March 15, 2002 stands out as “just another day in
Baja.” The morning was typical – breakfast, coffee, and Cribbage
(crushing Phill once again!). Soon we were off with Michael in our
little Panga to “brave the elements” (you know, sunshine and still
waters). Morning boat rides were always refreshing
as we skipped along accompanied by a mildly chilled, salt
water-scented air. (I love that smell!) Our boating escapades took us
to the birthing grounds of Blue and Fin Whales and the playground of
hundreds of bottlenose and common dolphins. For Phill just another
typical day in Baja; for the “guy from Cleveland” a natural “Sea World”
complete with aerial displays and thunderous splashes. There we were,
mimicking the whalers of the past, armed with our Canons and Nikons with
shutters clicking almost uncontrollably.
(Click
here to view movie clip of "Lens Splash")
Soon after our
lunch the weather changed as the winds picked up… could it be an "El
Norte". We battened down the hatches and began the journey
home. Alas! The winds were too strong so we decided to anchor in the
cove of a small island and wait for winds and sea to calm. It didn’t
take long for one of us to begin skipping rocks and a contest quickly
developed. Then we found ourselves throwing rocks into a hole 80 feet
above our heads--men and their simple pleasures! Perhaps this was how
our Neanderthal cousins first taught their young to hunt. Upon
completing our cave man rendition of tiddly-winks, Phill and Michael
explored our tiny oasis while I just sat. Sat and watched the seas…
mesmerized at times…not thinking, not talking, just sitting.
Refreshing!
Once in a while, we would take a rest from the sea-
and at behest of Michael's family, go Copalito hunting. The Elephant
Tree, which is common near Loreto, produces a golden sap which smells
like an exotic incense when burned.
(Click
here to view movie clip of "Pablo is Coplalitos")
So went my time with Phil - simple, no rushing
around, no deadlines to meet, no work to complete at home, just
refreshing times with Mother Nature.
My encounter with Phil was so refreshing that I
absolutely had to meet him at the Secret Spot Sonoma. Another story for
another time, but highlights filled with great food (the abalone and
wild pig were incredible), great wine, and good times with Chris and
Phill (like cruising ATVs through the vineyards, practicing hunting
skills in the bush, and even winning $150 in the 15 minutes we spent at
the Casino). I look forward to returning to wine country for harvest!
Ultimately, my time with Phill is always refreshing!
