Virgin River / Humboldt County

 

I just finished the sixth season of Virgin River on Netflix. 

The series in question is set in a town located in Humboldt County, California, which is nearby. It first gained attention in my local news seven years ago. However, it was later announced that the filming would take place in British Columbia instead of California. The reasons for this decision have been a topic of discussion with the locals. 

The images presented here depict Humboldt County, highlighting its natural beauty and features, rather than representing the fictional town of Virgin River.

Humboldt County

The Far Northern California region has captivated many individuals due to its diverse landscapes. As far back as I can remember, I always sought out movies, books, and television shows that focus on this area, as I find them particularly entertaining. My personal connection enhances the experience of seeing the region depicted in media, as it allows for the recognition of familiar scenery. 

During the series' viewing, various fictional towns are referenced—and then some real towns, including my own town and Hayfork, which is located in Trinity County, along with Hyampon, Willow Creek, and McKinleyville. A significant portion of the scenery resembles that of Trinity County, leading to speculation about whether Virgin River was trying to depict features of the Eel River or Mad River.

Oh what does it matter? 

It's a fictional town anyway!

Eureka is the largest town in the area, with a population of approximately 26,000. In contrast, most of the surrounding towns have significantly smaller populations, ranging between 150 and 1,500 inhabitants. Humboldt never used to be a wealthy area—not until it gained a State University and, of course, the Green Rush of the 1990s. 

Humboldt County has a long history of cannabis cultivation, dating back to the 1960s. During this period, hippies were drawn to the area discovered affordable land and began to establish a vibrant eclectic community.   

The residents invested their resources to establish infrastructure, including clinics, radio stations, fire departments, newspapers, environmental movements, schoolhouses, and community centers. 

Humboldt boasts an ideal microclimate for agriculture, characterized by rolling fogs, fertile soil, and unspoiled watersheds that are particularly well-suited for farming and cannabis cultivation. At that time, cannabis was primarily grown for personal or medicinal use rather than a cash crop, providing a locally sourced alternative to imported cannabis.

Many counties in Northern California, including Shasta, have encountered challenges related to illegal cannabis cultivation. Following the legalization of cannabis, which was supported by California voters, the government implemented regulations and taxes on the industry. These measures disproportionately affected small businesses, allowing larger operations and foreign investors to dominate the market. As a result, cannabis became a highly profitable industry, but the prices of products also increased significantly. When faced with high prices, consumers often seek alternative sources for cannabis, leading to a rise in demand for illegal products.

And that is when the cartels came in - actually, they've been here for a long time, but more came and brazenly started up their illegal businesses. Instead of the State going after these Cartels - they looked the other way - their crimes went unpunished and ignored. 

The state had a problem on its hands. The cartels grow in our state and national parks, using and polluting our waters with pesticides, and there are turf wars. It used to be that you didn't want to drive in these areas at night—or get lost while hiking and backpacking—you could stumble on something that could cost you. 

Where the Redwoods meet the Pacific Ocean! 

Back to Virgin River -

I initially watched the first season of the show but wasn't fully convinced, leading me to stop watching. I felt that it didn't accurately represent the area it was set in.  A couple of months later, I came across the series again and decided to give it another chance while my husband was napping as he had never shown interest in it. I found that while I could tolerate some episodes, there were others that I enjoyed. This prompted me to continue watching an episode daily in the afternoons until I finished the series last week. Now, I find myself looking forward to the release of season seven.

Go Figure.

The portrayal of small towns in media often romanticizes their charm and idyllic lifestyles. However, the reality for many residents in Humboldt County is quite different. Beyond the two key industries of cannabis and fishing, the county faces significant economic challenges and is classified as a poorer area. The decision to film outside of Humboldt County may have been influenced by the strict regulations imposed on the film industry in California. Or there were personal safety concerns. It's the wild wild west in those mountains!  Nonetheless, it would have been beneficial for this picturesque region to receive national recognition, potentially boosting tourism and presenting a more positive narrative to the public.

Do you watch Virgin River? 

Who is your favorite character? 

Until Next time, 

Debby

Four Score and a Hodgepodge

 

1. What's a winter memory you treasure (can be from any winter in your lifetime)? 

I don’t really keep my favorite memories sorted by season or anything. I just live in the moment and enjoy them as they come.

2. Tell us about the last time or a recent time you were caught up in red tape. Does it send your frustration level off the charts or is it something you've come to expect when dealing with any sort of bureaucracy?

My eldest son, Michael, was born in 1977 with a rare bone dysplasia, leading to severe dwarfism and no  formal diagnosis. Medical professionals were unsure if he had a rare condition that had not yet been discovered or was just a new mutation. This made it difficult to access necessary government services. They want a diagnosis. We had Kaiser, for his basic medical needs but Kaiser was ill equipped to handle his physical and orthopedic needs - They referred us to Stanford and UCSF.  Our income was just above the threshold, preventing Michael from qualifying for state and county support, and limited government services or tax credits.

Shriners Hospital, helped out with special leg braces and a walker for his size, made especially for him - free of charge.  When Michael enrolled at California State University, Long Beach, he applied for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Still, after being approved, he had to repay benefits due to his student loans being classified as income. He needed to get a job, which was not easy, but he was hired by the Long Beach Campus police for fingerprinting (he had to stand on a stool). I truly believe the financial strain and stress from all the BS contributed to the heart attack he suffered at 25, which tragically led to his death.

3. Do you eat/like fish?  

I’m not big on seafood.

Do you cook fish at home?

No, occasionally salmon for my husband

What's your favorite fish dish?

I enjoy good fish and chips -  

 Ever been ice fishing? 

Nope, on the ice fishing, although a few years ago, I did walk out onto a frozen Castle Lake and saw a lot of ice fishing, which was a first for me. 

frozen Castle Lake near Castle Crags

Castle Lake

4. Did you watch any of the US President's Inauguration coverage on Monday, Jan 20? 

Yes, and I especially enjoyed Pastor Lorenzo Sewell's spirit-filled prayer. Wow

On a scale of 1-10 (with 1 being not at all and 10 being very very) how interested are you in politics in general? 

I love my country and am interested in it. I feel it is my duty to be informed when I vote. My husband and I call and let our representatives know when we have an opinion on a bill before it becomes law. Here in Shasta County, we know our representatives. 

Do you follow/keep up with/ get involved with local politics?

Local politics plays a crucial role in community development and governance. Many California politicians began their careers at the local level.  Engaging in local council meetings and county supervisor meetings is essential for residents to voice their concerns and influence decision-making. 

For instance, after many years of advocating for improvements to a narrow bridge in my area,  I reached out to a city council member to highlight the safety risks, particularly for seniors and children. Although it took a decade of persistent effort, the local government has recently approved the construction of a new bridge, which will enhance safety and accessibility for all residents. This example underscores the importance of local activism in effecting change.

I prefer local politics much more because they live here. It hard for them to hide from their constituents!

5. What's the coziest thing you own, and what makes it so? 

I have no idea.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Thanks for stopping by - see you next week.

Debby 

Rain, Snow, Laydee, and the Dentist

I enjoy watching the webcams at Lassen Volcanic National Park, 

especially the ones at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center.

On this Thursday afternoon, I hope everyone is doing well as we approach the holiday. Our area received significant rain and snow over the past two days, similar to the storms of the past. We've recorded about 6 inches of rain at home, while the mountains have seen nearly 2 feet of snow. 

Some members of my Bible study group, who travel from the mountains, hit snow while driving down. What dedication! These gals know how to navigate the roads with their vehicles—better than I could do! The storm is not as bad as they are saying. Yeah, we're getting rain and snow—LIKE we're supposed to—that's how we "winter" in the real Northern California! I believe it was more concentrated in Oregon and Washington. 

On Tuesday afternoon, we noticed that Laydee's skin tag on her chin was leaking and causing her discomfort. Our vet only agreed to remove it if it ruptured or became infected. Unfortunately, our regular veterinarian was fully booked by the time we called at 4 PM, and other clinics couldn’t see her that day. My husband took her in the next morning at 6:45 AM, where the vet confirmed the cyst was infected and prescribed antibiotics. Surgery will be in December, which is disappointing due to holiday staffing shortages. For now, we’ll keep her comfortable and follow the vet’s instructions.

Yesterday, I had a dental appointment with a new provider who accepts my insurance. I had to take Backroads home because I-5 North was closed due to the snowstorm in the mountains, which left many semis parked along the interstate. Redding is usually the staging area the CHP uses to stop vehicles before they go over to the mountains.  

I’ll return on Monday for a cleaning and the first week of December to fix two loose fillings—no cavities, just preventative care. I received those fillings when I was 11 years old! 

The major part of my week is wrapping up, with grocery shopping tomorrow to bag my turkey. I’m looking forward to a week off since there will be no BSF or Isaiah Bible study next week.

I guess I'll start decorating for Christmas after Thanksgiving. November went by quickly, and I know December will, too. 

Until Next Time -

Debby

Revelation 5; 9-12

And they sang a new song, saying:

“You are worthy to take the scroll

and to open its seals,

because you were slain,

and with your blood, you purchased for God

persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.

You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God,

and they will reign on the earth.”

Open House

Yesterday, we explored downtown Weaverville. 

I always find myself wondering what it would be like to live in these quaint small towns. I decided to take a stroll through the older neighborhoods in the area. Weaverville, with its population of 3,667, strikes a perfect balance as a charming mountain town. What truly sets it apart and has preserved its historical charm is the steadfastness of its residents, The town has managed to resist the temptations of the exploitative tourist industry, unlike many other California towns that have succumbed to its influence. Then you get hoards of tourists, and traffic! 

It's evident that real, genuine lives are lived here, with families spanning multiple generations residing in this town or nearby. I parked right in front of a captivating Victorian home on Main Street, adding to the town's picturesque appeal.

I love this front door. The Victorian paint job on the door reminds me of my Dad…

RABBIT TRAIL ALERT! 

🐇🐇

As a child, I have fond memories of my dad, who worked as a commercial painting contractor in San Francisco. I recall how he had the opportunity to paint the exteriors of some of the city's most beautiful Victorian homes - which brings me to this memory: 

When a movie was made in San Francisco he would get a kick out of eagerly watching for his work in the background of car chase scenes. There was even a time when he and his crew ended up as extras in a Dirty Harry movie because they were already working on a large building with scaffolding, and the production company was wanting the equipment gone - There was a standoff - The work continued and there they were, in the background of a movie! 

Anyway, back on track...

The thought of sitting outside on this beautiful porch and just watching people pass by sounds so "Mayberry". 

The cozy smaller houses were equally charming and more suited to my preference. Their roofs were made of corrugated metal, ideal for withstanding the snowy winters in the area.

A number of these small residences were constructed in the 1860s, each with its own unique history and charm.

This charming property, which was built in 1856, is currently available for purchase at the incredibly low price of $249,000. 

⭐️Don't miss out on this amazing deal!

This particular house looks similar to the home my grandparents lived in when they moved from Tennessee to Indiana, to live closer to my aunts. This one feels more familiar and comfortable to me. Interestingly, this house has since been transformed into the town's art gallery.

I really enjoyed this quaint little house/Art Gallery, with its charming white picket fence and peaceful side yard. It was such a lovely and serene setting.

 

This one is for sale as well. 

Still a reasonable price at $589,000.

4 bedrooms/3 bathrooms 

2864 sq. ft. 

Built-in 1897

The exterior of the house is absolutely stunning, with beautiful grounds surrounding it. However, the interior is in need of some updating. It appears to still have the old electrical plugs, and the bathrooms and kitchen have a distinct 1970s style that is outdated. Additionally, there is gaudy 1960s wallpaper on the ceilings with unmatched wallpaper on the walls. Renovations would need to be carefully planned in order to modernize the interior without compromising the original charm and integrity of the home.

Back Patio 

That back porch is so beautiful that I wouldn't mind living there while the renovations were going on. 

That's more grass than our little electric lawn mower could handle. 

The entire yard is absolutely enchanting. 

The charming allure of these houses may be captivating, but I find greater satisfaction in my own little home. I appreciate the simplicity of smaller living as they require less maintenance and cleaning, allowing for a more manageable lifestyle and that means contentment for me. 

Lord when we feel lost, help us to trust you to lead us on the path toward home. 

No hodgepodge today because I couldn't relate to the questions this week. 

A Day of Adventure

Here's one of the photos my son texted me - Grey Rocks Lake.

The lake is not the type you can simply drive to; it's nestled in the mountains, requiring a hike to reach its tranquil shores. Yet, for those willing to venture forth, solitude awaits. For two nights, he found himself the solitary inhabitant of this serene retreat. Rather than embarking on extensive hikes, he chose to spend his time relaxing. His days were filled with leisurely naps and reading amidst the natural splendor of the area.

A single hiker arrived and pitched his tent just 35 feet away from his camp. This surprised him - as vast as the lake was, the hiker chose to camp so near. It bothered him, especially since he could even catch the scent of the other camper. Adding to that, a lively bunch of chipmunks devoured all of his trail mix!

Around 7,200 feet in elevation. 

The landscape is striking, with its rough and uneven terrain. In the upper right corner, the distant figure of Black Butte is visible. I shared a closer photo of it with you the other day. Moving further to the right of Black Butte, would be Mount Shasta but the mountain was shielding it. 

Following my leadership training session at BSF, I grabbed a quick lunch - half of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich - before setting off. The presence of numerous large trucks on the road, posed a challenge as they often exceed the speed limit, of 65 - and around curves where the speed drops to as low as 35.  This made navigating between them a bit nerve-wracking. Consequently, the trip took us 90 minutes to complete.

TMI

As I was driving off I-5, far from the nearest restroom, I suddenly felt the urgent need to pee which rarely happens to me. Despite always making sure to use the bathroom before leaving the house, the need became more intense the deeper we ventured into the woods. I had no choice but to do something I hadn't done in years. Find a secluded spot, to squat – a task that's not easy anymore. 

That made for a good laugh for my husband and I. 

Then we drove around the corner and there was my son, waiting on us. He looked well rested.  As we drove back home, we enjoyed a lively conversation about Rosicrucianism, the history of the Roman Empire, and the Knights Templar.  My son, does love to talk! 

We had just passed a stretch of the Interstate, and approximately 15 minutes later, a tragic accident occurred involving an 85-year-old man. It was a rollover crash, and unfortunately, he did not survive. Authorities suspect that it may have been due to a medical emergency he experienced. The accident caused a significant traffic backup that lasted for hours as there were other vehicles involved but miraculously no injuries'.  It's unusual to see such heavy traffic around here except during winter when they stop vehicles going up to the mountains to check for tire chains.

 Foodie kindly paid for our gas and treated us to dinner at In-N-Out. I ordered a double-meat burger with no cheese and grilled onions, along with a chocolate shake, and no fries. After dropping him off, I was so exhausted that I immediately crashed. The day was a wonderful mix of family time and unexpected adventure - from enjoying the scenery to having an uncomfortable experience of squatting in the woods, which I hope to never again repeat!

Until Next time,

Debby