A Living Magazine - Day 38 - The Coast and the Most

It was lighter than I expected when I awoke in the mint field. I slept really well. It was comparatively quite comfortable. The ground was hard but not bumpy. Still, the blue of the sleeping bag was becoming more apparent as the sunrise drew closer. I was far away from any houses, but sometimes the small difference in color can stand out. Point is: It was time to move on.

At some moment I remembered it was my birthday. I've never been a big birthday celebrator. It really always seemed like another day to me on most years. But, I knew that other people truly looked forward to their birthdays. There must be a reason for it. Yet, I had no particular expectations for the day.

I wasn't very far from Corvallis--maybe six miles. The walk was easy, at about 2 hours (remember, I walk about three mph). I've found that there are always plenty of photo-worthy sites along the way, no matter how long or how short...

A grange hall. Neat architecture.

My uncle Lew is named after the lower part of the sign.

Don't know what kind of tree. Some kind of nut--probably hazelnut.

That funky star gonna rise!

I knew I'd made it when I reached Marys River Bridge. Corvallis is a town I'd never heard of before until this journey...

Immediately, I found a Burger King to get online at, and was able to locate the library. I'd packed my laptop in such a way that the power button was not as easily pressed by other stuff in my backpack.

The power drain from being inadvertently turned on while I was  hiking was becoming a big issue. I would power it up at a library (for example) and by the time I'd get to a new town (even if it were just over night) the damn thing would be dead as a door nail.

It did a lot of other funky stuff while it was on too! It would take pictures and videos of the inside of the backpack. It got so prolific at this unintentional activity, that I actually started a Facebook picture album of its photographic prowess. Friend me there, if you haven't already and see to what I refer.

I was finally able to read a message sent from my friend, Susanne Backalish, letting me know she would be in Corvallis on this day, and that if I wanted to come spend a couple days on the coast--in Newport, she'd be able to pick me up. The offer was very generous. She was another online friend who I'd never met in person. I took a few minutes to gather my thoughts; taking into consideration that I had lost so much time trying to get hiking boots. But it wasn't hard to say, "Yes!"

Again, like the day before, I worked feverishly to get the post done in time. She would be stopping by at about 2:30 pm. And, I did it. But these fast posts do lack something in content, though they might have satisfying pictures. It's all good though! Things must happen in their own time, and by their own methodology.

Eventually, the post was done and published. Then, I waited outside for her and her husband Bob to pick me up. They were right on time and we headed for the coast.

We had a great discussion in the car about all kinds of subjects. We basically subscribe to the same Cosmic Philosophy, and since the followers of said ideas were so few and far between, there was much to discuss. And, we did discuss much.

When we arrived in Newport, a nice cool wind was blowing. In fact, it never stops...

Susanne on her back deck.

The views, as the sun went down.

Susanne made a wonderful dinner, which included rice and a delicious chicken and vegetable dish that integrated kimchi (the fermented and spicy Korean cabbage delight). It was out of this world! Susanne can COOK! It was filling and very satisfying. They cook low carb dishes--something right up my alley.

Upon learning that it was my birthday, they gave me a few unusual, very special and hugely appreciated gifts. I could not have asked for more. It was ideal--peace, companionship and a bit of mind expansion.

As the night progressed, we talked a lot more. Bob is wise man and has experienced much. I felt a real inspiration listening to his ideas. Coupled with Susanne's knowledge, it was refreshing to have a conversation that was deeper than just the weather. I really missed these kinds of talks, and was so appreciative to have them, especially with such wise folks. Nothing will erase the memories of this precious time with them.

In my guest room a soft bed was prepared. When I'd worked long enough on my essay and transferred a bunch of files, the yawning and nodding-off began, indicating that it was, indeed, time to bed down.

This certainly was no field or forest. I could sleep like a human being. The shower and laundry I was able to do made it an unmatched opportunity. Question: What exactly would we do without such caring and loving friends. I'd never met Susanne or Bob in person until now. Yet, they opened their house and their hearts to me, unbidden, like it was a natural and automatic thing to do. How blessed is that? Honestly? I think the world is not filled with angry, brooding, hateful individuals who have such terrible lives that they want to ruin the lives of others. NO!! this planet we all share is guarded by human beings who exceed themselves. They are so much more than the sum total of their various parts. For me, Susanne and Bob exemplified this compassion. 

I slept for well-over six hours. I even turned back over and slept for another hour and a half. Bliss...