- FLORENCE 6 -

Friday, July 26th

Beach and jetty along Siuslaw River

Thursday began as a day Diana and I decided to find a beach in Florence and enjoy the sand and water.  Well, we actually ended up driving up the coast on Hwy 101 to Cape Perpetua Scenic Area in Siuslaw National Forest.  We spoke with several very informative and helpful rangers who directed us to a vista point of the Cape.

Cape Perpetua vista

We learned about some currently ripe berries, good for eating and some that are poisonous and to avoid.  We talked about some herbs and plants of the area and then, after gathering several information pamphlets and getting Diana a Senior Pass, we headed up the mountain.

Oh my goodness, what a view.  The fog was laying over the ocean as if it were a warm white fluffy blanket.  We could see along the actual coast, beach and rocks as the waves were coming in to a high tide.  It was stunning.  We could see that where we came from the fog was actually hugging the land and and obscuring our view of the beach.



There were quite a few others enjoying this wonderful view and we were standing in sun observing it all.  It was warm with a light cool breeze.  The wind picked up a bit and moved the fog around so we had a clearer view of the coast line.  Some of the waves took the shape of layers of lace as they neared shore.  Breath taking.

There is also a lookout shelter that was built in the depression years.  We were told that on a clear day one could see for thirty miles out to sea.  This was not the case while we were there though the fog continued to clear and it was beautiful.  I love the ocean.

Diana and I continued up Hwy 101 to Yachats and stopped at Ona's for a late lunch.  We actually arrived at 4 pm so they let us order from the lunch menu.  Everything was so delicious with wonderful textures and flavors.  I would definitely eat there again.  A short distance away was a candy and ice cream shop so we naturally indulged in dessert.  

On our way back to Florence we were on the ocean side of the Hwy, so we made several stops to enjoy the beach and get closer to the water.  Such good fun.  The wind rather did us in at a few areas so our time outside on the beach was limited though very satisfying.  

Today is on to Newkowin and I will be traveling on Hwy 101 which is part of where we traveled today.  I was able to enjoy the scenery while being a passenger so that part of the trip will be easier because I know what to expect.  From there on it will all be new.  

This traveling on Hwy 101 is so beautiful as it winds along the coast.  Who knows, I might see some whales.  A woman at the Ranger Station said she saw some Wednesday off the coast of Yachats, so anything is possible.

To all those celebrating today,

Happy Birthday!

"I went to the woods because I

wished to live deliberately,

to front only the essential facts of life,

and see if I could not learn

what it had to teach, and not,

when I came to die, discover

that I had not lived."

Henry David Thoreau

Enjoy your living!