Ancient Peace

Pea soup fog hung over the Napa Valley hills, kissing April grape vines, row upon steep row, with the lightest touch of dampness, soon to dry in the hot California sun. I'd just walked my Daughter down a rose petal strewn lane beneath a laurel lined arbor, giving her hand to a good Man, waiting between two towering Coconut Palms. Duties accomplished, Grandma (my mom) and I were on our way to visit an obscure ancient coastal redwoods reserve, the first so designated. A brief stop at San Raphael Mission fortified us spiritually to walk amidst 2400 year old pines. The shaded old growth paths smelled familiar, the scent similar to my favorite trails in Superior National Forest, the difference being these groves were much older. We are drawn to nature's peace, and placing my hand on the marble like tree trunks, I absorbed a silent sense of everlasting peace these ancient friends of mine were willing to share. Mindful of the passing of time, words weren't needed to understand the obligations I fulfilled, blessings I transferred to my Daughter, handed down from my parents, Shared with the universe 5/05/17