Descending the California Coast south on 101, Ukiah is where wine country begins. The wineries start just north of the city limits, where the rugged redwood terrain of the north opens up to a relieving valley of vineyards. Somewhat relieving in comparison to the last few small town hops, Ukiah is the largest population center south of Eureka, and I already had contacts lined up for a stay here.
I stayed two nights here with Lindsay and Rob, a thirtysomething bro and sis duo whom I met through Liz– a recent new friend made a few days ago while walking 101 south of Laytonville. Lindsay is a multi-talented, high tempo ball of energy who leads a very progressive lifestyle, successfully has a hundred things going on at once, and always seems ready to take on more. She accompanied me Monday (09-NOV-09) through Ukiah, and took much camera footage along the way. One of her many activities is producing video for the local Public Access TV station– all that Ukiah has for local news. Lindsay also scored us a free dinner at Ukiah Brewing Company and Restaurant, the nation’s first certified Organic Brewpub. Following the dinner was a free movie– Where the Wild Things Are– again compliments of Lindsay’s persuasive magic. She encouraged me to contact Ukiah Natural Foods for some donated groceries on the way out of town. I did so via e-mail later Monday evening, and received a call that a $30 gift certificate was waiting for me there, compliments of the store manager, the following morning. Lindsay said she may wish to serve as something of a part-time press agent for this Walk. I’m very optimistic about this possibility, and we’ll see what comes of it. (Link to Lindsay’s site.)
After a necessarily slow start, socializing lots on the way out of Ukiah, meeting and walking with great new people in the process, I nearly reached Hopland Tuesday evening, and Couchsurfing host Jeff, a local real estate appraiser who lives off the grid in the hills outside of town, picked me up at the fire station off 101 and brought me back for a great dinner and place to stay for the evening.
Another great day down; another great day to come…