Author Archives: Jeanne Jackson

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A mother Gray Whale and her calf were photographed by Richard Denniston from his vacation home, Serendipity, which overlooks the Gualala River and the Pacific Ocean. Rick has shared some fabulous photos of whales with Sightings over the past several years from this vantage spot. Looking for a special place to rent? This is it! http://www.serendipityview.com/

 There had been numerous Gray Whale sightings until the winds began several days ago. Hundreds of whales could be passing by and we'd never know because of the white caps. Last week though, a Minke Whale was spotted swimming with two female Gray Whales and two calves for protection. They were, of course, migrating north. Lots of krill reported in the waters off of Point Arena, which means good feeding for our beloved cetaceans.

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The late rains have given the Mendonoma Coast a fantastic wildflower season. Wild rhododendrons and azaleas continue to bloom in abundance though today's wind won't be kind to them. Salt Point State Park is in Sonoma County is one of my favorite parks. It spans many miles on both sides of Highway One. (Note to our elected leaders: To have this or any state park closed is a travesty.) John Sperry kindly allowed me to share his photo of the wildflowers now blooming on the bluffs.

A tiny wildflower is now blooming in the forest on the Mendonoma Coast. That would be the Pacific Starflower. It is growing on banks where False Solomon Seal and Fairy Bells bloomed earlier. It's a welcome addition to the spring wildflowers.

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There are several good places to surf on the Mendonoma Coast. But did you know you could surf at Anchor Bay Beach? Eric Anderson sent in this picture that proves it's possible. It was taken several months ago and Eric titles it, "Surfer Dude riding high!"

Yesterday Rick and I visited The Sea Ranch. While it was windy, the panoramic vistas never disappoint. We parked at the Lodge as we intended to have lunch there after our walk. With Huckleberry, our golden retriever on leash, we walked out onto the bluffs, admiring the wildflowers, the blue sky with puffy white clouds and the churning Pacific Ocean. The Sea Ranch is a treasure that I never tire of visiting.

This second photo is looking back at the Lodge.