Hitting Send

It was a Gloriously sunny day which begged for an adventure. But, where to go? I’d already been to the local lake; perhaps it was time to venture into the neighbouring county, appropriately named ‘Lake County’. Nestled between Northern California’s famous wine areas of Sonoma, Napa and Mendocino County, Lake County is home to a number of Beautiful lakes, including Clear Lake, which is the largest natural freshwater lake in California. I chose, however, to head for Lakeport, as I had heard that it was a Lovely town in which to spend the day.

Winding through the curvy mountainside roads, climbing higher, past many vineyards, the journey into Lakeport affords one an opportunity to appreciate the Beauty for which Northern California is understandably known. Through the green forest surroundings, I spied the first of the various lakes for which the county is named. The very deep and aptly named “Blue Lakes”, which consists of two lakes, Upper Blue Lake and Lower Blue Lake, offers a Gorgeous escape. Resting at the base of a canyon, the majestic nature of this 125 acre body of water is breathtaking. There’s something very mysterious about these dark blue lakes which run so deep, they cannot even be measured.

The first four pictures in this post are of Blue Lakes, Dear Reader. Are you not mesmerized by the Amazing colours? Whether one chose to visit for lunch, fish from the pier, or take a boat along the exquisite water, I imagine the experience would stay with one for years to come. And, isn’t the gazebo charming? I envisioned a warm evening of live music and dancing! Can you see it, too?

Having eyes to look out there lets your consciousness out farther. Having ears extends your consciousness out farther. Learning something new extends your consciousness out farther. Learning of the existence of another town over the hill that you didn’t know about extends your consciousness out farther, expands your mind, expands your consciousness.

On the road again, past fields of wildflowers, green and golden mountains, and many orchards. I was particularly drawn to the orchard shown below, with its row after row of trees, light and dark intermingling between their branches. I could easily have sat beneath them for hours, absorbing the serene energy I felt emanating from the area. Isn’t it Wonderful?

At last, the roads revealed the quaint town of Lakeport, with it’s historic downtown and tree-lined streets. Incorporated in 1888, it is the oldest community in Lake County. Offering a museum I’m told is quite worthwhile to visit, a Beautiful library building, and lakeside park, it is very charming, indeed. The lake itself conjures images of a long ago Sausalito, yet to be built upon. It’s easy to understand why many pioneers returned to the area at the end of the gold rush to settle permanently into the area. With its temperate climate, it is also a great place for farming.

The lakeside park was thoughtfully planned to include play structures for the children, park benches for picnics and barbecues, all structured around a gazebo. There were many locales out appreciating the sunny day, the sounds of kids playing carried on the refreshing breezes. How Lovely! After some lakeside appreciation, a walk down main street and a yummy chilled mocha, it was time to journey back home.

On the return, I felt called to capture a picture of the alluring wildflowers, of which there are many, sharing their colourful blooms with the golden fields expansively stretched on each side of the road home. Oh, yes, I do so Love and appreciate my gorgeous Northern California home.

Love and Blessings,
Antonia