.... I went down to Los Banos last Saturday. Between Westley and Crow's Landing, the Valley was blooming! Yes, the almonds and apricots are in full bloom and it was so beautiful. Particularly on this stretch of I-5 that is above the valley, you could look out for miles over the orchards. At Crow's Landing, the almond trees are right next to the freeway on both sides, so I rolled down my windows and aahhh, it smelled so sweet.

So, if you ever get a chance, take your ragtop for a spin! I met my mom and sister and we had lunch at one of the few old fashioned Basque restaurants left, The Woolgrowers. Simple but great food.

I have done that same trip during bloom time and I agree, it's spectacular. And then you get to cross the Tejon Pass which is also beautiful especially with a dusting of snow or wildflowers.

I really don't hate the 5.

I was surprised how green the grass still was considering the lack of rain. I just caught a few glimpses of poppies on the hillsides as I sped past at 75mph! I really like I-5

Topping for janisj

I drove I 5 on Friday and thought it looked very pretty this time of year. I also drove 152 and wowsa it was nice.

I love the Pacheco Pass anytime, but this time of year is the best.

Hi

Yes - there are 2 weeks in the spring when I5 is actually pretty

Can't remember that stretch of highway (it's been so many years) but the Woolgrowers Restaurant sounds worth the drive!!

Well, I did this same drive again this weekend. Just missed the peak bloom by a week or two. The rain this last week knocked all the almond blossoms off and the apricots were just peaking out. The hills are finally greening up and I would guess the flower will be out by the end of the month!

Raining like crazy, so that is good!

?

*Flowers*

JanisJ — that time of year again! The almond bloom is on I-5 and you can even smell them from the road around Patterson to Crows Landing. The apricots will be along next. You are missing out!

I see our dear Suzie commented on this several years ago. These blooms are for her. Rest in Peace.

Well, JanisJ, that time of year again. I will be doing this drive this weekend and will report back on the almond blossoms.

This reminded me of our dear Suzie. It has been a year since she passed away. I called her husband. They are doing well but have their emotional times, as is expected. He would love to be included in any of our future Sacramento GTGs.

Will let you know how the drive is.

>>He would love to be included in any of our future Sacramento GTGs.>will report back on the almond blossoms.

I was just through Los Banos over the long weekend to visit Merced and San Luis wildlife refuges. The almonds, the sunset and the geese/cranes were spectacular.

BTW for others, it isn't too late to see the "fly in" (at Merced just before sunset, you can watch from the platform at the parking lot). Up to 100,000 white Ross's and Snow Geese come from all over the Valley. There are also some nice trails to drive and walk.

For more info

http://www.fws.gov/refuge/san_luis/A...e_Complex.html

Mlgb- did you see the Tule Elk? They once roamed this whole valley.

Yes -- THIS is the two pretty weeks

I don't think there has been quite as much heavy rain down that way -- right? Haven't been out anywhere in orchard country yet this year so don't know if the blossom has been battered to H*LL. Have a friend with an almond orchard up near the Sutter Buttes -- i'll ask her how they are doing Mon. at the Kings game.