California Adventure

Entry 8

August 12, 2015

(current location - Caffe Trieste) I could sit here and type all day...happily...it's bustling with people...in and out...so old fashioned.

On the way down to Road's End, I stopped a couple more times to snap a photo or two. Down by Knapp's Cabin, I decided to try and get a shot of the river. Two fishermen were just getting started. The view was nothing spectacular there, but I snapped anyway...as I often do. Sometimes simple is best. The fishermen were part of my story...and relatively speaking, all of the views were inspirational.

A little further down the road, I pulled over again to take a shot with a unique perspective. One of the park maintenance guys was there. After observing my efforts, he approached - seeming eager to help. Bert's long gray hair blew lightly in the breeze and his jolly smile demanded one in return. It wasn't long before I was headed up the hill toward another secret location.

His promise proved to be authentic within minutes.

After fighting my way through a trail of tiny flying bugs who were not accustomed to company, I emerged at a waterfall where I stood on the rocky cliff and inhaled its refreshment. I think it was Mist Falls, but don't remember for certain as there was no sign on the secret trail.

The people rushing in and out of Caffe Trieste are making me smile. The large, unobstructed windows, friendly faces, and busy noises...make me feel lost and found at the same time. The steamer is old and growls its presence with every latte. Additionally, there is music, conversation, streams of sunlight, and a nice mosaic on the table where I sit. And, just this moment, a very old woman walked in and looked at me. "May I?" she asked timidly. I said "absolutely!"

"It's the best seat in the house." she stated.

"Yes!" I responded with enthusiasm saying that I may not give it up all day long. She said that I shouldn't. (Ruth just returned from the counter with a latte and a butterfly sugar cookie covered with sprinkles).

Now, back to Kings Canyon. While I was talking to Bert about where to get the best views of the mountains from the canyon, another official truck stopped. Inside were several tan, muscular, quite handsome gentlemen. One of them asked if everything was okay and Bert responded with an affirmative. The man continued "Is she harassing you?" Again, Bert nodded with his jolly smile and wild hair. They were all smiling, but the driver had an especially mischievous grin and he said playfully, "Okay, just making sure."

After they drove away, Bert told me they were tree cutters. Then he proceeded to describe the various positions one might hold within the park. For example, Bert explained that he takes care of the water and the tree men only cut down and take away trees that are hazardous. Within a few minutes, I was driving again in search of the other custom locations which had been outlined for me by John from Sunset (John of Sequoia) with some additional input from my new acquaintance, Bert.

A fire truck just parked on the street and four rather masculine officials emerged...They got in line and ordered coffee and other things. One smiled at me...and I can see that everyone who looks my way wonders why I'm smiling so...and what I must be typing. It makes me smile even more and I cannot type fast enough. The music is bluesy and quite opposite the energetic feel of the patrons and baristas. The clanging of glass and ceramic...real dishes...is loud and regular.

The firemen departed with a smile and told me to have a nice day. Ruth, the lady with the butterfly cookie, came back and sat down. We talked a little and she said I should ask Phil (who is sitting outside) about what to do in the city, because he has been here all his life. Ruth continues to introduce me to people as they come in and out. Apparently she is a regular. Caffe Trieste was established in 1956, according to Ruth. She said she is new...having only been coming here for 25 years.