The last Monday in April

The guys returned Saturday evening. Throughout the week, my youngest son kept me updated with texts, which I loved. He brought a satellite phone and GPS for safety since the Lost Coast is so remote. One message shared that they were relaxing on a cliff, eating their dinner, watching gray whales migrate, and enjoying the peaceful solitude. Isn’t that amazing? Being far from civilization and listening to the ocean waves, seagulls, and the excitement of the elephant seals molting season is such a beautiful way to connect with nature! Now that's living!

They were exploring the Lost Coast between Shelter Cove and Mattole Beach, where the tide can be tricky, and some areas become inaccessible at high tide. The beach is narrow, and those rocky cliffs drop into the ocean, so they need to be cautious and only access it at low tide. As a mom, it's tough not to worry, but I remind myself they’re grown men now. Trusting their judgment helps me feel more at ease, and I’m grateful for my dad’s advice to let them be men. Thanks, Dad!

This week, my town celebrated Kool April Nites, a 10-day classic car event that started in 1990 and is now the largest in Northern California. I attend every few years, as they all start to look the same.

The Redding Rodeo is a big moneymaker for our town. In just a couple of weeks, this local classic will be back again. Busy time of the year around here. 

We've been enjoying our evening walks after dinner around 7 PM. This time, we decided to stroll up to the neighborhood pond, then we crossed the road to where a rather unfriendly man lives. I didn’t feel comfortable taking a photo of his house, which is on the left side. 

Back on this road are many ranches 

and white fences 

From this spot on the top of this little hill, we could hear the lively sounds of the crowds and cars from the Kool April Nights parade, just a few miles away. 

I much prefer the quiet sounds of this time of the evening. 

Starting to get dark, so we headed home. 

A Waxleaf Privet

I'm really allergic to this bush that's blooming right now. My husband had to pull them all out of our yard, so I'm fine as long as I stay at home. They pollinate in the mornings and evenings, and when they do, I get a terrible headache, and it becomes hard to breathe. There were some along the path during our walk, and as we went up the little hill, which I can usually handle, I felt like I was 100 years old and struggling to breathe. The only other tree that triggers my allergies this badly is the Acacia. It seems like my reactions are getting worse as I get older. I wonder if wearing a mask would help with the symptoms?

Are you allergic to any plant or flower that causes you some distress? 

On Saturday, I came across these charming wooden takamakura pillows and couldn’t resist bringing them home! I just set them on the shelf for a quick photo, but I still need to give them a little cleaning and add a touch of distressing. Can’t wait to see how they turn out!

I've always had a special fondness for Japanese accents in my decor! It takes me back to my childhood when my best friend, Taddi, who was Japanese, would invite me over to her traditional home. I loved spending time there! It's no surprise that she became a talented surgeon and now lives in Portland, Oregon. From what I hear, Portland has a vibrant Japanese community, which is perfect for her!

Well, they could definitely use a good cleaning and a little love, but I'm really liking them! I think I might dig out some items my dad brought back from Japan and Korea when he was on leave during the Korean War. We'll see. I’d love to add a photo of him, too. His birthday is coming up on May 11, and I know he always cherished his time in Japan. 

IN OTHER NEWS

The Care clinic will be moving into its new facility this week, so that is exciting. All my references have come in - now I have to get my background check and then take the two-hour course for mandate reporting and exam per the state. Things are moving along. 

Isn't it crazy that we're almost to May? It doesn't seem possible. Time just keeps whizzing by, and I'm still standing here wondering what happened. Did time always go this fast? 

Hopefully, after this week, I'll be able to post a bit more during the week. We'll see. 

Until next time...

Debby

Kickstarting Monday- Peace and Contentment in the not-so-perfect

 

It's that time of year again. 

It's time for two of my sons' annual Lost Coast backpacking trip. 

They left early to reach the bus drop-off at the trailhead. This is a challenging trek through the King Mountain range, where few reach the black-sand beaches. They'll be back Saturday, and I always pray for their safety. I trust their judgment and want them to enjoy life, as taking risks is part of the experience.

The unique black sand on the Lost Coast is formed by the erosion of dark rocks (such as basalt and dark sandstone/greywacke) from the King Range. The waves and currents grind those rocks down to concentrate the heavy, dark fragments (magnetite, basalt pieces, etc.) on the shoreline, producing the black‑sand beach. Coastal uplift, steep cliffs, high wave energy, it's a special place that remains untouched by heavy foot traffic. 

 

Harriet

On Saturday, I had a part of the day all to myself. So I drove over to my favorite farm stand to see what the farmer's wife had. I didn't get anything. All she had was garlic and onions which I didn't need.

I always enjoy driving over to her farm. 

Around 7pm last night, we took a little over 

a 2-mile evening walk. It was a beautiful evening. 

Walked over to a new bridge they put in  - 

Now, when you drive over, I can't see the creek, so I wanted to take a look-see. 

The mosquitoes are out and about, and I forgot to wear some protection. So far, I haven't found any bites. 

 I bought the new computer we decided on. It's still sitting in the box, here in the office, and I'll get it set up later today or this week. Setting up a new computer is so much easier than it used to be - 

Tid Bits

✅We're looking at some rain in the forecast - possibly three days of it, so we rescheduled the delivery of the rocks for Friday. 

Okay about those Rocks!

There’s something about yardwork that has a way of exposing both our ambition and our limitations.

The other day, we found ourselves deep in discussion about rocks. Not just a few bags but six yards of them. 

Six. 

What were we thinking? 

Somewhere between the planning and the reality, we both felt an uneasiness settle in. It didn’t feel quite right. So we stopped, talked it through, and scaled it back to one yard.

One yard sounds much more like us these days.

It’s funny how our ideas haven’t aged a bit, but our bodies gently remind us that they have. We get these big ideas for projects we would have tackled without hesitation a few years ago, and now comes that inner voice: 

“Did you consider your back?” 

 “What about that torn rotator cuff?"

We’re learning, slowly but surely, that while we can still do many things, we can’t do everything the way we used to. And if we’re honest, that realization doesn’t come easily. We both don't like other people working on our home. We do it ourselves. Maybe it's because we both came from families who pushed through, fixed things themselves, and rarely stopped to consider whether they should. They just did. There’s a kind of pride in that, a grit that’s hard to let go of. It just goes against my grain to hire outside help. It's like it's cheating. 

Like it or not, there’s also wisdom in knowing when to step back.

Because in the end, these house projects? They’re not eternal. They don’t define us. And they certainly aren’t worth wearing ourselves down over. It’s taken some time to see that clearly.

I was reminded of this lesson last year with something as simple as paint. We had a new garage door installed and carefully chose a trim color that was supposed to match. Only… it didn’t. Not quite. Close enough for some, but not for me. I tend to notice those things. My husband, on the other hand, was perfectly content to leave it as is.

And there I was, standing at the crossroads of “Is this worth it?”

He would have repainted it if I had pushed hard enough. But should I have? It would have made me sound spoiled and entitled.  Again, the truth is, nothing in this life is ever going to be perfectly matched, perfectly aligned, or perfectly finished.

So why do I let it 

work me up?

Maybe it’s pride. (ouch) Perfectionism? Maybe it’s that quiet concern about what others might think. Do the neighbors notice? Do they think we're color blind? 

And then comes the freeing thought:

  Who cares?

It doesn’t look bad. It just doesn’t look perfect.

Even now, when I pull into the driveway, I still see it. That slight mismatch. That tiny imperfection. But I’m learning not to let it steal my peace. I have to remind myself that perfection isn’t the goal.

Peace and contentment in the not-so-perfect is.

Gratitude for what we can do, instead of frustration over what we can’t.

So we’ll keep working in the yard. We’ll keep dreaming up projects - just maybe on a smaller scale. We’ll listen a little more closely to our bodies, and a little less to that inner critic that demands everything be just right, and maybe we'll have to swallow our pride and hire a helper for some of the projects. 

One yard of rocks at a time feels just about right.

Well, that is it for me today. I have to get some things done so I can kickstart the rest of the week. 

How about you? 

What's on your agenda for the week? 

Until Next Time

Debby

Thursday's This and That

Slowly but surely, the Lost Coast photos from my sons are trickling in. Foodie captured this one of the vibrant California poppies, knowing how much I love them.

This weekend, he and his friend are attending a Reggae concert at Rolling Hills Casino. Instead of booking an expensive hotel, he used his scrapping skills. He called the Chamber of Commerce for a safe overnight parking suggestion and was directed to an RV park. After inquiring about accommodations, the manager surprisingly offered them a 5th-wheel motorhome for free, encouraging them to pay it forward.

Who does that nowadays? 

He was thrilled and called me to share that he had picked up that skill from me back when I was raising my boys as a single parent. Yeah, I had to do that back then... I was completely taken aback! It's astonishing how our children can absorb so much just by watching us over the years. A powerful reminder of parental influence! 

Yesterday, I stumbled upon the most delightful little gnome garden bell that instantly caught my eye. Knowing how much my daughter-in-law, Sara, adores gnomes, I just had to snag it! I rushed over to their house, and I hung the bell on their flagpole. I couldn’t resist snapping a photo and texted it their way. 

It was a splendid morning on the front patio.  Laydee revels in the ambiance, her ears perked and eyes bright as she observes the lively comings and goings of the world around her. Each passerby and rustling leaf captures her attention, keeping her fully engaged in the moment.

Note: The rocky garden is just about done. Need to trim the weed barrier -

Today marked the final day of school. The bus stop sits across the street, a daily gathering spot that buzzes with energy. Laydee loves to observe the children as they wait for their morning bus.

Note: The wheelbarrow will get new soil and plants. 

Oh, if the morning temperatures lingered at that perfect temperature all year long, I would never go inside. 

So the 2nd Cardiologist's office hasn't called, so I plan to visit in person. It's making me angry because I detest office inefficiency.  All I want is the stress test as per the ER visit a month ago. It's maddening...

A Public Service Announcement 📢

Since January, grocery stores in my area have switched to these compostable produce bags  (not grocery bags), which are easier to open but have a downside: you shouldn't store your produce in them. 

So I looked them up:

Compostable produce bags are popular at farmers markets, co-ops, and natural grocery food stores. Made in the USA these biodegradable produce bags are made from a compostable bioplastic, entirely derived from plant materials and vegetable oils. This eco-friendly material allows the produce inside to breathe which prolongs storage life, keeping fruits and veggies fresh longer. 

Reuse these green bags to line your compost bin as Biobags can go right into the backyard compost heap.  They decompose in a composting environment in 10-45 days, leaving no harmful residues behind. The translucent mint green color is an industry standard to show these are compostable.

I have to say, my produce didn't  "keep fresh."  When I mentioned it to the produce guy, he pointed out that you shouldn’t store produce in those bags.

Silly me. 

So, who do I believe? 

I will dig out my mesh produce bags that I used to use and bring them with me to the store. I got lazy and stopped using them because I kept forgetting them. I have noticed that other shoppers, if they don't bring their own produce bag, they simply place the produce in the cart, which I won't do. That sounds gross to me. 

I recall, "back-in-the-day", the produce departments used to use paper sacks. 

However They make excellent doggy poop bags  💩 

I just heard that on July 1, California gas taxes will rise by 0.65 a gallon. With 2 gas refineries closing, they're saying we will be paying $9 a gallon by next year. 

Oh well - that is what happens when you have a one-party rule in the state. 

Okay 'nuff said on that. 

In the afternoon, I'm in that back room, sifting through old decorating items that I’ve grown bored with. These aren’t true treasures, like family heirlooms or keepsakes filled with memories, but rather things I collected over the years because I once liked them.

My style has evolved, shifting toward a minimalist interior and updated exterior decorations. 

I get bored easily displaying the same items year after year. They no longer feel like "old friends"; instead, they have become dreaded dust collectors. 

Why am I still holding onto them?

Yesterday, I bought a cotton/poly flag garland featuring 12 American flags that I can use every year until I tire of it. As for the previous decorations, and the one in this photo, I’m done with them; they’re going into the donate box.

I'm embracing the thrill of change: out with the old and in with the new! I'll no doubt keep these fresh vibes for a decade or two, and just when they start to lose their sparkle, I'll be dead!

 

Alright, it’s time to head back to the back room and dive into some serious sorting. I'll sift through the clutter, keep what truly matters, and toss out the rest!

Take Care

Debby

Through the Lens - The Lost Coast

Golden hues spill across the horizon as the sun sets over the remote expanse of the Lost Coast. I can almost hear the waves gently lapping at the rugged shoreline, their rhythmic embrace punctuated by the distant calls of seagulls settling in for the night. As the thick fog lingers just off the coastline, it patiently waits for the right time to envelop the land in its cool, mysterious embrace.

This resembles a scene straight out of Survivor, where the elements of nature clash dramatically with the human spirit's resilience.

Did you notice the small opening nestled in the top right corner of this photo? 

It seems to invite a closer look, sparking curiosity about what lies beyond. A winding trail meanders gracefully down to the beach, flanked by lush greenery and the soothing sound of waves crashing in the distance.

As they journeyed toward the ocean, they meandered through a tapestry of lush valleys and sprawling meadows, each step revealing wildflowers dancing in the gentle salty breeze. 

 

California's Lost Coast

I wanted to pop in to say hello and share some wonderful photos from my two adult sons' recent backpacking adventure along the stunning Lost Coast. I’d previously mentioned this trip to you, and I was thrilled to finally see their captured moments. They took hundreds of photos, but I’ve selected just a few highlights from Navy. 

The adventure awaits, accompanied by a series of cautionary signs

This is Elephant Seal Country. 

My adult sons departed for the Lost Coast last week, and my maternal instinctive response was a familiar one:

“I hope they are safe.”

But then a thought struck me—“Why wouldn’t they be?” They have been honing their passion for backpacking in the wilderness for over 15 years. The Lost Coast, while wild and untamed, it doesn't harbor bears that I know of; only mountain lions roam its rugged terrain and elephant seals.  Perhaps there are some illegal cannabis cultivations hidden away in remote areas, where only the most adventurous—or foolish—would dare to tread. However, they are seasoned adventurers, well-versed in the beauty and risks of the outdoors, and always taking every precaution in life’s unpredictable journey.

As I stepped away from that initial knee-jerk feeling of worry, I was enveloped by a deep sense of joy at the thought of them pursuing something they love—Isn't that what we want for our children? Adventure, taking some risks - something that I am now unable to. It was a vivid reminder of the importance of trust—trusting in their capabilities and, ultimately, trusting God.

Navy captured some video footage of the males engaged in a fierce struggle, their movements charged with primal instinct. All for the love of a good woman.

That one above must be the dominant male, exuding confidence and authority, while the others seem to lounge in the background without a care in the world. 

Here is a video I found on Wikipedia featuring seals at Piedras Blancas Light Station in San Simeon, CA, created by Mike Baird.

I hope to be able to share the elephant seals fighting that he took. The file is too long. 

There are two distinct species of elephant seals: the northern elephant seals and the southern elephant seals. These magnificent marine mammals hold the title of the largest existing carnivorans, with some individuals tipping the scales at an astonishing 8,800 pounds. They can stretch up to an impressive length of 20 feet. Notably, male elephant seals can weigh as much as ten times more than their female counterparts, showcasing a striking sexual dimorphism that adds to their awe-inspiring presence.

Northern elephant seals can be found in California and Baja California, though they prefer to frequent offshore islands rather than the North American mainland. Meanwhile, southern elephant seals live in sub-Antarctic and Antarctic waters.

When you encounter these colossal creatures on the beach, giving them a wide berth is crucial, respecting their space and the majesty they embody. 

The only kind of photo they permit me to share 

They began their journey in Portolia. From there, they embarked on a coastal trail that led them down to the serene beauty of Shelter Cove. There, the rugged coastline meets the waves, creating a perfect escape into nature’s embrace.

At times, they had to venture inland to avoid areas rendered impassable by the perilous high tide. With years of experience behind them, they were wise enough to heed the warning signs of nature.

The black sand beaches along the Lost Coast. 

The beaches are blissfully deserted, offering a perfect sense of seclusion and tranquility. The sound of waves lapping against the shore echoes in the absence of crowds, creating an idyllic retreat where one can truly unwind and connect with nature.

California is known for having some of the world's most expensive coastal real estate. Despite this high demand, developers have faced significant challenges for decades in developing the state's vast and diverse wilderness areas.  The area has minimal infrastructure, lacks proper road access, and is situated in a remote wilderness far removed from urban civilization. It is the wild, wild west in these parts. 

This type of backpacking experience differs significantly from their usual adventures, which typically involve traversing high-elevation mountain ranges. In contrast, the coastal mountain range they are exploring features peaks that rise only to about 5,000 feet. While these lower elevations may lack the dramatic heights of their typical routes, the landscape offers stunning ocean views that make for an equally rewarding journey. The trails here meander through vibrant coastal ecosystems, providing an opportunity to encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna that thrive in this cooler maritime climate.

Imagine... drifting off to sleep, lulled by the rhythmic sounds of the roaring waves crashing against the rugged rocks.  The relentless thundering of the ocean both powerful and soothing, a constant reminder of nature’s untamed beauty. 

The weather was ideal for their backpacking adventure, with temperatures hovering comfortably in the mid-50s to 60s. The mornings and evenings brought a soft coastal fog that wrapped around them like a gentle blanket, creating an ethereal atmosphere as they set out each day. By midday, the fog would dissipate, giving way to bright, sunny skies that illuminated the vibrant landscape around them. This combination of cool, crisp air and warm sunlight made their journey all the more enjoyable, allowing them to explore the trails with energy and enthusiasm.

 After days of exploring the rugged coastline and steep trails, they are completely worn out but filled with unforgettable memories! 

I hope you enjoyed a glimpse of their experience. I couldn't bear the thought of waiting until August to share it with you.

We are currently making progress on our home improvement projects. The exterior trim is being painted, and a leaf filter has been installed around the house. During this process, we discovered some sections of wood trim that have dry rot, which will need to be replaced by us. Additionally, Teen Challenge is scheduled to come out next week to assist us with our hillside and other problem areas. We have decided to engage their services once a month, till Fall as it is more cost-effective than hiring traditional gardeners and also supports a worthy cause. So, I am considering returning to my regular blog by July. (Who knows, it could be sooner?) 

Until then, 

Debby