Summer Solstice at Crystal Cove State Park

On June 21 we celebrated the longest day of the year at the continent's edge. People around the world – throughout time – have celebrated the summer solstice. European traditions refer to the Summer Solstice as Midsummer because it is roughly the middle of the growing season. Summer was a joyous time of the year for the people who lived in the northern hemisphere: The rain and cold had disappeared; Warm temperatures had returned; Flowers were blooming; Leaves had returned to the deciduous trees. Some herbs could be harvested, for medicinal and other uses. Food was easier to find.


Before walkng down to the beach we paused on the bluffs to read When Clay Sings by Byrd Bailor. "Every piece of clay is a piece of someone's life," they say. And the children try to imagine those lives that took place long ago. Clay has its own small voice, and sings. Its song has lasted for thousands of years.



Each solstice and equinox, when we do our traditional walk down to the beach, we do a “renewal ritual.” This year we made “power pots” to carry our hopes in for the coming season. We used salt water from the ocean to smooth our clay. Salt symbolizes the Earth, and the Earth symbolizes fertility and overall abundance. Water cleanses and purifies, it represents movement and transformations. We burned some incense to symbolize the Air. Air is the sign for communication. Air gives you clarity of thought. We set our pots out to collect the Summer sun’s “Fire.” Fire represents passion and emotion. It is helpful in destroying bad habits and burning away those things we don't need in our lives. It brings purity, enlightenment, power and vision. Many of us made symbols on our pots using items from the beach. I filled mine with feathers, shells and seaweed – and left it for someone to discover.



Join us for July Full Moon Walk at Crystal Cove State Park!
July 29, 7:30PM

Join us for a quiet, slow paced walk to enjoy the “Buck Moon.” We’ll stroll through the backcountry listening for the song of tree frogs and nocturnal insects. As the sky fades to black, we’ll search for the darker silhouettes of bats and owls, as they soar across fields of stars. Call 949-509-4787 or email lori@backtonatives.org to RSVP. Meet at the CCSP Ranger Station. This event is free.

Blue Moon Drum Circle at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

We had a great time at the recent Blue Moon Drum Circle at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park on 5-31-07. According to some, a blue moon occurs when a second full moon occurs in a calendar month. The evening began with a blessing given by an Acjachemen woman, who brought her grandmother, whose name was "Blue Moon." Then the drumming and dancing began and we were happily surprised to be in the company of many friends - new and old. The scent of mulefat filled the air and the night was filled with positivity and hope.