Ashland OR

July 29th – 31st

Orcas Island, Astoria and Ashland OR. Every town that I’ve spent more than a day in feels so much like my hometown of Nelson BC, probably a reason why I have stayed so long. My hosts in Ashland, Kayla and Hawkeye are an exceptional example of living simply and working hard. Their garden is spectacular and their willingness to teach me about anything I ask is greatly appreciated. More to come on Ashland as I’ve been sitting in front of a computer screen for hours and have to make way to California.

I will tell you that I spent the evening in the garden discussing the importance of annual gardening as opposed to the Permaculture approach, which is often a ten year commitment. Yesterday, I was under my motorcycle for the better part of the day fixing a small oil leak that turned into a long project trying to extract broken bolts from my exhaust system. The evening before, I talked with David Voell, a young chef on his way to Italy to train as a butcher, learn Italian and complete a 3 year degree program at the Gastronomical Sciences Institute, a slow food initiative. Much to talk about but I must make my way to the heart of Humboldt County, perhaps pushing further to Willits CA.

Dave