Wings of Angels and the Souls of Russians

When traveling, there are certain places that one will repeatedly choose to take a moment out of a schedule just to feel at peace for a mere moment in their otherwise arranged lives.

Each time I am in the area of Jenner and Sea Ranch on the California coast I will, no matter how late I will arrive at my final destination, visit two very mellow and nearly oblivious to the main stream tourist special destinations.

The first one from Jenner heading north is Fort Ross; a Russian Fort. One of California’s unique state parks, here you will find the first constructed Orthodox Chapel south of Alaska. This fort was created in 1812 and last used by the Russian government/merchants in 1841.

The fort lies on the west side of the San Andreas Fault line. The fault itself can be found on the other side of route 1 in the middle of the fort’s apple orchard. (The trees still bear fruit!). You will know you are on the actual fault by the RED line on the pavement. Straddle the red line, and you will be standing on both the plates. It was an incomparable feeling or thought for me, how about you?

The best part of each visit for me is to visit the cemetery. The graves are marked with crosses, however, names are not found. These souls, who agreed to work for their government or merchant never planned on dying there. The heart mourns for those who never were able to see their family again. In some instances these individual’s family members never receive word of their passing. Never knowing what happened to them. At one time planted flowers now grow random and wild, these blooms smile nearly year round at various crosses and sites, while the salt mist lingers in the fragrant air with the soft lulls from the crashing ocean waves.

Second favorite scenic restful place along this exceptional stretch of highway is the Sea Ranch Chapel. Driving north on route 1 the chapel sits a good distance off the right hand side of the road, right after the fire house.

If you are not looking, you will not notice this unique structure. For me, the structure is designed with three (3) angel wings. All the shapes outside and within the structure are that of angel wings. This is a calm and joyful chapel that instantly places a smile on your heart and your face if you just sit and take a deep breath for just a moment. What do you sense or see? Anything more I would add to this portion of the blog would actually take away from your first hand experience, and I really would love you to find your way here without much more than what was written by me or by the chapels website.

I hope if you are in this area of California, you have the flexibility in your schedule to enjoy these two special interests of mine.

A walking, sitting, and dreaming/meditating retreat.

Traveling up and down the pacific coast via route 1 and 101, I found my soul would sing driving north of San Francisco up to the Olympic peninsula. These stretches of ocean, in places, are more magnificent than my childhood romps through the New England coastline.

Unfortunately, there are not as many ‘nice’ places to stay that are dog friendly in the remote regions of this wonderful scenic route. There are quite a few lovely hotels, lodges, and B&B that are stupendous next to the rocky pacific coast, however, with regret, not dog friendly.

When I travel to the ocean, I do not want to stay inland and away from the crashing waves of the pacific, I find the best place possible along the shoreline or nestled snuggly in a harbor.

My favorite, with the bare minimal is Sea Ranch Lodge (stayed there on 3 (three) different occasions). Located in a gated type community North of Ft. Ross, this lodge offers rooms of exquisite coastal views, private bathrooms, down bedding and fireplaces, spotty free WiFi (depending on the weather to be more truthful), and a hot breakfast at their restaurant (I enjoy their Eggs Benedict – different each day: ham, salmon, crab, etc.). A deluxe room during off season – weekday rate can run about $199.00/night. If you require a television in your room, you may pay up to $349/night not including taxes and pet fees. Old sheets and towels, dog beds, and bowls are provided for your canine companion. Personally spread out the sheets on the carpet if the paws are muddy. Save the cleaning crew some time.

There really is no need to travel anywhere once you arrive. Many trails throughout the property, park tables and benches, as well as comfortable chairs makes for a relaxing time. The Sea Ranch Lodge does have an onsite restaurant and bar that specialize in local fare (try the lavender soda with a beef dish). Reservations preferred. Be kind, and leave your companions in your vehicle during your dining experiences outside your room.

The only real draw back that we found was actually with other dog owners. The locals from the community also walk on the trails (why not, I would!), and many do not leash their dogs. A few uncontrolled canines charge over to the nearest leashed dog. The poor dog was not in his normal environment. This non-thinking action can cause much stress for your canine companion, and you. As a tourist, you are looked at like you have the vicious dog when reacting to a charge, which, in reality, this poor dog is scared of the other dog while also feeling that they need to protect you. So be observant, and shoo approaching dogs. Dog fights are not a fun thing any time, especially if you are in control of your dog and the locals are not.

Another problem we had was with another lodge guest. With large outdoor walkways, this patron would ‘hoard’ the entire width with a snippy large breed dog. The problem I had was the women looked at any other person and their pooch as if we were dirty peasant stock. It was obvious that this fellow traveler was from the Bay Area (noted by her vehicle – stickers- and location of the dealership), unfortunately for her, she exuded the stereotypical term of a city snob or elitist. Needless to say, this caused much trauma trying to walk the dogs to and fro the room. And, like any other paying customer, I did voice my dislike for her inconsideration to visitors with and without their dogs, and to the hotel staff.

So, will I stay here again? You bet ya! Advise: DO NOT stay in a smaller room than their deluxe rooms. You will not enjoy the stay as much. Request your room(s) that are the farthest from the lodge’s restaurant. A bit of a walk with the suitcases, however these rooms have better views and less foot traffic by your door. Remember, it is not a cheap retreat. However, what you gain in relaxing with your dog in a remote ocean front wilderness is well worth the expense and the peace you both will find in your souls.

Side note of favorite places to stay along the Pacific Ocean - so far: Best Western – Monterey CA, Best Western – Ft. Bragg CA, Harbor View Motel (No website. Very run down by the outside look, however CLEAN and nicely kept.) Winchester Bay OR. Places to stay near the pacific coast: Best Western – Carmel CA and Red Lion – Eureka CA.