Left home about 6am and despite the M4 bring closed at Newbury, made it to Gatwick in time.  Had a good flight and got to Oakland on time.  Small airport so really quick with customs, baggage and car rental.  23 degrees and sunny.  Picked up the Dodge Mini Van (Zoe chose silver) and drove to Modesto in heavy trafffic but through pretty green countryside.  Hotel right next to an IHOP, Walmart and a Boot Barn.  Picked up rodeo tickets and some donuts and tried to get an early night but somewhat disturbed by noisy hotel residents in the pool. FInally got to sleep after a 20 hour day and only three Have a nice days,.