I want to tell you about the magical moment on my walk tonight. I decided to try and follow the creek up the hill to its source, and possibly find a spring. I switch-backed up and up and low and behold I did find a spring. It was encased in beautiful old stone work that forms a series of shallow pools. In the hill is a "grotto" that is closed off by a large metal door. Through the peep holes one can see that the stone bed goes back 10 or more feet, the waterfall can only be heard.
I also saw a bronze plaque near the curb where the water drains into a pipe that reads:
I excitedly memorized Sanford's name and started back down the hill to look up water temples in Sausalito. Within a few steps, I saw an interesting looking couple walking down the street and thought maybe they would know something about this. So I asked. “Well yes, I built it”, Sanford replied. We introduced ourselves. His wife, Violeta, wearing a black beret (as I was) is an architect as well. Sanford is a sculptor. As we walked along together I heard some great stories about their history with Sausalito, she a City Council member in the 70's. That council is responsible for all of the City parks along the waterfront today. They told me the story of the fateful landslide nearby, caused by a blocked culvert. Stories of neighbors gathering in the evenings around the grotto drinking wine. Someone played a violin. Many more stories that I will be happy to share.
I am about to email them and say how delighted I am to meet them. I would like to pull some friends together to help restore the vegetation around the spring. Sanford kept it up for 10 or more years. It is now covered in crab grass. I will transplant some nearby ferns and plant my willow cuttings and Coral Bells. Maybe get to it this weekend. If anyone is interested let me know. I will also be testing the water for drinkability! Grace's old doggie got the most glorious coat after he started drinking daily from the creek where it spills out on the beach.
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