Hermitage

Alfred Tibor "FREE" 1993 Bronze

Beyond the bookish themed house lies a colorful off kilter world rarely seen by the public. An asymmetrical hermitage ruled by a crazy hermit genius with a unique angle on life. "Ted", who's gift for writing books (40 in number) is matched only by his whimsical lost wax sculptures and fanciful art collection. He sings the body electric... Or bronze in this case. Cleverly staging a bevy of cast metal nymphs joyfully dancing alongside busts of classical composers, great authors and U.S. presidents. They line the rough hewn paths and frolic in aqueous pools. Artfully juxtaposed within a clever fence of bicycles & VW Bugs, these creative sculptures will shock and surprise you. The guided tour meanders through a carefully tended 10 acre botanic garden of cycads, fruit trees, cactus, bamboo and tropical palms. When you find yourself chuckling over humorous quips etched on rocks, Congratulations! You are now happily under the creative spell of artist and founder Theodore Roosevelt Gardner II. A bona-fide hermit who graciously provided lemonade and dried fruit/nut snacks after our tour but was nowhere to be found.

Why did Ted build this secret wonderland? Where does he get his inspiration for new installs? What does it cost to tend a sculpture garden of this magnitude? Who will take over his legacy after he is gone? A poster in his museum gave the answer.

"Hundreds of years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove... But the world may be different because I did something so bafflingly crazy that my ruins become a tourist attraction."

Indeed, Hermitage Santa Barbara is well on its way to becoming a tourist attraction. The lush garden rests mostly on a hill top over looking Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean. Open two days a month, this rare collection can be seen free of charge but you will need a reservation.

To visit Hermitage Santa Barbara - A Whimsical Sculpture & Botanic Garden.
info@hermitagesb.org
www.hermitagesb.org

If you would like to read more about founder, Theodore Roosevelt Gardner II, or about Hermitage Santa Barbara you can find his books on Amazon, at your local bookstore, or the local library or visit http://www.knollpublishers.com/

Sculpting a Wacky Life

Photo by John Wiley

When the Levee Breaks

Santa Maria Riverbed - Dry as a Bone

Mr El Niño
Hopefully you will arrive as predicted and fill this riverbed with water. Precious water. Much needed water. As much of a hoped for event, the perils remain to be seen. Can this levee and sandstone cliffs hold the expected deluge? Or will the levee break?

In January 1969 this humble riverbed in Santa Maria, CA was brimming over with water. Breached by a magnificent 100-year storm who's downfall lasted 10 days straight. One for the records books. Soon water was overflowing and threatening to expand its containment area. Mud and debris flowed bank to bank. Farm lands so desperately in need of rain were flooded and crops destroyed. Nearby houses normally high and dry were flooded. Families and businesses were displaced and daily life disrupted. The seasonal cleanup was huge and county resources were stretched to capacity.

Recent draft maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency showed that much of Santa Maria, including 20,000 parcels and 17,000 structures, would be designated as in the flood plain, triggering a flood-insurance requirement for many property owners. Fortunately mistakes were learned and infrastructure improved in a critical 2009 federal/Santa Barbara County project that rehabilitated approximately 6.3 miles of the 50-year-old structure. Five years and $47 million dollars later the old bridge that crosses the river has been retrofitted and the levee re-engineered. Now it stands ready to take on this Winter's expected heavy rain storm. Assuredly, one day, Mother Nature will test this levees structural ability to hold back water. So come on...My sandbags are ready. I dare you Mr El Niño! Give me all you've got! Let's end this drought!

Slide Show Santa Maria Levee History

Santa Maria River Levee Trail

Things That Go Boo!

I let the rattly skeleton

In my closet out

Once a year to go

Trick-or-treating and shout.

My skeleton is made of bones

Lots of them, I know

They're in my arms and legs

My ten fingers and my toes.

My skeleton holds me up

So I can dance and run

And do lots of other things

That are so very fun.

My skeleton keeps growing

Right along with me

I never want to lose it

Cause then where would I be?

Rocky Nook Park

Mosaic Reptiles Turn 20

Just when you think the day is over and you've seen all there is to see in town, suddenly you spy Ethel. A six foot long, brightly colored, red mosaic alligator lizard staring back at you from the banks of Santa Barbara's Mission Creek. She's nestled in-between the natural river rocks giving you a wink and a whimsical grin. Upon closer inspection you notice more toothy creatures just past the footbridge at Rocky Nook Park. Shocking at first, a second blue tiled reptile named Harry comes into view. These beautifully crafted mosaic sculptures are the work of Dan Chrynko, a unique local artist known for his intricately embellished boulders. Perfect for climbing, children of all ages will adore exploring these fanciful tile works of art. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a day hike amidst ancient oaks and sycamores in soothing natural surroundings. This is what happy memories are made of.

Creek Lizard at Rocky Nook Park

Visit Rocky Nook Park

PCPA Theatre

51 Years of PCPA Theatre

Memorize for me the words of a playwright than speak them back to me with song and dance. Rehearse for me your character's personality and facial quirks. Show me that acting is craft. Give me your believable energy and make true actors come alive on stage. Quick costume change for me then stand on mark, mind your cue's, sing your heart out. Emote for me the plot of this PCPA creative collective. Translate for me raw emotions as I live on stage through you. Let me down gently after hours of make believe theatre. Now let me honor your efforts with my applause.

PCPA Box Office

If I Were a Rich Man 

Song from Fiddler on the Roof

Alligator Pear

Zutano, Topa Topa, Hass, Mexicola, Rincon, Bacon, Spinks, Lamb, Fuerte, Pinkerton, Anaheim, Creamhart. These are not exotic travel locations or decadent libations, they are names of avocado cultivars. Pear shaped fruits who's pebbled, thin, blackish-green skin hides an edible buttery textured flesh around a single ovoid seed. Prized as natures super food, high in monosaturates, studies show avocados help to reduce blood cholesterol. You can accelerate the ripening of avocados by placing them in a brown paper bag along with a banana at room temperature. Avocado oil is a favorite among cooks who desire its health benefits as a salad dressing or for high-heat cooking. What do you call an avocado that's been blessed by Pope Francis? Holy Guacamole!

Avocado Health Benefits

California Rare Fruit Growers

Whistler Mountain

Whistler Mountain was the site of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games and now sets the gold standard for stunning nature getaways. Many wooded biking and hiking trails wind along side Winter ski lifts offering the active character cheap thrills throughout the year in picture perfect surroundings. All the modern conveniences of life are within close reach of this carefully planned alpine village. A unique variety of delicious dining options makes fueling-up a tasty treat. Nearby family condos and student hostels allow tourists of all ages and pocketbooks a way to live memorable mountain moments. For the perfect scrapbook, snap a selfie photo with a symbol of Canada, this area is patrolled on horseback by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Just 90 minutes from Vancouver we found this quaint village setting had a rare nostalgia all its own. Did I mention Canadians are the nicest people? Yes, really!!

Plan Your Visit to Whistler Blackcomb

Jocko's Nipomo

Historic Jocko's! Some would say the best steak house on the California coast. A restaurant with years of staying power and a permanent line out the door. This is a prime meeting place for the carnivore foodies. Where fellows bond over the perfect oak coal open pit seasoned beef. They exchange shouts of glee as the first perfectly cooked morsel is consumed. A cherished family pinto bean recipe and golden garlic toast will accompany your baked potato, salad, relish tray and steak. And yes, complimentary ice cream and coffee are offered for dessert. If you don't already have dinner reservations, plan on waiting until 8:45pm for seating. Don't be scared away by the restaurant's cinder block exterior. This is definitely the eating place to visit any time you are in the Nipomo area. For early risers a hearty breakfast of ham steak and eggs is popular and at lunchtime the Jocko burger is a local favorite. Afterwards take out bags are graciously given to weary chewers who leave content having eaten their fill of succulent aged steak. A down home western setting with lots of local dim lit bar flavor and savory open pit custom meat cuts. The perfect place for birthday's or retirement parties this local legend is a "must eat here before you die" restaurant destination. So why don't you "Come in an monkey round" sometime.

Call for Reservations (805) 929-3565

The History of Jocko's

Secret Garden Oasis

I've found a pathway out! The plan to escape this maya has been woven into my life's story. A tranquil green oasis in the middle of ten acres. Long revered as the bounty of Mother Earth, organic vegetables, fruit trees and edible flowers are paramount to my existence. Their shade and lush foliage is a much needed supernatural sanctuary for man and beast. Songbirds and wind chimes ride the west winds with serenely sweet jargon. Duckweed and tadpoles float like clouds metamorphoses in Ovidian pools. I take refuge in my secret garden as part of my daily meditation routine. I love to sit and relax. With each measured suspiration I gain peace of mind in this lovely canopy of green toned heart chakra hues. Spacious, ever free, lovingly nurtured and nurturing, my plants give healing energy back in spades. Garden spades that is!!

Read the "The One Straw Revolution" entire book PDF online:

by Masanobu Fukuoka

SCOBY to the Rescue

My family knows me as having a special cabinet where the miracle of fermentation takes place. Mysterious, vinegar smelling, symbiotic cultures of bacteria and yeast floating in glass jars, swimming warmly in a still, dark, place. "SCOBYs" are kitchen science at its best! Silently growing they resembling human placentas, undisturbed, doing the backstroke, waiting expectantly for final bottling one day. Brew baby brew! When the time is right a glimmer of sunlight awakens the SCOBY to the will of the brew master. Skillfully it will be harvested, the medium blended, oh so carefully, with fresh picked, organic, blood orange, pomegranate, sapote, or guava juice. This additional step creates a second round of fermentation which gives rich character to the green tea elixir. Finally it will be refrigerated after 30-50 days of ferment magic, the mix now ready for tasting and deserving of the name Kombucha. A culture with roots in a two thousand year old Chinese tradition that claims long life and grand health benefits, like preventing and fighting cancer, arthritis, diabetes and other degenerative diseases. Today, it may be one of the world's most popular health beverages made simply from tea leaves, sugar, water and Kombucha culture. This probiotic brew is mighty good for what ails you!

Order a Kombucha SCOBY and Start Brewing!

Kombucha Health Benefits

Getting the Perfect Balance

I Love My Prius!

H Y B R I D 

H A I K U 

Zoom past gas pumps smile
More money in my pocket
I drive a Prius
 - Andra

Toyota Dream Car Art Contest

Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery

Like prize fighters from the gloomy depths these elephant seals lumber onto the shore and drop in a heap as spectators silently do a countdown. Fleshy globules weighing in at over 2,000lbs these marine mammals have a face only a mother could love. Slow moving blobs of blubber cluster together and lazily dream of salty sea mermaids and swaying palms. Inertly waiting until the next meal, they flip ping pong sized flipper full's of sand onto their neighbors back. Sunbathing and frequent rough housing give onlookers a chance to document the rituals with cameras and videos. During mating season you can hear their loud threats and grunting retorts to other males. You can almost hear one seal bark to the other, "Hey meathead stop throwing that sand around and hitting on my female or else!" Bloody sores and gashes from bites makes this a real street fighting lesson for the kiddies. Colorful kiosks educate while a wooden boardwalk allows viewers of all ages the chance for a closer look. This coastline is subject to high winds, harsh sun and cold so don't forget your windbreaker, sunscreen and visor. Plenty of parking makes this Highway 1 coastal treasure, just north of San Simeon, a must see main event. Showtimes are....

January

Female elephant seals continue to arrive on the shoreline. 

Peak of births usually are the last half of the month.

February

Elephant seal births continue. 

The peak of mating is around Valentine's Day. 

More females leave.

March

Last adult elephant seals leave.

April

Female and juvenile elephant seals return to molt.

May

Female and juvenile elephant seals molt.

June

Sub-adult male elephant seal return to molt.

July

Sub-adult and adult males molt.

August

Last adult elephant seals molt.

September

Young-of-the-year and juvenile elephant seals haul out to rest.

October

Young-of-the-year and juvenile elephant seals haul out to rest.

November

Sub-adult elephant seal males haul out. 

Mature males begin arriving at the end of the month.

December

Elephant seal bulls continue to return. 

Females arrive. 

The first birth is usually mid-month.

Get Involved: Friends of the Elephant Seal

Spooner's Cove

A pebble, a shell, a polished piece of blue beach glass. I walk silently my eyes searching for more treasures from the sea. Each brings with it a new message from Mother Earth. Framing a moment in time, I assign remembrance to these found objects to indicate their sacred nature. Seeking balance and renewal hiking has become a form of spiritual practice. My one day pilgrimage to a power spot to receive wisdom and perform rituals. The pacific ocean's negative ions invigorate my body and mind, bringing a deep feeling of empowerment. At some point I stop walking and silently offer a prayer of thanks to the Spirits of this place, once a bustling Chumash village site. Chosen by many people as the perfect location to stage a family portrait, exchange marriage vows or scatter a loved ones ashes, Spooners Cove in Montaña de Oro State Park is an area of strong energetic earth forces. Rugged Monterey Shale cliffs and rocky outcroppings offer resistance from crashing aqua blue waves. Only expert surfers successfully ride these coastal waters. Reflecting how good it feels to be here I decide to sit awhile and watch the sun as it begins to set.

Hike Montana de Oro State Park

Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve

Can you find the Hairflipp? 

A rusty teepee formed of corrugated scrap metal and spray painted with a big number five greeted us as we arrived at the mountain top. Glad to have found something so unique this far from civilization was a treat! So I invited myself in to have a look around. Yes, it would provide adequate shelter from a sudden rainstorm but luxury teepee it was not. Breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon and mountain slops make this 520 acre open space feel like you have the whole world to yourself. Only a half mile hike from the creek trail, steeply elevated switch-backs open to peaceful flat grasslands with astonishing views of Cuesta Grade and the Santa Lucia Mountains. You are now entering the Twilight Zone set amongst an odd collection of scrap metal sculptures once inhabited by humans. Just when you think you might be lost and this arduous journey is going nowhere, a wonderful swing appears hanging from an ancient eucalyptus tree. Time to kick off the hiking boots and swing! Wheeeee!! I haven't swung in years....This is really great!... Gee, I feel like a kid again!!! After an hour of playing and exploring the rusty artifacts we meander back down the 5 mile round-trip trail towards the dribbling creek hidden among oaks and dense sycamores. We happily call it a wonderful family day and promise each other we will revisit this San Luis Obispo open space after the winter rains.

Tips for Hiking Reservoir Canyon

Oso Flaco Lake

Skinny Bear is the translated name for Oso Flaco Lake in southern San Luis Obispo County. Today a nicely built wooden boardwalk over the sand dunes to the Pacific Ocean allows hikers, strollers and wheelchairs quick access. All sorts of fine feathered friends are easily seen by bird watching enthusiast. Docent led tours and educational exhibits can be arranged at the non-profit Guadalupe Dunes Center. Beautiful to look at the enormous waves often result in strong riptides so exercise caution. Surf fishing is the big draw at this State Park and the entrance fee of $5.00 per carload helps maintain this natural wonder. Parking tickets are given out often by the ranger so do pay at the kiosk before you start the nature walk. Posted signs say: no dogs, no bicycles, no horses and no camping allowed and these rules are strictly enforced. Dune buggies and four wheel drive autos have a separate designated entrance called Oceano State Vehicular Recreational Area to the north at the end of Grand Ave. in Grover Beach.

Learn More About the Dunes and Estuary

Read an inspiring novel set in the Oso Flaco Dunes.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Like graceful ballerinas ruffling their tutus these jellyfish put on a show. Living happily in a rotundas tank at the Monterey Bay Aquarium they capture the attention of both young and old. Viewers gaze with gaping mouths and delightfully squeal as the jellies open and close, slowly they float up and down in a natural syncopated rhythm. Perfectly choreographed to natures silent symphony translucent forms dance endlessly. A must see for anyone visiting California, this world class aquarium offers an entire days worth of marine life observing. Watch as divers feed albacore, sunfish, and sharks; while knowledgeable volunteers are on hand to offer scientific answers to your marine biology questions. Amateur photographers are sure to come away with exceptional National Geographic-esk snapshots and videos of sea life. Set in the historic seaside town of Monterey, this coastal wonder will quickly become one of your favorites places to revisit.

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Lost Lake

Have you ever heard of losing a lake? I know. Me neither. I can see losing a creek but never a lake. So it's was really special to be hiking to a lake in Whistler, British Columbia by that name. This isn't just any old lake. This lake, local lore reports was occupied for centuries by the Coastal Salish Indian Tribe. In 1877 this area was officially opened to trappers and prospectors seeking their fortunes amidst the snow laden mountains. The day we visited, the forest trees had an almost lite-brite, yellow green, fertile glow; a vibrant color pallet combo of wheat grass and asparagus green hues. The soil gave off a musky smell like soggy dinosaur remains, spruce, and cedar. Mother Natures healing energy and aroma therapy... just my style. We even spied a bald eagle sitting in a nearby tree waiting for an opportunity to catch a fresh Squamish River salmon. How fortunate we are to be able to hike these surroundings with family and friends and still remain in close proximity to modern comforts. Whistler/Blackcomb Mountain and Olympic Village make for memorable times. Offering year-round sports adventures, gondola lifts and a wide range of dining and lodging venues, this mountain is perfect for any age outdoor lover. Numerous trails meander around the lake and offer cross country skiing and snow shoeing during the winter and walking, rollerblading, and biking during the summer months. Experience life, step out in nature and make memories.

Finding Lost Lake

Change Color

Does the branding for paint manufacturer Sherwin-Williams come to mind? This exhibit has all the paint perks and is dripping with Generation X wisdom. A brightly colored spiritual summary of the digitized 21st century condition. Pantone #199 has never looked so good! The Words Into Objects exhibit offers profound word nuggets that wake one from their perceived target market, a tweet of McWisdom packaged for an accelerated utopian culture. An enormous Lego built suburbia exhibit looks somehow comforting to my inner world nostalgia. My techno culture now a weapon and I, a statistical response sinking in an apathetical abyss oblivious to the delete button. I really like this artists first major museum solo exhibit at the Vancouver Art Gallery. So!... Where has Canadian born author and artist Douglas Coupland been hiding himself? Inside, busily writing 14 novels, 2 short story collections, 7 non-fiction books and a number of screenplays for film and television, his books have been translated into 22 languages and published in 30 countries. Guess I should ask...Where have I been?

Douglas Coupland Exhibition

Everywhere is Anywhere is Anything is Everything

Granville Island

In 12 hours this waterway will be the scene of a colorful fireworks display to celebrate Canada Day. Live music performances, parades and cake will make for a festive national bash. Granville Island a once derelict Canadian industrial area in the 1970's was transformed into the vibrant community destination you see today. A tourist magnet attracting over 10 million visitors every year, this hip seaside area boasts a very large farmers market, microbreweries and numerous art galleries. Modern high rise apartments and boats of all sizes make for great people watching and wondering. Fireworks barges in Coal Harbour and Dundarave will launch the fire in the sky extravaganza, easily seen from beautiful Stanley Park. Wear your red and white and come join the fun!

What's Happening in Vancouver Canada?

Luminescing Rain

"The richness of the rain made me feel safe and protected; I have always considered the rain to be healing—a blanket—the comfort of a friend. Without at least some rain in any given day, or at least a cloud or two on the horizon, I feel overwhelmed by the information of sunlight and yearn for the vital, muffling gift of falling water."  -Douglas Coupland

Cave Landing

Cave Landing near Pirates Cove

Cave Landing is a natural rock pier which forms the perfect scenic divide between Avila Beach and Shell Beach. Jutting 150 feet out into San Luis Obispo Bay this cavernous arched tunnel was once used by trading ships as a warehouse and loading dock. Along this rugged coastline many small wind-swept coves and caves offer beach goers a uniquely framed view of the crystal azure bay. Small, serene, and hidden by cliffs, the adjacent clothing optional beach of Pirates Cove offers a private blue lagoon feel. Bring your Frisbee, volleyball or floatation device and join the fun. Don't forget the sunscreen! An easy hike to all sites from the dirt parking lot you won't believe how close this is to the 101 freeway. Hungry? The pristine seaside town of Avila offers convenient food and lodging nearby.

Flag & BBQ

Memorial Day

by Steve Kowit

Because our sons adore their plastic missile launchers,

electronic space bazookas, neutron death-ray guns,

a decade down the pike it won't prove difficult

to trick them out in combat boots

& camouflage fatigues,

rouse them with a frenzy of parades, the heady

rhetoric of country, camaraderie & God,

the drum & bugle & the sudden

thunder of the cannon as they march

into Hell singing.

Which is the order of things.

Obedient to a fault, the people will do as they are told.

However dispirited by grief at the graves 

of their fallen, the mother returns at last to her loom,

the father to his lathe,

& the inconsolable widow home to raise sons

ardent for the next imperial bloodbath;

Ilium. Thermopylae. Verdun. 

Pork Chop Hill.

"Memorial Day" by Steve Kowit from The First Noble Truth. 

© University of Tampa Press, 2007.

Bubblegum Alley

"Don't touch anything!!!" This is the usual command given by mothers as their children enter the alley. "Gross!!!" Is another common reaction to the most photographed landmark in downtown San Luis Obispo. Spanning over 70ft. this sticky walled gum world is a jaw dropping tourist site worth stepping into. For over fifty years people have participated in Bubblegum Alley on Higuera Street, where you can chew and stick your artistic self into existence. Bazooka Pink, Bubblicious Orange, Adams Black Jack Licorice, Wrigley's Doublemint, Chiclets, it's all here! The color of the chewing gum more important than ever before in this alleyway. Many times business owners have led the charge to scrape and even fire hose off the wads of chew, but to no avail. Offering a taste of SLO's kooky artistic charm, Bubblegum Alley's local flavor attracts families year round and is conveniently located near eating, shopping and parking areas.

Leave Your Chew on Bubblegum Alley

Reservoir Creek Falls

This spot was a wilderness retreat for me. Today my chakras screamed for green energy and this hike supplied. Blue green serpentine rocks lined a lush riparian oasis under oak, bay, sycamore, and willow trees. Low water levels made for remembrance of years past when heavy rainfall filled the creeks many pools. A lush winding wooded trail led first to a 50ft waterfall that felt refreshing and peaceful. Then through a chartreuse painted landscape with an abundance of feathery horsetail ferns. This living fossil is the only surviving genus of an entire class of spore reproducing vascular plants over one hundred million years old. Beautiful and tranquil I sat awhile and enjoyed my stunning surroundings. Being careful when I left to not trample the precious "Equisetum" plants who beckon seekers to rest and recharge among its natural wonders.

Health Benefits of Horsetail

Felt Summer Today!

Now that I'm in this thing 
I'm not coming out! 

Sonnet 18
by William Shakespeare

Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?

Thou art more lovely and more temperate.

Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,

And summer's lease hath all too short a date.

Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines,

And often is his gold complexion dimmed;

And every fair from fair sometime declines,

By chance, or nature's changing course, untrimmed;

But thy eternal summer shall not fade,

Nor lose possession of that fair thou ow'st,

Nor shall Death brag thou wand'rest in his shade,

When in eternal lines to time thou grow'st.

So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,

So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.

Make Kombucha Iced Tea Recipe

 

Charles Schulz Museum

Emblazoned on lunch pails, school notebooks, and T-shirts, the Peanuts gang of comic characters was my favorite as a child! Even today the sight of a Snoopy or Woodstock emblem makes me nostalgic for days gone bye when life was simpler and the biggest crises one faced was which home room teacher you were assigned for the year, the nice one or the old wicked witch one. It was a welcomed Sunday tradition to be the first among my family to read the funny paper comics with the Peanuts strip being at the top of the newspaper header in full color! Charlie Brown always had a way of being the ragged underdog, while Lucy became the know-it-all group psychiatrist, Schroeder a talented piano protégé and Snoopy the coolest dog, made for light hearted reading with a deep moral lesson. A recent trip to the Charles Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, CA reminded me what a great talent he was drawing and writing my generations collective world view in a profound yet childlike way. You can do it!..... Never give up....! Became familiar advise the characters gave to their imaginary life problems. Over Peanuts fifty-year history, some 65 characters later, the creative genius of Schulz tackled many childhood issues with amazing insight: school bulling, summer camp, loneliness, sibling rivalry, faith, hope, heartbreak, and love.

Visit the Charles Schulz Museum

Bishop Peak

This is an UP and DOWN sort of hike. Narrow rocky footpaths and sunny switchbacks with boulders to scale. So be sure to wear your high traction tennis's and bring 2 bottles of water. Best to go on weekdays when less crowded. Don't be discouraged by the muscle bound who run up the oak incline path and skip their way down. Patience my dear, you'll get to the top eventually. Bishop Peak, one of nine inactive volcano cores, distinguish San Luis Obispo from the foggy seaside village of Morro Bay. Two sturdy benches on top of this ancient morro are a welcome site as we arrive alive and take in the 360 view. Surprise!... there are other brave Trekkers who have already reached the craggy goal. Looking down the mountain we bask in January's rare 90 degree weather glad to have worn wide brimmed hats and plenty of sunscreen. Noticing a large body of water, Laguna Lake Park, we make a note to check it out someday. "Wow!!" "Everything looks so dry!" We exclaim. After a short sit we start our descent passing other hikers whom we encourage with a cheerful, "You're almost there!"

Bishop Peak Guide

Papallacta Volcanic Hot Springs

We chose the Papallacta Volcanic Hot Springs & Spa as our destination for the day. At 10,000ft above sea level the air temperature is a cool 50 degrees but the volcanic spring water is a comfortable 96 degrees, and only a 2hr bus ride from Quito. The sun is very strong at the equator and daily care must be taken to protect the skin during its high peak. We soaked and relaxed for hours and came away refreshed. Six separate pools with varying temperatures ranging from cold to very hot make these waters absolutely magical. Amazon legend says that these waters and mountains were worshipped for their great healing powers. Papallacta means "land of the potatoes".  Fantastic trout fishing brings many American tourists to this small Ecuadorian town.

Thermas de Papallacta

Burning Effigies

On New Years Eve they are burning life sized effigies outside my hotel window. Funny they always start with the crotch first. Fanning the flames vigorously until only a clump of ash remains. Then they embrace each other warmly, give a European kiss and depart. Leaving last years memories behind, blowing in the wind. Cartoonish paper mâché effigies,"ano viejo", represent what was important this past year. On every street corner booths are selling masks and large three dimensional figures of the Hulk, Smurfs, Captain America, Spiderman, Bart Simpson, etc. This year it is the corrupt mayor and his political cronies that are happy hazed by the Ecuadorians. Many cars had effigies tied to their front grill as they drove through the streets with bullhorns announcing the crimes committed. Roman Candles, Skyrockets, and M-80's were heard continually throughout the night as we tried to carrying on with life as usual. Sawdust stuffed dummies, "monigotes", are burned in celebration representing out with the old regime in with the new. A Contest for the best puppet maker in all of Ecuador is held and the winning artist held in high esteem.

Happy New Year Ecuadorian Style

Quito's Churches

In 1534 El Monasterio de San Francisco was built in honor of Quito's patron saint and it's still in use today by millions of worshippers. Flemish missionary, Fray Jodocko Ricke, directed construction of this ornate church and monastery on the site of an ancient Inca palace, making this the continent's oldest and largest church. The main altar is spectacularly carved in Spanish baroque and the side aisles are hung with fine oil paintings. The church ceiling is decorated with glowing images of the sun, the Inca divinity. Most Catholic Churches here in Ecuador are sumptuously ornate and grandiose with gold leaf everywhere you gaze. It's easy to see how the local indigenous peoples could be easily mesmerized and fall sway to the glitter of Catholicism. Currently, 95% of Ecuadorians are Catholic and Quito lays claim to over eighty churches.

The Best of Ecuador

Peguche Waterfall

We are having lots of fun in Ecuador touring the local sites. Yesterday we did a 10hr Gray Line tour excellently led by "Willam". We saw waterfalls, quaint towns, beautiful emerald green pasture land and the many volcanos that surround Quito. We had a wonderful day shopping at the Otavalo Marketplace where indigenous people sell their exquisite handmade crafts. I literally shopped till I dropped! The fast and furious tour van driver "Javier" was excellent passing 2-3 cars at a time; Vin Diesel would have been proud, seems cars have the right of way here not people. Next we sped off to view the Peguche Biological Preserve & Waterfall. Finally we ended our day with a delicious lunch in the lovely town of Cotacachi known for its leather work. Last but not least we went to the Equator line where our English speaking guide gave us a muscle test demonstrating that straddling the equator lowers ones strength.... It really does!

Gray Line Tours

Contact Professional Ecuadorian Guide: Willam Torres

Ecuador's Capital City

A circle of snowcapped volcanoes surrounds Quito, the capital city of Ecuador and being only 15 miles from the equator this beautiful city boosts a spring-like climate all year round. Quito is special in that it has a combination of superb well preserved colonial Catholic cathedrals next to sleek shining glass modern office buildings. Like many churches built during the 16th and 17th centuries most cathedral architecture shows Moorish influences. 1.5 million people call this city home and it's easy to see why with its quaint cobbled streets, red tiled roofs, factories and thriving agricultural industry. We found the traditional Ecuadorian food excellent and the local peoples warm and welcoming. Buenos Dias

Ecuador Tours

Kokopelli Greenhouse

We are building a 10'x24' greenhouse for $200 in which to start veggie seeds, orchids, and ornamental flowers. So today, I danced round and round like Kokopelli giving it my blessing. With one end securely tethered to the frame we realize its integrity is sturdy enough to withstand the often 30mph winds. A milky clear plastic sheeting will be the barrier against the outside winter elements. This is a work in progress. A scientific gala in hot house fertility and the wonders of horticulture. New varietals and species being coaxed to sprout then take root. Plants housed in womb like similarity will thrive and climb lively towards the light in this plastic bubble. A secret life of plants miracle documented in true life greenhouse theater, here in our own backyard. WOW!

Who is Kokopelli?

Heirloom Seed Suppliers

The Secret Life of Plants

Giant Rooster

If there are fish caught on the line today you can bet there will be a "FRESH FISH" sign hanging in front of this farm. You see Windmill Farms is owned by a fisherman. This charming two story barn in Arroyo Grande offers the country city gals gourmet jams, kitchen kitsch and packaged foods. Beautifully displayed is an extensive line of vintage replica depression glass bedazzling in a rainbow of colors. A sunny succulent plant nursery and petting zoo will keep the gardener and rambunctious child busy. This time of year Christmas trees are adorned with handmade ornaments and the aroma of cinnamon cider fills the air. Almost forgot to mention they have the "BEST FRESH EGGS" and the "BIGGEST ROOSTER" who rules this roost!

Windmill Farms

Huntington Library Art Collections & Botanical Gardens

I'm in heaven when I can walk for miles and not see a blade of grass out of place. Aphids on roses not a chance here. Nary a dry crumpled leaf or slimy snail trail on site. Seriously this is almost heaven on earth with a reputation for being the prefect first date destination. Stone fountains, marble statuary, koi ponds and bridges beckon so bring your camera and plan on spending most of the day. I like to start my wanderings in the desert cactus garden and meander towards the main art buildings as the day slips into night. No need to rush because you'll be back another day soon and this time swinging a big picnic basket.

Huntington Library & Gardens

Halloween Crush

Saw this cute display in the grocery store and couldn't resist doing a flipp!

Avila Valley Barn

It's a fruit stand. No, it's a farm. No, it's a petting zoo. Really,... it's a gold mine! The Avila Valley Barn is all these things and more. What began in 1985 as a simple home grown veggie stand has blossomed into the funnest kid pleasing place around. Barns filled with yummy eats: BBQ corn, homemade fudge, sandwiches, pies, ice cream and lots and lots of pickled, fresh and canned veggie concoctions. Things your grandma used to love to make! Grab a bag of animal food and feed the baby goats, calfs, donkeys, or llamas. Ok, raise your hands, I mean hooves, if you're up for some spumoni ice cream!

Avila Valley Barn

A View of Sky on Earth

A Year of Sky on Earth

"There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep yourself open and aware to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open."     –Martha Graham

Exploratorium

Ragged Point

Snaky curves line up for us to maneuver like reptiles in the sun. Don't blink on this drive or you'll be pushing up daisy's. Posted twenty mile per hour signs keep us riding the brakes, eyes super glued to the road. We breath a sigh of relief as we rounded the last set of switch backs. It wasn't until we got down to the Ragged Point Inn rest stop and eatery that we really saw the view. Amazingly shear cliffs meet pacific ocean waves in an unforgiving manner. Sculpted cypress trees and sage chaparral are the only things keeping the red soil in place. Breathtakingly beautiful this section of the Pacific Coast Highway (California Highway 1) is considered by many to be the finest scenic drive in the world, boasting the name Big Sur.

Big Sur California

Elfin Forest

We loved hugging these 500 year old pygmy oaks for some Mother Earth comfort. All around us Spanish moss hung like furry chandeliers. Lime green luminescent lichens lit the forest floor and Chumash voices whispered from times past. Looking north from the 90 acre forest refuge we could see the estuary and Morro Bay State Park. A breezy boardwalk loop along the salt marsh made for pleasurable trekking and clam shell middens gave us archaeological dreams. We could almost smell the campfires from native settlements long ago; a paradise they must also have appreciated. With promises to visit again soon we called it a great 28th Birthday!

Visit the El Moro Elfin Forest

Poly Canyon Architecture Graveyard

Horses roamed and students came in herds to spend the day among the ruins in jovial song!  Steel girders, glass, wood, cable, cement, cloth and plastic were skillfully crafted in their heyday giving hope to the future of new habitat design. Memorial Day weekend proved to be a great time to view the experimental architecture structures of Poly Canyon Design Village in San Luis Obispo. Started in 1962, among the rolling hills of the California Polytechnic State University, the first of 20 structures would break ground.  A definite sign of the times, these buildings were constructed in the style and so named "Geodesic Dome," "Shell House," "Bridge House" and "Cantilever Ship Structure." Currently 5 structures have been removed due to safety issues, leaving 15 still in a sad state of disrepair. Alas, the day was successful and this afternoon hike to the students' creative area was not uneventful with the spotting of a snake along the entrance road and a chance meeting of a former student builder. We looked, we entered, we climbed and we enjoyed a part of history built by talented CalPoly architecture and engineering students who came before. The "A" ladies ROCK!

Poly Canyon Architecture Hike Directions

Let's Fly

Wind in hair untied
Cyan sky touching
High rolling valley
“Run, run, run!!!"
Pulling the wide parachute
Gossamer fabric wings hover
Rising off the ridge
Ideal training hill

All strings converge in hands
Breathe in green spectrum
Jump rainbow bridge
Peaceful soaring free to birds
My presence in the sky we know
Will touch the ground soon
Now still free to fly
Cloud surfing

- Andra Rubcic


Let's go Paragliding!