~ Fern Uehara Chan ~
What a lucky break that we were able to join the Monterey Ski and Social Club on their summer getaway weekend. A big thank you to Amy McDonald and her team for planning this great weekend event.
Our final Saturday in June was the perfect window of opportunity between 100-degree days in the central valley. My husband, Kevin, and I who are Nisei Ski Club members drove through the rural hills between Placer and El Dorado counties. We wondered with a tiny bit of anxiety on my part. What will quaint Georgetown and its beckoning outskirts have to offer?
With an expected 45 minute drive one-way, we decided to make it a day trip foregoing the overnight stay at the American River Inn. Pulling into the parking, I felt intrigue with a tinge of regret; it was obvious what a special place this was. Situated on the upper level of Main Street at 6600 Orleans, the American River Inn would prove charming not only in ambiance but also in service. As I wandered through the Inn’s lovely welcome area and gift shop, the hubby began his usual ‘Meet & Greet’ with members of the Monterey Ski Club and assured me that the 15 minute ride down to the banks of the American River with our new found friends/saviors is a simple feat.
So thus began my adventure on the river. Having never experienced rapids upwards of a level 2, and never on the American River itself, I hoped to return intact and not too soggy. Due to the unlucky drought we are going through, the river offered perfect conditions for the faint of heart. My companions with their intrepid spirits, yearned for more, but the river was on my side this day. In one rapid instance, we were careening toward an out-jutting boulder, and Shirley held me back into the raft. If not for the skill of Steven our guide, perhaps we’d have found our way out to the blue Pacific. Still, for me, it was all a delightful whirl!
Needless to say, back at the Inn, I was grateful for some leisurely time to freshen up before the wine tour bus would return with my husband. We soon made our way to the back lawn and patio where scrumptious appetizers accompanied by reds and whites would welcome us – followed by a summer buffet supper of chicken, ribs, corn on the cob, salad, and luscious chocolate lava cake! Then a quick stroll down to the corner bar with some die-hard MSSC friends allowed us time to share a few more stories & drinks and karaoke voices which either impressed or fizzled…depending on the ears of the beholder ….or how many drinks were had. All too soon, it was time to say our goodbyes and take our leave of Georgetown heading back through the hills bound for home.
Thanks to Bob & Lucy for the safe transportation , Shirley for helping prevent my meeting up with the rock, Steven for his guidance, and to both Amy McDonald and Karen Soo for their joint effort in reuniting the 2 clubs for such a lovely day/weekend in the hills. Aloha & Mahalo to all until we meet again!
