Catherine in the Corps: A Long Three Days in Vallecito

I am sorry to say that today's update will be brief. But hey, it is better than nothing.

This week we had a bit of a change of pace and drove four miles down the road Tuesday through Thursday to work at Vallecito County Park. Vallecito is a smaller park than Agua Caliente and not nearly as busy. The place was virtually deserted, with the exception of two married couples who are volunteers and Park Hosts. We were sent there to continue with our Mistletoe work. There had not been any Mistletoe removal in over seven years and so there was plenty of work to do. Unfortunately the endless Mistletoe-ing became rather monotonous by the third day and the days really dragged on.

Two nice aspects of Vallecito...First, there is cell service, which was a nice change, although I must say that not having cell service during the week really does not bother me at all.

Second is the Stage Station. Reconstructed in the 1930s, the Stage Station was originally from the 1850s. It was stopping grounds for travelers riding on the Butterfield stagecoaches. It was only operational for four years from 1857-1861 when the Civil War broke out. Of course I was excited for this little historical landmark! Rumor has it, the place is now haunted. People have reported hearing a stagecoach rumble by and there have been sightings of a Lady in White. The Rangers told us that anytime we want to, they will open it up at night so that we can spend an overnight there. Can't wait!