Santa Maria and the nearby Santa Ynez Valley are both wonderful places to explore.I love southern California, but today reminded me why for many years I wanted to live in central California. It really is a beautiful area. We drove the length of winding Foxen Canyon Road, with its mile after mile of vineyards and their lush fields of grape vines perfectly planted row upon row. This year the vines aren’t as green as in past years, clear evidence of the drought California is experiencing. We stopped at the Fess Parker Winery, where they provide picnic tables, and several families were eating and resting in the shade of the trees. After walking the beautiful grounds, we did the same.

Beautiful grounds of the Fess Parker Winery

We are once again back in our 5th wheel, preparing to eat dinner. Who knows what tomorrow will bring? We did learn there will be dog agility trials and a competition on the grounds right next to our camp site. Our Annika gets a little excited about such things, so we will probably have to leave for the day.