A Train into the Forest

An excerpt taken from an email by Howard and Donna on their recent trip to California

The Skunk Train out of Fort Bragg, California we boarded one fine day in October. I will never forget the people on board a tour bus of energetic elderly people, some middle aged people and one couple that I will never forget as the husband had so many stories to tell about being a test pilot for the USAF. None of us knew each other but we were there together to experience this wonder of going up through a foggy valley in Mendocino County. Our conductor had lived here some eons ago in this canyon far away from civilization. It was very cool and the open railway car was occupied by curious people from many places. As they gazed in wonder at the huge trees, I felt as if I had been lifted in time to a place that was once a dream world filled with spirits and messages from another world.

Our conductor told the story and history of this special place. I smelled the fog and fresh odor of the Redwoods and caught glimpses of a hint of blue sky above. Huge stumps some 20 feet in diameter with fairy rings of younger trees only 100 to 200 feet tall stood holding hands around them as if paying homage to their ancestry.

TO BE CONTINUED . . . . . .

Take Me Away!

I have been searching and searching for something meaningful to add to the blog this week. Our blog is contributed too by a lot of us who share a common love of a special place called 'The Natural Gait.' We couldn't be a more diverse bunch except I think for the love of this place and an ideal of becoming more in touch with our inner selves and our surroundings. Myself I work on the web sites from my home and I look forward to a trip to "TNG" with the excitement of a kid going to the candy store! What a place to set and reflect on life, nature and the pursuit of....

I don't know what makes this spot on earth such a sanctuary, maybe its the people who own it and the land just radiates there love and respect for nature or the combination of the natural log cabins, the wildflowers, the birds and wildlife that seem to "know" that they are safe here.
This reflection reminded my of the things that "set me free" or "lifts my spirit." Or the dozen other descriptive terms that puts us in a nice peaceful state of mind and body.

Every since I was a kid I have loved feeling the wind in my face and blowing my hair. I have spent some time through the years trying to figure out why the wind has such a calming effect on my body and spirit. I still don't have an answer except for the glimmer of a thought that I am joining in with a natural phenomenon called "wind". Becoming part of the natural world around me.

As a young woman I liked nothing better than to hop on a motorcycle behind my husband and ride fast (that was pre helmet laws) Just to feel the wind blow on my face and mess up my hair. We had horses at the time and I had a mare that loved to run and that was fine by me as we spent precious time together watching the scenery fly by with my eyes stinging from the race that we both felt we were winning against the world. The oneness I would feel with my horse during those times is unlike anything I have ever felt since.

Last year we came into a little extra money and my husband bought me my "dream car". Yes you guessed it a convertible! We had given up the motorcycle life a few years ago due to me becoming scared of riding on them and my husband claimed he didn't enjoy it without me on behind.
Back to the car! I can not put into words how this car has effected my life. When ever I feel low I just hop in put the top down (weather permitting) and go! Fifteen minutes later all my cares just fly away in the wind. What a rush!
What sets you free? Kay

The Natural Gait 2007 Trail Ride

Hello Everyone! The 2007 Trail Ride was a hugh sucess from all the feedback we have been getting. It is always so satisfiying when you know that folks had a good time and enjoyed themselves. Here is a video by one of the guests that attended the trial ride. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. The music is by Pat Meade songwriter and singer. His CD's are for sale at The Natural Gait