Finally, temporary relief from our long term drought. In early January, a series of atmospheric rivers filled our depleted reservoirs, resupplied groundwater,  quenched thirsty vines and flushed out salt build-up in the vine root systems. This may bode well for a stellar growing season. These intense, periodic rains are typical of what California has experienced throughout its history. Albeit not a panacea, we endure.

*The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge.

Photo credit: Carolyn Huyck
Santa Ynez River from Lompoc's Robinson Bridge (Hwy 246) on 1/9/23.