Being born and raised on the beautiful Mendocino coast, I grew up with the lighthouse. I would tell us if it was foggy that day, and along with the lighthouse, would be the bell in the bay. If the ocean was rough that day, the bell or buoy would let us know. A fisherman would tell you that they didn't need a radio station or newspaper; just listen to the wind and the bell in the bay and look at the lighthouse. I was always mesmerized by the life of a lighthouse keeper and the beauty of that stately building that protects all within its reach.