american west, california, Food, Hiking, Lunch, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Hiking the Angeles: Mt. Baldy

The first peak in our 2021 summer hiking season was Mt. San Antonio, affectionately known as Mt. Baldy. This strenuous hike took us to the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and rewarded us with sweeping views of the valley below.

california, Hiking, outdoors, photography, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Urban Birding: The Sepulveda Basin

The Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve is part of the 2000-acre Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area, which is a flood control basin turned recreation area. This reserve is a stop for many migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway and is a great place for bird-watching.

aging parents, Family, Kids, Uncategorized, writing

The Long Road to Loss

Last year I wrote a post about grieving through the anticipation of death and loss. This year, on what would have been my dad’s seventy-third birthday, I am finishing up plans for a socially distanced compliant church memorial service. Our grief journey has been a long road to loss.

Beaches, california, Dog, dogs, Family, outdoors, Pets, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Dog Days at the Beach

Owen enjoys golden hours frolicking in the surf and sand at Huntington Dog Beach.

breakfast, Brunch, coffee, Dessert, Europe and the United Kingdom, Food, traditions, Uncategorized

Tea Time Treats: Victoria Sandwich

With apologies to the Great British Baking show, here's a recipe for a Victoria sandwich, a nice moist cake with cream and raspberry filling.