- KLAMATH 2 -

Monday, July 8th

Morning fog being blown away by the wind.

Let's hope I am back on track with the blog thing.  It has been very strange to be thinking it is all working fine and discover that was not the case.  So far, so good.  The park here has a much stronger signal than my hot spot.  

This park is so much more peaceful than any others I have stayed at up until now.  I think the grass sites make a huge difference.  There is a lot less dust and a lot more trees.  There are evergreens here plus deciduous trees that rustle when the wind blows.  Both make the most wonderful sounds with the wind.

This side of the river.

And the song birds seem to sing almost twenty four hours a day.  It is such a delight to listen to them.  I took a walk along a short path through the trees this morning and and heard them up close.  

There are also tons of ferns growing very happily.  I suspect the wet winters are the perfect environment for them.  Plus during the summer months, they get coastal fog in the mornings and filtered sun in the afternoons.  This seems to be the pattern almost every day here.  The wind is what clears out the fog anytime starting about 9 or 10 am every day.

Tenters enjoying a riverside campsite.

Today seems to be a bit more windy and cooler so I think I will walk to the ocean beach tomorrow, which is about two miles away.  I will simply enjoy the surroundings here, which are wonderful.

If one chooses, they can work here for the six months they are open.  They close the other six months because there is too much rain.  One of the couples working here now have a home in San Diego and Truckee. which they split their time between during the winter months.  This would be a great place to spend the summer months.

The club house where everyone has coffee in the mornings.  The hydrangeas are huge!!!

I have extended my stay through Saturday night, leaving on Sunday for where, I don't know yet.  I really prefer the few hour drives rather than a marathon drive day.  I am gradually figuring this thing out.  Less driving and staying longer where I land.  It is difficult when looking at maps and reading reviews to truly know where I would like to stay for a longer time until I get there and feel the area.  I am getting better at it.

As I said, I feel very comfortable here.  Almost as though I am at home.  The trees, the water, the flowers and the friendly people make it really nice.  Plus, there is ice cream available at the little store/office.  And since I know one can live on ice cream, because it is possible I will run low of food by Sunday morning, it just may have to be ice cream to sustain me.  Works for me.


Please say a prayer for my niece, Sheay, for a successful recovery.  Thank you!

To all of those who have a birthday today,

Happy Birthday!

Sweet little waterfall and pond.

"If you focus on what you left behind, you'll never be able to see

what lies ahead."

 - Chef Gusteau

 - Ratatoullie

Enjoy your focus!

- KLAMATH -

Friday, July 5th

I left Westport this morning, saying good by to the sweet little beach and its sand critters.  It was cooler this morning so a sweatshirt was in order.  The waves were larger and white caps could be seen quite a distance from shore.

I started early and had a lovely drive back to Fort Bragg where I filled up on gas and headed east to connect with Hwy 101 north.  It was cooler there then when I stayed, so I was glad for the sweatshirt.

I picked up Hwy 101 in Willits.  From there one is almost instantly in the redwoods.  Hence, Hwy 101 is called the Redwood Highway.  Trees, trees and more trees.  Redwoods, Evergreens, Oaks, and Manzanita.  Thick and dense and so many more than I recall.  It has been well over twenty years since I have traveled the north part of Hwy 101.  

So I drove past the College of the Redwoods and the whole Humboldt area.  The smells of the trees were wonderful and added to the whole experience.  This is Virginia's old stomping grounds and she visits here as often as possible.  I can certainly see why.  And then, of course, one is on the edge of the ocean again and loving it.  The only difficulty with driving this amazing Hwy is that I was unable to capture any pictures of the trees as I drove.  

There were so many shades of green with all the varieties and then there were all these flowers.  Some looked as though they were a cross between snapdragons and sweet peas.  They were mostly pink.  Then there were low growing orange pin cushion type flowers, taller white daisy's, tall little purple flowers and yellow ones and taller still orange ones.  There were also some white ones that gave the impression of a carpet.  I felt very welcomed.

There were a few places while driving through the shaded tree areas that had interesting little secret places inviting me to stop and play.  Unfortunately I was uncertain how far my destination was and how long it would take me to get there.  It was a good thing I kept to the task as I ended  up driving a lot longer than desired.  I am here safe and sound!

This RV park is right on the river.  The robins are singing in the trees and it is clear and sunny with a slight breeze.  A stronger wind came up around 4 pm and then left around 7:30 pm.  It got down into the low 50's during the night and it was delightful sleeping weather.  

The flowers here are beautiful.  Especially the hydrangeas.  Huge and a variety of colors.  The other flowers are just as beautiful.  Lots of variety of plants and colors.  Some of the flowers that were in bloom over a month ago in the valley are just beginning to bloom here.  The blackberry bushes still have blossoms on them and only a few berries that are anything but close to being ripe enough to eat.

This place feels good and everyone is friendly.  All of the sites are on green grass and a very nice distance from ones neighbors.  I am in an end space, so only one neighbor.  The restroom, showers and laundry facilities are super clean.

So I finally have WiFi now.  It took a bit but finally connected.  My cell service is anything but steady.  I can almost see the signal float in and out of where I am.  The wind blows and whoosh the signal goes along with it.  

Most of these people will leave on Sunday and if there is availability, I will extend my stay.  Since I failed to do any grocery shopping on the way, that will be the only reason to move me on.  This might be a good thing.  I easily can get lost in the forest, or wherever I am.  Distracted would probably be a better word.

As I drove into Eureka I saw this very large white bird.  Since it was alone I suspected it was an egret.  Further along I saw several egrets.  It was so nice to see them again.  Gulls alone, were simply not cutting it for me.  Variety is good.

The beach is about a two mile walk from here, so as soon as I am able to publish this blog, I am on my way.  Apparently I will pass along a native american sacred site.  Looking forward to this.  And then on to the beach where I hear there is an abundance of driftwood.  Just what a collector like me needs.  I'll see what speaks to me.

Published Monday, July 8th

 "We will be known forever

by the tracks we leave."

 - Native American Proverb

Enjoy your tracks!

- Westport 5 -

Thursday morning, July 4^th

There was a beautiful and peaceful sunset last night. It was mostly a soft orange and it is interesting the calm it brings to everything and everyone. People tend to watch in awe as the scene slowly changes and becomes more intense just before peaking and then gently softens as it all just appears to slip into the ocean. A very nice ending to the day.

Well, last night Mother Nature put on a show of her own for the upcoming 4^th. There was lightening as I have never experienced it before. It was flashing all over the place which was amazing and fantastic. There was very little thunder, only light. There had been a few fireworks set off by someone in the campgrounds earlier that completely paled in comparison to what Mother Nature shared with all of us. Wow!!!

This morning the sky was clear as I found my way among the sand critters to the waters edge and enjoyed a rather warm and lovely stroll on the beach. It was calm after the event of last night and there were only a few others joining me. I love early mornings when everything is just waking up and everything feels fresh and alive. For me it is the best way to begin each day.

I saw lots of sea kelp, no jelly fish, found a few more china hats ( one with barnacles on it) and again, millions of small sand critters. I suspect they are in a mating ritual with each one jumping in the air in hopes of bumping into a potential partner. The waters edge was the only way to avoid them. I also walked along the edge of the creek that empties into the ocean. I could only go so far as the vegetation became way too dense for me to pass. It was a very gentle creek that was clean and clear and had lots of things to say about its travels from the mountains.

I walked up to the entrance of the campgrounds and had a rather weak cell signal. I decided to forget the phone and stay focused on where I was. Then I noticed it had a great vantage point of the ocean. Walking along the cliff I came across the small old cemetery of Westport. It appeared to be well maintained and I respectfully meandered through the area. Since I am no where near Arlington, this seemed an appropriate place to mentally thank all those who were before us and those who now, fight to make and keep this Country safe. Prayers and blessings to all who have and do protect our country.

I chatted with a man and his two young children this morning as we were viewing the ocean from on top of the cliffs. This was their first time here and were staying in one of the rental cabins up on the cliff. It gave a great view of the ocean and campgrounds. They were preparing to spend the day on the beach. I gave the little girl and her younger brother the shells I had found this morning. I still have the two I collected yesterday.

By noon, most of the campers here have made their way to the beach and staked out their spots among those who have pitched tents on the beach during the night. It is one crowed scene, which I prefer to leave to them. I enjoy the empty beach mornings and evenings much better. This also makes for a quiet time, during the day, to spend working on my blog so when I get ready to publish, all goes smoothly. This is, of course, if their connection is good, which has not always been the case. Ah, life on the road. Always changing and interesting. Must keep breathing.

If I survive the night here with all of the celebrations that I am certain will occur, I will head out first thing in the morning and make my way to Klamath, CA. The temperatures look promising and I am trusting it will be an easy drive. I will need to backtrack to Fort Bragg to take Hwy 20 across to 101. The gentleman at Klamath suggested I do this as the other road from here into Leggett is very rough according to him. This will add about half an hour plus to my travel time yet sounds as though it will be easier traveling.

"Wise persons think of others,

helping them as much as they can,

and the result is happiness.

Love and compassion are beneficial

both for you and for others.

Through your kindness toward others your mind and heart will open to peace.”

• - Dalai Lama

Enjoy your happiness!

- WESTPORT 4 -

Wednesday, July 3rd

This is a fairly busy little campground with campers moving in and out for a night or two. It seems they no sooner get hooked up and settled for the night and then they are gone the next morning or so. Some I get to talk with while others are more private. Rather difficult to be private in this campground.

The celebration has started. Last night there were several fireworks going off which sort of startled me at first. Then I could hear when it was coming and was better prepared. I found remnants on the beach this morning, along with two empty beer cans. The only garbage I came across. So I imagine tonight will be more and tomorrow will probably be insane. Hopefully some of them will be pretty to see and not simply noisy. The good news is all was quiet at 10 pm.

There were a few jelly fish on the beach this morning. They were about the size of a pancake only more oval in shape. If they were there yesterday, I failed to notice them. I am uncertain if they are a specific variety or babies. Where is my marine biologist when I need her? In England, of course. Hi Jen! Love you!!!

There were also millions of little sand critters flitting about all over the beach. The only way to stay clear of them running into you was to literally walk in the edge of the surf. I hate to think of how many I killed simply by walking along the beach. Sea kelp also appeared to be more extensive. Perhaps this is why the population of sand critters was explosive. It felt very strange to have them hitting your feet and legs as one strode through them. It was almost gross except it was also kind of funny.

I also discovered two tiny shells (china hats, as some call them) while walking. These are white and lighter colored than the ones that can be found on the central coast. And smaller.

This is a small beach in comparison to the central coast, which may also be the reason for the lack of shore birds. I have only seen a few gulls. Definitely different than the throngs of gulls at Morro Bay and the variety of shore birds that grace the beaches there. I am on the lookout for pelicans. None so far.

I keep forgetting to wear my hat in the mornings. Hence, the raccoon eye thing is happening again. (Actually the reverse raccoon eye thing, as my son reminded me!) When I start out in the morning the sun is still on the other side of the coastal range. As I return the sun has risen and lights up the waves and rocks it touches. Thus my face as well. I love watching as the sun rises each morning.

This is really a great place for children. They can do as they please and are safe in the area. Most of them are very respectful of others while they ride their bikes and such. Occasionally one hears someones mom call out for one thing or another. This morning around 6:30 am as I was walking to the beach, this young one was playing with his motorized remote car and another camper across the way told him it was too early to play with it and to go back to bed. Made me chuckle. Otherwise, fairly quiet.

There have been thin clouds off and on yesterday and this morning and the air is very still. Since I am without cell service and only have one hour of wi-fi each day, (needed for the blog) it is difficult to know what is going on elsewhere. So, hopefully things are cooling down in the valley and the fires in Arizona cease to take any additional victims. Prayers to all those affected.

Today is the 20^th wedding anniversary of Bruce and Sharon. Congratulations and may the two of you keep going strong. Hope to see you later this year!

“If one teaching is

grasped and known,

all of my teachings

will be in the palm of your hand.

What is this one teaching?

It is altruism.

- Buddha

Enjoy your teachings!

- WESTPORT 3 -

Tuesday, July 2^nd

Sunrise

Awakened to the sounds of roosters and other bird sounds, along with a slight sound of the ocean surf. Wonderful!!! The air was cool and crisp and just a titch of mist. There were a few sparse clouds that made for a beautiful sunrise. Ah, what a way to start the day.

Sunrise

A two and a half hour walk on the beach reminded me of how much I enjoy the walks I used to take while in Morro Bay. Here the beach is incredibly clean of people garbage with only few things here and there.

Kelp bulbs

There were no sea shells either. A couple of broken crab shells among the sea kelp was all I could find. The bulbs of the kelp were small and white/clear with some others being the regular beige color. There was only a small area that contained the kelp. Otherwise, nice clean sand to stroll along.

I did come across this area where there were several tall rocks separated yet close together. It was as though one was walking into a secret and special space. I took the challenge and entered and felt hidden and knew this held many memories of those before me. Very cool!

I had to wade through some creeks as I walked the beach in order to continue. Fortunately I had on flip flops that were made to deal with water. I was surprised the water was as warm as it was. I expected it to be cold. Probably because of the crazy heat in the valley.

I came across a couple of golden retrievers and their people. One was the typical golden reddish color and the other was almost white. Both had the great golden smiles and were full of playfulness. I almost was knocked over by the big white male who is only fourteen months old. All puppy and lacking a few manners, so I ended up a little dirty with sand. Oh well, that is life on the beach. I love it.

It seemed odd to only hear the ocean surf as I was actually on the beach. The air must be moving off shore which would explain the lack of fog. Whatever the reasons I am fine with how it all is.

And the people here are very friendly. Everyone is outside enjoying the fresh air, the beach and all that nature provides here. It is quite primitive with the exception that most of the sites provide water, sewer and electrical hook ups. The sites are gravel/dirt/grass and fairly level. Slept so well.

I think I brought enough food to last through Friday. Otherwise I will need to go over to the little store/office here (about as big as a bathroom) and get some ice cream. Man/woman can live on ice cream, I am certain.

I still have some fresh peaches from Machado's and some watermelon slices from Millie's and my trip to Costco. I think there are a few veggies and eggs. Actually, I am fine. I could probably make it well into next week. Besides, I have frozen cookie dough balls that could be baked. Oh, yummm!!!

It is rather quiet here this morning. A few little ones were running around and riding their bikes, and now they are all either on the beach or at their sites having lunch. Gads, time flies. I will probably take another walk this evening as the sun goes down. It makes for different pictures and sometimes very dramatic ones.

I called Joyce this morning to wish her a happy birthday and catch up on things. She said she expects to see me each time she goes into Morro Bay and realizes I am elsewhere. Hopefully I will be back in the fall. I prefer to avoid the east coast and south and north during the winter months. I would rather deal with earthquakes.

Beach

“Glorious intoxication of the soul

is the reward of all who seek it

in the bosom of nature.”

- Kahlil Gibran

Enjoy your intoxication!

- WESTPORT 2 -

A cove along the cliffs of Fort Bragg

Monday evening, July 1^st.

This is a large campground. Some of the spaces are along the creek while others are actually along the beach. They have tent sites and sites for those traveling on bikes and/or walk ins. There are a lot of people here because of the 4^th of July on Thursday. I am uncertain what to expect although I think it is going to be noisy. Guess I best prepare myself since I have had mostly very quiet campgrounds so far.

It is nice to actually be close to the ocean again. The site in Fort Bragg was about two and a half miles inland. It was in the trees and super quiet. The site across the way from where I stayed had a camp fire every night and others in the campground brought their chairs and they all sat around and attempted to solve the problems of the world. They always seemed to wrap things up by around 10 pm and everyone went back to their respective homes. I think most of them were there long term.

Along the cliffs of Fort Bragg

When I walked into Fort Bragg, there was a delightful path that curved around the cliffs and was accessible to everyone. Lots of parking and doggie bags for the people to use. I was glad I made the trek because it gave me some fresh ocean air. The ocean was calm that day and I saw a couple of guys in wet suits climb up the cliffs from the water with some sort of floatation device attached on their backs. Not sure what they had been doing but they seemed fairly tired by the time they were up on the cliff and on the pathway.

The people I came across during my walk were less friendly than most I have encountered during my travels so far. Even those in the RV park were a bit to themselves. Difficult to explain. Here in Westport the campers are much more friendly. The people right next to me are very nice. It has been a busy afternoon of RV's, trailers, etc. moving in for however long they are staying. I expect once everyone is settled, it will be a quiet night. All of the campgrounds have very strict rules about quiet time. Most post it as 10 pm to 8 am. So far, this has been adhered to by everyone around me, which is nice.

Along the cliffs of Fort Bragg

I will spend the day on the beach and see how far I can walk. This is a sort of bay so there aren't the huge waves one sees at an exposed shore. While I am out and about I will check for cell service. I have been told that Verizon is available at some locations here and also up at the entrance area. Need to check it out so I can play Words with Friends with Millie. If not, I could go through with drawls. Heaven forbid.

I discovered I only have 1 free hour of wi-fi here, so I must use it wisely. My phone is a hot spot, however it is only good when I have service. So I am creating the blog ahead of time in my word processing program so that all I have to do is publish it as soon as I am online. I am being prepared for some of the things I may experience at the many locations I will be. A complete learning curve. Always something! So far, so good.

Along the cliffs of Fort Bragg

There are no fog horns or buoys with bells here since this is not a harbor. It seems so odd without these sounds. There are a few other areas I have been to where this is the case. Point Reyes is one and Montana de Oro. I hadn't really thought much about this until now. Since there are no large waves either, that generate sound, one mostly hears the birds singing. This is all good with me.

It is 7:30 pm and the sun is working its way to setting. I can smell the salty air, BBQ'S a cooking and some of the vegetation along the edges of the campgrounds. Some people have finished washing their dishes at the wash station and have returned to their sites. It is a peaceful time of evening and everyone seems to be settling in for the night. There are actually moments of absolute silence.

Along the cliffs of Fort Bragg

Tuesday, July 2^nd is Joyce's birthday. Happy Birthday!!

“The greater danger for most of you

lies not in setting your aim too high

and falling short:

but in setting your aim too low,

and achieving your mark.”

• Michelangelo

Enjoy your aim!

- WESTPORT -

I spent three days and nights in Fort Bragg.  It gave me a chance to catch up on paperwork and bill paying.  It always feels good to have that completed.

This campground also had several permanent residents and many that were there for months at a time.  Lots of fishermen who were very successful yesterday.  Three large salmon.  I was tempted to help myself to the huge one hanging, however, I suspect they may have frowned upon my actions.  I just drooled a little.

I also took a good walk into the town of Fort Bragg.  This included a walk along the cliffs overlooking the many coves that are part of this northern coastline.  There are flowers I am unfamiliar with and lots of dog walkers.  So, I was fortunate to get my dog fix.  


Lots of historic buildings and little shops.  It was a little warmer than what they are used to around here and almost everyone was in the home made ice cream store.  The line was out the door.  There was a bakery though it failed to speak to me.  I did locate the local candy store.  Mendocino Chocolate Company.  I got some fudge (a little each of mocha latte and chocolate) and it is very good.  I think it is right up there with Crill's in Morro Bay.  I have their card and perhaps they ship.

It was a lovely drive along the coast this morning as I made my way to Westport.  This is a tiny town and it seems as though the main part is the RV campgrounds itself.  The spots are right along the beach.  It was a bit warm when I arrived and now the fog is in just a little, cooling it off.  Sounds of birds are good and it is quiet.  I am certain that will change on the 4th.  I plan on moving on the 5th.


I am getting faster at getting my RV hooked up and disconnected.  It is amazing how different each place is.  I have only been at a few and none are exactly the same.  I am only hoping they are familiar enough that I can figure it out on my own.  I can always contact the office if I need.



There is a red lab with its people next to me.  I met them and they live in Rocklin, which is just a stones throw from Auburn.  It would seem that there are going to be a lot of synchronicities throughout my Adventure.  Much fun.

To all those having birthdays today, Happy Birthday!

"The mere fact that you are interested

and excited about doing something

is all the evidence you need

that inspiration is right in front of you

begging you to pay attention to it."

 - Dr. Wayne Dyer

Enjoy your excitement!