So today is the first time I set off inland. I feel slightly weird about it. I love being at the coast & watching the ocean. I did not manage to see the grey whales they were all talking about in Jenner, but no worries.

Its not too far along the 299 to Redding where I had decided to spend the night. The landscape is vast - huge mountains - with snow on top - looks like I am going to hit snow soonish. There are massive forests covering the mountains - wonderful huge fir trees that leave a lovely smell lingering in the air.

I have driven up some very high mountains and at times I thought the car would not make it. My speed dropped down to 40mph in some cases & occasionally had to turn in to allow people to pass in their great big 4-wd trucks. One of the signs I passed mentioned that I had reached a peak of 5,960 feet - I assume this is fairly high as I have no idea how to convert into meters.

I reached Redding mid afternoon and checked into another Quality Inn. The receptionist was very helpful & even gave me another blanket when I asked.I went out to find the Shasta Dam which apparently is the second largest dam in California. The dam wall was very impressive indeed & you could walk across it. I also had a stroll near the waters edge, but it was very steep & rocky & I was afraid that I would trip & roll all the way into the water - that would not have looked cool. The rocks were that lovely red colour & looked lovely in the setting sun.

Dinner was at Jade Garden, a Chinese near the Inn which the receptionist had recommended. It was pretty good and the portions were simply massive.