Having been born and raised in Southern California, with family still living there, it is a lovely place to visit in the winter.
So, for a winter vacation, I did just that.
CALIFORNIA AND CRESTVIEW
The Los Angeles area is warmer than our climate at this time of year, and quite beautiful.
The hills and mountains are still green, and there is snow on Mount Baldy; according to the ski reports, there is enough to ski.
There is so much to do in Southern California, whether you're visiting Disneyland (my favorite), Knott’s Berry Farm, the beaches, the mountains, the desert, zoos, the Arboretum and other lovely gardens, as well as the symphony and theatre — just about any activity is available.
The flowers are in bloom, and are just beautiful. Mother’s bougainvilleas are in bloom, as well as her daffodils, roses and narcissus — she loves her flowers.
However, traffic is a sight to behold. After driving in our fair town, it is interesting to once again face California freeways.
Yes, in California, they are called freeways.
Having grown up there, I don’t mind the bumper-to-bumper traffic, but it can be intimidating to be honked at, cut off continually, have a car change lanes from the far left-hand lane over four lanes of traffic to get to an off ramp or have someone tailgate for miles.
There are quite a few interesting driving habits.
The speed limit is 65, but you feel as though you will be run over, as most motorists drive about 75 to 80 mph.
All to say, driving in the Los Angeles area is not for the faint of heart or timid.
I will write more about my California adventures in the next few weeks, and would really love to hear where you have gone for a winter vacation, or where you would like to go.
SUPPORT FOR BIG RED MACHINE
I want to turn focus to our talented Crestview High School Band, which is raising money for new uniforms.
According to Jody Dunn, the band director, each uniform costs approximately $300. The uniform goal is $90,000 and so far they have raised $22,000.
All donations are tax-deductible; if you would like to help our fabulous band, please make your check out to Crestview High School, write Band Uniform Fund on the memo line and mail to Crestview High School, c/o Jody Dunn, 1250 N. Ferdon Blvd., Crestview, FL 32536. Any donations will be gratefully accepted.
If you see me around town on my jaunts, please say “hi." If you have any “Happenings,” please drop me an email so I can report on it.
Janice Lynn Crose lives in Crestview with her husband, Jim; her brother, Robb; her two rescue collies, Shane and Jasmine; and two cats, Kathryn and Prince Valiant.
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This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HAPPENINGS: California driving and Crestview band uniforms