
We decided to go back to Bakersfield and buy horseshoes. We walked between 15 and 20 miles. It was about 4:30pm, we were going north on Allen Road and Blain stopped and asked us if we needed a place to stay for the night. We said yes, so we stayed at Blaine’s place last night. Thank you Blain for your kindness to the Mules as they travel South towards San Diego.

Upon setting out this morning, we came apon a palm tree dropping many small dates. They were quite good. The mules have feasted on this particular variety all over Southern California.

As we were walking south on Coffee Road, a Bakersfield Police Department police car went by us and circled around the corner. Not too long after that another one did the same. Shortly after that Kern County Animal Services animal control came around the corner. As we were approaching the stop light, an officer appeared in front of us.
He said, “I understand you’re trying to get rid of your animals.” I responded no I wasn’t. He said somebody said it was posted on our Facebook page that we were giving away our mules. We said goodbye. Have a nice day and continued walking.
Question: why would Bakersfield Police and animal control be bothering us about a private matter that’s not true to begin with?
November 4, 2018


This evening, the endangered San Joaquin kit fox stopped to visit us.
Your journey through Bakersfield offers a compelling glimpse into the challenges and rewards of a nomadic lifestyle. The kindness extended by Blaine, who offered you shelter after a long day’s walk, underscores the generosity that travelers can encounter, even in urban settings. It’s heartening to see such acts of goodwill facilitating your journey southward toward San Diego.
The serendipitous discovery of palm trees shedding dates provided not only nourishment for Little Girl and Frank E. Boy but also highlights the unexpected ways nature supports those who live closely with it. Such moments emphasize the deep connection between your mules and the natural world, showcasing the mutual benefits of this relationship.
The encounter with local authorities, prompted by a false report about rehoming your mules, raises important questions about the perceptions and misunderstandings nomadic travelers often face. Your decision to continue your journey peacefully after clarifying the situation reflects resilience and a commitment to your way of life.
Observing the endangered San Joaquin kit fox during your travels is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife habitats. Your presence in these areas brings attention to the importance of preserving such species and the environments they depend on.
Thank you for sharing these experiences. They shed light on the interactions between nomadic travelers, urban communities, and the natural world, prompting reflection on how society can better understand and accommodate diverse ways of living.