March 16, 2011 – Kelp

Kelp seems to be the word of the day. It is the best, natural source of potassium iodide, which can inhibit radiation reaching the thyroid gland. The capsules have flown off the shelves. I got some kelp snacks, just in case the worst happens in Japan and we get an even bigger dose. It all is taking me back 25 years ago when I lived in Switzerland. It was during Chernobyl as radiation spread in pockets around Europe. It’s the same old misinformation and disinformation campaign. Alas, not all retro experiences are good ones.

As for kelp, let’s keep it beautiful. While I have never been diving, I have been to the Monterey Aquarium a bunch of times and I do love the kelp forest. A folder full of photos of the big tank and, at last a painting. It makes me want to take a little road trip down the coast.

February 2, 2011 – Pacific

The Pacific Ocean was living up to its name today. Well, at least here in Northern California. It was hard to imagine a monster typhoon was hitting Queensland on the opposite side of the Pacific Ocean.

It was extraordinarily calm and clear today. Driving up Route One, above Stinson Beach the Farallon Islands popped on the horizon. 27 miles away, the islands deceivingly looked like an easy jaunt. This was the ocean Magellan dubbed Pacifico. Later that afternoon we strolled on the beach at Limantour. Calm and quiet — a bit warmer and it would have felt like the tropics. Winter is always worth a few trips to Point Reyes. The afternoon light and the crisp, clean air always renew me. Now on to February…