Lots of dramatic celestial events arrive in the upcoming week. The full moon of Nov. 15, a so-called super moon because it appears larger in the sky, is accompanied by seven-foot morning high tides, some of the highest of the year. This moon is called the “elder” moon in the Celtic tradition, for its time of renewing energy. Fog permitting, its brightness will overshadow the peak of the Leonid meteor shower on Nov. 17. The constellation of Leo, the Lion, will rise in the eastern sky after midnight.
As autumn continues, many species have begun their period of rest and renewal, preparing for the blooming and birthing of spring. A few species are just now completing their annual cycle of producing seeds and fruits, including California bay laurel, with their fragrant leaves, and Pacific madrones. Bays are dropping what look like small purple eggplants; peel away the fleshy purple skin to find a hard-shelled edible nut. The deep-maroon-barked madrones are festooned with sprays of bright red berries. Both plants provide medicinal bark and edible berries and nuts to many Indigenous Californians. A particularly large madrone pops out at the top of White’s Hill.
The national seashore’s roads, trails and visitor centers remain open on the Thanksgiving holiday. Thank you, readers! I remain grateful that I can share the beauty and wonders that surround us and provide some “light” to our community.