
Since Steve didn't have a ticket, he joined 50 other poachers and enjoyed the show from outside. He met up with us during intermission.

I was hanging around the band, like a groupie, when I heard the professional photographer gather them up for a professional photo. I grabbed Julie and Steve and followed them.
When the photographer was done with his desired images, we jumped in and asked him to get a picture of us with the band. Oh my gosh. For those who don't know, this is classic ME.
And what was Steve doing during this 2+ hour concert. This is a photo I took from my seat of him milling about outdoors. Turns out there was a bar there and a number of people willing to dance with him. Hysterical! "How they dance in the courtyard, sweet summer sweat. Some dance to remember, some dance to forget."
At one point, the Boathouse's female audience got tired of dancing in their seats and took to the floor in front of the stage. One gentleman who was dragged onto his feet went out and grabbed Steve telling him, "I can't be the only guy up here dancing!" Steve is now a fan, too!

Our next guest, Julie, arrived at the Sacramento Airport at 3:30 PM and we promptly headed out for the California State Fair.

There's not a lot of commentary needed here. Just enjoy the photo documentation.
It's a good day when one is greeted by Smokey Bear! Have I mentioned I am a sucker for character photos?
Another fun photo opportunity is Fair Food. Oh my gosh! My arteries were clogging just looking at this meal.
A highlight is ogling all the crafts people submit for judging.
I was so impressed by this handmade, plastic canvas needlepoint chess set by Robyn Wallace. Wow.
Don't even get me started on my amazement for quilts.
Courtney Phillips' Edible Sculpture was absolutely realistic!


I have had a thing for pigeons since going to the American Pigeon Museum & Library in Oklahoma City.
The National Pigeon Association had 15 different breeds on display. Each was so unique and beautiful. Who knew?

A must was to mingle with the farm critters.




Julie hasn't been here for eight years. I think her stay has started out exceptionally!