North Coast Winds by Robin Joy Wellman - February 2018
Breathing in some of the cleanest air on the planet(so I have read) is such a treat for those of us who live or visit the Sonoma Coast often. The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest ocean on Earth, covering more than 30 percent of the Earth’s surface. So, take a deep breath and feel the clean rejuvenating uplifting air in this beautiful part of the world we are blessed to live in. I love walking along the edge of the ocean along the many bluff top trails in Sonoma and Mendocino taking in not only the fresh clean air but the sense of being a part of something so grand in the real sense of ‘grand’.
There are many places to walk and enjoy our coast. California State Parks has several locations including the Sonoma Coast day use area north of Russian Gulch which is north of Jenner, Fort Ross SHP has several areas for day hiking,Salt Point is terrific, trails in and around the town of Gualala called the Bluff Top trail, and the Stornetta Public Lands trail system are all terrific.
Speaking of being inspired along our coast, the new art exhibit “Inspired by the Sea”, byJudy Pfiefer andWalt Rush, hosted by the Gualala Art Center will have their opening reception at the Dolphin Gallery February 3 from 5 to 7 PM. One that I am especially interested in attending is our local musicians of BAKU, presented by Global Harmony, a benefit concert forGlobal Harmony Summer Adventure Camp 2018. The event is Sunday, February 25, 2018, 4 pm - 6 pm. The performers are long time coastal folks who touch the heart space through music. I am especially fond ofNancy Feehan who I have loved and adored for close to 35 years. She is a gem.
A super interesting lecture will be held Saturday, February 17, 4 p.m. with Jodi Smith on Even Whales Do It: Sex, Mating, and Menopause among Fish-Eating Killer Whales. Arrive early and enjoy the lighthouse tour, take a walk breathing in that great air, have a picnic and then enjoy the lecture. Sounds perfect! Visit thePoint Arena Lighthouse events page.
Taking a drive recently with Violet Parrish Chappell, respected Kashaya elder, often reminds me how living on the coast brings lifelong learning. I have known her for close to 40 years and am still learning from her. She said it was OK to share this quote ‘‘know your history and your genealogy, know your culture so you are a person”.
It reminds me to keep learning about who “I” am. And therefore a better sense of the people around me. I appreciate her and her many shared gifts she has offered her tribe and her community for many years. Learning from our elders is a treasure.
Our ocean has provided so much. Please take care of it. Breath in the fresh air. Blessings to each of you.
