Its back to favorites
I have been away too long.
I knew that “bucket trip” was going to be long but I had no idea of what I would miss at Elements. When I left it was the middle of summer, and although cooler than normal we were even beginning to have a few hot spells. The Russian River was of course ideal, since its usually a bit cooler than the inland valleys. Main street in Guerneville was crowded with the vacation rental crowd and the Safeway had lines. A typical summer. My summer vacation was in even a warmer climate, southern europe, so I felt right at home. And in my mind summer just continued along, although in another location.
Since my return though I can see it has turned to Fall, while I was gone. The leaves on the maples are beginning to turn.
the changes of Fall
And the wild berries of summer are completely gone (there goes that pie idea). The weather has become crispy in the morning, with those long languid warm afternoons of Fall. The summer throng in Guerneville has disappeared along with the lines at the Safeway. Its the perfect time to have a vacation rental at the river, and tour the area. Not only are the wineries in full swing, its also the last of our great Farmer’s Markets. My favorite market is in Occidental. The village itself is in the middle of the “Bohemian Zone“, and a total delight anytime. The market is a pure reflection of that spirit. Everything is really from a local, from the honey to the meat pies. (The meat pies are the best!), and usually there is accompanying music that adds to the festivities. There is never a crowd, and the shopping is often more informative. I love to hear what the growing conditions were like, and what part of the county they live in. The markets end at the end of the month, and the last few do mark the passage into Fall. The last few are especially sweet though, they really represent the true harvests of our local farmers.
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