Wednesday, Dec. 7th, was a beautiful, clear day with nary a white cap on the ocean. That morning, at low tide, the Gualala River breached the big sandbar at the far north end. Teresa and Rick Denniston had been watching the scene from their home, Serendipity, overlooking the river and ocean. On Tuesday, the river rose to the middle of the sandbar and then receded a bit. On Wednesday morning, the full-to-the-brim river would have its way.

With more rain headed our way, the river should stay open for a while. Steelhead that were trapped in luxury in the river during the summer and autumn months were swept into the next phase of their lives, life in the ocean. Other Steelhead will be arriving to enter the river to spawn. It's not surprising the one of the Bald Eagles was seen, probably hoping for an easy fish dinner.

Harbor Seals and CA Sea Lions also pay attention to this yearly event!

We are fortunate to be able to watch the Gualala River so easily. It's an important part of the fascinating Mendonoma Coast!

Thanks to Teresa for allowing me to share her photos with you here. Serendipity can be rented. You can learn more at this link: https://www.coastinghome.com/rns/vacation-rental/gualala/ca/serendipity  I just looked at the photos on their website, and I saw my book, Mendonoma Sightings Throughout the Year, on their table. Nice!

It's raining today with a big storm coming in Friday night into Saturday. I found Matsutake  mushrooms this morning and many other mushrooms are up now.