• Home & Garden,  Travel

    Plant Lover’s Paradise in Santa Cruz, California

    September 30, 2018 /

    If you are as obsessed with plants as I am, you have to visit Santa Cruz.  Two of my favorite shops are in this beautiful beachside town.  The first is DIG Gardens.  Located at 420 Water Street, Santa Cruz, California, it is well worth the trip.

    They feature a plethora of plants, textiles, books, candles, pottery, furniture, and interior decorating inspiration.  They have one of the largest selections of succulents, cacti, and air plants I have ever seen!

    I could spend hours perusing this place, and my pictures are only the tip of the iceberg!  They have a huge outdoor area chockful of plant wonders as well!  My favorite is the gigantic succulent display.  This has become so crazy popular, people are getting married in front of it.  For reals!

    I’m sure all my plant loving friends are drooling at this point.  But wait, there’s more!  Botanic And Luxe, located at 701A Front Street in Santa Cruz, California is another sweet spot for your plant fix.  It is located just around the corner from the beautiful downtown Santa Cruz area, close to other great shops and restaurants.  They also carry gifts and home goods, as well as great decorating inspiration.

    Their store is carefully curated and you can feel the loving care they put into creating a welcoming and attractive atmosphere.  I love the friendliness of the staff and the way they provide education regarding plant care in a simple, no-nonsense way.  

    Their air plant selection is amazing.  They even have jellyfish air plants!  I was also informed that they only purchase their plants through ethical sources, to help protect and maintain our earth’s valuable ecosystems.

     

    In conclusion, dear friends, if you are looking for a botanical pick-me-up, you know where to go.  If like me, you have a thing with plants, you will not be disappointed!  For more information, see Botanic & Luxe and DIG Gardens

    Thank you for visiting my blog.  Wishing you peace, love & happiness!

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Home & Garden,  Travel

    Ragged Point: Gateway to Big Sur

    September 25, 2018 /
    Known for its breathtaking views from its perch 400 feet above the wild Pacific coastline, Ragged Point Inn is often called the gateway to Big Sur. Ragged Point consists of not only an Inn, but also a cafe, restaurant, gift shop, mini mart, ice cream parlor, and gas station.  It is basically a self-sufficient little community in the remote wilderness that is Big Sur.  
    Ragged Point features beautiful flower gardens, fountains, and pathways filled with gently drifting Monarch butterflies and swiftly darting hummingbirds. Fabulous ocean vistas include myriad sightings of seals, dolphins, and migrating whales.  Live music is an attraction on weekends and holidays, lasting throughout the summer into October.  There are also photo ops at the “Portal to Big Sur”, a wooden sculpture that looks like a big donut (or toilet seat, you decide).  There is also a fairly steep and somewhat challenging hiking trail leading down to the beach.
    Helpful Tips:
    •  No Wifi unless you are staying at the Inn, and even then it is sketchy
    • Expensive gas prices
    • No cell service
    • Rooms are a bit outdated
    • A good place to stop on the long drive between outposts of civilization in the area
    • Pets are allowed at the Inn and on the premises
    Other Fun Activities in the Area:
    • Hike to Salmon Creek Falls. This natural waterfall is located 3.6 miles north of Ragged point Inn close to Hwy 1. An interesting feature of the waterfall is that it actually starts out as two waterfalls that merge into one as they cascade down 120 feet. It is a relatively easy and popular hike with a round trip distance of only .25 miles. The pullout for the trailhead is 45 miles south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The falls are visible from Hwy 1. Salmon Creek Falls is also next to the Silver Peak Wilderness area.  For more information, see Salmon Creek Falls
    • Visit Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery.  Located almost 11 miles south of Ragged Point Inn, the colony includes more than 17,000 elephant seals, which gather seasonally to safely avoid predators and frolic playfully with their pups.  Elephant seals are the largest seals in the northern hemisphere.  For more information, see Elephant Seals
    • Visit Hearst Castle.  Located 15 miles south of Ragged Point Inn, Hearst Castle was designed by famed architect Julia Morgan for business magnate William Randolph Hearst.  It is nestled on 127 acres of meticulously groomed gardens and terraces.  For more information, see Hearst Castle
    • Visit San Simeon Pier, 15.5 miles south of Ragged Point Inn.  This area is protected by the Marine Life Protection Act and is home to seals, otters, humpback whales, elephant seals, pelicans, ospreys, and much more.  For more information, see San Simeon Pier
    • Take a tour of Piedras Blancas Light Station, located approximately 9 miles south of Ragged Point.  For more information, see Lighthouse
    • Visit the romantic village of Cambria, 22 miles south of Ragged Point, for fabulous shopping and delicious sunsets at Moonstone Beach.  For more information, see Cambria
    • If you are into hiking hidden trails and experiencing isolated beaches, visit the very private Ragged Point Beach. This is 1.8 miles south of Ragged Point Inn. The trailhead starts at a small pull-out parking area on a bend between a blue call box and a “no campfires” sign. The trail is called Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.  It is a .6 mile steep and fairly strenuous hike with a 400-foot change in elevation.  The black sand beach is extremely private and is flanked by rocky bluffs.  There is also a seasonal waterfall here called Black Swift Falls.  
    • Visit the Big Sur Jade Festival in the Lost Padres National Forest, directly across from Sand Dollar Beach on Hwy 1.  This beloved annual festival, which draws people from all over the world, is usually held for three days in October.  Multiple vendors sell and showcase their work, ranging from tiny, delicate pieces of jewelry to huge slabs of stone harvested from the sea.  For more information, see Big Sur Jade Festival

    I hope that you enjoy Ragged Point and the wonderful sights around it!  Thank you for visiting my blog.  Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas!

  • Travel

    Partington Cove: Tanbark Tunnel to the Sea

    September 21, 2018 /
    If you have ever wished to find pirates or buried treasure in the Monterey area, your best bet is Partington’s Cove. I think the name should be changed to Pirate’s Cove because it resembles something out of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. It is located 1.8 miles north of the entrance to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and 6 miles south of Nepenthe. It is easy to pass by due to poor signage. Look for the trailhead turn-off inside a hairpin turn on the west side of Hwy 1. Once you reach the trailhead, follow the half-mile dirt trail downhill. At the bottom, it splits into two trails. Turn left at the bottom and cross a wooden footbridge above Partington Creek.
    Follow the path along, and you will see a 100-foot-long tunnel bored through rock. The tunnel was constructed in the 1880s by homesteader John Partington, to enable the transport of lumber from the tanbark forest above the canyon to ships moored in the cove. Tanbark provided the tannins necessary to tan hides into leather. Mules were used to haul the lumber down the canyon to the ships.
     You can still see remnants of iron and wood structures used to moor the ships in the cove. You can also see tangled kelp forests as they sway gently in much of the cove. I imagine what it must have been like to see a ship moored here. It seems to me that swashbucklers could have been here. I can almost hear them chanting “Fifteen men on a dead man’s chest, yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum!” Speaking of rum, Partington Cove also has been rumored to be affiliated with Prohibition bootlegging ventures, but this has never been substantiated.
    As you return and cross back over the footbridge, instead of turning right to return up to Hwy 1, turn left. Following this will lead you to a beach where Partington Creek cascades and spills over stony boulders and rocks into the ocean. It is a wonderful place to sit and reflect. As the waves crash onto the sandy shore, I think I hear a parrot shrieking “pieces of eight!”  But I  am shocked out of my reverie when I realize it is my friend calling me, “we’ll be late!”  He has been thinking he saw a mermaid in the cove!
    Whether you like pirates or mermaids, experience Partington Cove yourself and let me know what you think.  Adventure awaits!
    Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas!
  • Travel

    Cambria, California: Top 10 Things to Do!

    September 14, 2018 /

    Charming, romantic, and fun, Cambria lies smack dab between L.A. and San Francisco on Hwy 1, just south of the famous Hearst Castle in San Simeon.  With a population just a smidge over 6000, Cambria is small but jam-packed with fun things to do.

    Cambria is the Latin name for Wales. Cambria is situated amidst one of only three rare Monterey pine forests.  
    It was named by a local surveyor from Cambria County, Pennsylvania. If you love the beach, art galleries, boutiques, wine tasting, and intimate restaurants, Cambria is the cat’s meow.

    History

    Cambria was originally settled by the Chumash Indians and eventually, settlers moved here for the farmland and lumber. In 1862, Cambria became a boom town after the discovery of cinnabar, the ore from which quicksilver, also known as mercury, is made.

    What To Eat

    There are no McDonalds, Burger Kings or Taco Bells here, which adds to the quaint, old-fashioned ambiance of the town. Favorites include Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill (great views here), Robin’s Restaurant, Indigo Moon, Black Cat Bistro ( I love this name!), and Madeline’s Restaurant.  If you just want to grab coffee or tea and a quick breakfast, I recommend Cambria Coffee, located on Main Street.

     Where To Stay

    Cambria is known as a romantic getaway.  There are numerous bed and breakfast inns in town. There are also a plethora of hotels across Hwy 1 from downtown Cambria on Moonstone Beach (or at least, across the road from it).  Our hotel suite had a second story patio overlooking the beach and sliding doors you could leave open at night to allow the cool, delicious ocean breeze in.  I would highly recommend finding lodging near the beach, as it is incredibly beautiful.
     

    What to See & Do

    • Moonstone Beach is very user-friendly beach and has a beautiful 1.5-mile boardwalk with many benches and vista points. At the beach, you may see a variety of animals, including elephant seals, sea otters, and shorebirds. The beach was named after the moonstones swept onto the beach by the ocean. Beachcombers are a frequent fixture on the beach. Beautiful stones and occasional sea glass can be found here. There is also a dearth of driftwood, and people constantly create interesting driftwood sculptures on the beach.  For more information, see Moonstone Beach.

    • Hearst Castle is located just north of Cambria.  Designed by famed architect Julia Morgan for business magnate William Randolph Hearst, this opulent estate is a must see.  Originally called “La Cuesta Encantada”, or The Enchanted Hill, the castle has 165 rooms.   It is nestled on 127 acres of meticulously groomed gardens and terraces.  You will be wowed by the artwork and statuary that Hearst collected, including castle ceilings and Cardinal Richelieu’s bed.  It is said that the film “Citizen Kane” is based on William Randolph Hearst and his “castle” certainly supports that conjecture.  The film chronicles the life of a newspaper tycoon who amasses fame and fortune but is unable to buy love or happiness.  Although decades have passed since Hearst lived there, it still inspires amazement.  For more information, see Hearst Castle.

    • Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is about 4.5 miles north of Hearst Castle.  This colony includes more than 17,000 elephant seals, which gather seasonally to safely avoid predators and frolic playfully with their pups. Elephant seals are the largest seals in the northern hemisphere.  The best time to see seal activity is in the winter, from December through February.  Males, which are 14-16 feet long and weigh up to 5,000 pounds, begin arriving in late November, and their female mates come in December.  February is the busiest month for the elephant seals, with almost 4,000 pups born in just a few weeks.  For more information, see Elephant Seals.

    • Wine Tasting.  Cambria is the gateway to wine tasting, with local wineries and more in nearby Paso Robles and Templeton.  Wineries in Cambria include Moonstone Cellars, Cayucos Cellars, Cutruzzola Vineyards, Twin Coyotes Winery, among many others.

    • Shopping.  Cambria is home to many artists and creatives, and you will find amazing art galleries and antique, garden, home decor, pottery, beadwork, and clothing shops. My favorite is Home Arts, which includes beachy boho decor including pottery, baskets, macrame, furniture, and artwork. As a Wisconsin native, I was also pleasantly surprised to see an Ephraim Pottery Shop on Main Street. Ephraim Pottery is also located in Lake Mills, Wisconsin, and features craftsman style pottery and ceramics in the American arts & crafts style of the early 1900s.

    • Cambria is home to “Nitt Witt Ridge“, a home built at 881 Hillcrest Drive by Arthur Harold Beal, also known as Der Tinkerpaw or Captain Nitt Witt. Beal was a garbage collector for the town of Cambria in the 1940s and 1950s and used of what he found to build it, including beer cans, abalone shells, washing machine drums, automobile parts, and old stoves. He also purportedly worked at Hearst Castle for a time and incorporated remnants from the estate into his own home.   Although Mr. Beal has moved on to the big Nitt Witt Ridge in the sky, you may tour his previous home, which is now a California Historical Landmark.  For more information, see Nitt Witt Ridge.

    • Take a Tour of Piedras Blancas Light Station.  Located 15 miles north of Cambria, you can tour this historic lighthouse, although it appears to have something missing on top.  If you’re wondering where it went, check out downtown Cambria for the original Fresnel Lens.  For information on guided tours, see Piedras Blancas Light Station.
    • Other Outdoorsy Activities you may enjoy in Cambria include biking, hiking, fishing, surfing, and kayaking.
    Surfers enjoy catching the waves
    • Explore Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.  Follow coastal bluff trails to see red-legged frogs, marsh hawks, as well as other local and endangered species at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, a 430-acre protected wildlife habitat.  For more information, see Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.

     

    • Visit the Coastal Discovery Center.  Located on San Simeon Bay, the center is a joint venture between Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and California State Parks.  It provides education regarding the cultural and natural history of San Simeon.  It is located just across highway one from the entrance to Hearst Castle.  For more information, see Coastal Discovery Center.
    Interesting Facts
    • The 1990 film hit Arachnophobia was filmed in parts of Cambria and at the local high school
    Annual Events
    •  October: Cambria’s Annual  Scarecrow Festival features over 300 scarecrows lining the town’s streets.
     Helpful Tips 
    •  Use the Cambria Village Trolley to get around town.
    • Public restrooms are on Burton Street, just off Main Street.

    I hope you enjoy Cambria as much as I did!  Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas!

  • Local Events,  Travel

    Shake Your Tail Feathers at the Monterey County Fair

    September 5, 2018 /

    The 2018 Monterey County Fair’s Theme was “Shake Your Tail Feathers”, which of course, as a chicken mama, I loved.  I am also inspired by seeing the dedication of all the young people in 4-H to their animals and to this event.  It is clearly a great deal of hard work, and I respect all the effort they put forth.

    I went the very last day of the fair, which I found out later, was probably not a good idea.  The last day, all children under 12 get free admission, which means, it is usually the busiest and most crowded day to go.  Yet, for the most part, everyone was very peaceful and unruffled.  It actually was moderately calm and low-key, considering the crowds and lines.

    Rides, food, farm animals, musical talent, live entertainment, demonstrations, souvenirs, home-made foods and crafts, ribbons & prizes; the Monterey County Fair is a recipe for good old-fashioned fun for all ages!

    There were even wine tastings from local wineries.  We are in wine country, right?

    One of my favorite buildings is the Wool Building.  I always love seeing the ladies with their spinning wheels, diligently operating their wheels while simultaneously chatting and providing information to visitors.  If I ever retire, I want to learn how to operate a spinning wheel.  Maybe I will also finish all my crochet and knitting projects too!

    Of course, my very favorite part of the Monterey County Fair is the animals.  I wanted to snuggle with all the cute farm animals, but alas, I had to follow the rules and stay outside of their pens.  It was especially difficult with Mr. Pig (see photo below) as he was so ridiculously cute and had personality plus!  There is just so much to see, smell, hear, taste, and touch.  I would highly recommend the Monterey County Fair!

     

    Too much fun!  I can hardly wait until next year’s Monterey County Fair.  Thank you for visiting my blog.  Wishing you peace, love & happiness!

  • Farm Life,  Home & Garden

    15 Things You Should Avoid Feeding Your Chickens

    September 2, 2018 /

    There is nothing more adorable than watching a hen waddling as fast as she can toward you in anticipation of getting a treat. Her little legs moving as fast as she can, her eyes full of excitement. Giving treats to chickens is indeed a fun experience, but it is good to know which treats are bad for your feathered friends. While most fresh fruits and vegetables are fine to feed your flock, the following is a list of treats you want to avoid.

    Do NOT feed chickens the following, as they can be TOXIC:

    • Apple seeds. If you are going to give your chickens apples, make sure to first remove the seeds, as they contain amygdalin, a substance that releases cyanide into the bloodstream when digested.
    • Green or sprouted white potatoes. They contain a toxin called solanine, which affects the nervous system (it’s bad for both birds and people).  Sweet potatoes are fine to feed chickens!
    • Avocados. The pits and skins contain the toxin persin, which can be fatal to chickens. The fleshy part is safe to give them in moderation.
    • Chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to birds and many other pets.
    • Uncooked beans, rice or legumes. Uncooked beans contain a toxin called hemaglutin which is dangerous to chickens. Cooking the beans before serving them to the chickens is ok as this kills the toxin.
    • Raw eggs. Your chickens may enjoy the taste of raw eggs so much they will eat them from their nesting boxes. It is best to either scramble or boil eggs before feeding them to your flock prevent this.
    • Onions, chives, and garlic. These affect the flavor of your hen’s eggs and can contribute to the development of Heinz Anemia.
    • Rhubarb. Rhubarb contains oxalic acid, which can cause calcium deficiency. Prolonged exposure can lead to kidney failure.
    • Really salty foods. Some salt is okay, but too much can be deadly.
    • Moldy food. Never feed any foods that are moldy or rotten. If you wouldn’t eat it, they shouldn’t eat it either.
    • Raw meat. Never, ever feed your poultry raw meat. It can carry parasites and diseases. It may also lead to aggressive behavior and cannibalism in your flock.
    • Dairy. Chickens aren’t able to digest lactose, but if you want to give small amounts of yogurt, it’s ok. Just know that dairy can cause diarrhea. A good substitute for dairy would be oyster shells.
    • Grass clipping and pulled weeds. Never provide this to your chickens as it can lead to an impacted crop. It’s best to let them forage for themselves.
    • Raw peanuts. Feeding chickens these legumes is a big NO.  They contain a trypsin inhibitor (trypsin is an enzyme that the pancreas makes to help the intestines absorb protein) and can be deadly.
    • Eggplant peelings. The flesh is ok, but the peels contain solanine which is toxic.

    My chickens prefer the following treats: strawberries, cantaloupe, watermelon, grapes, lettuce, kale, Swiss chard, and broccoli. Let me know what treats your chickens enjoy!  Thank you for visiting my blog.  You may also enjoy Hen House Inspiration: The 20 Cutest Chicken Coops Ever! and Common Chicken Sayings.  Wishing you peace, love, joy, and happy chickens!

     

     

     

     

     
     
     
     
  • Food,  Travel

    Deetjen’s Rustic Inn & Restaurant in Big Sur

    August 26, 2018 /

    This is fourth in my series of reviews of iconic Big Sur restaurants, look for more in the future!

    Deetjen’s Restaurant & Inn lies in Big Sur’s Castro Creek Canyon, nestled beneath a grove of ancient redwoods.  With eclectic room names like “Chateau Fiasco”, “Top Antique” & “13th Room” (to be avoided if you have triskaidekaphobia), Deetjen’s combines authentic Big Sur spirit with vintage furnishings, beautiful gardens, and delicious food.  Deetjens Big Sur Inn, open since the 1930s, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Currently, the Inn is operated on a not-for-profit basis by the Deetjens Big Sur Inn Preservation Foundation.

    History

    After the opening of Highway 1 between Carmel and San Simeon brought an influx of visitors to the area, the Deetjens decided to provide a  place for people to stay and enjoy a home-cooked meal.  Built from 1936 through 1950 by Helmuth Deetjen and his wife Helen, Deetjen’s features rustic cabins constructed with authentic Norwegian craftsmanship.

    The Restaurant

    The restaurant features outdoor dining beneath a canopy of wisteria, or charming indoor dining next to a cozy, crackling fireplace.  The food here is amazingly delicious and guests regularly rave about it.  What more could you ask for?

    The dining room exudes a cozy, home-like environment

    The Inn

    Throughout its history, Deetjen’s has been a refuge for writers, artists, and celebrities.  Nonetheless, this is a basic, no frills kind of place.  There is no wi-fi, no television, no cell service, no swimming pool or spa.  Some rooms share a bathroom.  The rooms are small and thin-walled, with wood stoves for heat.  Yet there is a charm and comfort here you will find nowhere else.  Opportunities to hike, bird watch (including the rare California Condor), or enjoy the gardens abound.  Guests also enjoy perusing each room’s journal for previous lodger’s stories and tidbits of wisdom.  Deetjens states that their mission is  “to preserve the history of the Inn by providing a peaceful, retreat-type experience for our guests”.

    Tours

    You are free to look around the grounds on your own, or you may wish to join a formal tour.  Tours of the historic inn and grounds are available Tuesday through Thursday at 10 am, or you may schedule an appointment for a private tour.  During your tour, you may notice one of the adorable resident cats roaming the gardens.  One of the cats, Fabio, even has his own blog! (see Fabio)

    Another beautiful garden at Deetjen’s

    Location

    Deetjen’s is located at 48865 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA, just south of the Henry Miller Library.  For reservations or information, call 831-667-2377 or see Deetjens

    An exquisite hand-made mosaic adds to the creativity of the garden

    Thank you for visiting my blog!  Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas!

     

     

     

     

  • Travel

    Shark Fin Cove Beach and Sea Cave

    August 23, 2018 /

    To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles. Shark Fin Cove, located .7 miles south of Davenport, California, is one of these miracles.  Want to get away from it all and get lost in a beautiful place?  This hidden gem will impress you with a stunning walk-through sea cave and an island shaped like a shark’s fin, the result of hundreds, perhaps thousands of years worth of sand being pummeled by the sea’s incessant waves.  

    Shark Fin Cove & Beach were previously owned by Coast Dairies.  In 2006, 407 acres of coastland and beaches were donated to California State Parks.  Shark Fin Cove & Beach are a small part of this donation and are part of the much larger Coast Dairies State Park.  Currently, the Coast Dairies State Park spans about a six-mile segment west of Hwy 1 North in Santa Cruz County, just south of the small town of Davenport and includes Bonny Doon, Laguna Creek, Panther, Davenport Landing, and Scott Creek Beach.

    This secluded beach offers great opportunities for photographers because of the sea cave and other features, including the shark fin rock structure. There is also an old mining tunnel on the beach with a delicate waterfall trickling down that is said to be a geocaching site.   In addition, there is another amazing arch that may be crossed underneath at low tide.  Watching the ocean is mesmerizing but be aware that at times the powerful and dangerous waves here have the potential to sweep you out to sea.

    This is a beautiful, rare, and amazing place.  Yet, there was another side of Shark Fin Cove Beach that made me sick.  People have used spray paint to defile the natural stone with senseless graffiti.  People also camp out here and leave their garbage lying on the beach instead of cleaning up after themselves and taking their trash with them.  They treat this place like a landfill.  It is incomprehensible and unthinkable.  How can you abuse such a place of perfect beauty and tranquility?  We all have a responsibility to protect areas like Shark Fin Cove and hand them down unharmed to those who come after us.  “The earth gets tired of being exploited.  A country was made to be as we found it”–Ernest Hemingway

    How to get there?  From Santa Cruz, follow Hwy 1 north approximately 10 miles.  Just north of parking for Bonny Doon Beach, you will see a dirt pullout.  You will be able to see railroad tracks west of the parking area.  Take the trail over the railroad tracks and you will see a sign and behind it a trail leading down under a large pipe.  Follow the steep trail down under the pipe (try not to bump your head like I did!), and when you get to the bottom the sea cave is to the far left.  Straight ahead you will see the rock formation shaped like a shark fin.  The old mining tunnel with the trickling waterfall is to the right, just at the foot of the trail.

    From the parking area, it is approximately .3 miles to the beach.  There are other trails leading to cliffs above the beach that allow beautiful overlooks of the area and lend themselves to great photo ops.  This is a great place to watch the sunset, beachcomb, or have a picnic.  Again, respect our seashore and leave no trace!

    Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas!

     

     

     

  • Travel

    Picturesque Pigeon Point Lighthouse

    August 20, 2018 /

    Pigeon Point is one of the most picturesque lighthouses to grace the Pacific Coast.  It is also one of the tallest lighthouses in California, standing 115 feet high (it ties for this honor with Point Arena Light north of San Francisco).   It was built in 1871.  It is named for the clipper ship Carrier Pigeon which ran aground near Whale Point, which was renamed Pigeon Point in memory of the shipwreck.  Rock-strewn and foggy, the ocean here is treacherous.  Submerged rocks, swirling currents, and eddies presented a challenge even for the most experienced sailors.    Due to persistent thick fog, navigational readings were unreliable.  Signals from fog horns and other ships were also easily misinterpreted.   After three more shipwrecks occurred in the area, Congress approved the construction of a lighthouse at a cost of $90,000, which would be over two million dollars today.

    The Fresnel “beehive” design used glass prisms to bend and refract the light within to create a powerful beam.

    The lighthouse originally used a first-order Fresnel lens but now uses an automated one to aid navigation.   Pigeon Point’s original first order lens was the largest size made.  It is nearly eight feet tall, weighs 2,000 pounds, and is the biggest and strongest lens size.  The lens was invented by Augustine Fresnel and consists of 1008 glass prisms.  These prisms concentrate a light source within to project a strong beam over a great distance.  The original Fresnel lens is now housed in the on-site museum.  Pigeon Point Lighthouse had a specific pattern of a flash of light every 10 seconds to help ships identify their location.  Pigeon Point also had a steam generated foghorn installed in 1899.

    In 2001, brickwork supporting outside walkways on the top of the structure collapsed, and the lighthouse was closed to tours. Although you cannot tour Pigeon Point Lighthouse due to structural instability, you may explore the grounds on your own or follow a docent lead tour. It is sad to see such an amazing part of California history crumbling and deteriorating due to lack of funds to repair it.  There currently are efforts by the California State Parks Foundation and the Coastside State Parks Association to raise private funds to restore the lighthouse and grounds.  I hope they are successful!

    The skeletal remains of a whale are displayed on the grounds.

    Pigeon Point is a great place to view native wildlife, including humpback and gray whales, pelicans, cormorants, sea lions and harbor seals.  You can also see a rocky island in Whaler’s Cove called Prisoner Rock because local fishermen were often trapped there during high tides.  You may also enjoy seeing the remains of the Point Arena, a ship that was loading tanbark at Pigeon Point in 1913 when rough seas forced her onto the rocks, tearing a hole in her hull.  You can still make out the ship’s name in the weatherbeaten wood.

    There are many meandering pathways and trails on the property to follow for great views of Whaler’s Cove.  There is also a huge piece of driftwood which provides opportunities for photo ops!

    Pigeon Point is a State Historic Landmark and is owned by California State Parks.

    • Location: 210 Pigeon Point Road, Hwy 1, Pescadero, CA.  It is 50 miles south of San Francisco and lies between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay.
    • The phone number is 650-879-2120.
    • Hours: 8 am to sunset.
    • Admission is free.
    • Half hour guided tours are available daily at 1 p.m.
    • A museum and gift shop are open
    • Pit toilets are available.
    • Hostelling International rents cottages on site, see California Hostel
    • Dogs, drones, and smoking are not allowed on the premises.

    For more information on Pigeon Point Lighthouse, see Lighthouse and for more interesting history regarding this lighthouse see Lighthouse History

    Thank you for visiting my blog!  Wishing you peace, love, happiness, & beautiful vistas!

     

     

     

  • Food,  Travel

    Delicious Places to Eat in Monterey on a Budget

    August 17, 2018 /

    Monterey is not only a beautiful coastal city but is also called the language capital of the world. Monterey’s ethnic and cultural diversity is reflected in the wide variety of food available here. Many restaurants in this area tend to be on the pricier end of the spectrum. But do not fear, there are tons of places here where you can find delicious food without emptying your wallet, if only you know where to look! If you are hoping to find some great, budget-friendly, delicious places to eat you have come to the right place!

    The Paris Bakery

    • Open 7 days a week, this local favorite offers a fresh selection of pastries, soups, salads, fresh fruit, and sandwiches. The Paris Bakery is operated by the Jegat family from France 🇫🇷 who originally owned a bakery in, you guessed it—Paris!
    • Cuisine: French
    • Where: 271 Bonifacio Place, Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday, 6:30 am – 4:30 pm. Sunday.
    • What to order: At lunch pick up a spinach, tuna tomato, or onion rosemary quiche for $4.50, or a croque monsieur, a delicious blend of ham, Bechamel sauce, and gooey Swiss Cheese on French bread. This is a large sandwich and you can easily split it between two people for only $6.00. Then, c’est magnifique! You will still have $$ left for espresso or dessert!
    • Note: There are two locations, one in Seaside and one in old Monterey. I recommend the Monterey location because it is within easy walking distance to all the downtown shops and museums and is just a few blocks from Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
    • Hot Tip: There is a huge parking garage two blocks west of the bakery in Monterey if you plan on heading out for shopping or sight-seeing after lunch.
    • Helpful Links: Paris Bakery

    Dametra

    • Dametra, at Del Monte Mall in Monterey, CA is the much cheaper, more casual sister restaurant to the more expensive but amazing Dametra Cafe in Carmel-by-the-Sea. While you won’t see belly dancers or listen to the kitchen staff crooning Greek songs tableside here, the food is just as delicious and very affordable.
    • Cuisine: Mediterranean/Middle Eastern
    • Where: 630 Del Monte Center, Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: Open daily from 11:00am – 9:00pm
    • What to order: Gyros, kabobs, chicken shawarma, falafel, dolmas, salads, baba ghanoush, and spanakopita. They also have Moroccan mint tea, Turkish coffee, beer, and wine. The most expensive item on the menu is the “plate” selection which includes your choice of meat or falafel, rice, and two sides (I usually pick a salad and spanakopita). You also receive freshly baked white or wheat pita bread. All for $9.95. The portions are huge, so bring your appetite.
    • Note: There is seating both inside and outside. I usually prefer to sit at the window bar and people watch.
    • Hot Tip: Spring $2.50 for the baklava, thin layers of phyllo dough filled with walnuts, pistachios & honey. You will not be disappointed.
    • Helpful Links: Dametra

    Chopstix

    • You can’t beat the value you get for quality Vietnamese food here. Everything on the menu is less than $7.99.
    • Cuisine: Vietnamese
    • Where: 1244 Munras Ave., Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am-8:30 pm
    • What to Order: Favorites include Vietnamese Egg Rolls, Pho Gà Chicken Noodle Soup, Lemon Grass Beef, Vegetarian Glass Noodles with Tofu, Mandarin Chicken Wings, and Vietnamese BBQ Pork Chops.
    • Note: The restaurant is fairly small and may fill up quickly during peak meal times, I recommend making reservations, OR order take out and head to Del Monte Beach for a picnic.
    • Hot Tip: Try their Vietnamese coffee or choose from their dozens of flavors of milk tea and Boba!
    • Helpful Links: Chopstix

    Compagno’s Market & Deli

    • This beloved Monterey market has been keeping Defense Language Institute students and Monterey regulars well fed for over forty years. They were voted best deli sandwich in Monterey and it is easy to see why! The sight of these ginormous subs with their super fresh and tasty fillings will astonish you.Cuisine: Italian-American
    • Where: 2000 Prescott Ave. Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: Open daily 9:00 am-4:00 pm
    • What to order: I recommend the Hoagie with salami and mortadella or the chicken salad with almonds on either the soft baked or Dutch crunch bread. Order a half size sub for $8.99-$9.99 and it is still big enough give you two meals. For two people order a full size for $11.50-$12.50 and save even more. If you are vegan, no worries, they offer a delicious no-meat sub with sprouts, mushrooms, avocado, cucumber, and bell peppers.
    • Note: This place is somewhat off the main drag in the middle of a residential neighborhood and has a teeny tiny parking area on the west side that rapidly fills during peak lunch time, it is best to arrive early.
    • Hot Tip: Take your subs down the hill to San Carlos Beach, which marks the end of Cannery Row, at the intersection of Cannery Row and Reeside Avenue and watch the scuba divers at this popular dive area.
    • Helpful Links: Compagnos

    Gianni’s

    • This well-known pizza joint has not only great pizza but also sandwiches, pasta, and calzones. Pizzerias come and go, but this one stands the test of time, and for good reason.
    • Cuisine: Italian
    • Where: 725 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: Monday-Thursday 3:30 pm-9:30 pm, Friday-Saturday 11:00 am-10:30 pm, Sunday 11:00 am- 9:30 pm
    • What to order: Try the mouthwatering meatball sandwich for $8.37 or the linguine & clams marinara for $10.94.
    • Note: The parking lot fills up quickly during peak times, you may want to make reservations and arrive a bit early if you want to be seated on time
    • Hot Tip: This is within walking distance of the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
    • Helpful Links: Giannis

    Mundo’s

    • Mundo’s is close to downtown Monterey and has great food for great prices. They are fur baby friendly, so you can take Fido with you!
    • Cuisine: American
    • Where: 170 Webster St., Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 am-7:00 pm, Saturday-Sunday 10:00 am-5:00 pm
    • What to order: Try the spicy tuna melt for $9.29 or the grilled eggplant sandwich for $7.99.   They also offer Curry Chicken Salad with Ciabatta or Tortilla Wrap for $6.99.  The ciabatta bread is what makes the cake: it’s done perfectly–lightly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
    • Note: They do not take reservations or deliver
    • Helpful Links: Mundos

    Monterey’s Fish House

    • It is Monterey, so you have to try seafood, right? I recommend Monterey’s Fish House. There are always long lines here, night after night, and for good reason!
    • Cuisine: Seafood
    • Where: 2114 Del Monte Ave., Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: Lunch: Monday-Friday  11:30 am – 2:30 pm, Dinner: Monday-Sunday 5-9:30 pm
    • What to order: Try a bowl of their delicious clam chowder for $6.95 or split an entree; the portions are very large. I recommend it ALL.  There are no bad choices here!
    • Hot Tip: Make reservations or you may end up waiting in line for an hour or more
    • Helpful Links: Monterey’s Fish House

    Caffe Trieste

    • Located in downtown Monterey, close to shopping & the wharf.
    • Cuisine: Italian
    • Where: 409 Alvarado Street, Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am -10:00 pm
    • What to order:  Try the Tonno Melt or Veggie Panini for $9.99
    • Hot Tip: Sit outside and enjoy the fresh air and Monterey vibes.  On Friday and Saturday nights, there is great live music!
    • Helpful Links: Caffe Trieste

    Parker-Lusseau Pastries

    • Housed in the historic Fremont Adobe building and close to  downtown shops and Colton Hall Museum
    • Cuisine: French
    • Where: Three locations, but my favorite is 539 Hartnell St., Monterey, CA 93940
    • Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 am -5:30 pm, and Saturday 7:30 am- 4:30 pm
    • What to order: Favorites include the turkey with honey dijon on a Croissant for $7.25, Portabella & Leek Quiche for $6.50 and the daily cup of soup for $4.75.  If you want to go straight for dessert, the Almond Croissant is to die for, $5.50
    • Hot Tip:  Sit outside at the tangerine colored tables and people watch
    • Helpful Links:  Parker Lusseau