Homelands

Some pics from a recent walk in California, through the land of Asher Witherow. Actually, these images were captured at Mount Wanda National Historic Site in Martinez, about 15 miles west of Asher's haunts. John Muir had a house less than a quarter-mile from here, and is buried nearby. He walked these hills regularly. The "Wanda" of the park's name was one of Muir's daughters.


Mount Diablo (in its summer colors).



Valley oaks.



In the region immediately surrounding these hills, there are more than 7 million people leading bustling lives. But up here all is quiet and timeless.



You're alone with the land that preceded the hurry and noise.


Do I miss this country? Sometimes painfully. But then...


...Oregon is not exactly short on natural beauty.