One of the joys of living on the Mendonoma Coast is watching storms approach. And then when they depart, leaving showers behind, we have rainbow days, especially in the early morning. That was the case today, to my delight. Any day you see rainbows is a good day!
My best to you! Jeanne Jackson
It's unusual for the Mendonoma Coast to be hit by winter-like storms in early October but that is what is happening. Yesterday we got nearly two inches of rain at our home in Anchor Bay. Another even bigger storm is due in tonight. Batten down the hatches! But this morning's sunrise was lovely.
Several friends have told me they have found Chanterelles, Cantharellus cibarius, in the past couple of days. This morning, in our forest, Rick and I saw golden Chanterelles just appearing. Notice the Banana Slug approaching them too.
Chanterelles are among the most delicious of the coast's wild mushrooms. Thank you, Mother Nature!
An oh-so-lovely blue wildflower was recently photographed by Craig Tooley. Its name is Gentiana affinis var. ovata. Due to its rarity, Craig is keeping the exact location secret. But I can safely say it was photographed on the Sonoma Coast. It is a California native; a perennial herb. I thank Craig for allowing me to show it to you, in all its glory, here!
To see more of Craig's work, here's a link to his web site:http://web.me.com/theruffians1
Yes, it is early for the Mendonoma Coast to have rain but try telling that to Mother Nature. Yesterday we received a nice soaking. Perhaps that is why this tiny Rough-skinned Newt was seen crossing a forest path this morning. Not much longer than an inch and a half, this is a baby Newt. Perhaps it started its life in one of the ponds on Quinliven Creek. Rick and I only noticed it because it moved. Notice the hints of orange coloring on its edges. If you turned this Newt over, you would see its orange undersides.
Robert Scarola recently photographed two Bucks practicing gentle jousting. They danced up and down the meadow by Robert's Sea Ranch home. Interestingly enough, several California Quail were close by and chose to ignore all the action taking place nearby.
October is the time of the rut of the coast's Black-tailed Deer, when the males fight for the chance to mate. Don't come between a Buck and his heart's desire. Lust is the only thing on his mind!
Thanks to Robert for allowing me to share his photo here.