Showing posts with label California. Show all posts
Showing posts with label California. Show all posts

20 January, 2026

The State of It

The world feels more turbulent now than at any other point in my life. I can still remember being in my early twenties, thinking things were chaotic and disagreeing with the politics of the moment. At the time, it all felt overwhelming. Yet looking back, those days now seem almost quaint—simpler, gentler, and far less divided than what we face today.

We’ve reached a moment where issues rooted in basic human decency are being pulled into the realm of political conflict. Things that once felt foundational—our shared cultural norms, the progress made over generations, and the sense of steady forward motion—now seem fragile. Many of us watch with unease as hard‑won values are eroded, alliances strained, and entire groups of people unfairly cast as villains.
I can only hope that we find a way to endure this unprecedented period of pressure, and that from it we learn to build stronger, more lasting safeguards so future generations never have to weather the same storms. In the meantime, all we can do is keep looking ahead and hold on to the belief that a safer, more compassionate future is possible—one built on the understanding that every person is deserving of basic human rights.

After all, it is our infinite diversity, in infinite combinations, that gives us our greatest strength.

"Love is color, love is loud, 
love is never saying you're too proud.Love is trusting, love is honest, 
love is not a hand to hold you down."

- Tonic, "You Wanted More" 

07 April, 2025

Watery Window


Most views outside a window pale in comparison to the vibrant scenes beyond this one. During my last visit to Catalina Island, we boarded a semi-submersible and ventured into the fish sanctuary. The waters around the Channel Islands are teeming with life, and the fish there are nothing short of spectacular—displaying a dazzling array of colors that truly take your breath away.




 

27 March, 2025

AirCal


American Airlines has a special fleet of planes that pay tribute to carriers that have merged with AA over the years and faded into aviation history. This particular aircraft honors AirCal, a California-based airline that operated from 1966 to 1987. The heritage livery design, with its retro colors, has become one of my absolute favorites—it’s a nostalgic nod to the past that I truly admire. 

22 March, 2025

Angels Gate


Guarding those who sail the Pacific, the Angel's Gate, also known as the Los Angeles Light, rises proudly from its surroundings. Its emerald glow stretches across the dark night, serving as both a warning to steer clear of the shallows and a welcoming beacon for those heading toward Los Angeles. It stands as a silent sentinel, guiding ships safely while embracing them with its timeless light.


 

23 February, 2025

Windows over the Bay


Looking through the trees from Telegraph Hill downs towards Treasure Island the the Bay Bridge spanning the San Francisco Bay.  


Another view of the Bay Bridge and part of the San Francisco skyline. 

21 February, 2025

Catalina Sky


Two years ago, I finally visited a place I had promised myself I would—Catalina Island, one of California's Channel Islands. Technically part of Los Angeles, it feels like a world away from the city. In many ways, it feels removed from the mainland altogether, almost like stepping into another country.

I hope to visit again—next time for longer than the few fleeting hours a cruise excursion allows.


11 February, 2025

Golden Gate


The Golden Gate Bridge; one of America's most well-known landmarks.   I have seen it twice so far and each time I see it, it does not fail to take my breath away.  

Everywhere you look...
There's a heart...
A hand to hold on to.
Everywhere you look...
There's a face of somebody who needs you.

When you're lost out there and your all alone...
A light is waiting to carry you home.

~Full House Themesong



One of my favorite places to view the bridge,  Baker Beach.  



 We took a boat tour and actually went under the bridge; that was a great highlight. 

10 May, 2015

Comfort


You've got to go out and explore... you can't see the wonders of the world if you don't leave the comfort of what you know.