My Jaunt to the Russian River and an Encounter with the Spirit of the Sisters
So, I’d been hearing some chatter, you know, through the grapevine, about this group – the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence – and that they were pretty active or at least had a presence up around the Russian River. I’m the kind of guy who likes to see things for himself, not just read about ‘em. My curiosity got the better of me, so I figured, heck, why not go take a look?
Making the Trip and What I Found (or Didn’t)
One weekend, I just decided, “Today’s the day.” Got in my old truck and pointed it towards the Russian River. It’s a nice drive, scenic and all that. I wasn’t exactly sure what I was expecting to find. Maybe some big event, or just a general feel for how they fit into the local scene up there. I ended up poking around Guerneville mostly, as that’s usually where the action is.
Now, I didn’t stumble into the middle of a full-blown parade with habits and glitter flying everywhere, not that particular day anyway. But you could kind of feel something in the air. The Russian River’s always had this independent, open kind of vibe, and it felt like that was still going strong. I wandered around, kept my eyes peeled.
Piecing Together the Story from the Ground
What I did see were some flyers for a charity bash they’d been part of. And you know me, I like to talk to actual people. So, I grabbed a coffee and got chatting with a couple of folks who’ve been around the area for a while. That’s where you get the real scoop. One old-timer, he told me these Sisters are known for their, let’s call ’em, memorable outfits. You know, the whole drag thing, and they use all this religious-looking stuff but turn it on its head, make it funny. He said it’s their way of poking holes in uptight attitudes about sex, gender, and all that jazz. And the kicker? They raise a ton of cash for good causes. Can’t knock that.
- They’re definitely out there, not afraid to be seen.
- Seems like humor and shocking folks a bit is part of their toolkit.
- And it’s not just for kicks; they’re helping people out with the money they raise.
Another person I talked to mentioned they’ve been doing their thing for ages, started back in San Francisco like, way back in ’79. The gist I got was they’re all about fighting against people being made to feel ashamed or guilty, especially for who they are. You know, taking on homophobia and transphobia. So, even though I didn’t see a Sister in full, glorious costume that day, their kind of energy, their purpose, it felt like it was woven into the fabric of the place.
What I Reckon After That Day
It was a decent little trip, that’s for sure. I didn’t get the big show, but I got a better feel for what these Sisters are about, at least in the context of the Russian River. It’s not just about being loud and wearing crazy costumes, though that’s part of it. Seems like there’s a real purpose there, a real drive to stir the pot for good reasons and to support their community. The Russian River area, it’s always been a bit of a sanctuary for folks who march to their own drum, and the Sisters, well, they seem to embody that spirit perfectly. Made me think a bit. It’s good to see people passionate, not afraid to make some noise, especially when they’re trying to help folks and challenge ideas that are way past their sell-by date.
So yeah, that was my little look-see. Just me, being curious, poking around. Always better to get out and form your own damn opinion, I say.
