Capay Valley Almond Blossom Festival, 2008

What a difference a week makes. Last Sunday was wet and gloomy and the almond blossoms were still in the budding stages. Today was bright and sunny with many of the almond orchards in bloom. If you didn't get a chance to make it this year with the rain out last week, here is just a part of what you missed.

Downtown Esparto with all the food and wall to wall Harley Davidsons.

The Esparto Fire Department/Athletics Boosters is the place to be for Tri-Tip sandwiches and a cold beer, if you are so inclined and have a designated driver. The police were out in full force today, and baby let me tell you, they were open for business.

The Carshow is always great, I am a Chevy muscle car fan and there were Camaros, Corvettes and a few Bel Airs as well.

Being Yolo County, the redneck tradition seems to have Wrestlemania type sleeper hold on some of our residents.



Next up, the small town of Guinda.

The Guinda Fire Department is where you stop if BBQ oysters and shrimp are your thing. The boys do a great job.

Turn left at the corner store and you will find the Western Grange hall. Crafts galore and more food, my daughter bought two peanut butter cookies and ate both of them, that was not fair, I love peanut butter cookies.


The Security at the 4-H petting zoo is formidable, he looks like you owe him money.

The local blacksmith was on hand to personalize his handmade items, he is truly an artist.


The final stop on our trip up the valley ended in the tiny town of Rumsey.



Rumsey, home of the famous Rumsey Ribs



The Shane Dwight Band was very good, Rock and a little Blues thrown in made for a great time.



Inside the craft fair and silent action at the Rumsey Hall



The famous Rumsey Ribs, big suckers aren't they?

Well, that is about it. It was full day, we came home about 3:00 to mow the lawn and let the dogs play. Classic cars and the rumble of Harley Davidson V-twins will continue to roll by my house as the Almond Festival winds down.

I hope you make it next year.