March 8, The Castle & Proving Grounds

Woke up to a chilly 5.8C morning, but at least the sun is shining!

Walked around the campground and had a coffee in the clubhouse. Met some strange characters! One, named Bill, who we were sure was a female! His wife was there too.

At 9:55, we set off to see "the castle" which is a private home that we were told we have to see. It was unbelievable.

We were taking photos through the fence when the owner, Josefina, came out and invited us in for a tour. The front yard is decorated with metal sculptured animals including camels, zebras, elephants, etc.

The home is incredible, from the front door throughout. The front door was huge and needed a special closer to operate it.

Josefina decorated the home, which her husband built,  herself with artifacts collected from travels around the world. One room was decorated with an African theme, another was an Egyptian theme and yet another was Japanese.
Josefina sews Renaissance clothing as well as Baptism and First Communion outfits. They are very intricate and detailed.



Next it was off to the Proving Grounds where there is a museum depicting the history of the Yuma Proving Grounds from its inception in 1942 as Camp Laguna through today.

At the entrance was a display of tanks & military equipment used in various wars. Note the sign and the parent watching her child on top of the tank

Unfortunately, when we arrived at the main gate, we were told that the museum was closed, so we went to the Cactus Cafe on the base for lunch.









On the way back to the campground, we filled up with diesel at $3.93/gallon - that was the cash price, 5 cents/gallon more for a credit sale. Price keeps increasing but what do you do? Pay up!