[Zeke]

I love the design and in fact saw something almost exactly like the drawing in Laguna Beach. It incorporated a seat, like a shady place to stop and rest. I believe the log poles were notched in typical log construction fashion. I would sink the support poles according to the percolation factor of the area, i.e., in packed sand if the area is largely decomposed granite. I like to pour in dry concrete mix and then fill with water. This usually ensures a hard post support, but with enough flaws to provide lots of drainage. Any topical treatment to the pole bases and the structure itself are beneficial.

I'm sure the consensus will bring about more ideas. Be sure to somewhat calculate wind load and sink the poles accordingly.