Bob Mattson, Barbara Sparhawk, and Black Walnut

Last week I got an email from a friend and fellow blogger in Carmel Valley, Barbara Sparhawk. What an amazing lady. Her life has been so rich and diversified, I want to be her when I grow up. She wrote for CBS News, FOX, and others in NYC, all the while doing huge murals in NYC, Coney Island and other places. You can find a sprinkling of who she is here: hawk’s Perch

Any way, she emailed me about a walnut tree that had shed a limb that she wanted to offer to a Big Sur wood carver. Rock Knocker is such a carver, so I asked if he would be interested. “Hell yeah!” he said, and so we were off to see the Farm Center in Carmel Valley on Robinson Canyon Rd. I hadn’t been since I moved to the South Coast, and there were LOTS of changes! I love what the place has become – an artist’s colony. Here are some photos of that journey.

I am convinced that Barbara is a soul sister from a past life. If not, she should be!

Barbara carried 90% of the wood to Rock Knocker’s truck. What a gal! I’ll make sure there is a bowl for you, but RK says it will be at least a year before it is ready to carve. If he won’t carve it, I will. My maiden name is “woods” for a reason!

bigsurkate

Appointed appellate counsel for indigent defendants (retired.) I have lived in Big Sur since 1984, first on the north coast, and on the South Coast since 1989.

View Comments

  • I hope you got a look at her painting and gallery. Stunning and inspiring work, or should I say play!

    • I DID, and only wish I hadn't left my camera in the truck when I did, or there would have been a photo of that incredible space, with Barbara in it!

  • Kate, what a sweetheart you are. You've bowled me over, speechless. The only thing to add is that I want to be Kate when I grow up. Also Rock Knocker.That was a fabulous day. Can't wait for more branches to fall!

  • I/WE of the Central Coast of CA and everyWhere have and express great gratitude for your vision and love in action.

  • I love Barbara and miss her presence in the Big Sur Village. Now I know where to find you sweet Barbara, and know even more about your beautiful soul.. I will come to visit you soon, great write up Kate and I can envision your past life together. Bet you two kicked up some talk and inspiration for free thinking.

  • Sounds like a party at the Farm Center. Kate, I loved the picture of Barbara with the flying hair.

  • Being a horse enthusiast, Kate, that last photo caught my eye. Is that the inside of the farm center? All those saddles are so interesting!

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