Fossil Falls - A Must Visit

Amazing Place for Adults and Children

by Stacey Kuhns

 

Have you ever heard of Fossil Falls?  I hadn't either, until a few weeks ago. Fossil Falls is located in Olancho, California, in the Coso Range. It is a place of alien landscapes that amazes the senses. It is free to enter the park and you are able to climb all over the lava structures. My boyfriend and I were there on a Monday morning, so we had the place to ourselves.

The drive is approximately 4 hours from San Diego, but there are campsites available and hotels/motels available in the nearby town of Ridgecrest.

The rugged and primitive landscape of Fossil Falls is the product of volcanic activity. As recent as 20,000 years ago, lava from the local volcanic eruptions poured into the Owens River channel. The erosional forces of the Owens River acted upon this volcanic rock, forming the polished and sculptured features you can see at Fossil Falls.

There is a large red cinder cone at the entrance to the park. It is the result of the violent eruption of trapped gasses and molten materials into the air from a vent in the Earth's crust. When exposed to the air, it cools quickly, forming a porous rock known as scoria, which built up around the original vent, forming a cone-shaped hill.

Many people think that Fossil Falls means there is a waterfall. This is not so. There was most likely one thousands of years ago, but it is a feature of lava, that resembles a waterfall and "spills" into an amazing canyon.

I was amazed at the scenery. Even as we drove towards Fossil Falls, it becomes very apparent you are entering a volcanic area. As an adult, I found the landscape thrilling and exciting. I can only imagine what kids would think.

As with all hiking, camping areas, bring plenty of water and some energy snacks. Also, hiking boots are recommended. The trail was fairly easy (as a disabled person, I was able to manage it without too much trouble and with help from my boyfriend), but if you plan to stay for a while and want to hike into the canyon, make sure you are well equipped to do so. (You may want to go to the Fossil Falls website or touch base with a ranger to find out what you will need if you plan to hike into the canyon). There are campgrounds in the Fossil Falls area, but we did not stop there.

There is a nice parking area with bathrooms as well as benches and BBQ areas for a picnic.

It is well worth a trip there. Also in the area are the Trona Pinnacles, located in Trona, California. We did not go into the park (as the road is unpaved and we were not sure about our vehicle), but I was able to get a few pictures from the road.

The Pinnacles average 140 feet in height. The area has over 500 tufa (calcium carbonate) pinnacles rising from the bed of the Searles Dry Lake Basin. These tufa spires were formed 10,000 to 100,000 years ago, underwater. There were declared a National Landmark in 1968. (Just an FYI: Trona is population of about 18. There is nothing in the small mining town as far as hotels. There is one restaurant, which I would definitely NOT recommend). The nearest town is Ridgecrest, about 30 minutes away.

We definitely plan to return to explore these areas more fully.

Insulated Water Bottle #amazing

100% Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle 

 

This seventeen-ounce water bottle is made from 304 18/8 quality double walled stainless steel. It keeps hot drinks warm for up to eight hours and your cold drinks chilled for about twenty-four hours. As a Southern California girl, I like to have my chilled water with me all day; this water bottle by Two Sisters NZ really does its job – it is so important to stay hydrated. Remember your body is about 60% water.

I appreciate that the bottle is vacuum sealed which prevents annoying spills. As a wonderful bonus, this product comes with two collapsible silicone ice trays whose cubes are the perfect size for this bottle.

Tip - if you enjoy lemon water – try freezing fresh squeezed lemon juice in the trays to freeze for later use.

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Product Description

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100% Stainless Steel, Insulated, Double Walled, Vacuum Sealed 17oz/500ml Water Bottle with two complimentary Silicone Ice Cube Trays.

• GO GREEN!
  
  Go with best quality 304 18/8 food safe (FDA) stainless steel. Airtight silicone seal means no leaks. Double wall construction means it's sweat proof. No plastic, no mould, easy to clean. Lasts a lifetime. A great buy!
• "I have to say that this is honestly one of the best quality items I've ever received since I started reviewing professionally." - says one Top Amazon Reviewer. You too can discover the benefits of the insulated construction, keeps drinks hot for 6-8 hours and cold for 24 hours just like a thermos.
• Imagine using your complimentary silicone ice cube trays to add the flavor of frozen lemon juice to your water making a cool, hydrating drink full of Vitamin C.
• Ideal for the safe & healthy transportation of hot soup for lunch, hot water for tea or baby's bottle. The handy 17 ounce size is perfect for your day hiking backpack pocket, your golf bag, your hand bag or your car. Gone are the days of unhealthy plastic sports bottles.
• The insulation hype is real. 100% Satisfaction or your Money Back! BEST DEAL - Add 4 water bottles to your cart and 1 will be FREE! Just enter code 1WB4FREE at checkout.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Fun Family Time at Bates Nut Farm

Post by Oma Loves U.

Over 90 years ago, Bates Nut Farm got its start in Valley Center growing walnuts. The walnut tress are now gone, but they still sell nuts from all over the world. Every year they provide a pumpkin patch - Over 50 years of fall traditions and memories have been created at the Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Patch. Family and friends enjoy the tractor hayrides, straw maze, petting corral and Snows Pony Rides.

Grab a wheelbarrow and pick from variety of pumpkins: Big Macs, Ghost, Cinderella, Jack O’ Lantern, minis, squash, gourds and other fall décor. In addition, weekends at Bates include live entertainment from 12:00 -3:00, BBQ, kettle corn, food trucks, rock climb, bounce, slide and other family friendly events. Check our calendar for details and schedule.

SkinCase - The World's Thinnest iPhone Case #SkinCase

Almost invisible

 

 

This unique phone case scales at only 0.01inch in thickness and is almost invisible to the eye. It allows your phone to look like your phone. It is completely brand free – Very Cool. 

The lightweight SkinCase also supplies protection with a seamless design for your iPhone. It is made from hard polycarbonate plastic that wraps around your phone snugly. It comes with two cases.

To Purchase or for more details
Click Here

Currently available for iPhone 5 / 5s / SE, iPhone 6 / 6s / 6 Plus / 6s Plus, and now available for the iPhone 7!

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Bouchard Belgian Chocolate #BouchardChocolate

Bouchard is a premium chocolate factory located in Ghent, Belgium. They have been passionate about creating quality chocolate since 1931 and use only high quality ingredients to bring you the rich flavor associated with premium dark chocolate. 

When dark chocolate is made well it doesn't leave your mouth with a bitter aftertaste. Because the Bouchard Napolitains* are made with 72% cacao they are healthy alternative to milk or white chocolate. 

Did you know that these yummy chocolates are sold at your local Costco?  Oma really enjoys a bite-sizes square or two of these Bouchard Belgian Chocolates with a rich glass of red wine; perfect end to serve your dinner guests.

* Napolitains, sometimes abbreviated as Naps, are small tablets of chocolate intended to be served with a cup of coffee.

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Bouchard Belgian Chocolate Website

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Baby Grooming Kit #nowbornkit

7 Piece Set for Infants with Carry Bag 

 

This cute baby grooming kit has everything parents, old or new, will need for their newborn. It comes with a soft bristle hair brush; comb, toothbrush; silicone finger toothbrush; scissors; nail clippers; and nail file. The sturdy storage bag is perfect for keeping your baby care tools together and organized.

Oma likes how the tool’s purple accents make this a great gift for either a boy or girl. This kit comes with a thirty-day money back guarantee.

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Product Description

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• SAFETY FIRST – Our Baby Kit is made with an easy grip material that will ensure that you have steady hands while attending to your baby. This is especially important for the nail clippers and scissors.
  
• PRACTICAL INCLUSIONS – Inside your carry bag you will find all you need for your baby’s care; soft bristle hair brush; toothbrush; silicone finger toothbrush; scissors; nail clippers; nail file.
• CONVENIENT CARRY BAG – The zip up carry bag will ensure your Grooming Kit fits neatly in your diaper bag, or handbag for your trips away. Or store it away easily in a draw.
• EYE CATCHING COLOR – Half the problem of grooming time is keeping your baby occupied. The bright colors of your grooming kit makes it easy to catch their attention and give them a brush or comb to play with while you work your magic.
• FANTASTIC GIFT – Adorable and practical. This is the ‘sure thing’ gift for any mother. Great baby shower gift!

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NowBorn Website

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Microbiome Plus GI Advanced Probiotic and Prebiotic #microbiomeplus

Microbime Plus GI is an advanced probiotic and prebiotic combination developed by doctors and human tested as one of the most effective probiotics on the market. It heals stomach issues, boosts energy and immune and even helps with weight loss. 

As Oma got older, she started to experience digestive issues (Gas, Bloating, Heartburn, Diarrhea, Constipation, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome). I discovered that due to a regime of high dose antibiotics, my ‘good bacteria’ was lacking. I am not a medical professional, but found that remembering to take my Microbiome Plus GI Advanced Probiotic and Prebiotic daily as directed really help me get back in control.

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  Be sure to use this code for $4 Off Microbiome GI Probiotics

Z938FOVM

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Product Description

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Microbiome Plus+ Gastrointestinal probiotics is a more complete gastrointestinal health dietary supplement that provides natural prebiotic fiber (scFOS) and the probiotic L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 which work together to maintain the balance of healthy bacteria in your gut and support normal digestive function.* The probiotic in Microbiome Plus+ Gastrointestinal has been shown to help support normal inflammatory response in addition to supporting digestive health.* (scFOS) is a natural prebiotic fiber that supports a healthy gastrointestinal tract by promoting digestive function, immune health, the growth of healthy bacteria, natural intestinal mechanical barriers, and gut integrity.* Microbiome Plus+ Gastrointestinal combines these two ingredients to provide more complete gastrointestinal health support.* Not only does scFOS support digestive function but as a prebiotic helps L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 to support normal gastrointestinal function.*

Microbiome performs essential functions for your body, it is important that it is healthy and balanced. Bile metabolism is an important function of the microbiome and poor bile metabolism can lead to health problems. Regaining microbiome and bile metabolism health requires serious lifestyle changes and or specifically formulated dietary supplements. The microbiome is the community of natural and essential organisms that help you digest your food, ensuring appropriate immune function and maintaining your metabolic health. To help restore your microbiome you must significantly and permanently change your diet by supplementing your diet with the specific bacteria required. The probiotic L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 bacteria in Microbiome Plus+ can help to boost and restore the normal balance of the microbiome and bile metabolism. The natural prebiotic fiber (scFOS) works symbiotically with the probiotic. Prebiotics helping stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut.

About the Product

• MOST ADVANCED PRE & PROBIOTIC COMBINATION - 600mg of PREBIOTIC scFOS (Short-chain fructo oligosaccharides) combined with 7 Billion CFU Daily dose of New Advanced ProBiotic L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 combine to provide a Synbiotic formulation that has been shown to help support normal inflammatory response in addition to supporting digestive health
  
• IMPROVE & MAINTAIN HEALTH – Your gut is home to 80% of your immune system, where good bacteria (probiotics) battle with bad bacteria to help relieve allergies, bloating, gas, and constipation. Probiotics replenish fighting bacteria and help maintain digestive functions and immune health.
• SUPPORT MOOD & BOOST ENERGY – Poor nutrient absorption can leave you short on essential vitamins and minerals. Fatigue, irritability, and a lack of motivation are signs of nutrient deficiency. Probiotics develop a healthy microenvironment in the digestive system and gastrointestinal tract that optimizes nutrient absorption, giving you the positive energy and happy feelings to be your vibrant self.
• LOSE WEIGHT – Weight-loss research suggests that healthy microflora in the gut can speed your metabolism and support fat loss. For healthy weight loss, give your body the probiotic support it needs.
• MICROBIOME AND BILE METABOLISM, Microbiome is the community of natural and essential organisms that live in your gut and it is important that it is healthy and balanced. Bile metabolism is an important function of the microbiome for food digestion and for the regulation of cholesterol. Microbiome probiotics help to maintain a healthy microbiome and bile metabolism.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Training a Service Dog.... My Journey So Far

By Stacey Kuhns

For those who have read my previous blogs, you know that I am disabled. I have several diseases and live with chronic pain 24/7. Because of the progression of my diseases, my career in law enforcement was cut short and I found myself retired and at a loss as to the path my life would take.

There are many days where simple tasks, such as getting dressed and undressed are agony. There are times when the simple task of opening a jar or holding onto something is too much for me. I walk like someone well into their eighties. There are nights when the pain makes it impossible to sleep and tears and depression threaten to overwhelm me. Yet every morning, I get back up and try to live my life to the fullest that I possibly can.

One of my many medical professionals suggested I get a service dog. I was shocked. It never crossed my mind that someone with my condition would need or benefit from a service dog. I am not blind. I am not confined to a wheelchair (although I was for one year). During my research on service dogs, (we are talking about a certified service dog, not an emotional support animal or therapy dog), I discovered that most organizations place only one to two service dogs per year with a qualified disabled person. I applied with several organizations but did not qualify.

I met with some wonderful women at a training facility who answered all of my questions about whether a service dog would be beneficial to me and how I would go about obtaining one. They assisted me with finding a puppy that would hopefully make an excellent service dog candidate and that would meet my physical needs. They assured me that I would be capable of training my own service dog through their program but warned me that it would be a two-year training commitment. And, there are no guarantees the dog will pass certification. They assured me that there are ways to train a service animal even with my physical limitations.

As I have worked with animals much of my life, I had my heart set on rescuing a dog from a shelter that would eventually become my service dog. Well, things did not turn out that way. I had been saving money up for a down payment on a used car (as I lost my car when I lost my job since I could no longer afford to keep it). Retiring nine years earlier than planned greatly affected my income. Well, I still do not have a car, but I have a potential service dog. The money went towards the purchase of a puppy that met the physical and health requirements for my purpose.

I came home with a seven-week-old puppy named Henson. I don't think I realized what I was getting myself into. Yes, there are ways to train a puppy/dog that work with my disabilities but taking care of a puppy 24 hours a day was a different matter. I questioned my decision every day. I slept less, cried more, and my pain levels increased, but I was determined not to give up and to see this through.

One big benefit to training your own service dog is that there is a very tight bond right from the start (which can also result in a dog with severe separation anxiety). Henson pretty much goes everywhere with me. When I cannot take him with me to certain places, such as my volunteer job, he has a meltdown (we are working on this). He is smart and his training is progressing well. It is A LOT of work and sometimes is difficult physically and mentally for me, but I am not one to give up on Henson or myself.

Henson is now seven months old and 61 pounds. He has another year of growing so is going to be a very big boy, which is what I wanted. But he is also very strong, so training is crucial. Henson is currently in his third training class. Recently, he has become terrified of a number of different things and many loud noises. Some of them understandable, and some fears that don't seem rational.

We will be working with the trainers on this, of course, but there is always my fear that he may not work out as a service dog. I often ask myself how I would feel about this. It's a tough one. I have invested a lot of time and money into Henson with the goal that he will be able to assist me and alleviate some of the struggles I go through daily. But, Henson is my buddy and my constant companion. As with most all dogs, he loves me unconditionally and I love him. He is family. A well-trained dog is invaluable to me as well as everyone Henson or I come into contact with, so there really is no loss if he does not get certified. Well, the loss is I won't have him to assist me in places where I need help, so I will continue to use my cane and wheelchair.

I know many people purchase service dog vests online. This is illegal. Many people have told me to do this and I refuse. I know there are so many dogs out there who have little to no service dog training yet their owners pose them as "service dogs." Shame on them is all I have to say. This is a difficult road and something I take very seriously. Henson and I are in this together and we will take our time and do it correctly. 

None of this is easy. Henson and I are a short way into our training journey. While the outcome is unknown, it is certainly a great learning experience for us both and quite an adventure.

Related Posts

1. Belching Beaver Brewery Tavern & Grill
2. Dog Friendly Areas in North County San Diego
3. A Struggle with a Light at the End of the Tunnel
4. Slave to My Future Service Dog
5. Reflecting on this Mother's Day
6. A New Journey Begins

Flanax Pain Reliever Tablets #flanaxusa

Flanax Pain Reliever Tablets temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to: headache, toothache, backache, menstrual cramps, the common cold, muscular aches and minor pain of arthritis.   The tablets also temporarily reduces fever. 

What makes this pain reliever superior is that it has a longer half-life than other nonprescription analgesics. 

The duration of action of a drug is known as its half-life. This is the period of time required for the concentration or amount of drug in the body to be reduced by one-half. In general, a drug is no longer considered pharmacologically active after one half life. This means that a drug loses much of its activity or effectiveness after one half life. 

Click Here For Product Website

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Product Description

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Flanax Pain Reliever Tablets are nonprescription analgesics in the U.S. used to treat muscle pain, back pain, arthritis, headache, menstrual cramps as well as reduce fever. Flanax Pain Reliever Tablets have a longer half-life than other nonprescription analgesics and as a result keeps you pain free longer with less dosing during the day!

Flanax for:

• • Arthritis 
• • Back Pain 
• • Cold and Flu 
• • Headache 
• • Menstrual Cramps 
• • Pain Relief 
• • Sinus 
• • Toothache 

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Products For Taking Care Of Your Health

 

 

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Stainless Steel Tumbler by Marky Products #MarkyProducts

 

I am a tea drinker and love to take my home brewed tea with me, both hot and cold. This Stainless Steel Tumbler works great for either. It holds a full twenty ounces of liquid and comes with a shatter/spill/splash proof clear plastic lid to minimize messes. I appreciate that the tumbler's long slender design make fit nicely in my car’s drink holder. Additionally, my mind is set at easy knowing that this tumbler BPA free and backed by an unlimited guarantee.

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Product Description

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This is one of Marky Products signature products due to its sleek and efficient design. It is to be complemented by available accessories such as handles, closing tops and straws. Metal decanters keep ice 2X longer than plastic beakers and are designed for maximum ice preservation - they work just as well for hot beverages.

• WORRIED ABOUT SPILLING YOUR DRINK? This has an ideal shatter/spill/splash proof environmentally friendly sealed BPA free clear lid making it the perfect drinking mug. SUPERIOR VALUE SET – comes with Marky Products tumbler and new bonus closable shatterproof sliding lid ($7.95 value, free), which doesn’t leak.
  
• IDEAL TEMPERATURE RETENTION is ensured by the double walled thermos insulation technology for you to enjoy coffee, hot and cold drinks longer whilst still being comfortable to hold, so it’s great for kids, mom, women and girls.
• PERFECT 20 OZ SIZE amongst drinking bottles and ecofriendly sweat resistant construction provides maximum benefit of comfort and capacity and the strong chiseled design fits securely in standard vehicle holders.
• 100% PREMIUM QUALITY RUST RATTLE AND AFTERTASTE FREE from the extreme robust insulating durable drinkware that sets it apart from the rest so you will never have to buy another flask again and preserves the natural taste for you whether you use it for smoothie, water, tea, vodka or other alcohol.
• RETAINS ITS FINISH EVEN AFTER MANY USES AND WASHES giving you great value and years of reliable service to enjoy with a lifetime warranty should an unlikely problem develop. Satisfaction guarantee or replacement and Free PDF guide included. Users say: "Great product I'm very happy with it and how it keeps my pop cold. I was amazed by how well it cleans up even after leaving stuff in it overnight. I will be getting more for sure so I hope they stay at this price."

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Marky Products is a premier brand of durable, long-lasting kitchen and beverage products. We're steadily building a reputation with our customers for incredible products and incredible customer service.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."