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, 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.

Family, Traditions, Uncategorized, Writing

The Last Good Day

With both sadness and gratitude, the Cranky Camper reflects on the last celebration before the Covid19 shutdowns: Jacob's Eagle Court.