Desert Souljourn

2010-03-15T20:42:00.000-07:00

Where do you think this is located? In some tropics, hmm.... Actually this place is located in Mesa, Arizona. How is that possible? Well, from a permaculture perspective, it is given the right conditions. A microclimate can be created and thrive in such a place. During one of my many permaculture sessions, we went and toured a permaculture property on Saturday. The gentleman, Phil, turned his property using resources and principles of permaculture.

This is the bathroom facilities with full ammenities of a shower, toilet and sink. does not smell as he engineered it using natural systems.

This is his office space. Exterior is all of his dried bamboo/banana leaves with a natural building materials in the inside. The leaf debris actually keeps the structure cool even during the hot months of the summer. So without AC, it is comfortable in there.

Here is the kitchen. This is what I call a kitchen!! I think I want an outdoor kitchen someday.

Grows his own bananas and lots of them. Just imagine picking this fruit for a morning delight. The flower is beautiful too.

Phil raises his own goats. Very friendly. Milks them and does kill one or two a year for food source. There are chickens too but they were out and about among the bamboo forest foraging away.
Outside of his acre enclosure of bamboo/bananas haven, is the rest of the property that is compromised of gardens, as above, pecan trees, date trees and yes, a papya tree.

This was more of a tropic permaculture demonstration. They get their water from the irrigation. But the trees are fairly strong and hardy themselves past a certain age. The family sells dates, bamboo fencing, bananas (trees/fruit), banana leaves for folks who make banana leaf tamalaes, and other edibles when in season

South Mountain - National Trail trek

2010-01-26T18:26:00.000-08:00

On a bright and early morning, where the city still slept and the coyotes were yipping and howling on the fringes of the shadows and light, I stood huddled with a cup of hot chocolate awaiting to greet the rays of the dawning sun.

It was a special day as I checked my gear and loaded my pack. For the day brought the beginnings of a trek, the journey of traversing the entire National trail of South Mountain - 15.5 miles over the two ranges to meet the third range at the end of the trail. The trail started at Pima Canyon dirt road which led to the beginnings of the trailhead of the National Trail.

I started at a good pace and kept it steady throughout the trek. The trail is not difficult but the terrain changes going up hillsides, over rock boulders and desert pavement. The first part of the trail I have traversed many a time on smaller hikes when at South Mountain. On those hikes, I make a loop trail with the National trail and Mormon trail and visiting hidden valley among the rocks.

And on the trail continues.

I made several stops to hydrate, pause, and snack on energy foods. It is especially important to keep up with the continual energy so I may last for the entire trek and keep healthy. There are many people who came to participate in the National trail trek day. Many setting their own goals. It is no competition just a way to marvel at the beauty of it all and accomplish in the personal feats one pursues in such a journey as this.

At about 7.9 miles, I reach the halfway point by Telegraph pass. The views of the home stretch are in view but yet still many miles to go. At the halfway point, there is a stop where food for lunch is served for the hikers. I had started 7:40 and arrived at Telegraph pass at 10:30. I relish the much enjoyed sandwich and huddled close to the ground in my windbreaker. Even though it was clear and sunny with the clouds on the horizons and passing over, it was very windy with temps in the 50s. However, it is a perfect day for a ramble.

And so with still 7.6 miles yet to travel, I start again. Upwards I go onto the Gila range to where I spent most of the remaining miles traversing across the Gila ridgeline. The views are picturesque and sometimes I pause wondering just where am I. I seem to be in a place so far away. Or rather have stepped back into time crossing the dusty floor of years and years and years of change.

On a journey as a long as 15.5 miles, one must wonder what does one do to occupy time? Besides the obvious physical movements of stepping with one foot and the next and the next and the next. The mind comes alive or does it? I find my mind becoming quiet. Thoughts come and go but never remain too long. I find something deeper as I seem to go deeper and deeper. There is a rhythm in my walking and something in me finds balance, a tune to follow in step. For there is a tune within. It is song that is sung at the end of the movie, Never Cry Wolf (based on the Farley Mowat book, Never Cry Wolf). It is scene at the end of the movie where Farley and an old innut gentleman traverse a long ridgeline in the high altitudes of Alaska. It is that tune I hear whispering and dancing as I follow the trail.

For all else falls away, the daily toils of work and worries seem to hold no ground here. There instead in the emptiness of it all I am one, in being with myself, harmony. Joy and majestic just as the vistas unfold. And the journey unfolds. One step, two steps, always a step into the unknown.

And so the last roughly two miles crosses the wash and valley between the Gila range and Ma Ha Tuak range where the day's journey will end. The last mile is the longest mile I have ever walked. Never a mile was as long as this. Each moment felt, each rock I touched. The present moment unfolding into the new present moment seemed like an eternity from moment to the next. And who knows, perhaps a lifetime did pass as each moment came and went.

And rejoice. I finally arrived to the journey's end. I had completed the breath of the trail in five hours and 30 minutes. Much faster than originally anticipated for seven hours of hiking. I sat down while the park rangers were busy bustling to and fro and looked back from hence I come. Indeed it is the journey and not the destination that is the true goal. My feet are tired and it was good to unload my day pack. But my spirits elated with calm, quiet peace. I had arrived home.

Picketpost Mountain

2010-01-15T11:56:00.000-08:00

On my birthday I have started a tradition. I go hiking! Since I love hiking and the desert outdoors is the place to be, I was found rambling the desert countryside and up a mountain. My hiking destination was Picketpost Mountain. Rather meager mountain only boasting 4300 some feet; however, one does not let the elevation of desert mountains be the judge. The character which shapes the mountain is found instead along the trail of rocks, desert flats, bajadas, and the various species of plants (cacti, succulents, desert trees, shrubs, and wildflowers).

Roughly the first mile and quarter is navigating through dense chaparral which is defined by shrubs, trees, and cacti. Some plants including mesquite, palo verde, jojoba, ocotillo, creosote, cholla, Saguaro, and prickly pear were the most prevalent identified genres found. I had fun stopping occasionally in search of jojoba nuts and admiring the different plants along the trail.

So, finally I come to the base of the mountain where the trail starts to lead upward quite so. This is where I had a long break making sure I was still hydrated and ate some food. And studying the trail description and study the mountainside to visually map my route that I would be required to take. It clearly becomes evident that the trail up the mountain is for no wussies. The slope up to the base of the cliffs is complied of rocks, big boulders and thorny vegetation. A hike like this becomes rather technical. Where the mind works out strategies and moves.

And thus I commenced up the rocky terrain leaving the visible trail behind. Besides my trail description, one becomes attuned to the minute details of the trail. And this is very vital in navigating a course such as this. There are signs on the trail the lead the correct course such as the small rock sculpture pile in above picture. Also there were red dots and some arrows. But in the end some places required old fashion route finding skills of studying with trial and error. What is important in a terrain as such, I memorized the details of specific rocks and plants. This proves to be important as so when coming back, one is able to identify the correct passage or turn without going astray off down the mountainside. Or as four hikers ended up doing, straying on a ledge far off course. I had to direct them off the ledge and back onto the trail.

The trail continues to become more steeper and climbing over and up boulders.

The real challenge begins. I am on the mountain itself. The passage hugs the narrow ledge along the base of the cliffs and then up the narrow chute to a wall of rock face stretching many feet up. The above picture is indeed the route up the mountain. This is where the route becomes technical as I climbed and found places for foot and hand holds. It was not as bad as one thinks from appearances, but still, a wrong move could prove to be disastrous. And vertigo is not an option to have. Keep your eye on the immediate work at hand and don't look down.

After the ledge, chute, and rock face, I come to another passage of rather steep switchback slope that leads to the mountain top. It is steep and gravelly. And where I met one of my three near slides off the trail. Also the vegetation is starting to grow onto the trail in many places, such as the one above. Even if it is hard to see, the trail above is tilted at an angle and the pebbly, rocky dirt is so very slippery. In this one instance, my backpack happens to brush against the prickly pear causing me to loose my balance ever so. My foot slips off and to prevent myself from tumbling through cacti and part of the mountainside, I quickly throw myself in the other direction right into the prickly pear. My first cacti encounter where the thorns and glochids (smaller thorns) pierce through the skin of my upper leg and arm. Oddly enough the prickly pear seemed to be holding onto me, and I managed to regain balance and prevent a much scarier thorny experience. But spent hours picking out the thorns and some still could be felt a day later.

Finally after much work, the top was mastered and I got to the other side to see the vistas spreading Eastward. Magnificent vistas all around streching for miles and miles and miles. It was a perfect day weather wise as I could even see the mountain range of the Catalina's (by Tucson) rising up out of the floor of the desert (Sky Island).

I took a much deserved rest of lunch and admiration of such an incredible feat. Of course my mind always thought about the inevitable down climb. But I still had a mission to find on top of this mountain.

Yes, the mailbox. Someone has placed a mailbox atop of the mountain where hikers can sign in, some first aid, and other pieces of mementos people leave behind. I sign in.

I enjoy the circling hawk soaring above me and then out, out, out towards the horizon. My spirit animal has visited me and my spirit soars with it.

Highland Games in the desert

2009-02-22T08:26:00.000-08:00

The Scottish Games of Phoenix! Typically highland gathering and games is during the summer months but due to extreme summer temperatures of the desert, the Games in Arizona are held in the winter months (for both Phoenix and Tucson).

I arrived in time for the opening ceremonies of the massing of the bands and clans. They paraded around and then the bands clustered together forming a circle with the audience around them for the big celebration.

This is the group that I had joined, the Royal Scottish Country Dancing group of Phoenix. They dance to their heart's content. It is a small group and of course not enough males but oh well. The point is to have fun. And we did with our tent and lively talking and dancing.

There was also a British Car display at this games. Cute cars so small. It is a wonder why it is not so popular here the size of the cars. Well, size of cars are popular here in the US but at the other extreme end: big hulking SUVS and hummers. Eww, gross. Does not please the quaint Scottish wabi Sabi Ingrid.

I spent the majority of the afternoon following the pipers and the bands. I love the music and it is so haunting and amazing really. There is something about the music that just cannot be described into words. I think only a true Scot would understand.

I had brought my knitting along and sat in the shade knitting, snacking, and listening to the bands. The colors of the tartans are so festive.

Then the athletic fields. The caber toss! Unfortunately the field was not designed for good audience viewing. We were on one side of the field and the caber toss was the only athletic event that was closest to us and hence good footage for photography. Shame on them. But still fun.

So, I am noticing now that the Caledonian society and Scottish folk are rather a small group here. I am starting to recognize more and more folks in the bands, athletic department, dancing, vendors, and volunteers. Basically the folks who are part of the society and group make up the games. And the spectators are usually the family and supporters of those of us performing. There generally is not too many outside people coming to games and that makes the games rather small especially compared to the games in Washington and other places where there is more of a strong hold of Scottish folk.

My Heart's in the Hielands

2009-02-01T18:52:00.000-08:00

Ah, haggis. The one true meat that never goes out of style. Haggis is very rare as they say since as stories put it, the haggis only come out once a year around the full moon closest to January 25.

Last night I had the wonderful opportunity to experience my rich heritage of Scottish roots. January is the birth month for the famous Scottish poet, Rabbie Burns. This year marks his 250 year anniversary of his birthdate on 25.

I recently joined the Calendonian society as well as the Scottish country dance branch. So now I am wonderfully plugged into the world of Scottish events, tales, meetings, dancing, and much more. It is a lively group. The Scottish country dancing class hosted a Burns night, which happens annually for any true Scottish who celebrates such important dates as Rabbie's birthdate. I had a blast and it by far exceeded my expectations for a real celebration.

After we all assembled into the large room in a quaint hall with a fake fireplace and chandlers, the haggis procession commenced. A piper came into the hall playing a sweet melody while the haggis barer followed carrying the plate of haggis, who was about 9 inches in length and 3 inches in width. When the piper and haggis barer had proceeded through the hall and to the front where the other important delegates for the haggis procession stood. The piper and haggis barer received a shot of whiskey. Some prayers were said over the haggis. And then a group prayer led by the piper toasting to the haggis was done. After this, the haggis was stabbed with a knife! And thus, concluded the haggis procession and toasting.

After a delicious meal of lamb stew, yum, yum, more toasting was done. The food was superb. And I had a wee bit of haggis that was so good. People truly don't know what they are missing out if they give up the opportunity to eat a mixture of liver, bladder, heart, kidney and such from a sheep! It is quite good contrary to public opinion.

The toasting was done in this format. First we toasted to the President of United States. Then we toasted "God save our Queen." Then we toasted to the lassies. And then toasted to the laddies. Several small performances of dance, song, and recitation of Rabbie's poems were read/performed.

The last part of the evening program was a circle song. Where everyone stood in a large circle (there was 60 some people present) holding hands. The song Auld Lang Syne was sung. It was quite beautiful and moving as our voices raised together in unison and harmony.

The real fun then began! The Celidh!! The highland fling! We were dancing and skipping being merry on the floor. It was so much fun. The dances are cute. Sadly, there are more females than males. So the couple ratio is way off. Tis a sad thing because guys don't know what they are missing out on... with all of the fun. I was completely worn out by the time I left but still charged with energy and joy. The music is truly the sweet melodies of my soul and inner being.

The evening is what I call a real celebration in every respects. And yes, everyone was dressed in their finery. Most of the gentlemen were in kilts. The women wear a kind of Reniassance kind of clothing with tartan shashes. I wore a tartan skirt, which some others did too. It is nice to know some traditions are still being continued. Espeically unique and ones such as these honoring the great Haggis and Rabbie Burns.

The Moment

2009-01-19T20:49:00.000-08:00

Perched on rocky outcrop

Sentinel watchful

Sweeping valley below

Northern harrier sentinel
Guardian to mountain Spirit
Preserver of Lifeway

Tai Ch'i Walkabout

2008-11-24T18:52:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago several members of my Quang Ping Yang style tai ch'i group, along with our instructor and a naturalist, went on a walkabout combining tai ch'i and hiking. Our destination was the Cathedral Rocks in the McDowell Mountain Preserve, which is way North outside of the city above Scottsdale.

Tis was a glorious day for a hike. The sun was out but not too intense, the air cool, and a fine breeze that would shift through now and then. We started at about 1430 hours as this was an afternoon/sunset adventure.

So our lively group of twelve went on our way through the desert surrounded by wondrous desert life. Our extraordinary naturalist would stop now and then and talk about something a long the trail about plants and some birds. Quite fascinating. As this is not my childhood natural habitat, I lack in the acute awareness of the different functions that the desert holds. And the more I continue to learn about the desert, the more I am amazed and in awe.

One of the biggest fascinations of our walkabout/hike was the giant Saguaros. They hold a certain aura of strength and majestic presence that only one can truly feel when standing amidst their shadows.

Also, very tragically we found one chopped down. Pictures were taken and a couple volunteered to report to the authorities. It is illegal to cut down a saguaro. If one is in an inconvenient area, by law, the Saguaros must be transplanted to a different location with no harm coming to them. We have no idea why one was so cruelly chopped down and just left there. The only hint suggested was the power lines but the lines are so high up that it would be impossible for the Saguaro to even be in the way.

And lo, after much hiking our destination came into sight. Ahead were the rocks.

The Cathedral Rocks are two large rocks amidst the cluster of rocks which lean into each other creating this opening overlooking the desert. We came at the perfect hour where the sun was starting to sink lower in the sky. And thus, creating shafts of light streaking through.

We picked our places and commenced to do Tai ch'i moves out in the desert surrounded by the glories of the natural world. The vistas were grand, especially looking northward.

Our instruction for the homeward bound journey was a walking meditation. It seemed rather fitting. Our walkabout to the Cathedral rocks were full of jubilee and cheer as we all were talking, listening, observing the desert. Now it was time for a more introspective nature to be reflected on. And so we went more quietly than before. There were times of comment and spoken thoughts, listening and observing.

The colors of the desert in the continuous cycles of each passing moment offered a renewed outlook. The evening was upon us and we continued. There is definitely something about twilight (both morning and evening hours) when in the desert. Each offering a gift to share. The setting sun casts shadows and changing light. And then the coyotes started to yip, yip and then a chorus of howls. Some longer than others. So beautiful being surrounded by the stillness settling, pierced by the symphony of voices rising up to send greetings to mother earth.
The stars came out and the sky turned aqua and then midnight to darkness. Off in the distance was the lights of the mass metropolis that we all call home. But home is the desert where feet tread the dusty floors surrounded by the life that waits and whispers to teach us. Pause, listen, watch and you will know.

Desert Glass

2008-11-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

This morning I awoke bright and early before the sun rose as I always do on a Saturday morning. It is Tai Chi morning. The morning was a very special morning since the place that hosts our Tai Chi classes is at the Desert Botanical Gardens. I cannot think of a more perfect place to do our tai chi among the catci, succulents, yuccas, and other desert flora and fauna.

This morning the Desert Botanical gardens also hosted something very special in which led me to do wild and deviant behaviors... I am now a harden criminal. Today marked the grand opening of Chihuly Nature of Glass in the Desert Gardens!!! However, the gardens was not open to public with the exception of the elite few who could cough up 500 dollars for this exclusive package which included breakfast, lecture and video with Dale Chihuly himself, and the tour of the garden with the extraordinary exhibits of glass placed around the gardens. Oh, sure classes were still held but we were sent emails with explicit directions of how to proceed through the admissions and then to our classes.

When I arrived at the opening hour, the gates were open with staff checking in the VIP special folks and security guards checking people. I of course was stopped and when asked what I was doing, I said I am just going to my class (Tai Chi). The guy was saying "oh you need to wear these special wrist bands, etc." I was like ok and he pointed me in the direction of another security person. I walked right pass and continued into the gardens. I knew if I was caught I would be in serious trouble. Probably be kicked out.

Since I had arrived early before start of class and of course my other class mates were stalled behind me, captured into debriefing and being fitted for bands for the lowly few who only come to classes, I went ahead and toured the garden and started to take pictures!!! (And of course hide my wrists from being exposed to suspicious guards monitoring the area.)

So ENJOY!!!

And now you are probably wondering, did I see Chihuly???? After much sleuthing and peaking through cacti into the VIP area of breakfast and the hidden gallery of where the lecture was being held, I found out something. He was making an appearance by the entrance. Ah ha!!! And after almost an hour of waiting I saw him zip by on a cart.

I met Chihuly about 10 years ago in Tacoma. My Dad and I were listening to a Celtic band playing outside on the streets by a pub. Then suddenly my dad was saying something like NO WAY, there is CHIHULY!!! And sure enough there he was amidst the crowd with a pint of beer in his hand. If anyone is acquainted with Chihuly, they would know a very few obvious characteristics of Chihuly persona. He sports a patch over his left eye, has an afro (big hair), and shoes splattered with paint. He is looking much the same but just a wee bit older these days. But still winning smile.

And I marched out having accomplished all I set out to do without having to pay 500 dollars. Who cares about a breakfast and movie lecture. I was among the first to see the glass being set up and was there at the opening. And most importantly, see Dale Chihuly, and be illuminated by his artistic aura.

Of course, I highly recommend that everyone comes to the the gardens and view the glass exhibits themselves. Sometimes pictures do not do justice and this is only a smidgen of a few glass exhibits in the garden. There is much, much more. It will be open to public from now on till about May so come, come!

The tale of the Skunks

2008-07-18T08:28:00.001-07:00

After the joys of the marvels of Bryce National Park, I made my way up North, still on Route 89. The scenery started to change dramatically from these bare, red cliffs to the large plains with the mountains encasing the valleys. More farms. Still somewhat high country with sagebrush. I was following the Sevier River way.I went to a campground area north of Marysville. It was by the river Sevier. And I had a nice spot under the pine trees overlooking the river. It was a nice evening with thundershowers and thunder and lightning but after two hours, it went away and it was clear and sunny.
After a restful night, I got up the next morning to do some tai chi along the river bank. While I was in the middle of tai chi, I happened to look behind me to see two skunks hopping along five feet from me. I was still doing the movements but looking at them. This is the first time I ever seen skunks in the wild, alive. Very pretty and could see why children always chase after them. They looked furry, and I had the desire to pick them up to pet them. But of course, this would be very unwise.

As they passed, they stopped. One seem to become upset with the other and turned around threatening. At this time I stopped and was thinking, "Oh great, they are five feet from me and if that one sprays, I will surely get some of the spray." I inch away ever so cautiously, but they really did not take any notice of me. They made some noises at each other. Finally they parted ways, one went back the way it came and the other continued on to the bushes down by the river five feet from me and disappeared.

I thus picked up where I left off with my tai chi. Marveling how they took no notice of me. Like it was natural to see some human doing tai chi. I apparently was part of the scenery and was no threat to the skunks.

Bryce National Park

2008-07-17T16:40:00.001-07:00

After leaving Kanab the next morning, I pretty much spent most of the day in Bryce National Park. I had been to Zion but not Bryce. In some ways not what I had expected. To be on the ridge line rather than through the canyons. However, one can go through the canyons by foot but need a permit do that. And of course, think this is the better option anyway. I also did not expect with the high altitude of 9000 some feet that there were going to be trees. This turned out to be a pleasant surprise.

I took a hike on the Bristlecone loop trail, which the first couple of pictures were taken. Nice vantage points. It was an overcast day with showers and in the distance thunder and lightning. Not so fun because the contrasts of the colors on the rocks were dull than with sunshine.

Yes, I got close to the edge. And I took my own photos. The above photo is of the Natural Bridge in BNP.

The sun finally peaked through after several hours giving more of a contrast that I wanted. This is a special spot where the formations are call hoodoos. The special way the rocks have been formed over centuries and like everything, hoodoos are not static so will continue to evolve and crumble away.
The vistas were incredible looking far off into the horizon.So I spent several hours of walking and looking and made myself lunch up there. Then meandered on my way up North of Marysville to camp out for the night.

And the Adventures begin...

2008-07-16T18:09:00.000-07:00

So, I went on this little journey. Up through the expanse of Northern Arizona along Route 89(a) and into Utah where Orem was my destination. It all began on a hot day on the Fourth of July. I left around 6:30 but still the traffic was thick with the weekend travelers. But by the time I passed through Flagstaff and went on Route 89a, I was on my own as far as other people were concerned.

Open country with the ever changing colors on the landscape. It is truly an awe-inspiring place where the pictures just do not do justice. A thunder/lightning storm lay on the horizon for most of the afternoon creeping ever so steadily my way as I headed North.

I made several stops along Route 89a where the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument beckoned to me. And the vast plain of the valley floor ran for miles with deep fissures and unseen canyons and of course the Colorado River ran through.
Higher and higher I went into the Kaibab National Forest. To where the forest were miniature trees compared to the great giants of the Pacific Northwest. But for Arizona, this is as good as it gets. I saw some deer.
I arrived in Kanab, Utah for the night. The town was bustling with activity for the Fourth of July celebration. After a swim in cold water to cool down from the 100 plus degree heat and some food to nourish me, I headed to the city park to score my spot for the firework display. People were already arriving two and half hours before the big event to score their spots. Big families with children everywhere was the common sight. Finally a quarter to 2200 hours, the fireworks started! It was magnificent. The sounds echoing off the walls of the cliffs and the wonderful display of fireworks sent everyone "ooohhh and ahhhh."

The Praying Monk

2008-06-01T15:16:00.001-07:00

The stone figure has gone by many a name over the centuries. In the past, it has been called a chief, the Man of the Mountain, and now the praying Monk. He resides on Camelback. The notorious mountain that I now climb so very often. You can view him on the Echo Canyon summit trail. And this is only the beginning of the trail. The picture is deceiving as one is only getting a glimpse of the stepping stone to the summit. The rest of the mountain is behind and off to the right.

It is hot now. And to hike Camelback sanely, one has to do it in the wee hours of the morning (like before 8am). People are already getting there at 5am, I am sure as the dawn and light comes that early now. I am still getting there about 6:30 and the parking lot is piling up with cars as people head to the mountain. And with the temperatures rising well over 90s and now into the 100s, I am going to follow suit and do a local custom. Bring a jug of water and soak/drench my clothes. And by the time I get to the summit, the clothes will be dry! It is the only way to keep hiking and staying cool during the insane temperatures of the desert summer.

The Stone Monk

The Praying Monk has

turned to stone.

Kneeling forever-dark-alone

Upon the mountain side

His offered prayers-

Our prayers and his

for centuries

Rise upward toward the Cosmic Tide,

While he prays alone.

~Sanger-Stewart

Globe Trekers

2008-05-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

Ah, my parents came down for an extended weekend. During the weekend we headed to the Superstition area, staying in Globe. It is high country with chaparral and mountains with pine trees. And the main focus of our excursions--birding. :)

We had a lovely group of birders at the same B&B we were staying at and had a good time with lectures and searching for those birds. We headed up into the Pinal Mountain, Pioneer Pass. There were birds. Hummingbirds, finches, warblers, Western Tanagers. Bird haven for the bird lovers.
I found a stream where we were birding in Pinal Mountain. Frogs croaking away. By and by... for the birding expedition up in to Pioneer pass, we left at 6:30 on a glorious Sunday morning. Nice and cool and sunny. Perfect weather. And the kind of weather I will be dreaming about in a month or two while in the hotter than hell Valley of the sun.
This view is looking down to Globe. Globe is down there and the tan colored stretch of landscape in the left corner is the mining for copper. Globe was/is a mining town.

The scenery is beautiful and amazing to think about an hour and half drive East of Phoenix, this kind of habitat and ecosystem exist. Sorry no pictures of birds. They are elusive creatures. But they are in the pictures chirping somewhere.

Orchids of the desert

2008-04-06T12:04:00.001-07:00

I have come to the conclusion that there is a certain kind of plant that should be named: Orchids of the Desert. I am referring to the yuccas or the banana yucca in this case. While enjoying my walk through the desert botanical garden before Tai Chi class, this week the yuccas are in full bloom. So I got my first viewing with them up close and personal.
The flowers are so beautiful. Delicate and slightly fragrant. The smell is oddly familiar.... hmm, like a banana! Ahh... hmmm... so good! The fragrance is very faint, it does not fill the air around you unfortunately, but nevertheless to see them is just as pleasing.
So on my walk I had a mission. Find all of the banana yuccas. They are easy to spot since the yuccas are so tall up to 15 feet in some cases. There were some smaller ones though around 8 feet, and hence the viewing of the flowers.
The wildflowers are all but done now. I am seeing that the cacti are getting ready to bloom. An older gentleman was telling me that in the high desert the cacti, yuccas, and other flowering plants have yet to open. When they do open at the botanical garden, it may be my cue to head for the high deserts in Arizona.

Huge Chuckwalla Lizard

2008-03-27T14:56:00.001-07:00

Ok, this is getting unreal. I guess there was a point when the Park ranger said that Camelback Mountain is popular for chuckwallas. I went again this morning and on my way back down when the temperatures were on the rise baking the East facing side, I had hit one of those tricky passes where it is downhill gravel (this is where mountain goat maneuvers come in handy...). I had successfully made it down the passage and stopped. I started thinking now if I was a lizard this is where I would be hanging out. I am starting to pick out good lizard sun rocks. So I started to slowly scan the rocks and What??? I see this huge chuckwalla (pictured above) on the rocks above me right along the gravel side. Since I was concentrating so keenly on getting no scraped knees and bruises I did not even notice this guy two feet away from me.
Hot digity dang! This guy is huge. And it is a male by the way. Males have red on their back. Females are just one shade of lizard grey color. And the female was below me hiding under a rock. I clearly scared her with my "ooos and ahhs" and flashing my camera around.

A father and his daughter (about 5 or 6 years) came up the trail. I showed them the sighting. The girl let out a scream. And telling her daddy she wanted to go home. Oh dear. I told her that the lizards were more scared of her and would not attack her. Poor girl. I felt bad that fear was the immediate emotion and not awe.

By the way, yes I spotted a snake. Did not take a picture as it quickly slithered under a rock. The tail was showing a bit and I studied that... no visible signs of rattles. I am pretty confident it was not a rattler. But regardless, I left it alone.

And now that chuckwallas are so popular on my camelback outings. No more pictures. That is unless I find one over a foot or so. I wonder if they get that big.

Cute Chuckwalla lizard!

2008-03-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

It's a snake! No! It's a gila monster! No! It is a Chuckwalla Lizard!

I encountered this cute creature on the hike on camelback. This is my second sighting of a chuckwalla lizard. I hear they are popular on Camelback and love to sun themselves. They are not poisonous. And are more likely to run from you. But they can be brave as this one showed to be.

They are sooo cute! The first one I saw two weeks ago was about a foot in length from head to tip of tail. This one seemed to be deflated because the first one had its side out thus creating the shape of a turtle's back.

I waited for about a minute before the lizard got brave and showed itself on the rock. I guess it did not mind me standing there. A guy came down the trail and saw the lizard and exclaimed, "It's a gila monster! A really, really small one." I told him it was a chuckwalla lizard. "Really? Are you sure?" "Yes, I am sure." I looked it up two weeks ago. And told him we would be in big trouble if it was a gila monster. They are poisonous. I hear that they sink their jaws deep into the skin and send out the poison that way. That's got to hurt and no way I am going to find out first hand. And chuckwallas are harmless. And all of this time the chuckwalla remained where it was. Perhaps thinking we did not see it anymore?

I will keep posted the wildlife sightings on Camelback. Temps are rising now (upper 80s) so more animals will be coming out in the warm weather.

Butcher Jones Trail

2008-03-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

I spent the rather warm (upper 80s) Easter day to the mountains. Specifically, I hiked Butcher Jones Trail nestled along parts of Saguaro Lake, which has been created by the Salt River projects (dams and thus water for the valley). In the backdrop of this picture is the famous Four Peaks. While the Four Peaks was not my destination, it was one of the visible landmarks for my hike.

I parked my car at the Butcher Jones recreation site where it was full of large family gatherings for the Easter day. Fortunately the trail leaves the picnic sites and leads along some beautiful scenic spots overlooking the lake, desert, and vistas. I will pause for a moment in telling the story of Butcher Jones. As I am told, the nickname "Butcher" is a joke. W.W. Jones was a rancher and a doctor who had cattle in these parts spreading from the Salt River (upper Scottsdale/Mesa) to the Four Peaks wilderness area during the late 19 century. A rather large area covering thousands of areas. It is astounding to me to have the cattle grazing in the desert as the vegetation seems not to offer a lot for cattle. It's a desert! What do they eat?Not too far into the hike, there is a short detour (.1 miles) that visits a dry waterfall. This is where the water would be coming out (the V shaped rock, yellow rock). As I was walking the dry beds to the waterfall, it is apparent that water has not flowed for some time now (years?). As one continues the hike, the trail still follows the meandering shoreline rising higher and higher along the cliffs. The slopes are exposed and abundance of wildflowers are seen amidst the desert scape. I saw more varieties and colors of flowers than on South Mountain. Yellows and blues are still the dominate color but there were white, orange, and pink contrasts to be seen.During the hike, there were some panoramic views of the lake and cliffs. Saguaro Lake is an oddly shaped lake following the rugged cliffs in and out of coves. For the next mile and half or so, the trail left the lake and started into the desert terrain. So I was able to leave the noises of loud boats and people for a bit. I realize that sound travels far in the desert. So I could hear many things, mostly boat traffic.
So began the next segment of the hike. Even being in the desert, there is a lot of changes of vegetation and scenery in a short span of time. The trail becomes a little more rugged and less maintained. The cactus and shrubs extend often over the trail and sometimes the trail encroaches the vegetation. It is apparent that the wilds of nature is taking back the trail. I have small scratches on my arms and legs to prove it.

And then when rising over the crest of a large hill, another part of the lake comes into view with the sweeping views of Four Peaks and the wilderness area. Turkey vultures were my steady companions. I saw them often during my hike flying low and than out circling with sometimes four in the same area.

And thus concluded my hiking destination. The trail took one to Burro Cove with a vista overlooking the splendors. There is a trail that continues along the shoreline but one needs to become a bushwhacker extraordinaire to continue this journey. As it was 2pm and temps well into the 80s, it was time to take savor the scenery, hydrate the body with plenty of fluids and foods and then head back. The trail length to Burro Cove is 2.6 miles.

On my return hike back, I stopped at a rather secluded cove. I took off my hiking boots and sweaty socks and soaked my feet in the cold waters. It was nice to sit a spell even with a entsy bit of shade to enjoy.

It is nice to know that the desert splendors among the mountains are so close considering locations. And one can quickly leave the traces of city scape behind. To get away and be on desert time.

Wildflowers at South Mountain

2008-03-11T18:54:00.000-07:00

I was at South Mountain today for two purposes. One, to take a break from hiking Camelback, which I have started hiking twice a week, so I could do a moderate workout on my tight thighs to loosen up some. The second reason was a request for the wildflowers that are starting to be in full swing in the desert.
I went out to hike at 1430 hours. During the middle of the day and the highs in the lower 80s. Regardless of the heat, it was vastly pleasant to take a hike. There were nice breezes blowing through and I was protected with sunblock and shade (hat/sunglasses) plus water and electrolytes.
I am tempted to hike more often during the midday or afternoon. It is very different atmosphere than when I hike during the morning hours. I was contemplating what the changes were. Primarily reason may because there were less hikers and bikers on the trail. There were people out but very few, especially up on the National trail. But less movement and stillness, even though the wind was gently breezing. Not so many birds out chirping. A quiet feel that slowed my pace to being rather meditative and just being in the moment.
The next few are going to be pictures of flowers. Small flowers. The need to get up close and personal with the intimate characteristics of the subtle changing yellows, blues, oranges and the poise of the flowers.
I know the color contrasts are not vibrant...maybe looking a little bleached or more appropriately-dusty. But this is the beauty of the desert. It is so subtle. I am finding the desert is not a place to be hurried if one wants to appreciate the full gamut of beauty and the secrets the desert has to tell. Even though it was still, there were still plenty of critters out and about. The lizards were the most active. I saw a chipmunk and several beetles that can fly too. There was a hummingbird at one point. And I saw three birds passing through. Two looked to be some sort of miniature bird of prey of some kind.
And yes, your eyes are not teasing you, this is a snake. I made sure to include this one because I know there are so many snake fans out there and been asking about snake encounters. Cute little guy stretched out on the trail keeping warm, enjoying the sun. I was tempted to lay down with it for a spell to soak in some of the rays and hear any exciting tales of rattlesnake encounters. But no, I left it in peace. The snake did not seem bothered by my presence.
And thus my walkabout. It was nice to be out at South Mountain. It is like home now since I have been there so many times. Always nice to return to something familiar but yet observe the changes present. I had not expected this hike in many ways. I went with my before mentioned purposes but yet, the walkabout served a higher purpose that I did not plan for. Indeed it was very meditative. The pace just right to fit the day. To drink in the sights, smells, and what sounds that could be heard-the silence broken only occasionally by friendly greeting and smile with a fellow neighbor. The walkabout was also very restorative. I have needed this kind of contentment and peace for some time (especially with my February sickness streak). I am fairly certain that I will get much rest tonight. The kind that is deep and reaches down to the soul to dream the visions and mingles with loved ones far and near.

NOTE: Since I have already had some report interest in my snake encounter... I am going to give the snake a rest by declaring I have looked it up and identified my snake. It is a glossy snake, VERY harmless to humans.

Mazatzal Wilderness

2008-03-07T19:32:00.000-08:00

Some eons ago, about the 2 of February, I went on a twelve mile hike up in the Mazatzal Wilderness North of Phoenix in the Tronto area. I found a hiking group that was hosting this event. Only four of us were present to do the hike.

I am going to do my best to describe this hike. It is hard because of the vast changes in scenery. We were already fairly high up altitude wise when we got to our destination at the Barnhardt trailhead. The trail takes you through the canyon gradually making your way up the switchbacks and along the side of the canyon to the top showing the vista of all around.

This is what it was like in the first part of the hike. We arrived at the trailhead at 0850 hours and got started promptly. As with the rains in the valley, Northern Arizona had been getting snow. How lucky! It is dark just because the sun still has a way to go to reach the sky up above and the canyon walls so tall that I realized that many portions of the canyon does not even get sunlight during any part of the day. So it stays colder with snow and ice.

This is how far the sun is able to reach it's sunrays during the day. I do not know if you can tell but "white lines" on the rocks are actually waterfalls that had become frozen.
Here is a close up of one still life waterfall. I think it is a wonder of nature. I never really thought to see anything like this before. Water that had finally froze in motion? One of the hardest parts of the hike was that there was frozen water everywhere including on the trail. It made it very tricky to get across some parts. Try walking on pure ice with only the canyon wall on one side and the drop off on the other side of forty or more feet. And the trail in some places was only wide enough for my feet to step in front of another step. No missteps or else! No joke.

I named this the bonsai ice garden. The picture does not serve justice. It warmed up to 38 degrees ... oh yes, did I forget to mention that the average temperatures in the morning hours were around 28 degrees according to the thermostat we had with us? It changed of course when we got out of the canyon to more sun. But we were marveling this bonsai ice garden. Droplets of water trickled down the ice. The cactus all frozen in.

The scenery changed when we got higher. Less snow and the vegetation changed a bit. This was an area that was ravaged by the wildfires some years ago. So the vegetation is quite shrubby.

The giant aloe species were abundant. I loved seeing them. So different from the valley where the Saguaros are the primary giants.

Yes, I was here. Proof I did the hike. :)

It certainly was a very magical hike. It seems like a dream. Does a place like this exist just about over an hour from Phoenix? The hidden secrets.

Desert Trekking

2008-01-21T18:46:00.000-08:00

The valley of the Sun is a valley that is surrounded by mountains that have seen thousands of years of change from seas, rivers and now all that remains are the mountains, valleys, and formations: the skeletons that tell the ancient history since the basement of time evolving still etched away in the layers of rocks and dirt.

And along with the natural changes are the cultures of diversity of plants, wildlife, and humans. Now the valley hosts one of the largest cities in the USA with about six million people. Why on earth would anyone want to live in the valley where we had boasted some record breaking temperatures in the sweltering heat of the summers? But truly, I think any sane person would say, I stay because of the desert.

I had come to the valley in the Fall of 2003 for attendance to ASU program for music therapy. The desert did not have any particular draw to me. But as a sojourn once commented in a book about desert treks of solitude, the desert has magic and a draw for those who come for respite, to listen. If you live in the desert long enough, one may feel the pull, the power of the desert. It is strong for me and in the three and half years at ASU was enough. While I was in LA, I would have dreams about the desert. I have become a desert Gecko. And so begins a new chapter of life back into desertscape.

My newest venture is desert hiking. Even though Phoenix with the smaller communities of Phoenix, Glendale, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert and so on, it is rather easy to get to the natural world. Phoenix boasts the largest park within a city. South Mountain Park. I trek only a dent of the park as the park itself is approximately 17000 acres. Every Saturday I go making a two to four hour hiking venture.

The area I hike is about a 30 minute drive through stop and go traffic so rather close. I take some trails along the lower ridges that overlook the vast metropolis. This is looking at downtown Phoenix and the North part of Tempe and Scottsdale in the North expanse on the right side of the photo. This is more looking to West Valley of Phoenix. An area I do not frequent much. I live and hang out in the East valley. But as one continues to hike, one goes into the interior and sound ceases to exist from the city. At least for me. And a changing desert landscape exists. Saguaro cactus and Cholla cactus are the "trees" of the desert here. With the Saguaros towering over my head. The cholla cactus may look friendly and furry, but do not let their furriness deceive you. One learns quickly not to fool around with cactus. I had gotten some very sturdy hiking books in the area several years ago. Designed not only for desert terrain but also if I do have a careless mishap with a baby cactus my feet are protected. I have not had a mishap yet happy to say.

Do you see the green? With all of the rain the Southwest got during the December and beginning of January, the desert came to life; rejuvenated by the water. Including grass. It is a shocker for me actually to see grass here, especially this much. The grass has gotten so long in some areas some that it is long enough to mow?? And this cactus above is actually the size of a cantaloupe. I was on my knees and had the camera sitting on the ground.

The Saguaros are the trees of the desert. They are stark giants standing amid rocky seemingly desolate terrain. They have acclimatize well to the desert, but I often wonder on the impact of human population and pollution is having some effects on these Ents of the Southwest. Now a few know I have this tendency to hug trees. Yes, I am a tree hugger. Walk through a forest of oak, evergreen and such and will hug a tree for the pure joy of wrapping arms around a tree trunk. I would love to hug a Saguaro but as evidence shows, they are a bit wary of tree hugging people like me and developed these harsh, pointy defenses against such acts of love. They do not know what they are missing.
There is always more to see. Arizona does not lack in natural beauty.

Yaris

2007-12-31T09:39:00.000-08:00

To the repeatedly insistence of my double Uncle Pete's, I have posted a new blog. Yes, both Uncle Petes from Maine and Washington are raising a ruckus because of no new blog stories.

And so here is a blog. One that they will have fun with. My new car. A Toyota Yaris. Nice little car. And even though Dad says he does not like driving with me, my friends have been having a hoot with joy rides.

Been putting the miles on it already as with my job it is all travel to client's homes for music therapy. Going to places all over Mesa and part of Gilbert. One day since I got so lost, yahoo maps did not serve justice in this case, I had racked up 69 miles in that day. Good thing I get paid mileage for the job.

Patience, oh my readers. I need to get settled in more ie moving into my house more (my bedroom is filled with boxes) and adjusting to the 10+ hours daily for the work week (including documentation, driving, sessions); blogging will be scarce for the time being. Oh I have the weekends free. And during those times will be making my getaways to destinations yet to be determined.

Spirit of the Heart

2007-11-17T20:26:00.000-08:00

I have never been much into astrology. I think it is fun at times but typically do not read much into them. Especially with phrases, "You need to relax today" or "An exciting business prospect will open up for you today" sort of phrases (I made theses two examples up by the way to show what I mean). Many times they are like little nonsense phrases that seems to have no meaning whatsoever. But then again there had been times when I happened to read some and seems to struck a chord at a particular moment in time.

I pick up the weekly Beach Reporter. Has calendar events so I can find out what fun happenings to attend during the weekend adventures. There is an astrology page. I have found to like this astrology better than the others I have ever read. The astrology seems to be more intuned with real things: mission in life or what not. Perhaps it is no mistake that they have been ringing with certain chord within me.

Here is mine for the week of November 14:
Capricorn:
You have been like a sailor sailing on the high seas focused to make it through the eye of the storm. You have become so sturdy and strong in the fight to get to the other side, you haven't a clue at how much you body and soul has grown in wisdom and strength. You have been adapting and adjusting to circumstances and in many cases paying dues for past choices made, but this week something happens. The seas slow and the waves lower their lift on the bow. A triangle made in the sky in water signs signals a breakthrough in your journey. It is the reason you were ever fighting at all. You will feel and see the distance you have gained and be amazed at your progress. This breakthrough also signals you that it is a time to relax and renew as Mars moves retrograde in your opposite sign. Your dedication is paying off.

I, of course, have been pondering about the words. There seems to me much mystery, especially this water sign from the sky in a form a triangle. What is that? Is it something literal? Something figurative? Something that some fan of astrology would only know?

But I like this horscope very much. In many ways seems to define my current and past few months of life. In some ways, yes like a sailor, a wayfarer, on this journey focused on this moment of life. And being so focused in the mainstream of life, I had not indeed realize how much I have grown in the short time here in LA. Because I have grown in wisdom and strength. This growing will not stop here but continue as I venture onward. But my progress has been minimal to my mind's eye. Not much but still it's something. I am not so sure of a breakthrough per se. Unless this breakthrough points to the decision I made to return to Arizona. But I had been pondering on my return for a few months now. Yes, I am returning.

On my journey of adventures here in LA, the experience and life seems to be but a stepping stone. I consider myself a spirit of the heart. I like to say that my heart directs my life. And in many ways it does, espeically upon reflecting on past life's experiences and decisions. I know the difference between a decision made from the heart and one made from well, not the heart.

I had an interesting dream last night. I would love to share it all but it was so very long, so very detailed, so very vivid. I had gone to bed thinking tonight in my sleep something about the triangle in the sky signal will be explained. Something like that. Well a dream occurred which in part sheds perhaps some light on this mystery. Here follows a synopsis.

I get on this helcopter with three other guys. I seem to know these guys but do not recognize them from any known individuals in my current life (I have dreams with people I know and with people I do not know). We have two dogs with us. One of the three guys is flying the helcopter. We leave mainland and seem to be heading out but yet somewhat close to shore at times. I remember admiring the big ocean swells from above. For some reason one of the smaller dogs and I seem to disappear. This is the part of the dream where it gets patchy and I do not quite understand what is going on. I, the dreamer, seem to stay with the guys some more as it is becomes obvious they are looking for me. I soon leave them and find myself at some building. I seem to have been sleeping or drugged. Not sure which. But I am atop this large buiding with the apartment and an open deck, patio on the roof. Someone takes the small dog that I had disappeared with. I try to argue for it back saying it does not belong to them. But they took it anyway. So here I find myself stranded. The view looks out to sea. It is night. The moon then creates this triangle shape of lighting on the water. And I say, there is the sign! But then start to wonder what it means. As I am staring at it, I hear barking. I look and there is the second dog that had been in the helcopter bounding to me in joy as if finding me. I hug it and look down the side of the building. Then I see the three guys that I had been with. They see me and next thing I know it we are all up on the roof hugging. Well I was actually only hugging one of the guys who I seem to know better as from the way I was talking with him. We leave the building, and one of the guys, who is the pilot then walks a head of us saying oops I was in the triangle. And I was like what? And he said well the two other guys and I form a triangle from our positions when walking. And he did not want to be in the triangle so he walks ahead. The dream pretty much ends there as we seem to take of in the helcopter again and this time looking for that dog that was taken away from us!

I wake up then and was like interesting dream. I certainly dreamt about the triangle but still a bit mysterious to me. I am probably reading too much into it.

Anyway here is the website for the astrology. There is a new one every week, I think comes out every Wednesday: http://www.kristinfontana.com/

World Unseen

2007-11-01T18:32:00.001-07:00

Ah, you may wonder. What is this?! Has Ingrid lost it? A picture of ah.... hmm.... I will tell you, it is sort of a perspective of a smaller world within the larger world we live in. It is an outlet in the cement wall barrier between the Strand and the sand running along Hermosa Beach. It is a opening for the excess water to disappear so runners, bikers, and walkers do not have to walk through water. And these little openings offer abundance of life and a new way to perceive things. So in this glorious first shot, is a mass of webbing's with the displayed spider residing inside. What a grand view she has.

How in the world did I discover this? Well on my walk one evening while watching the sunset, I saw that there were some sunlight filtering through these cracks in the wall. And ah! thinks I. I wonder what it will look like if I squat down and put the camera on the ground and take a picture of this ray of vision. And lo, this is the vision I glimpsed through the eyes of a camera. Pretty amazing on my new found discovery. I would have never known it to exist. What other worlds live in the world we live in? Makes me wonder.
It is almost as thought I have become a miniature and provided such a sight. I feel like I am about to embark through the tunnel or leave a building to the opening of sand and the setting sun!
And some how gives me visions of Arabian Nights. (Not that I ever experienced Arabian nights of sand). But from this perspective one could envision miles of desert with the sun setting. In some ways this is correct... for a wee miniature. The realities between this world and mine that I experience now are quite different if one thinks about it. A whole world waiting to be seen and explored.

Have yourself a Happy little Halloween

2007-10-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

Have yourself a happy little Halloween,

Let your heart be light,

from now on all our troubles will be miles away....

Ah yes, a Christmas song turned Halloween. I decided on this because lo and behold on my way home from the Halloween Frolic in El Segundo I see candy cane wreaths decorating lamp posts along the main road of Hawthorne Blvd. That sure did not take them long! From here on out it will be Christmas season. The scandles of marketing! I am still listening to "Halloween" music for goodness sakes. Music such as Danse Macbre, Socroceres Apprentice, and Night on Bald Mountain to name a few.

What you see is my invention. I carved a pumpkin tonight. The first time in 25 years. I always had help with the carving... could not be playing with the knifes, you know. I am happy with my creation... free hand style. Simple yet elegant. haha Looking forward to my pumpkin seeds for tomorrow. :)

Here we are as in olden days,

happy golden days of your,

faithful friends who are dear to us

gather near to us once more.

Through the years we all will be together,

If the faith allows

put a burning candle in the pumpkin smile

And have yourself a happy little Halloween now.

Happy Halloween

2007-10-31T06:20:00.000-07:00

I have been seeing a lot of Halloween festivities of late. The entire weekend I saw parties going on with lil' children running down streets in costumes while their parents attempt to keep up with them. Carnivals here and there. And the houses even more festive. Some more harvest decorated while some leaning to more Halloween scary. I know there are parties everywhere going on ranging from the local neighborhoods to the advertized clubies. I am attending the local neighborhood party... more wholesome with the kids and families having a hoot. Here is a bit of the scenery while on the Strand that is the row of beach houses on the beach (from Manhattan to Hermosa Beach).

Attack of the giant fury spiders. Ack!However, they look kind of friendly up close. Kind of....So a wee bit of sampling.
I could not find the house that had the lifelike heads. Now that was scary. Maybe a good thing they were not there anymore. Have a spooky Halloween. I am going dressed up as a gipsy kind of gal today for work. The only "costume" I have in my sampling of clothes. And realize I will probably be the only one dressed up. Too bad for the others.

Coastal Sunset

2007-10-30T19:24:00.000-07:00

I have been here for eight months and have not viewed an entire sunset until tonight! I have been out at dusk by the coastal beach cities but not viewed a sunset like this one. Many times there are clouds on the horizon so not having the opportunity to see the sun dip down past the horizon. Come to think of all my days living by coastal waters (like the summer out at Kalaloch) I have few memories of the sunsets. Not because I was not there to view them, but some seem to capture hold more than others. And tonight was one. Not sure why. Just beautiful in its own way. A moment. Sometimes those moments stick out more than the others. So here.... enjoy, a glimpse of the moments I saw tonight.

Red October 23

2007-10-23T17:25:00.000-07:00

This is what the sky has been looking like pretty much all day, getting redder as the day progressed. Unless one is without TV or newspaper or contact with the media world, this is the result of wildfires gone amok.

Overnight it had gone from a massive windstorm to waking up to find that one part of my world is ablaze. LA in my area is not blazing but I did see the fires from my local beach looking up to Malibu. And now I know several people from work/music therapy whose houses are within a five mile radius to some of the fires in Irvine and Anaheim hills. And the weekend getaway I went to just about a week ago and half ago? Reports of flames about 10 miles away from where I was at. This is the tip of the iceberg. I am not even beginning to mention the devastation in San Diego counties.

I have been pretty much staying indoors today. As a result from a decision when I took the ten minute walk from my house to work and back again. I had come down congested from the soot, smoke, and a bit of ash. And I am thinking gee, if it is bad here.....

Even though this is a natural occurrence of nature (however investigation to the start of the fires are being searched) and we may be awestruck by the power of nature, prayers are much needed. There will be thousands upon thousands of people picking up their lives from the ashes of their homes. Lives are changing right now as the realization of their homes do not exist, their livelihoods may likely not exist to the extent they had lived it. Their lives as they knew it changed forever. Bless them, pray for their safety and health.

A Moment

2007-10-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

New dawn

Birds symphony jubilee
Sun kissed tree tops

I journey out of doors in the early morning hush. The sky is clear and light from the sun that has not yet risen about the tree line.

I settle down in company of a pine tree softly haven beckoned me come and enjoy this time together. The way has been strewn with pine needles, and I quietly made my way stepping lightly upon Mother Earth.

With warm tea to warm my hands, I breathe in the morning's hush. My mind begins to quiet, to rest and thoughts of my precious loved ones comes to me. I bless them and send them my loving spirit to them for health, safety, and joy. Then my thoughts cease to be.

My senses come to play and my consciousness alters to a different level. I am still of this world but not quite. Words of a haiku are created. The shifting morning is subtle. Time ceases to be in a blink of an eye that is eternity.

The crow's voices rise up in a chorus as they fly to tree top branches preparing for the first moment. Already the sun has reached an adjacent mountain. The mountain is aglow of colors yellow and green.

The moment in nearing. There is anticipation in the voices of the crows. The trees shiver with the slightest tremble but they are much older, wiser, and whisper, "Patience, patience." I breathe in their words. I shift my body's position ever so slightly crouching low. Sip at my tea. The newly sprung haiku speaks again.

Through the forested horizon, sparkles come to view. Rays filter through. Suddenly the golden rod and pine green tree tops are blazing with sun streaked colors. The trees shake gently with unison voices rippling, "Ah!" The crows cry out and fly to the ground in flocks. Tiny sun tipped wings flutter in unison to one tree branch to another across the blue sky. The first melody of the new dawn breaks forth.

During the midst of activity, I stand to full height. Smile. The pine floor finally feels the warmth of the sun rays. There are sparkles, crystals shimmering. The frost is light.

A grey squirrel comes to view moving among a neighbor's tree base, shifting through the pine needles. Then jumps to a branch out of view but his voice is heard chattering pleasantly. The crows that had come to the forest floor now rise up in flock chasing the leader who has scored his morning's treat. Their voices reverberate through the trees fading away, yet the vibrations continue.

The new dawn has arrived. A beginning, created a new with life and rebirth. This moment a timeless eternity stretching, unfolding, becoming.

Stepping lightly, I traverse the pine needle floor of sparkling crystals and continue my journey in footsteps following the way as the Warrior of the Light.

Changing Perspectives

2007-10-08T17:00:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a book: Soul Mission * Life Vision by Alan Seale. It is a good book for me because it is helping me gain more insights on this journey of life and of soul mission and quest for the journey of life I am partaking. It is a book that I recommend to anyone to read, especially to ground, find, or enhance one's gifts and mission of life.

I would like to share some insights that I discovered with a recent reading. One of the universal laws of the universe (that was created years and years ago and to which major religions/philosophies incorporate part of their beliefs into their systems of beliefs) talks about the Law of Mentalism (God or a form of God that is representative the greater whole, great Mystery).

The law states that everything exists in the mind of God and the mind of God exists within everything. I think this is a rather powerful statement. Powerful because most of society does not live according to this statement. Most "western" religions or modern day thinkers view God as a separate entity. To think that God is inside me and I am inside God. Hmm... one may think. But I think it makes perfect sense. We go "inside" ourselves for reflection, prayer, meditation, and any forms of spirituality that calls for the recognition of self, spirit, soul and to commune with the God in us.

Greek philosopher Epictetus stated: "You are a distinct portion of the essence of god in yourself. Why, then, are you ignorant of your noble birth? Why do you not consider whence you came? Why do you not remember when you are eating, who you are who eat; and whom you feed: do you not know that it is the divine you feed; the divine you exercise? You carry a God about with you."

I do not know about you but after pondering on the quote of Epictetus, if one is to carry this belief of God within us and Us Within God, it changes one's perspective of life. How we live is changed. It calls for a more whole/holistic way of living. It is not like one has to join a convent or start some special society. It is a way that anyone can partake and live a more balanced life. Be an encouragement to do so! At least it does to me.

Actually I have had this thought swimming back in my mind for some time now. Ironically it started after my first meditation sit two years ago. As a result of that experience, I have been slowing evolving, changing. For example, even though I do have an IBS problem that has been existing within me for years, since this time and especially in the last few months, I am changing my diet. Not because I just decided but because something inside me directs me. One may think I am going overboard but when I really sit down to think of what I eat. I do not want to be feeding myself some unhealthy food. And yes, that goes for sugar (cookies, cakes, candy, sweets). Does anyone read the ingredients? Yuck! And food that was not processed in a not so nice way: fast foods? refined sugars, flours, rice and grains? I fortunately have not been much of a sugarholic all of my life so it is an aspect that has been easy to eradicate from my diet. Food then expands to other areas of life including exercise and the likes.

So for me this statement is like hey, wake up! Live a balanced life because you deserve it! A desire to be healthy and happy too. And you know what, when doing this, it does improve how one perspective of life is.

Also, just think because God is in everyone and everyone is in God. Does that not change how we interact with others? Does not that create more love, compassion, empathy, caring for others because we all have God within us? In you? Again, this was another aspect that I thought I came up with after my meditation sit. I changed the way I interact with people. Again it is a slow process but over the two years, have seen some interesting occurrences. Basically when one puts aside the stereotypes, judgements of others, that individual is just like me and you. They have a soul, spirit that is also partaking the journey of life. And think about the valuable lessons and interaction that can occur and how one can help each other build on their experiences of life's lessons of love and living.

It is not easy just because we fall into habits. If we want change it is a process but can be done so. Treat yourself to a walk, to a play, to ramble in the woods, to do a favorite hobby, eat some delicious healthy food. It's amazing how great healthy balanced meals can bring. We still of responsibilities of course but take on responsibilities that are congruent, align with your sense of living a well balanced whole life. One might find a sense of more fulfillment, purpose for life and the journey we are taking.

What if Bush did Yoga?

2007-10-07T17:54:00.000-07:00

Ah, what a question indeed!! I saw this on a window in Pasadena back in August. I took the picture because it did intrigued me. It was obvious that the owner was poking fun because it is hard to see but there are pictures of yoga postures and President Bush's head cut out and pasted on.

Seriously, this got me thinking and was thinking about it some more today as it came back to me. What if Bush did yoga? Would our president be any different? Would the last seven years be any different? Hmm.... thinks I.

I do not by any means support the majority of Bush's statements, actions, and behaviors over the last several years, and if that is not enough, voting not for him hopefully would show some indication that I do not prefer such a man of his character in office leading our nation.

And I thought, what if someone were to send a letter in concern for his health and well being. After all, one wonders about stress levels, pressures and such for a person in presidency. Instead of writing to complain about war issues, environmental issues, human rights, oil, etc. etc. etc., perhaps a letter asking how are you doing? I am concerned about your well being. I am not sure from the outcomes we have seen if you are in need of some time out. Have you considered yoga? Send him off to some revered yoga teacher in India or USA. Have you tried meditation? Go to a Vipassana retreat for 10 days. Go take a walkabout in some beautiful wilderness area with the local people of the region to support and guide you on your journey. Have you spent hours volunteering for a local shelter, habitat for humanity, helping out at some other charity?

The true point I am trying to make here is that in order for us as individuals to see change in our society, we need to start practicing more metta, loving-kindness from the heart. Showing true compassion of love. There are many circumstances in this world that do not support such ideology of peace and love. And many people who do not hold to the idea of this concept by their actions and behaviors we see. It is the whole idea of being one. We are not separate from the earth, each other, God, or the greater universe. We are connected.

It is kind of sad if President Bush were to respond and say no I have not done or choose to do such things. What an opportunity he is missing out not just because to build more compassion and understanding for a person of his position to reach out and learn about the different individuals and cultures that are impacted by a person with this form of leadership, but also misses out an opportunity to reach a part of his soul and spirit that may need a little rejuvenating and healing.

So President Bush, why not try some yoga? Might do the world of good.

Yoga Walk of Peace

2007-09-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

What will you do with your One Precious Life?

Everything is possible.

Our thoughts voice action choices in how we live - are instruments of peace or destruction.

You are an agent of creative positive change

See the One in All and All in One.

Wake up and

Roar!

Laugh!

Sing!

Dance!

Love!

Serve!

Create!

And so was my Yoga Walk of Peace day. If I had been better informed of the nature of this event I would have done a better job of spreading the much needed news for peaceful action. This conference was hosted by the Global Mala Project, which the intention:

"The purpose of the Global Mala is to unite the global yoga community from every continent, school or approach to form a "mala around the earth" through collective practices based upon the sacred cycle of 108 on Sept. 21st and 22nd, Fall Equinox as the yoga world's offering to further the UN International Peace Day. Each center offers their form of a Yoga Mala according to their yoga tradition and inspiration:
108 Sun Salutations (or variations of 27, 56)
108 rounds of mantra such as the Gayatri or Maha Mrityanjaya
108 rounds of a kriya
108 minutes of meditation, kirtan, movement meditation"

The above quote taken from the main site of Global Mala Project: http://www.globalmala.org/about.php.

Please refer for a complete coverage. It is very interesting.

What I did not realize the connection was to the UN International Peace Day. Why is not such important information regarding peace broadcasted more? I have not seen anything in the news about Peace Day. And here I missed it. Especially the part where at noon (September 21) there is asked a global minute of silence for world peace. Would not that been incredible? If whole cities, countries, communities, nations all stopped for one minute for silence and prayer of peace. Here is a website in reference to an article about UN International Peace Day: http://www.un.org/events/peaceday/2007/index.shtml

And so I went to the one hosted at the Los Angeles Convention Center. I went today, Sunday. Actually not too many people around. It was nice as I did not have to fight the mob to view booths. The assembly room had a multitude of booths for books, health foods, massage, clothes, and the works. Amazing really - the intent is to promote healthy, conscious living. I had found out about this event through the LA Weekly. Most of the attendees are Yoga instructors and students. So a lot of yoga oriented material as well! :)

Storm Day

2007-09-22T19:18:00.000-07:00

Ah, another storm day. I went back to the ocean today to take a walk from Manhattan Beach to El Segundo. El Segundo had a street faire with crafts, handmade objects, art, clothing, food, along with entertainment. While on my walk there which is a little over a mile and half, I took pictures and enjoyed the changing dramatic scenery. It rained but not very much. Soft drops. This above picture is of Manhattan Pier (the red roofed aquarium at the end). The blue in the way backdrop (between the end of Palos Verdes and the pier) is Catalina Island. There are white clouds sitting on the top. :)
This picture is looking South, yes South, towards Redondo Beach and the rest of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Reason for the low visibility? RAIN!! They are sure getting a soakin'. I seemed to be in the perfect location as even though it rather rained lightly, I was hardly wet. And I was even hot with my long sleeve shirt and sweatshirt.
And this is looking North. Wow!! Could not see Santa Monica or the Santa Monica Mountains. Actually, I did wake up during the night. I had thought coming out of my dream state that the airplane was so loud and so unusually close. But realized it must have been a thunderous thunderclap and roll. Happened only once to my knowledge.
The previous series of photos is what I saw out on the beach (two of them). This one at the El Segundo beach. On the normal day this trench is covered over by sand; never knew it existed. Now I understand why there is a crisis beach clean - up after storms. The beach is littered with more trash than usual, especially congregating around these outlets that open up during storms. I was not prepared today but definitely will be in the future--to clean up that rubbish! Maybe a good idea I was not out in my tent (that I do not even possess for that matter), because I may have unwittingly placed myself about these outlets. And whoosh, away I go out to sea! I am starting to laugh just thinking about it. Ah dear.

And yes, by the time I reached El Segundo, sunny sunny--with the exception of the North and South areas.
And so was the day out on the LA coast. I saw a hawk (peregrine Falcon-do they actually exist in these parts?) flying with a fish in its talons and a score of seagulls in pursuit. Did not have my camera handy for this glorious sight.

Coastal Storm

2007-09-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

So. A storm in LA. Well the storm seems to be more centrally located out at sea but we got the rain. People have been talking up a storm (haha) about the reported rain/thunderstorm for the weekend. It has gotten quite a bit cooler in the last week. So cool I was starting to think, ah Autumn is coming.

Today was sunny enough, but when I left after work and looked East to the coast. The big clouds coming in. I went racing home to get some errands done and then out to the beach to take pictures and admire the storm. It has not rained in 150 days. The last time it rained was on Good Friday. We needed the good soaking. The air is "much fresher." Not too fresh though but the smog has been very low. Wonderful. I like storms on the coast. It is so full of energy.

This is looking in the direction to Palo Verdes Peninsula (on far left of picture) but supposed to be full view of Catalina Island which is clouded over with some of the significant ominous clouds. It had not started to rain just yet. I could feel the rain coming closer and was fairly windy.
Just think, just a few weeks ago (like Labor Day weekend), the beaches were amassed with human bodies. One could barely see the sand between the people. I had seen a photo of that weekend. And now look at this picture, a small representation of what the beaches looked like for miles. The only inhabitants with me were the fellow seagulls and sandpipers and the pelicans riding the crests of the waves out at sea. There were some people granted out on the walkway for biking and such but not very many.
Then it started to rain. Big drops. Splat, Splat. I quickly got on my hat and rain coat. I do not mind getting wet but hearing aids are prime importance to stay dry. As long as I have dry hearing aids, everything is fine. Did my little rain celebration dance before hiking it back to the van to sit and read and listen to the rain come down. I did not take off right away so to let the roads get a good soaking before driving. And probably avoid some of the crazies who think they can go 50 mph on five minute fresh wet pavement with the oils coming out.

Yes, interrupted report! I just witnessed lightning. HA!!! My kind of storm. Almost wish to be out on the beach in a tent and letting the rain and wind rip through. Thunder? Was that faint thunder? If it was about six to eight miles away. So perhaps I will get my storm. The first storm of the season in anticipation of Autumn. Autumn is coming. My favorite season of the year. If we only had fall foliage around here.... but this is just as glorious. Coastal storms.

Watching the River Run

2007-09-16T20:28:00.001-07:00

The rivers in my life. I am drawn to the waters ever taking them in with my senses, and ever pausing to listen, listen, listen...

There is a song, "Watching the River Run,"
that I call the song of father/daughter (namely my dad and I). I grew up with this song starting as a baby with the song sung to me like a lullaby. The song continued to be sung as I got older. And it continues to be sung even though Dad and I are miles apart in the physical sense but rather the song continues whenever we cherish the moments together in our hearts and spirit. For every time I pass a river, every time the words are sung on a breeze, they celebrate the love between father and daughter.

WATCHING THE RIVER RUN

If you've been thinking

You're all that you've got,

Then don't feel alone anymore,

'Cause when we're together,

Then you've got a lot,

For I am the river

And you are the shore. And it goes on and on,

Watching the river run,

Further and further

From things that we've done

Leaving them one by one

And we have just begun

Watching the river run;

List'ning and learning

And yearning;

Run, river, run.

Winding and turning

And dancing along,

We passed by the old willow tree,

Where friends embrace

As we sing them our song,

Rejoicing together

As we greet the sea.

And it goes on and on,

Watching the river run,

Further and further

From things that we've done

Leaving them one by one

And we have just begun

Watching the river run;

List'ning and learning

And yearning;

Run, river, run.

And it goes on and on,

Watching the river run,

Further and further

From things that we've done

Leaving them one by one

And we have just begun

Watching the river run;

List'ning and learning

And yearning;

Run, river, run.

One can also listen to a live recording from YouTube to get an idea of the flow of the song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyIZXB1aJEM&NR=1

The song is written by Loggins and Messina"Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it. The river was cut by the world's great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time. On some of the rocks are timeless raindrops. Under the rocks are the words, and some of the words are theirs."

A River Runs through It; written by Norman Maclean.

A Love Story

2007-09-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

I walk to work everyday. I am so spoiled! I walk through a fairly lively, colorful neighborhood filled with so many people from a variety of places. One of my neighbors is from Italy. I know there are dozens of other countries/ethnic backgrounds being represented here.

Every morning I walk to work and pass several people in clusters. Mostly are children on their way to school. There are schools in the neighborhood as well. And I pass daily a mother and her child. They look to be very friendly, indeed they are, and cheerful, as exhibited by the smiles and joyful greetings when we pass. With the exception of the summer interim, we see each other every day of the work/school week. All it is a greeting of hellos, how are you, have a good day sort of pleasantries as we keep walking by. Of course there are waves of hands and big smiles that accompany the vocal greetings.

School has started up again and happily I have seen the children back to walking the streets on their way to and from school. And among those I pass, this mother and child. However, there has been a change! Just a few days ago, the little girl stops me to ask my name. We introduce to each other. And small chit chat is exchanged between all of us (mother, child, and I). The child's name is Maria and the mother's name is I believe Wilma. She has an accent so it was hard to pick up all the vowels and sounds. Maria looks to be so happy, especially when we are passing and exchanging greetings.

Now this morning, I saw Maria and Wilma coming down the street. Already, I had a big smile on my face and could feel the happy energy from them. As I was passing this time, Maria was on the phone. She had smiled and said hello but was obviously engrossed in a conversation. Wilma explained to me that Maria was on the phone with her grandmother talking all about me. Me! What?? Have our exchanges although seems minor because of our smiles and greetings every day, can really have an impact? And so I have yet learned another lesson.

Even though Maria and Wilma continued on their way to school passing by, I had stopped and stood there watching them depart from me. I was awashed with love. Yes, love. I felt so loved right there in that moment and it continued to be felt throughout the day. If it was not for the love, I think I would have cried. Here is a little girl who looks forward to her walks to school with her mother because she passes by this girl (still view myself as a girl) that gives her great pleasure to see. So much pleasure, she goes calls her Grandmother and tells all about me. It seems like a small inconsenquence but to Maria, I might as well be her dear friend. And yet, each day I look forward to my walk to work because I pass by this girl (probably about 7 years of age) and mother who are so jovial and pleasant. To see them gives me a happy glow in my heart. Goes to show that the small things in life, even just a simple gesture of a smile, greeting can go a far way into the hearts of many. I love you Maria.

(Postscript: I know the picture does not seem to go with the story, but I chose it in picturing the beautiful birds of paradise like people. And since the story involves three individuals... so hence the underlying symbolism. *smile* ).

Coastal Ventures

2007-09-05T18:44:00.000-07:00

I had a very special Labor Day weekend. Special because in many ways it was not planned until the last moment, up to a few days prior to Friday. Then again in many ways as life has it way, perhaps it was planned all along. So before I commence telling of the story, I will start from the beginning. As Labor Day weekend was approaching, I knew I wanted to get away to do something different than stay in LA for my three day holiday. As I thought about what possibilities I could do ranging from up in the mountains surrounding LA from the North or the deserts or the coast. As you can imagine, coast sounds better just because it has been so hot. I set my sights to the coastal north of LA. Where? Hmm... a plan never formulated. Why? Because I knew I was going somewhere but something told me to wait it out like something or someone will come. And indeed I actually told my co-workers I was leaving town for a destination yet to be revealed to me. So I waited and up to the last few days prior to the weekend was starting to wonder what I was waiting for. Was my little voice playing tricks on me? Come Wednesday evening I get a unbelievable surprise. One of my friends, Rachel, said that she and Swede were coming to California for the weekend to go adventuring up the coast to Carmel and the surrounding area. Believe me my roommates could hear me for miles if they were not in the house hearing me jumping around with glee and joy. So my inner voice was right. In fact I was thinking the voice was disappearing of sorts since being here in LA. LA is definitely not conducive to my lifestyle. But the fact that the voice is still there and at least I am hearing it makes me feel relieved.

And so now begins my tale. My friends arrived en route to our destination from Tempe Friday evening. We drive up to Salinas to stay overnight with a friend of Rachel's. We probably did not get there until sometime right after 1am but we had left my house a bit after 7pm and even had some LA traffic so I thought that was pretty good time.

We spent all of Saturday in Carmel. What a pretty little place. The main attraction besides our superb breakfast with kathy cakes at the Cottage and the ocean, was The Secret Garden and The Pilgrim's way. First, I start with the Secret Garden which is right behind The Pilgrim's Way through an alley. The Secret Garden is exactly such, a secret garden that offers many visual and auditory pleasures. Different plants, figurines, and gifts are present in this semi-outdoor garden.

This picture was actually taken outside of the Secret Garden along the flower beds of the street. But pretty nevertheless. I like the yellow with the green stripes. The secret garden had a lot of succulents but also plants like bamboo and flower plants that looked exotic.

One may not see it very well but this is the view of the place from the streets. The sign says Pilgrim's Way Books. And that is where we spent a significant portion of our time in Carmel. Who would not, thinks I. Books, books, books. Swede and Rachel may not know this but I put real restraint on myself but made dozens of mental notes of titles and authors. It is my kind of bookstore and worth the miles to drive up to visit it. Like a pilgrimage in a way.

And then we spent the rest of the afternoon and early evening at the beach in Carmel. We found a quiet spot overlooking this quiet, small bay. Our time was spent reading, Swede playing his guitar, talking, beachcombing, running, and making sand art. Perfect! We sat by this big Cyprus tree which it's roots were unfortunately giving way because of the sand erosion. However, I am sure the beautiful Cyprus was happy to have us for company close by.

We returned while the sun was setting. So beautiful and the smells just glorious, especially with the eucalyptus trees. We then went to the store to get salad fixings and wine to bring back to the beach with our blankets and enjoy dinner and discussion out on the beach. We went to a different beach that was quite open and a group of folks offered their dying campfire when they were leaving. So we had some warmth of a fire and the beach. Beautiful evening with the stars so bright and the milky way and then the moon rising to cast the glow on the waves, water, and sand. I even saw a shooting star, which is something that I have not seen in a long time (partly because the city lights do not do justice for star gazing). And now looking back, hmm, I did not make a wish or maybe I did but just do not know it. I think I will remember that evening for a long, long time. Swede had said something that this is the way life should be with friends around the fire, out with nature, and sharing time together. Rachel then says, "No, this is the way life is." And so very true. Blessings in every way. Rachel went to sleep while Swede and I stayed up till midnight talking. Now there is another part of the story of how our evening ended but honestly, to write it here will take too long. I still laugh just thinking of the events that transpired. For those who want to know, ask me personally and I will tell you. hehe

Come Sunday, we start to drive down the coast on the famous Pacific Coast Highway 1. So I got to see the glorious coastline of Big Sur once again. And come to think of it, probably one of the most beautiful coastlines I have ever experienced. There are some places in Washington/BC/UK that come close. There are no words to express such scenery and the feelings in my heart. All I can do is just soak it in. Each time I pass through I come away a new person.

The ocean so vast here with brilliant colors of blues and the shimmering water. The rugged coastline like never seen before. Even just looking at the above picture, I can lose myself all over again and in the process start to rediscover myself.
We continued to have fun as we camped out at Pismo State Beach and continued our journey down PCH 1. We stayed at Refugio State Beach to spend a few hours reading, Swede playing his guitar, and enjoying the beach.

It was quite the extraordinary weekend. One I will treasure for a very long time. So very perfect to spend some time with two very dear friends on a coastal venture like this. Pure bliss.

V is for Venice

2007-08-22T19:34:00.000-07:00

"V" stands for Venice Beach. And there I was several weekends ago in July helping out with Heal the Bay beach clean up. I have been to Venice twice now. The first time was when Paul, my roommate from Tempe, came to visit me during Easter weekend. This time I did it alone. The part I was in is considered relatively safe because of the number of cops around but there are parts, like where my landlord used to live, where you do not want to be around. But if you are in LA, Venice is a place where one should stop to look around (the Venice Beach boardwalk). My relatives from Brooklyn did that when they breezed through LA.

I came to Venice bright and early that Saturday morning. Even beat the Heal the Bay volunteers. So walked the beach a bit.

This may be deceiving in the sense for seaweed but in reality it is full of garbage. Plastic, clothes, balloons, strings, and other odds and ends that is toxic to the environment come ashore. We are close to Balona Creek which bring out tons of rubbish to sea. While we may consider beach clean ups to be helping. The real need is to clean the streets of LA. It is where it all starts. If there is a cleaner city, cleaner water ways. But I witness people throwing trash on the ground periodically. Like today, a bus driver asks me for a glass of water (at my work when picking up some clients). I go and get her a glass of water. While I am standing there making sure the clients get settled on the bus. I see her finish her glass of water and she tosses the cup just behind me on the ground. I see her face. Not a care in the world, like it is typical to dump unwanted rubbish on the ground. I go and pick it up. It is sad. The street cleaners hardly do a dent but rather congregate the trash elsewhere.

And so I spent the majority of my morning picking up the rubbish. There were a lot of people there helping out. Two groups from Surfriders and a local yoga club were there as well. And I was picking up trash with a group of young Japanese teenagers. All of them were speaking Japanese and I have no idea why they seem to like follow me around... perhaps I found the best places for the mass amount of rubbish? We were all ambitious in filling our bags and getting more.

Now while this is all happening on the beach. Swing 180 degrees to the land and this is the sight you see. I took the tour through the famous Venice Beach boardwalk. It is hard to describe and even capture with a camera. One really needs to be there in person to experience it. And so I leave you with a few photos of snapshots of the infamous boardwalk.

Muscle beach. Where I am told Arnold Swartzengger started it all in America. Is that actually true, who knows.

Street performers. Believe me the cobras are real. There was a two headed turtle being shown at a local "Freak show." Poor animals.

Now, this was an interesting story. The group that was connected with "SAVE OUR MOTHER EARTH, THE POWER OF LOVE" was a group that I would say dressed like those who come from the North African continent and even the middle East. They had their drums and were singing away. The big sign said that they were the lost tribe of Israel. I guess one of the tribes got lost from the 12 that were sent out? But they were proclaiming peace and goodwill to all. That was a theme seen periodically. LOVE. LOVE your neighbor, LOVE nature, Peace. Very hippy. And there were bonafide hippies who i thought looked like had remained in some time capsule. Because of the dress, attitude and such.

And other stuff like this. "MEAT IS MURDER" There was another stand that was anti Bush Administration. Even though I do not exactly favor the Bush administration, there were some downright ugly words being professed in bumper stickers and handouts.

And so this continued for about a mile or so. It really is an odd place. Where everything comes together. Bizarre, cool, and perplexing. I am not sure if there is any place quite like it. At least that I have experienced. Hippies, druggies. There were guys about my age asking for donations so they could buy some much needed marijuana. There were times I was wondering where in hell am I? I felt like I was caught between some time era but confusing. It was like a comedy at times. I am the audience looking around. And indeed at one point I just stopped and started laughing, laughing and laughing. Some passerby probably thought I was part of the "act" too. There are a few stores of interest that I liked and stopped in and ended up chatting with one of the owners of the store. He was trying to get me to buy a hammock. I fancy a hammock but have no place to put one. And so we ended up talking. In itself that was different for me because I am rarely chit chatting with people. This is LA, land of unfriendly people as they say.

And in the midst of all that. I look to the ocean for some grounding as the ocean and water for me is a place of tranquility, and I happen to catch someone doing just the same. It was a rather interesting moment in time as I remembered. Right at the moment when I was thinking everything is so bizarre and crazy, I look for a sense of focus, inner collectiveness. And it is there. So real to me. I see this fellow meditating and all around me everything just seems to disappears, non-exist as it becomes only he, I and the ocean/sand before me. Then as briefly as this moment came, it was gone. The buzz of activity comes back and I am once again in the world that so often we think is they reality of our daily lives.

Family times

2007-08-19T14:05:00.000-07:00

So here I am again. Overdue with the blogging, quite so. Since I am so far behind, I still need to start from the beginning of my absence. For the Fourth of July weekend/week, I was on the East Coast (Hopkinton, NH and Cape Cod, MA) visiting with family. The primary focus was the celebration of my Great Uncle Larry's birthday (80 years). Above is picture of some of my family. Actually I realized I only took pictures of this circle quite often. How can I not, they are so entertaining. This is my Uncle Pete. You got to love him. Always posing for the perfect shots. I am not sure what he is doing in this picture but always makes me smile. :) It is fun to listen to all of the stories he tells. A storyteller in many sense. Also, shocked that after all of these years, he did not want to take a drive with me. Hmm.... At least a few of my friends have braved the driving with me and came out with no harm, at least none that I know of... and this was driving in LA.This is the reason for my poor representation of the family at large. My cousin, Maya, and I seemed to go on this photo frenzy of each other. My aunt, Priscilla, Maya's mother, is sitting next to her. They are from Brooklyn. And I will be seeing them tomorrow in Maibu! Hurrah!!
This is a better picture of Maya that I have without a camera nearby. She is my youngest cousin in the immediate family not including cousins once, twice, third times removed and so on. Twelve years apart.
The celebration/reunion was spent in Cape Cod. Otherwise I spent the rest of my holiday in the woods of New Hampshire at the family cabin. Very quaint and a perfect place to get away, especially from the crazed scene of LA proper.
I actually got to sleep out on the screened porch on night. The rest of the nights my parents were sleeping out here. I had to really "fight" for the opportunity. Because who would not want to sleep out here being lulled to sleep with the calm waters moving about on Rolph Pond and the bull frogs croaking, and the snakes slithering through the waters. And waking up to the chorus of birds and fishes jumping with the morning or evening sun.
The family cabin sits right on Rolph pond. Amidst the glorious woods that carries their voices around and all over with the breezes blowing through, speaking in the different words of centuries of living and seeing. Sometimes it amazes me what the trees do live through. This is an area that the trees are old enough to talk about the events during the Revolutionary times and war, when this country of America was just beginning. And yet even older to recall earlier times with the existing natives of these lands living with the earth as one. If only I could understand their words; only in my dreams do they truly speak out.
Ah, yes the traditional food of New England. I do not eat these creatures because I have a food reaction to seafood/fish. But they are cute. And of course some vegetarians are probably come after me about animal cruelty. As lobster are cooked rather cruelly if one thinks about it. They are boiled alive which becomes their death. Poor guys. I heard they are yummy.
This is my favorite licence plate in all of the United States. "LIVE FREE OR DIE!" Good motto. And as my dad considers one of its kind. Because the Ol' Man in the Mountain on the plate if one can see it, does not exist anymore. He fell to his demise when the rocks finally gave way. Poor guy. Hint: By the way Ol' Man is the image of a man's face on the side of the granite wall, if you are having a hard time deciphering who Ol' Man is.
Ah, more family time. Did I not tell you, my Uncle Pete is quite the storyteller. What amazing stories he must be telling right now as he points to some object of fascination. Stories are already being created in my mind. My Aunt Barbara is also shown here (the one closest to the photographer, me). She and Pete live in Maine. And the other two are of course my parents. Need I say anything more of my parents who are the wild adventurers of the globe trotters. Distance lands call them all the way from Thailand. Where to next, I often wonder.
The reason for the picnic was because we attended the concert on the green in Manchester Vermont with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. They were playing some incredible pieces. And ended with the 1812 Overture and fireworks going off. Very impressive, especially with the sounds echoing in the valley and off the mountains. (There is a continued debate as to whether the mountains in New England are really mountains anymore but instead hills.) Mountains or no, there is ancient history that lives and breathes through the woods and mountains. One can feel it. And if you listen, you will hear them. Sounds silly? Just go and spend a few days in the wilderness of North New Hampshire or even in Maine. Look at all the books by the New England naturalists. One of their kind.
And so here I spent a few days with much laughter, stories, and adventures that only can be had with family. I now wish I could have stayed longer to soak in the environment of nature some more. I definitely needed it when I returned back to LA. Since my return work has been a bit crazy with low staff ratios that makes work a bit difficult at times among other events of the going ons at work. And then coming down with the nasty cold that is spreading like wildfire around LA. I think I was especially knocked hardest just because I am a foreigner to this part of California and not used to the bugs that go around just yet. Ah well. I still have a few adventures since returning to tell for another time.

Topanga State Park Hike

2007-06-24T16:31:00.001-07:00

Kristy, one of my coworkers and I went on a hike today at the Topanga State Park. It is not very far north of Santa Monica. Probably about a 40 minute drive (the same to my Abalone Cove). In reality I am not that far from the border of LA to the North. I am not really in the heart of LA, which is a good thing. Somehow knowing I can get out of the city in rather a short span of time (considering LA traffic) is very reassuring to me. The park is located in the Santa Monica Mountains (hem). I do not know if one really would consider the hills mountains but hey. And in the Pacific Palisades. We were hiking around among the canyon area. Our hike included a waterfall in a loop trail covering a distance of 2.6 miles.

The trail started in the canyon and we made our way up. It was not a bad trek at all. Many people traverse this trail often. It is very dusty though. Probably due to lack of rain fall and we just entered into the dry season. There really is some serious drought issues around here.
Bridge over creek.
And here is the waterfall. Yes, there is a waterfall. Just a trickle coming down off of the green plants. This is fairly serious. I saw a picture of what the waterfall looks like in full flow. Drastic change from cascading water over rocks to a steady trickle. It is evident that the water flow has not been in full flow for many many many moons. Dusty creek beds.
After the waterfall, the trail started to incline rapidly again till we started coming to the ridge of this canyon.
The fog started coming back in again from off the ocean. It was a great day for a hike especially since we were doing it about lunch time. Warm out but by this point, often breezes from the ocean coming in to keep us cool.
At this vantage point, we are looking down at the houses and the ocean is right there too but obviously hidden from view.
This is looking south toward LA. Really it is not this foggy where we are but the way the camera took the picture. There was blue patches of sky overhead. We could not figure out what the light was. I think it is from LAX airport. But kind of fun to see nothing expect for this glowing light.
From there we started a decline back into the canyon.

It was a good hike. Got me hooked again. A passion for more hiking.

Beauty and the Beach

2007-06-23T19:24:00.000-07:00

Yep, this is what I did this morning till lunch time. It was quite the event. The beach cleanup was hosted right at the small beach here at El Segundo.

The group that turned out were mainly families with their kids. So a lot of kids and grown-ups. We all got a free t-shirt. Free water and free snack bars. Looking back, I should have helped myself to more fruit bars. Next time. We stood around for some time, I was early showing up. I was ready just to go and start picking up trash and not have to wait for the formalities. While we were waiting, I met another woman, Susan, there. We started talking.

Finally when the hosts were ready to send us off. They gave a safety speech. No touching needles or syringes. If found notify the Lifeguard on the beach... they have a special procedure and kits to handle the needles and such. Also, notify the lifeguard if weapons are found or any dead animals. Then we had to split in groups of five. Honestly, I thought that was sort of lame to follow others because I know my pace probably will not match others in my careful, thorough collecting of trash. But the reason given for such collective groups were because some people had gotten lost last year. Susan and I looked up and down the beach, and looked at each other and laughed. How can anyone get lost on a beach? Especially this beach? Ah dear.

Susan and I ended being on one team. It was quite obvious that the two other ladies were not exactly being thorough with their work. Susan and I were. There was a guy with us too. So as time went on, Susan and I had a bag each for our trash. The guy stayed with us and the two ladies went off by themselves. We each had one glove and a tool that acted like extended fingers to pick up the trash. Actually, this beach in El Segundo is not littered with trash. The reason due mainly because it is not near a storm drain. Most of the trash is from the storm drains, sewers, and such that come out of the city. So most of the trash were these little bits of plastics, Styrofoams, and plastic bottle rings.

Well us three ended up being the last out picking trash out of the nearly 100 people who came. I think it is safe to say that we were passionate about our mission. Sadly there is still trash still on the beach and we could not just say no. So while everyone else were eating this lunch that was part of the celebration, we were still out scouring the sands. It was a great day for surfing and these surfer guys came by and said, "Whoa, you rock! Thanks for picking up the trash."

We did get some lunch and plenty to drink. The sun came out and was rather hot. I had 30 Sunscreen on, sunglasses, and a hat. Also for part of the event, the kids got to enter into an art contest. Whoever drew the most creative marine life won the prize and had their picture on the shirts we all received. A good way to get the kids involved and more mindful of a better environment.

And by the way, when I called to get more information about this cleanup last night, I left a message on the answering machine for the program. For some odd reason I said, "I am looking to join the beauty pagent tomorrow." Oh dear. Whoever will hear the message will probably get a kick out of it.

Ventura Weekend

2007-06-18T19:53:00.000-07:00

This is how my weekend got started on a Friday night at 1900 hours. See what marvelous car congestion is all about in LA? This is NOT what rush hour is like. If it was rush hour, you would be seeing the fine details on license plates with bumper to bumper standstill traffic. This scene you are seeing IS normal. By the way, just to let you know, I am not multitasking here. As in driving and taking pictures. I am at a complete stop when I took this picture. I think the cars surrounding me on either sides were wondering what I was doing taking pictures and playing Brahms and Vivaldi on the radio with windows rolled down... a rather warm evening and trying to spread some calm to keep the other drivers from spurning into road rage madness, which is the norm around here.
Another view and the road congestion is as bad on the other side too, if one is studying the pictures closely. Supposed to be the Santa Monica Mountain range ahead but the smog makes it hard to be visible. I am on the I-405. Took me almost an hour on a 18 mile stretch before the exchange to the 101. 101 was better as I was going the speed limit all the way to Ventura. Speed limit: 65mph. But folks were going well over 85 mph. Driving ~success.

Now on to my weekend. I spent it was my former roommate's parents. They live in Ventura. Saturday was busy from dawn to dark. I got up had breakfast. Portia and I went to the local farmer's market. Checked out the Ventura pier which at one time was the longest wooden pier in California. Shorter now but still very busy with fishermen and local homeless people. I do not know why homeless people actually congregate on piers. We then went to Ojai for the lavender festival. Cool town nestled in the rolling hills. This place is big on hippies and holistic health avenues. We came back for lunch and this time Roger joined us taking us in his sport's car to Solvang.

Very festive in Solvang. A Danish town originally but have to admit with Portia... to many other vendors besides Scandinavian vendors are just as popular. That is kind of too bad. But did find some of the historic Scandinavian stuff including the dishes and some clothes. Of course bakeries abounded everywhere... what's a Danish community without their Danish treats?

Then we went to Chumash Casino, which was just down the road. Portia wanted to eat there. The family is not gambling sort but there are many families that like to spend some time in casinos eating and socializing. We did play the pennies slot. I won 16.90 dollars with 20 cents! Good deal and I cashed out then.

Then back to Ventura where we went to the movies. Portia had free movie passes. We went to view "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer." Amazingly it is the top in the box office with $57 million. I cannot believe Pirates is only at $12 million!! Good grief! Entertaining movie.

And my day ended at 2300 hours. Sunday was the Golf Nationals. I saw the beginnings of it with lunch before I headed out hoping to beat traffic. Traffic gets ugly, ugly at 1500 hours on a Sunday lasting several hours till about 2100 hours. The drive back was actually better. I made it in an hour and half with a distance of about 90 miles.

It was great to leave LA for a weekend. Away from the smog and cars.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!

2007-06-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day, Dad!

Cheers to you, Dad. I love you. I hope your day has been special as in taking time to enjoy yourself. Wish I was with you so to take full advantage of playing and horsing around.

I hope the picture and the memories of this photo brings back some fond memories... of adventures and walk abouts.

Some Father's day memories:

Playing catch and a picnic at Frye's Cove with Grandma, Grandpa, Mom, you (Dad), and me.
Hiking Storm King Mountain in the Olympic National Park when I was working at Kalaloch.
Delightful Brunches.

You can add some memories too. :)

Happy Father's Day, Dad. I love you. :)

Tour des Artistes

2007-06-13T18:05:00.000-07:00

Here is the primary reason for my Long Beach day on Saturday. I got a free pass to visit the annual "Tour des Artistes" in the artsy side of town. The event encompassed galleries and local artists. So I went from gallery to gallery looking at the art work. The most impressive to me ... all the art is individual and unique, but I saw beautiful artwork at the Museum of Art (Long Beach). The artist, Helen Ross, had done a piece on tiles with etchings and various blue colors. The piece was called "Andante in Blue." The etchings on the tiles were angels, instruments (harps, lyres, and a trumpet horn), flowers and butterflies. A truly magnificent piece of work. Her other works included the same themes.

The rest of the afternoon was spent not just looking at the art work but becoming an artist myself with the digital camera. So I toured the neighborhood, taking a few photos.

I am finding that within LA there are communities within communities. Such the case for this neighborhood. The communities each have their own style, flair, and rapport. For example with this case of the artist neighborhood encompassing First Street to Broadway and Long Beach Blvd. to Los Alamitos Blvd. is the artists with varying styles of paintings, art shops, coffee shops (I guess those artists even need the caffeine for late night inspiration), and even tattoo shops. Art of tattoos are an upmost trend high right now. There was a feature of the 4th Avenue Women boasting their tattoos. I have to admit, the creativity of the tattoos were incredible. Birds, vintage looking designs, figures, etc. I saw one guy's face completely covered in tattoos, as in the face was completely inked with the exception of his eyelids and lips... inked with multicolored designs and shapes. I wonder if it hurts? A popular sight around here is full length arms covered in tattoos. People when they do get tattoos seem to go full length and all out and cover significant portions of their bodies with this indelible ink art. I do not know if it is just my take on it but I think LA has one of the hottest spot if not the hottest spot for tattoos in the USA. I do not recall seeing such a significant portion of society (being LA society) with tattoos. Is this just because more skin typically is showing? While in Arizona it gets hot and I do not recall the majority wearing tattoos. Perhaps because the majority are snowbirds? ha ... But even with my admiration of this body art, I have absolutely no desire to ink myself even with a tiny little figure. Same goes with body piercing. By the way, the fourth annual tattoo convention or gathering is coming to Long Beach. Sounds like big names from not just from the US but some European specialists are going to be featured. I will not be there.
Another full day of festivities and fun for me.

Tole Mour

2007-06-12T16:56:00.001-07:00

Now we are talking! This is the kind of boat or rather ship I like seeing! The able crew were tying things down and I could see many more of them running to and fro with the immediate chores of bringing the ship out to water. What adventures! I was ready to jump into the water and swim to Tole Mour and sign on as an abled crew member. Of course I do not have any skills or knowledge of navigating or working on such ships. But the joy of seeing it was joy enough.

I was again in Long Beach on Saturday for an event that will later be a blog for another day. But part of the day was spent at the vast harbor of Long Beach. I am thinking this is the biggest harbor in Los Angeles. "My" beach cities are just that... beaches with the exception of Redondo sporting a small harbor (King Harbor) with mainly yachts and powerboats. However, Long Beach has a long history of navy days and oil days so hence the presence of ships, Cruise ships, ferries, freighters, barges, and of course the yachts, sailing boats, powerboats, you name it, it is probably here.

This looks more like a gypsy boat. Something right out of the far east.

I know I have mentioned some of the sights earlier of Long Beach, like the big barges, freighters, and islands. Here is an example. An island in the distance with Palm trees and buildings. The the cargo ships sitting dotting the horizon. I do not know if one can really tell but past the breakers (rock barrier) the ocean is actually red. From red algae and pollution. Red tide I am sure. Not a pretty sight. And would not be wanting to eat the fish caught by the fishermen on the docks from this area.
Looking towards San Pedro, the stretch of miles of the hold for cargo, freighters, ferries to unload and load. The semi-trucks are also seen to transport the cargo once ashore to the different areas. But back where I was, an area just for smaller boats, plank ways, shops, and a walk way following the shoreline for the most part. I enjoyed my lunch watching the ships and boats roll by, the pelicans and seagulls all busy with the mid-day rush hour. I think in a ferry boat the passengers were throwing food to the seagulls creating a mass of wings.
And so another busy day at the Long Beach Marina.

Lil' Tug that Could

2007-06-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

I spent Sunday in Long Beach and Belmont Shore. I was volunteering for the company I work with at the Arts and Crafts Fair. At the Shoreline Harbor (Long Beach), I was walking the area around the docks. Nice walk ways for bike riding, walking, running, rollerblading, etc. And then I spotted this boat. Tug Boat to be exact. As one can see from the picture ... Olympia stands out. I only know one Olympia on the west coast that has a marina and that is hometown where I grew up. Even looks a bit familar to me too. And then a gentleman from one of the other boats came by and saw I was admiring this boat. He tells me, "That's a Nordic Tug. Hardy things they are." I imagine so... making the journey from Olympia to Long Beach. What a hardy lil' tug it is. This was my most exciting spoting for the day.

It was a grey overcast day or rather for part of the day. By oneish, it was clear at Belmont Pier.
Long Beach is quite the place by the harbor. On one side there is the huge places where the freight barges come in to unload/load cargo. Buildings are built right to the shoreline/beach. And the buildings are these high rises and several retirement communities that look more like 50+ some story hotels. There are huge cruise ships including the Queen Mary. Apparently she is famous from what I hear but I am not into ocean liners. But Queen Mary did give out a bellow, and the horn's blast reverbeated through the city bouncing echoes here and there. And then there are these small islands with Palm trees and what looks to be like some sort of oil rigs and such. I am not sure they are still functioning from the famous oil/navy days of the highpoint of Long Beach in its day.

I walked two miles to Belmont shore through a residential neighborhood. The houses were very pretty and well kept with gardens. Belmont Shore appears to be a very upscale neighborhood. The clothing folks were wearing were more on the trendy side with the latest fashions to date. And here I thought Manhattan and Redondo Beach were upscale beach towns. I will be going into the heart of Orange County this coming weekend. I think then I can assess more on the LA regions for trends. In some ways "the OC" is the heart of LA and what people report for the stereotypes of LA. The disporptionate haves and the have nots. North OC is more like gansta kind of communities as from what I experienced driving through one day. Many people report to me that Orange County is the pits of LA. So I will see how true this is.

Reflections

2007-05-29T19:57:00.000-07:00

Views like this one, is my most favorite scenery. I have always loved when the sky is cloudy and then the sun peaks through creating light and shadow on the ocean. Here the breaks are in several places creating the effect of ripples continuing on out to sea. Other times there is this one glow on a spot far out to sea. It makes me want to jump in a boat and row, sail, kayak out to the light. In chase of the light I go. Drawn to it as the light beacons to me.. Come forth, come forth. My best friend's mom used to say that to her such views on either land or sea was God's way of peaking through shining his light and love to earth. And perhaps that is why I desire to go to the light so I can look up, smile, and say, "Hello, God. It is I sending love to you in return."

And so spent a blissful Memorial day on my favorite peninsula--Palo Verdes. It is the only "country" part of the entire city and I do not feel that I am in the city as the peninsula to the south hides the city. I am so fortunate it is only a 35-40 minute drive through stop and go lights (no freeways in this part of the city).

It was more of a quiet day for reflection and ponder the newest changes in my life thus far as wayfarer living in Los Angeles. It has truly taken time to adjust to the changes from Tempe. Not so much as the place but the people I have left behind. My fond, fun, laughing, dearest friends and roommates (one has moved back to Hawai'i). Sometimes I feel sad that the physical distances are so far apart but I do know that we continue to share in spirit, soul, and dream. And that is precious.

And in the present moment when I sat on the ledge over looking the Pacific (don't worry Mom, I was not dangling my feet and legs over the edge), everything seemed to come into focus. I am content by the ocean. Happy, connected. And it is here I wish to stay. Not so much as LA itself but close by the sea. And marvel the beauty of the ruggedness of cliff, mountain, hill tumbling down to meet the tides ever moving in rhythm, sharing in the rhythm of life.

Beachcomber's Meanderings

2007-05-24T17:02:00.001-07:00

And thus was the image I started my day with past Saturday doing a beach hike down to Redondo Beach (several miles... exact mileage unknown but it is a hour and half one way from El Segundo Beach park to Redondo Beach Harbor at a steady pace). The beach was lined with surfers that morning.Just imagine what it will be like in a few weeks, come July summer time. I will not be able to see the sand as people tell me. So better enjoy it now with less crowds. It was a good day for a walk. Sunny but hazy with the smog visible on the horizon.Beach front on the land side. Everything is built up to the sands of the beaches. And a lone surfboard awaits a ride on the wave. :) I am still in the Manhattan Beach area.
There is wildlife to be seen. The Pelicans were out as well cruising the waves with the surfers. Actually, I think that would be neat out in the ocean with the pelicans gliding by hovering over the waves.

And what?! I arrive to Hermosa Beach, kind of a funky, hippy style kind of place to see a huge scene for volleyball. The Pro Championships were already full swing. I seem to be developing this knack of late of arriving to destinations full of some kind of event and championships... I am recalling the time I went to scout Long Beach and ill-timed it right when the huge National auto racing was occurring right in the city!). At least the volleyball tournament was relatively lower key. However, I like Hermosa Beach (at least what I have seen of it).

For the day I had some destinations already planned. Including an earlier bead shop in El Segundo. Hermosa Beach was the stop for the famous "The Spot." All vegetarian food selection. Very healthy, good looking meals. So Rachel, we have at least one very good place to go to eat if you come to visit. You or anyone for that matter who is food conscious of healthy eating will not be disappointed. I had a delicious dish of Santa Fe Enchiladas (organic corn tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, tempeh, salsa and red sauce with pinto beans and whole grain brown rice). Very good. I also checked out the beer/wine menu since it said organic... and yes, I found what I was looking for -- organic Fish tale ale! Go Oly!!! Of course I did not order alcholic beverages. But to my extreme delight saw that they offered Kombucha for part of the beverage selection. Loved that (and by the way, my destination for Redondo Beach... whole foods to buy Kombucha). The restaurant is very nice. Use the same menu for both lunch and dinner.
And so off I go filled with good food to Redondo Beach ... Whole Foods. There is a big harbor here and wharf. I have not actually been to the heart of Redondo Beach just yet. Save for another outing.

So was a good full day of walking and enjoying the beach and ocean front.

Story time

2007-05-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

A story today that I read. I thought it was very good. And will share it with you.

THE LEGEND OF THE IRISH HARP

One misty day, a young woman with black hair and the bluest of eyes was walking along the beach. She was idly collecting pretty pebbles and shells. The mists moved in and out from the water as she strolled, softly singing romantic songs to herself. She thought of her handsome husband as she sang.
She had just walked up to a patch of reeds when she heard music sweeter than anything she had ever heard in her life. She pushed past the reeds and there found the skeleton of a whale. The sweet music she was hearing was coming from the skeleton.
As she came along the side of the whale, she discovered that the music was caused by the wind singing ever so sweetly through the bones of the whale. The music was hypnotizing, and before the girl knew it she slumped to the ground and was lulled to sleep.
Her husband came home from his work in the fields expecting to find his young wife in their cozy kitchen brewing him a pot of tea. They enjoyed sharing a quiet cup of tea together at this time of day and telling each other the events of the day.
Time passed and his wife didn't appear, so the man went out to search for her. He started along the beach, because he knew she enjoyed walking there. She must have had such a pleasing walk that she had forgotten how late it was.
He saw her prints in the sand leading out toward the bay and followed them. He heard some unearthly music as he came near a patch of reeds. On the other side of the reeds, he found his dear wife peacefully sleeping besides the skeleton of a whale. He too saw that the enchanting music came from the wind on the whale bones.
The husband gently woke his wife up and together they reveled in the music. When the wind stopped blowing, the music stopped, but not before the husband had observed the principle behind the music.
Back at home he secretly made a harp to imitate those sounds they had heard. When it was finished, he presented it to his wife with a flourish and a love song he sang and played for her. And that is how the first Irish harp came to be.

Is not this so sweet? All I can imagine is the sound of the wind blowing through the whale bones. What music! When I had read the story the first time I was at work and Junnel started talking to me. I did not hear him even when he was about two feet away calling my name repeatedly. I was so mesmerized by the story, all I could envision were the calls and voices of whales in my head. I pluck the strings of my own harp to see if I can picture whale voices through the vibrating strings. And perhaps I should bring the harp to the ocean to see if I can call the whales in! But I have heard the wind go through the harp causing vibrations of the strings. It is a beautiful sound and a bit unearthly.

**Source of story: Livo, Norma J. 1996. Troubadour's Storybag: Musical Folktales of the World. Fulcrum Publishing: Golden, Colorado.

Project for Readers

2007-05-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

I thought of a project idea about LA. I was thinking on this during my latest excursion Saturday. Will not post the adventures just yet as it is late and I have my internet up and running again after all weekend.

This project will include the ideas from you!
What are the images, ideas, words that come to mind when you hear LA, Los Angeles, California?

Now disregard all of the previous posts of LA and think of what LA is to you. Like before I got here and was telling you I was coming here.

I will write up on this but before that want to hear from the viewers or readers.

Garden Life

2007-05-17T16:34:00.000-07:00

On many afternoons, I work in the garden we have at the house I am living in. It stays in good shape and I actually do not have to do as much gardening as one would think for such a small garden. This picture above is in the back corner. I actually purposely have not done any upkeep in this part as it is all palm or bamboo around this fountain statue. It has definitely grown a bit wild and the plants need to be repotted but then again, this is actually not my garden. It is my landlord's. When he returns, I will ask him about how he envisions the garden. A sample of the flowers grown in the garden. There are a lot of yellow daisies, which I do not like actually. For a garden that is. I do not know why but the flower/plant does not appeal to me. There are also geraniums too. Again not too partial to this plant but the colors are perfect and the ones that climb enhances the colors of the area too. I am amazed how well the roses grow around here. They are so brilliant in colors and smells! Everyone seems to grow roses around here. As one can see there is a lot of green in the garden. The plants seem to thrive as well. Some are still in pots (such as the daisies).
But the main treasure of the garden is the lizards. This is in a pond (below the fountain statue). One thing I had originally planned on was to clean the pond out. But after several weeks I noticed that a lizard was residing here and my plans were continually postponed for the cleaning.

Here is the view of the entire pond. Besides the aesthetic qualities with fallen leaves decomposing and rocks, there are the blue rocks in the bottom, some trash on one side and that black tarp plastic thing in the pond. Also there are mosquito larvae, which brings to mind west nile virus.
If one looks closely, there are lizard(s) in the black plastic tarp. This is their home!! So my cleaning is totally put aside because of my little garden friends. I think there is a baby in the tarp as well. I was seeing a tiny little tail. Very cute. They do not mind me. Probably have gotten used to me and I do not do anything to provoke them but just to sit back and admire them. I think they got a pretty good home actually.

Every day when I arrive home from work, I visit the lizards if only for a minute or so to see what they are up to.

Hollywood!!

2007-05-14T16:42:00.000-07:00

Here it is! Due to small picture size and the ah so condition of air (perhaps some due to the recent fires in Griffth Park), the main theme did not come out so well. But there it is: HOLLYWOOD. The famous sign. I was thinking, "Wow, I have lived to see this sign live in person!" A symbol that everyone seems to attribute to LA themes. For some reason, since this is Griffth Park or at least part of the 3000 some acres of the park, I was picturing a different sort of terrain....it is more "desert" than I had imagined it to be. I was picturing green grass, bigger trees, more foliage. Not so. And perhaps why there are fires going on and why citizens probably should be concerned about such terrain risky for fire hazards.

As part of my metro adventure, I realized I needed to get out and explore at least one scene along the metro route I took. I got off at Hollywood and Highland. The photo above is what I immediately see but of course is a small snapshot of what the rest of the scene looks like. My immediate feelings were being overwhelmed and whoa! Being down in the subway I did not realize what I had been passing under. The place was glittering with lights, tall, big buildings, people, and cars. Remember what Dorothy said in the Wizard of OZ when she opened the door: "Toto, I don't think we are in Kansas anymore." Well, here I was thinking as I stumbled out of the Metro, "Well, I am definitely not in Hawthorne anymore." So very, very different from the scenes of the South Bay area.
Another scene just to the right of the metro underground entrance/exit. One thing about LA is the gap between the "haves and the haves not." I thought I was seeing a good portion of it in Hawthorne and the South Bay but not so. Here is where the haves and have nots live side by side. Beside the mass of tourists (the first time I really have seen a mass of tourists in LA), the homeless frequent the streets just as much. People selling candy from their wheelchairs, folks asking endless requests for handouts, a few playing guitars with cans for handouts, and one even had their shopping cart full of their material possessions, a blanket covering a side and the individual sleeping under it. And then there are the folks (besides the tourists who all seem to walk around dazed, taking pictures) who live there. The style of clothing something else. LA unique. I did not see any movie stars per se. But who knows perhaps I passed a so called famous star but was unrecognizable to me because they are not famous in my eyes. Like who is Mike Myers? Beats me but apparently he is a big name.
As I start to get my bearings a bit and explore this busy scene, things come into focus more and I start "seeing" what I am to see. Shops line the streets. And the shops? Whew! I must have seen about 20 some tattoo places (and no, I did not get a tattoo), cafes, bars, one night club that features the apparently famous strippers of Hollywood (believe me this was the real macoy but fortunately the girls were not actually outside, but their pictures were plastered on the big advertisement just above "come here to have a good time" message), shoe shops (oh so shoes of every kind but did not serve any practical use except for looks), wig shops with neon colors of pink, yellow, red, blue, etc. (I really should have taken a picture of these), clothing, several vintage thrift shops which I did browse...clothes way back to the 40's era. Pretty cool. And so on and so on. Mostly a lot of tourist trap places. Many theaters and tourist buses galore. I learned that day that the movie stars live in Beverly Hills. I was not actually aware they congregated in one particular area.

And so what everyone has been waiting to see....

Ah, look Chewy approaches. This theater (Grauman's Chinese Theatre) has the stars' hands and footprints on display. Hopefully the stars did not actually cut off these parts for the display but I did not go in. Tourist trap, big price to pay and who really cares about seeing images of hands and feet. Sorry Tom Hanks.

But wait! Is it? No, it could not be but it is.

Am I seeing Johnny Depp? And some of the other colorful characters? Interesting, interesting. No actually there were two Johnny Depp characters walking around. This guy here was the better one. The other one was sort of a jerk grabbing girls and making some scenes with them.

And so here they are. Some of the stars. Unfortunately the first one did not come out too well. But it is Ingrid Bergman. Dear Ingrid. My namesake. And of course dear Mister Rogers. I was delighted to come across him. What a guy! And thanks to him, I do not eat donuts. But of course there are so many stars...many I do not even have any idea of their achievements. No Tom Hanks though. Do not know if he is actually there or I just did not come across his star.

And so this is Hollywood. One of the biggest scenes in Los Angeles. Quite the place really and kind of amazing that such a place does actually exists. It did some how feel that it was borderline reality and borderline something else... out of this world, unreal, fake. The media really do glamorize the movie stars in America. So many people come for fame and fortune to this area. And like it is: either you strike big or you strike out. Just ask those folks looking for an extra dollar.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

2007-05-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's day to you, Mom. :) I hope you are enjoying your day to the fullest.

If you dare say aghh to the picture. I will say I only have one picture of you on my picture file. And who can beat having a picture from the glorious celebration of Rabbie Burn's birthday with Guiness (Fishtale Ale) and Haggis (pork sausages roled in a delicious homemade roll from scratch)!

I love you, Mom. A love that will never grow old or weary. But a love that is steadfast and enduring through all time

Metro Day

2007-05-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

Metro day! I spent the day Saturday documenting a portion of Metro (train-rail) but it is rather a large line with different lines. I was only really getting bits and pieces here and there. Hard to take pictures on the go too. But here it is! The ticket machine found at each depot. $3.00 for the day and/or transfering to different lines. Pretty good I say as it really saves when comparing to commutes by car.

The starting point for the Green line, which I get on is Redondo Beach. I actually do not know why they would call it Redondo Beach because we are not even in Redondo. If anything, the station should be called Manhattan Beach. I am on the platform waiting for the train to arrive.

And here it is! Count on McDonalds to campagian their burgers. Ick! I actually do not see too many McDonalds but perhaps because I have erased such eyesores from my eyes I do not even see them anymore. The Green line, which I hop on first is about five cars long. The Blue line (Long Beach -LA downtown) is about eight cars long and I think the longest one.
Here is the transfer point at Imperial Station for the Blue line to take me North to 7th Street and the transfer to the red line. We are under an over pass of I- 105 freeway/Greenline. Greenline runs down the center of I-105 freeway. So I get to watch traffic piling up and the carpool lane with one or two cars every minute or so. Most cars just have one person- the driver. On the outside of the fence is another track for regular freighter trains (probably coming to/from Long Beach port where huge barges come in). It is quite the scene in Long Beach in that particular area.
All of the stations have art work. This one is at Pico just before heading under LA downtown. The rest of the metro around downtown LA is under ground.... the redline is underground. Basically a subway but rather clean. Probably the cleanest I have ever seen in a subway! A plus for metro!! So of course the rest of my ride is underground so could not see the sights I was passing. Kind of a shame but oh well. For future use.... find a sight or destination to go to and then get off.

On the way back the Blue line was just packed with folks. We had a few homeless people coming on asking for hand outs. A busy day for the homeless folks I think. I saw them and passed them everywhere on my excusion. A first because prior to this I was rather surprised not to see too many homeless folks around. So a plenty that day.

Metro is pretty cool. I like it. I was actually a bit envious of Brad, my program director, for taking the metro to work. He lives right on Broadway in Long Beach. I may just have to relocate to a different place, like Long Beach and joy! Commute everyday to work by metro. But I walk for the time being and that is just as good too. And probably more scenic by walking as well.

Chinatown

2007-05-07T16:19:00.000-07:00

Ah, the fiery dragons! During my wanderings of the El Pueblo plaza of Cinco de Mayo. I saw from across the streets that Chinatown was just there. Of course, could not let this opportunity pass. Chinatown in Los Angeles. It is amazing to see the differences in just the two ethnic communities I visited. They are neighbors, next to each other, side by side. The true American way.... a mixing salad of distinct cultures thrown in together. Mixing but also having their own distinct flavors, texture, and colors. Broadway Street is the main street through Chinatown. So most of the vendors, touristy stuff is on this main street. Here we are looking into the heart (background of picture) of LA --civic center plaza from Chinatown. Definitely more city feel with the speeding cars racing by. I did not exactly feel like I would be in a foreign country (like I did in the plaza of El Pueblo and down Olvera Street).But behold!! There are ethnic discoveries to be found. This shop, selling Buddhist merchandise, is located in one of the mall areas. Beautiful colored buildings with intricate designs.As one can see in this East Gate of the Central Plaza, not too many people walking about. (Probably all over celebrating Cinco de Mayo). It appeared that the folks who were out and about were the locals. As I noticed for El Pueblo with the majority of folks of Hispanic background, the majority of the folks I passed in Chinatown were from the "Far East" countries. And I noticed that I was "observed" more than the folks in El Pueblo.This is Ten Ho Temple. I did not spend too much time in Chinatown (about an hour and half) because one, it was later in the day and I was starting to feel spent from the fiesta of El Pueblo. But the primary reason, the aromas were intoxicating. People who know me well, know that I have an acute sense of smell. Incense was everywhere. I started sneezing and then got a headache and nausea especially coming from such overwhelming smells. This I thought was amazing because I was outside in a "well ventilated" space but yet I was experiencing the strong symptoms. Another reason why I did not go into many shops (just the grocery stores). But I feel Ten Ho Temple was the source of all intoxicating aromas. To be this close and that I did not faint to take the picture was rather unbelievable feat. But what a beautiful building! I wish I could have been able to go inside. It was open. But since my olfactory is so acute, aromas are very distinct to me. I smelled a lot of "new" things I have never smelled before in my life. I know I smelled marijuana from a few passerbys and some other nasty tobacco products. Major ick. My mom, hopefully half serious, said I probably smelled the opium dens as well. Goodness gracious! Maybe I should be hired by the police to smell out these nasty drugs. Oddly that night just when I got into bed some more aromas from the day came awashed over me. Very truly amazing. I had taken a shower and did not think that I would smell my clothes in the dirty hamper in the closet... but who knows.Is not this a beautiful mural? Aesthetics could be found here and there. Beauty in the simplicity of mundane, every day existence. Wabi Sabi. But yet so full of beauty and intricate character. Another noticeable thing about Chinatown. The amount of Ginseng roots. All the groceries sold them and the ginseng was in barrels and crates with varieties to select from. Food is very cheap. I got a bag full of tomatoes for a dollar (eight of them good sized romas). And then I got about five huge kiwis also for a dollar.

I would have liked to have gone to Japantown but that was on the other side of Civic Center of LA and it was already about 16oo hours. An adventure to be continued for another day. Japantown has a plaza like El Pueblo where it is only accessible by foot. My list of outings is starting to get larger and larger by the weekends. And only two days of the week to take advantage of such adventures. With the longer days, I may have to start doing some adventures after work during the evenings. We'll see.

Cinco de Mayo

2007-05-05T19:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Cinco de Mayo! I traveled to El Pueblo Los Angeles. It's just off downtown area of LA in a park area that holds the oldest buildings in LA... the original Los Angeles when it was just a small town in the west. Olvera Street (above picture) is the most famous little side street with all of the shops and cafes. Even though I have never been to Mexico...I kind of felt like I was not in the United States. Spanish was the language of the streets.

Music was everywhere.

What do you know? A harpist! The Mexican and South American harps are different. Different kind of strings and the harpist stands instead of sitting. I listened to a few songs. He was very good with the intricate melodies and baseline.

I love the buildings. So very pretty, quaint, and charming.

And so I had a very leisurely day spent looking at the shops. Most shops were the touristy kind but there were the authentic shops to be found.... handmade candles. Special designed clothing and outfits for festivals and dances. So I went exploring every thing that was offered to be explored. It was a day full of lively people milling around, dancing, music, food. I did not eat at any of the cafes or restaurants. Too many people (lines and lines waiting for a seat) but it was nice as tables were out in patios with good food. My mouth was watering to see and smell the aromas. (I had brought along my sandwich and snacks made from home).

I would like to come back and see El Pueblo during a somewhat calmer day. It was fiesta day so extra booths and carnival were all set up in the main park area.

Despite the bustle of folks there were places for rest and a quiet area away from everything.

This is Avila Adobe, the oldest building in LA. Of course it has been renovated and restored...some damages due to earthquakes awhile back. A beautiful place and free tours through the house.

This city is truly alive with the different nationalities being celebrated.

The Way to Happiness

2007-05-01T20:08:00.000-07:00

On Monday, I had to travel to Glendale (in LA). I was up there primarily to take the certification exam, which unfortunately I did not pass... Was disheartened by this since I was just shy of two questions of passing. It is a very hard exam for certification. However, even though my day was shadowed by this unfortunate turn of events, Glendale proved to be more of an extraordinary find than I originally even imagined. So of course, like any good story, start from the beginning.

There was NO way I was going to drive in LA traffic on the freeways or the main roads to reach Glendale. The way to get there was driving through downtown LA area which is quite the scene for traffic horrors at times. I used mass transportation which I love. If I live in a city and am not getting somewhere by foot, I much rather be hoping the bus, train or metro. Planning the route by Internet was a bit of challenge since all of the information for schedules were not up. So I had to best estimate it all and decided to get there early, early just in case connections failed and I need a plan B route of transport.

It is rather sad to see that not a majority of the folks around here use transportation. At 8am in the morning, the metro line was rather empty (half full of people). In a place like NYC or London, it would be crammed with folks. I also noticed the "type" of people who were taking the metro. No folks in business suits or professional atire. I guess the image of transport users are those who cannot afford to be driving all the time in fancy cars. And since part of the metro line ran right down the center of the I-105 Freeway, I was observing the cars on the freeway. Freeway was just crammed with cars. Carpool lane was rather bare. And the majority of the people in the cars consisted of one individual... the driver. There really needs to be a change. Oh later on the way back I passed the bus when riding the metro and it was empty during rush hour but still they were doing their routes. Hmmmm..... A change is definitely in order but as folks say around here.... cars are the culture.

Also, since I was riding the metro, I got to relax and view the neighborhoods that I passed through. Before going underground for the downtown LA area, the neighborhood drastically changed. Hawthorne, where I live, is considered a low-income suburbia. I would not consider it unsafe neighborhood but of course use precaution. So, the neighborhood, close to Chinatown gave an entire different view of what habitation in the city looked like. One almost has to be there to experience it. But everything was behind bars, big fences, houses were run down with bars in windows, cracked windows. And yet here were the locals milling about on their daily activities. Ladies with shopping carts filled with clothes and other possessions. Some ladies looked to be quite in a discussion outside of this "Poultry Barn." Warehouses were everywhere. Everything was "dirty." Nothing had a clean look to it.

But this was all to disappear once the line went underground. I had a transfer at 7th Street, which is famed for interesting characters. Basically the street is a big No, no for people after dark. I made my transfers smoothly without any hitch. And soon alighted Glendale station. Scenery had changed dramatically again. Just from the downtown lower side neighborhood, I was now surrounded by big hills and "mountains" in the distance. Vegetation was everywhere and was different.... Hardly saw a palm tree. But eucalyptus trees. Griffith Park flanked the west side of Glendale. I had to walk two miles to get my destination. But it was a good walk. The "town" within the city had a very nice atmosphere. I arrived to the downtown area. Beautiful. I sat for a bit at a table in a plaza. Locals were sitting around drinking coffee and chatting. I almost felt like I was in Europe. Definitely did not feel I was in LA at all! The pace was different too.

Since I had time before my test (three hours). I explored the area. It was very interesting. The place was vibrating good Karma feel. The feeling was so very, very strong. Then I came across a building (pictured above at the beginning of the post). I was drawn to the phrase and the building but did not go in (as later I wished I had). I then found a cafe right next to this building on the same block.

La Belle Cafe! All of the food was made from fresh, natural ingredients that the cafe owner made sometimes from scratch. I had a delicious sandwich with hummus for dip and a garnish salad. Delicious!! While I sat out and ate. I pondered on the feelings of positive energy I was feeling. I truly feel that there is some reason behind it. So I just basked in the glory of such feelings.

Later when talking to my dad that evening, he told me that the all famous Syliva Woods (harp store) is right in this town! I could not believe it! I was soo close and did not even realize it!! In fact I was on that same street the harp store is located!!! Goodness. To have only passed it, what joy. I probably would have been beside myself with complete utter amazement. But I am actually feeling that amazement anyway. This information sealed it... Glendale was/is sending me a message. Even though, I did not pass the exam this time, perhaps it served another purpose. In some ways perhaps I was meant to go to Glendale.

And so I am going to ponder it some more. But of course, another expedition to Glendale is in the making. I now know where Sylvia Woods harp store is located. I shall return. And of course visit the The Way to Happiness.

Surf City, USA

2007-04-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

If images of famous California surf songs come to your mind when seeing Huntington Beach, you are right on target. Surfing, USA!!! Places like Huntington Beach is exactly what inspired the Beach Boys. Little did I know that they actually hold some of the pro/am surfing competitions. Will return just for the thrill of seeing some of the world's champions on surfboards. That's in June.

I arrived bright and early, 0700 hours. The best way to really get out and explore the LA area and the vicinity. It was a beautiful grey morning with a bit of mist in the air coming off the ocean. People were already walking the boardwalk, getting set up for volleyball tournaments, artisans setting up booths for their artistry, and the local cafes filling in with folks: Sugar Shack Cafe was definitely the most popular eating vendor. Starbucks came in a running second.

And of course the surfing. People out and about with surfboards tagging under arms or doing the surf float waiting for the perfect wave. Black dots were plenty visible by the Huntington Beach Pier. Every so once in awhile a Black dot would rise from the grey water to glide on water and spume to merge back into the depths and await for the next ride. Surfing shops abound in all of the glory. And there is a Surf Hall of Fame stars along a part of the main street boardwalk.

But of course the main reason for my day of adventures was to visit the Bolsa Chica Ecological Preserve along the coast. A fellow ASU friend met me there and we watched the birds to see. Snowy egrets, great egrets, a snowy plover, curlews, sandpipers, grebes (at least four different species), cormorants, and more! This is a hot spot for migrating birds. So any birder would absolutely love to spend hours on ends in search for the rare sighting. And indeed my friend has a passion for birding so got the opportunity to hear about the more detailed species available than just the common names. I was able to say, "Oh, there is a curlew!" And I would get a response saying, "A long - billed Curlew." At least I am good at knowing the general species but not able to distinguish between different subspecies. For an amateur birder that is pretty good by my standards without any previous knowledge except the knowledge of birds through my parents. I guess I have learned a lot more on birds than I originally suspected.

So indeed are rare gems among the proliferating metropolis at large to be found. It is easy to forget there is country or smaller towns not too far away as the city landscape is seemingly miles on ends in all the four directions. So gems, I seek thee. To glory in all of your simplicity of beauty.

Coastal Way

2007-04-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

I stand before the threshold of the world.

Clothed only in the radiance of love that shines forth

as a beacon to lighten the way.

My only navigation;

The stars by night and sun by day.

Where will I rove?

I am a gipsy of the wayfaring spirit.

The journey unfolds:

One step,

Two steps.

Light of love brings forth sight onto the soil beneath my feet.

No present destination will ever be encountered.

Pathmaker's journey unfolds with each step.

Always a step into the unknown.

Step quietly,

Step mindfully.

Gipsy of the wayfaring spirit traverses far and wide

for there is no destination.

Only destination is found within my heart.

Love is the life of my breath

and sustains my spirit for eternity.

I wrote this poem back in the spring of 2005 when I felt a great change in my life. It was subtle but my perception had changed... a change deep down within me. And so thus, began the new journey. A milestone in my life marked. And when I look back on the last two years, with my experiences and the people I have met, the fond friends I have, the steadfast love of family, the poem is so true to my heart.

And here I find myself presently in Hawthorne (Los Angeles), California. With the picture I had posted above taken at Portuguese Point at Abalone Shoreline Cove on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, I am not surprised to find that my present journey has led me here. I have passion for the sea, the coastal ways. I am not much of a seafaring person to sail the open waters but perhaps more of the landbound with a view overlooking the vast blue. There is something so calming, so peaceful of wild places where the water and land meet. And of course I love to beachcomb. So any beaches that offer treasures of rocks, shells, driftwood, captures my imagination. And of course, the rarer treasures that wash upon the shore... like the glass floats from fishing nets that come across the miles from areas like Japan or the bottles of different sizes and colors (but will as one of my favorite childhood books, Do Not Open, teaches... do not open tightly closed, dark bottles). :)

And thus, conclude with my mom's favorite poem Sea-Fever.

I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,

And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by;

And the wheel's kick and the wind's song and the white sail's shaking,

And a gray mist on the sea's face, and a gray dawn breaking.

I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide

Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;

And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,

And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.

I must go down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life,

To the gull's way and the whale's way, where the wind's like a whetted knife;

And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,

And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over.
John Masefield