I find its a great place to spend time with friends or to simply just hang. Its a tie, whether I enjoy Elements more alone or with friends. Maybe its the “compound” nature of the property that lets me have it both ways. The guests always stay in the other cabins, and have their “own” homes so to speak. I really like being a host, and sharing my time at the Russian River and Elements with friends. Time “away” like this, lets you relax, and share more. My pal Thom came up from the city and I learned more about him in a weekend than I had known over several years. We ended up not only taking walks along the creek with the dog, but also working in the garden together. All of that camaraderie had a lot to do with the quiet, music/redwoods/ and singular location. One of the places Thom spent a lot of time working away in rubber boots, was the pond. The day after Thom left, one of the last blooms of summer appeared. And I had gained a better understanding of a friend I had known for years. And since I was in residence my pal Andrew stopped by with the latest in produce fresh from his garden. It became an impromptu luncheon, with a salad crafter between the refrigerator, Andrew’s produce, and herbs from the garden. Of course its from Baleto, but this pinot gris really came from Sophie’s only made the afternoon more sublime. Its become my new favorite wine. And of course I owe it to Sophie’s

I sure have a better appreciation of time at the Russian River, its the one spot I see everyone relax and enjoy everyday.

Its a Saturday and Sunday event, Septmber 11 and 12th. But what I like most about it is the location, Johnson’s Beach. It sort of typifies the Redwoods, with the combination of the trees and the river. And there is an added character of walking through Guerneville on your way to the beach. The location is perfect, but a lot of locals know to arrive early. Its the one of the only times that Guerneville really ever has traffic or parking problems. Also the location just about guarantees you perfect weather.

Just like last year the Jazz Festival is on Saturday.

The Jazz saxophonist, David Sanborn is the big headliner this year. He is consider legendary in the world of jazz, and probably a singular influence both in rock and roll as well as jazz. He shares the stage on Saturday with Joey Defrancesco. Defrancesco brought back the Hammond organ as a jazz instrument. Of course what I admire is his “john Coltrane” style. Its that improvisation that I always like. After all he is consider the “finest jazz organist on the planet”.

Sunday at the Blues Festival will be like the way back time machine.
Doobie Brothers

The Doobie Brothers are the headliner and I dont know that you need say more. For myself, its the music of my generation, or a good portion of it. They have been around for over forty years, and always had great music. Probably their biggest hit was “listen to the music”. There are a couple of other muscians on Sunday, but I am waiting for Charlie Messelwhite. I like his “rough/tough” approach to the blues. And what a voice to sing those “blues”. He gives the music new meaning.
Jazz Festival Weekend is another special way to enjoy a Russian River vacation and its a great summer tradition.

Its a Saturday and Sunday event, Septmber 11 and 12th. But what I like most about it is the location, Johnson’s Beach. It sort of typifies the Redwoods, with the combination of the trees and the river. And there is an added character of walking through Guerneville on your way to the beach. The location is perfect, but a lot of locals know to arrive early. Its the one of the only times that Guerneville really ever has traffic or parking problems. Also the location just about guarantees you perfect weather.

Just like last year the Jazz Festival is on Saturday.

The Jazz saxophonist, David Sanborn is the big headliner this year. He is consider legendary in the world of jazz, and probably a singular influence both in rock and roll as well as jazz. He shares the stage on Saturday with Joey Defrancesco. Defrancesco brought back the Hammond organ as a jazz instrument. Of course what I admire is his “john Coltrane” style. Its that improvisation that I always like. After all he is consider the “finest jazz organist on the planet”.

Sunday at the Blues Festival will be like the way back time machine.

Click here to view the embedded video.

The Doobie Brothers are the headliner and I dont know that you need say more. For myself, its the music of my generation, or a good portion of it. They have been around for over forty years, and always had great music. Probably their biggest hit was “listen to the music”. There are a couple of other muscians on Sunday, but I am waiting for Charlie Messelwhite. I like his “rough/tough” approach to the blues. And what a voice to sing those “blues”. He gives the music new meaning.
Jazz Festival Weekend is another special way to enjoy a Russian River vacation and its a great summer tradition.

By early I mean, 6am. Its when the normal dog population wakes up to find their best friend ready for a walk. They are mandatory, and its the opening salvo of the day. In the city, its the only time it is truly peaceful. You can hear birdsong, just like at the Russian River. And just like in the country, the dog is tugging on the leash. I relish some of the neighborhood views, (Oliver and I live in the Castro). But by the time we are home from the walk, the city noise is up an octive, and the activity level of the city is up a notch. Its the beginning of the business day.

Six am isn’t really a time when you are on a Russian River getaway.

Even though Oliver likes his schedule in the city, he becomes a bed rat in the morning at Elements. Why there is no need to rush, and he will often not even get up for breakfast. That dog enjoys his bed time in the country. So a walk does not start at the same hour in the country. But unlike the city a walk down the road here, is always quiet and you share a rare moment with all of mother nature. This mornings walk was all about summer. The berries are rippening, and tomorrow morning there will be enough for a pie. There is no where in the city you could walk on a road, and pick berries! You can here.

Even though Oliver and I just walk Austin Creek Road, we see great signs of summer. The queen anne’s lace if just about to start blooming and the traditional “thistle” is in full bud. Just like with the berries, Oliver I and often pick our flower arrangement as we take our walks down the road. The walk in the city and the one in the country are both good for you physically. But I suspect its the walks in the country that do the body and soul best.

One of my favorites is to explore Armstrong State Park. Its a huge park, and so many people are completely unaware of its location. It is one of the last primal stands of redwoods that use to cover this entire area. Most of the old growth redwoods were harvested for timber in the early 19th century. Although its a large park, the grove itself is only one element. There is also a campound, visitor center, and amphitheater all located right on the  main walk, “Pioneer Nature Trail”. The redwood eco system is delicate, and there is a new study underway to determine the effects of our new warming climate on the redwoods. The study group is planning a new station at Armstrong Park later this year.

Another activity I never tire of is to explore home.

Where ever you stay when you are at the River you are really aware of mother nature. Elements is not near the size of Armstrong, but with its unique location there is still a lot to explore. The property is bisected by a series of waterfalls, and during the winter and spring the roar of water is permeates the entire property. That stream bed is its own eco system, and I often like to explore it. Because its a challenging walk, I often dont take Oliver. And without his presence there is a quietude that really lets me feel like I live in my own miniatire Armstrong park. Sean Poreda (our artist in residence) took some new pictures last month and they really demonstrate the beauty that surrounds us everyday in the redwoods.

Like the rest of Northern California, Sonoma County has been unseasonable cool. Santa Rosa, and Sonoma usually have temperatures in the high eighties. Its not unusual to find periods (3 days) of really hot weather, where the temperatures soar over the ninties and hit a hundred. Not this year. Thats why it has been so fanstastic at the River. Our usually warm temperatures are down in the ideal comfort range. You can wear those shorts, and even lay in the sun. The coastal fog that puts such a cloud on San Francisco, doesnt penetrate inland to the River. But since we are so close to the coast, its there in the morning, misting the redwoods. Its perfect for kyacking, and taking those picnics on the river. Thats the summer cycle for lucky people on a getaway at the River.

The cooler summer isnt the best news for our local grape growers.

The vineyards look really lush green this summer. Since I drive back and forth so often (and with my vineyard backgroud), they are something that I watch and understand. This hasnt been an easy summer for the vineyard people. We had a great start this winter, and the water table is in excellent shape. This Spring everything was on schedule. But now with this “perfect” weather, its going to take a long summer to be ready for harvest. Of course that can mean incredible fruit, over a long easy ripening. But it also puts your harvest at risk. The later into October the more likelihood of rain. And some grapes just cant take that moisture. The old farmers (and to some extent myself) also believe that nature always balances things. They would argue, that it means a long summer, and that the rains will come late. It doesnt make a grape grower sleep any easier, but that theory would mean a long summer at the River. It may be a tradeoff, but I hope this slow moderate summer hangs on, it has really been one to remember.

What is almost ready to harvest are the local wild berries. I have had some taste treats on my morning walks with Oliver. They too are slow to ripen this year, but its an immense crop just sitting there by the road. They are one of those summer treats, that go really well with homemade ice cream. Elements keeps one of those traditional ice cream machines. It has the traditional electrical motor versus the crank. I havent noticed a difference in the final product though, its always the taste of summer for me.

Or at least we fit the profile. We have been spending so much time in the city (yes business has been good), that a week away feels like we live in the city. And as I much as I love San Francisco, its not the spot for an outside loving person during the summer. Yes there are exceptions but after a week of “gloom”, there arent many. So our drives north lately has Oliver barking at the cows as we pass through Novato, like they were new again. The changes I notice are usually in the vines along our route. (I have had a long history with agriculture, horses and wine.) What we both enjoy the wonderful way the fog grows thinner, and you can see sun.

I naturally look at the vines to see how they are growing, and whats going on in the vineyard.

After a week, the changes are noticeable. The vines are almost done growing, cept the zins, and the bright green of young growth; is replaced by that deep green. The leaf is mature, and its a little factory starting to produce. And in the vineyard I can see many rows that have either been leafed, and trimming is underway. It all means we have really started developing this year’s crop, and from now on, its all about the crop and the eventual harvest. I think the challenge this year will be a late harvest. The recent cooler weather will really slow down ripening, especially for the reds. The good news, if you believe the old farmers, that means a long hot autumn. For the River area thats just a continuation of great weather through the end of October.

For the Russian River vacation visitor the summer really starts now, and only improves through the end of October. The relaxed pace of the River, mixes sublimely with the warm breezes that blow through the canyon. The dog usually takes to his sofa or lounge and languishes like a diva waiting for “someone” to say that magic word “walk”. Then its a mad dash down the driveway at Elements, and the cure for those cold days in the city.

Many times its the natural response to sharing common interests, like the Russian River and Sonoma. But a lot of time it happens through emails and phone calls preparing for a vacation at Elements. A lot of time this year that has meant family reunions, and they can be challenging (especially for the “pointman”). Whether its a family reunion or a close group friends, its the pointman I interface with so often.  Not only do they have to handle the reservation, they usually handle the travel, and the special events so we are always exchanging emails about ideas.  Its always a pleasure at the final meeting. Not only do we finally get to meet, but I also get to introduce them to Elements.

The newest guests at Elements, Alicia and her pals left Elements after a weeks stay.

I had a quick phone call as they were departing the property. They had a wonderful time, and really admired the tranquility of the location. But the phone call was really to alert to me to gifts they had left behind. And indeed when I joined the housekeeper I discovered their gifts. The wine and candies were care “hidden” throughout the compound. And often, when you looked in the wrong spot, you discovered another “gift”; like a peacock feather hidden in the grass. They also left behind their music, on Pandora. Pandora is great for letting you select music that goes with you mood and envoirment. Since, any time you add music of interest, it becomes a station at Elements. The Pandora channel at Elements is really becoming quite a library of interesting music, some of which I would have never discovered without these addtions (gifts).

one of the new photo's by Sean Poreda, Alexander and the rooftops

a great shot of the beach at "Dolores"

They both have definite advantages. But I think most of us would love the idea of the country more; sort of the tradition. I have tried to consol myself, this is the first Fourth of July weekend that I spent the city in three years. Alicia and her gang have Elements, so I am looking to celebrate the fourth with the advantages of the city. Oliver and I took off on a morning walk and since we live in the Castro it’s always a way to get the “pulse” on the city in the morning. Seldom to I get up, and have a chance/need to put on shorts and a tshirt in the city. So already the morning was warm, but I was surprized to see alot of people heading out wearing board shorts, T-shirts>  Heading down to what this part of the city calls the “beach” which is Dolores Park. Dolores Park really doesn’t have any water  or a pool; what it does have is the most amazing view of the downtown skyline with broad expanses of lawn and hillsides. Literally everyone brings their dogs, and picnics. The hillside becomes perfect for the sunbathers, with just the right angle for the sun. The lower areas of the park have trees and tables, which attracts the families looking for their outting. Its the working man’s beach, but a great deal of fun. Of course this being the city packing lunches and picking up the food is incredibly easy do. With the range of food in the castro, you can shop as you walk. Sandwiches from 16st, and soda’s from the corner store. And you can do this all as you simply walk down the street towards the park.

Only on exceptional weekends, does anyone consider the Pacific Ocean as the beach.

It really takes the right combination of weather, and wind to make the coast clear and inviting. This is one of those weekends, its clear and warm, and you know the beach is the coolest spot in the city. Places like Baker Beach excel, the weather and the view melts away the afternoon. Its really quite amazing to see the variety of food that’s offered there as well. You have every thing from the Beach Challet, to the Java Hut and hot dog stands. Muni offers the easiest ride to the beach, and this morning the bus stops had people with their towels ready to go.

Its the summer, and the fourth. It would seem to be the right tradition to take Oliver off to the beach. But when you are in the city you do have two to choose. Happy Fourth of July.

Elements has had a number of family reunions this Spring, and even more are planned for later this summer. The Russian River area is perfect for families, since there is such a wide range of things to do. One of the first guests this spring commented how much she liked the mornings. Over breakfast everyone in the family would discuss their plans for the day. Some would head to the wineries, and others would make plans for balooning or other adventures. Her morning was complete when they all left on adventures, and she enjoyed her day reading or simply enjoying Elements. She never left, she was content enjoying the serenity of Elements.

Summer is really what the natives at the River call living on Russian River time.

Something happens after you drive into this peaceful part of Sonoma County. As you leave the freeways, your speed decreases, and suddenly you see a part of nature you havent noticed before. The country roads into the Russian River area, wind through vineyards, and forests. The slow pace make you aware of each, and when you finally see the river, its with a new calm. The demanding pace of the city has faded, and each day the time driven side of you relaxes more.
My way of enjoying the river is always a hike with the dog (Oliver). Even the normal walk to the 3 mile bridge changes everyday, between the light and the weather. The biggest change lately has been our local stream Austin Creek. Its one of the purist water sources in Northern California, and a raging torent during the winter. (Cazadero has one of the highest rainfalls). But during late Spring and early Summer, it becomes the most buccolic sights imaginable. The bank to bank mass of water during the winter, is replaced with a wandering creek, with beaches filled with native vegetation. Its the Russian River version of the old swimming hole, that too few experienced as kids. Here at the River I get to relive that; wandering down the country road, seems the same now as then.