Windstorm

Well, we have just gone through an exciting 2 days of strong winds and no electricity here in Cambria. We witnessed at least 6 of the magnificent Monterey Pines fall just in our local neighborhood. We reluctantly had 3 on our property removed just last month but now we are glad not to have to worry about them crashing into our house. They only live 40-60 years and are very shallow rooted as you can see in the following photos. Many in our area are at the end of their life and also have beetles infesting them. I must say that the emergency worker here (PGandE, Charter and Pac Bell and the Cal Fire) have been outstanding and working day and night. As I write there are still 2 crews on our corner fixing the wires in the dark. They told us that they are off to Santa Cruz when they are done to restore power there. Last night tree trimmers were working all night cutting the trees that blocked the roads. We have also enjoyed talking to our neighbors as we roam the streets. The sense of community here is amazing. Last night was "Hospitality Night" in town where all of the businesses hand out food, wine, etc and carols are sung to the locals who walk up and down the street. Even with no electricity it was a festive event.
So enjoy the photos Mike took all within a few blocks of our house in the mountain/beach community of Cambria in the Pines. The first house was saved by the wires. The second is "poor car", the next is the where the tree broke the telephone pole.The last picture is our deck strewn with pine needles which is minor compared to other damage.