Transmission

As hard as it was to leave Berkeley/Oakland, it had to be done. Cameron and I went out for a fair-well coffee, and I hit the road. The drive was pleasant, the sun was shining, and nothing but blue skies were ahead of me. I made it to the small town of Santa Ynez where I got directions into the forest, "Turn right on Mt Figueroa." Ha! That was honestly it. The road took me deep into the forest, up past the ranger station, past campsites, a school, and Neverland Ranch. The campsite I chose was at the very end of the road, and a half mile out something happened. All of the sudden, the wheels locked up and I came to a screeching halt. I knew what it was, but what the hell. I forced the truck the rest of the way to the campsite and coasted into a parking spot. 

Well, it's going to take a lot more than rain to stop this parade. I figured I made it to the campsite, I might as well do a little camping. I got a fire going, cooked myself some eggs, while I divided up my rations. I had plenty to last a few days. 

The nights were cold in the valley, but I managed. It made the hot meals all the more rewarding. After two nights in the forest, I new I should take care of the truck. Rain was coming and I didn't want to be stranded for a few days with out being able to cook food. Thankfully I found help from a couple of rangers. They took me to where I could make a call, even found me a number for a nearby tow service. Frazier's. Best tow I've had yet.

Terry towed me out no problem. He shared knowledge and stories on our journey back to civilization. When I mentioned I was looking to spend as little as possible on lodging, he mentioned the RV park, and Jensen's autoservice. He'd forgo the business of replacing my transmission so that I would have the convenience of staying across the street from where my truck could get fixed. Not a bad deal, if I used yelp, Frazier's would get an outstanding review. Well, he dropped me off at Jensen's, pointed out the RV park (right across the street), and even pointed out some good places to get grub. Thanks, Terry.

Now, I reside in paradise.