The Sun Shines Again

Driving south from the North Coast of Oregon, I had been under the cover of dark clouds for most of my trip (pretty much since Anacortes, weeks!). No longer! The clouds have parted and the sun is shining. I am writing from The Crazy Norwegian restaurant in Port Orford, OR. I am camping six miles south at Humbug Mountain State Park. It's car camping and I'm pretty close to my neighbors, but I am enjoying the luxuries that this type of camping provides. I took a hot shower as soon as I made camp, first in about three days. Last night, I slept on both my camping mats. This morning, I made a fresh pot of coffee. "Summer time and livin's easy!"

The previous two nights, I backpacked in the Drift Creek Wilderness Area in the Suislaw National Forest just east of Waldport. Stopping at the local Ranger Station, the super friendly Ranger recommended this area. From the trail head, it was a peaceful three mile walk downhill to Drift Creek. The forty pound pack kept all my body heat close to my back. I couldn't resist the call of the river. I immediately jumped right in feeling refreshed and alive.

I decided to camp next to the river as it was the only source of water along the six mile trail. I camped without seeing another human that night and tried to stay sane in spite of the mosquitoes. In the morning, a family, a Dad, son and daughter, hiked down the hill and camped in the same general vicinity. They were nice enough and Bdog even got to socialize with their two dogs for a little bit. The river provided a great buffer so I didn't hear them when I was in my camp. The second night, the flying insects were even worse. Bdog had to spend all of his time moving or in the tent because he had a swarm of mosquitoes and biting flies around his head at all times. They didn't bother me too much, but I made a camp fire in hopes that the smoke would keep them away. (I don't think it worked :().

I learned from that river, watching it flow. It appears the same, yet its always new. It mimics life that way, I guess. It is said that history repeats itself, but its more like the river. It appears the same but after careful inspection, one realizes that its forever dynamic. New players, new rapids; looks the same to the casual observer.

I am going to camp one more evening at Humbug Mountain State park and then hit the road again. California is close, but I might make one more stop in Oregon before I leave this incredible state. These magnificent forests, some say old growth, speak to me. For two years they have been my backyard. I have tried to learn about their various parts, identifying flora and fauna. But, these living systems truly are more than just the sum of their parts. Visit, stay, listen; they'll tell a story if you have the patience and will to hear their wisdom.