Outside the open window, the slender leaves of a giant eucalyptus flutter in the late afternoon breeze. The salt air is pure, sweet, and comforting. I am close enough to the water’s edge to see and hear the ocean, and her waves as they crash upon the rocky shore.

I am here to drink in the splendor of the North Coast. This place was of my father’s heart. Throughout his life, he would come here to dive, fish, camp, and learn the many lessons the sea offers. In turn, he would bring us here to learn them, too. My father gave me the North Coast. At the very least, he gave me his love for it.

It makes sense that I would come here to honor and remember Dad. Everything about this moment and this place makes his presence real. I am grateful for this gift.

My son is with me. We enjoyed a wonderful drive. It was a relaxed time of lengthy silences sprinkled with gentle conversation. On portions of Coast Highway 1 between Bodega Bay and Fort Ross, we passed mile after mile of charred landscape. In some places, it was obvious that the recent wildfires had made their way right down to the water.

Max is here to spend time with his mom, but he is also here to fish. This motivated him to set off on foot for a bit of pre-dinner angling. I have chosen to stay behind and recover from the long drive.

I will enjoy every minute of these next few days. A nap is an attractive option for the immediate future. The important thing is to be here, to breathe it in for Dad. His grandson will fish.