Educating Ourselves

California Buckwheat 

We are a bit fascinated and very interested in the local fauna and flora.  Species unknown to us and not seen where we live are all around.  For example, this California buckwheat led me to discover that buckwheat is NOT a member of the grass family, not related to cereal or wheat.  It is related to the sorrel and rhubarb family.  Who woulda thunk?  The Estuary is filled with such variety as this.  To see flora we collected today, the sighting of an Anna's Hummingbird, and a great sunset, please visit Flickr.

Sketch of the Day: Desert Starvine

 

Mas de la Misma

 

Wayne at the Tijuana River Mouth

Yes, more of the same.  This photo offers a pretty clear picture of the border wall and Tijuana beyond.  The tide was lower today allowing us closer access.  The border fencing extends about 300' into the Pacific,  I've wondered why people don't just swim around this for US entry.  They do.  But, the currents are very strong due to the wall's extension, and most swimmers can't manage this.  More crossings have been attempted since the pandemic began.  This is the heaviest patrolled portion of the 1900 mile fence.  At least 2 helicopters are patrolling constantly.  Photos are at Flickr.

Sketch of the Day: Imperial Beach Sunset with Cruise Ship

Balboa Park

 

Balboa Park

We drove into San Diego and Balboa Park today to hear the weekly free concert on the Spreckles Organ, the largest outdoor organ in the world. Bach, The Sound of Music, Listz and Mussorgsky were the hour's offerings.  The organ and its outdoor pavilion were financed by the Spreckles brothers whose fortune came from sugar.  The day was beautifully sunny and warm.  People swarmed everywhere throughout the park where food, crafts, and entertainers abounded.  What a wonderful spot.  A little video of the Bach can be heard here.

Sketch of the Day: Masked Up in Balboa Park

Un Dia de Nada

 

Imperial Beach Sunset

We drove over to Chula Vista looking for recommended tacos.  Instead, we shopped at a Whole Foods and bought their ready made burritos.  They were quite good.  We did take a short 2 mile walk into the estuary where once again we met up with birders.  They were very excited to share their binoculars so that we could see the Ridgeway Rail they spotted. 

It was warm enough at twilight to sit on the deck and gawk at the sunset.  There were no clouds which gives notice to the tangerine colored sky.  All those moments can be seen at Flickr.

Sketch of the Day: Ridgeway Rail

Maple Canyon

 

Maple Canyon, San Diego

We met Kathy this afternoon to hike Maple Canyon with her.  It sits in the city proper but one would never know that.  The hills are steep and covered with blooming jade plants.  Only the occasional house is visible.  

Jade densely covering the cliffs of the canyon.

At the end of the canyon trail, we came out onto city streets, walked a few blocks and crossed Arroyo Canyon onto the historical Spruce St suspension bridge.  From there was the occasional glimpse of the beautiful setting sun and aircraft landing so close we could seemingly touch them.  

Spruce St Suspension Bridge

Following our walk, we went to Kathy's for dinner. I was in charge of baking the Kathy's home made pita bread on the grill.  I'm definitely going to try this at home.  We were joined by friends of Kathy's and Lola.  Ribs and salad rounded out the pita and humus.  We braved the chilly night dining al fresco.  No other pictures today.  

Sketch of the Day: Jade, Maple Canyon

Walking to Coronado Island (Almost)

 

Wayne on Silver Strand Beach

Our walk was later in the day because the condo owner and her mother asked if an appraiser could come to the condo.  We wanted to be there to meet her and to monitor the activity.  They are both realtors who bought this place about a year and a half ago.  As I suspected there were major renovations done with much improvement.  They were helpful with restaurant suggestions. 

Today we walked north toward Coronado Island along Silver Beach, which was nearly deserted but beautiful.  The photos do not capture the true silver of the water.  We found dozens of sand dollars and more top shells.  On our return we stopped at Mike Hess Brewing to have an early dinner of tacos.  More photos at Flickr.

Sketch of the Day: Top Shell, graphite

Making Acquaintances

 

Tijuana River along the McCoy Trail, Tijuana Estuary

Birders are the friendliest people.  They love to share their knowledge and some will give you advise on where to go birding.  We met one such woman today at the McCoy trail in the Estuary.  You know a birder by the cannon size camera lens they carry and the telescope binoculars hanging from their necks.  So when we sat down at the end of the trail and spotted a flock of birds, I didn't hesitate to ask this nearby woman with all the birding accoutrements what they were.  Therein began a 15 minute discussion of what, where, when and how to find more birds.  She even told me the names of the ospreys that were nesting at the edge of the estuary, Lucy and Desi, and their offspring, Little Ricky, Ethel, Fred, etc.  But the best information she gave was that our beloved Street Tacos were still around.  They had moved across the street to incorporate with Mike Hess Brewing Co.

The Estuary walk was short today because we wanted to also walk to the Imperial Beach Pier and NOW to Mike Hess Brewing.  Even though we had eaten lunch, we forced  down a fish taco.  And, yes, it was the same succulent taco of old.  We will definitely come back for more.  There is great outdoor seating with fire pits.  

Mike Hess Brewing

After lunch #2 we walked down the pier.  It is the southernmost pier in the entire state of California. There is a seafood restaurant at the end and people fishing for bait along the walkway.  Sardines seemed to be the catch. More photos at Flickr. 

Walking to Mexico (Almost)

 

Wayne walking toward Mexico

Today our walk was along the beach toward Mexico.  The Tijuana River marks the end of our ability to walk south.  Beyond the river is the Tijuana River Valley with areas one can reach by car.  We will explore this later.  The weather here is still a bit cold, 60s, and made for a brisk walk.  Sea shells are practically non-existent along the beach.  Many plovers and willets were feeding along the surf's edge.  And, the helicopters were circling above.  LOL pictures at Flickr.

More of the Same

 

Kiwanis Community Gardens

Sitting along the east side of the Tijuana Estuary are a row of homes.  Between them and the estuary are areas set aside for community gardening sponsored by the Kiwanis.  These little areas have chickens, ducks, and plants.  The poor chickens seem to be housed in very small coops.  Today one gardener was watering plants and chatted up with us.  He seems typical of folk here, friendly, open and happy.  We walked deeper into the estuary today going beyond the naval base but not completing the perimeter.  Pictures at Flickr.

                    Sketch of the day:  The Wild Radish, found throughout California.

Settling In at Imperial Beach

 

Tijuana Estuary

Across the Estuary and among that row of buildings on the left sits our condo.  We walked around and into the Estuary today, about 3 miles.  This will be our exercise regime while here.  We met up with a group of bird watchers who identified a Yellow Crowned Night Heron for me.  I only have my iPhone with me and will not have the capability to capture clear bird pictures.  But it is fun seeing new species.  Wayne has a goal of pressing and identifying many of the various flora.  I may sketch some of them to keep my hand in the arts. Pictures at Flickr. 

Arriving at Imperial Beach

 

Sunset 

We picked up our rental car in San Diego today and headed for Imperial Beach, a very familiar 15 mile route.  We were unable to rent the condo we've stayed in the past 2 visits.  However, this one is a few buildings up and just as wonderful.  The photo above is from our balcony on the 3rd floor.  Every night some new configuration of clouds and color salute us.  The unit is very well appointed.  Everything seems newly renovated.  Other than seeking out our first taco and some grocery shopping, I have nothing else to report.  Note:  the taco was only rated 3 out of 5 stars.  Our favorite Street Taco joint has disappeared and a burger joint has taken its place.  😞😞😞

Videos of condo at Flickr.

Torrey Pines

 

Phil, Christy, Kathy, Wayne

We climbed into Phil's Tesla (yes, I covet it) and drove to Torrey Pines, the state reserve not the golf course.  We first walked down the beach, then climbed up to the top of the Reserve to walk back.  I will be using words such as awesome, fabulous, inspiring, unique, etc a lot.  Today I could have used all of them to describe the expanse of the Pacific, the atmosphere created by the surf and the magical look at La Jolla in the distance.  Please enjoy the pictures in Flickr.  

Lola stopped by tonight and dropped Loki, her Husky, while she hosted a work party.  Loki is a bit spoiled.  I will say no more.  

Boston to San Diego

 

Venus over Boston

We flew out of a cold 27* Boston at 5pm and arrived in a 65* San Diego at 9pm (midnight body time).  Our lovely French American niece Kathy graciously picked us up and took us to her home   where we enjoyed wine with husband Phil before collapsing into sleep.  Their home is in the Mission Hill district of San Diego.  It sits on the top edge of a canyon with a fabulous view of San Diego.  

We will be here for two days enjoying the company of cats Sassy and Tuesday, the hospitality of Phil and Kathy, and the mediterranean climate of Southern California.  For pictures go to Flickr.

California on the Horizon

 Adios mañana to 11 degrees. Adios 12” predicted blizzard. Adios bleek, gloomy days. Adios 4pm sunsets. Hola California. Yes we are escaping winter for 5 weeks in Imperial Beach. This will be our third time to stay here. We love the sunsets over the Pacific, the tacos and the vibe of this community. Niece Kathy is picking us up at the airport. We will stay with them a few days before our Air B&B is ready. 

Back in the US, Back in the US, Back in the USA

At FCO, Rome

It is a 9 hour flight from Rome to New York City.  I was surprised by that having mostly flown home from Paris or London which is only about 7 hours to Boston.  We got home around midnight last evening.  It was a long 14 hour trip.  But, not too arduous as there were no lines or hold ups.  In Rome the Americans were separated out for security and check in.  I don’t know why.  But there were so few Americans that things moved quickly.  We had our temperature taken with an iPad before we were allowed to enter the security area.  We had booked business first class (why economize when you may not be here in a month. LOL). The service was great, comfort was excellent and the food was restaurant level along with all the wine you wanted.  At JFK the exit was delayed beyond normal.  I was standing where  I could see the door.  The stewardess were looking out the window at a line of official appearing people.  They were chatting back and forth in Italian with concerned looks on their faces.  Finally, the door was opened and one official person spoke to the captain.  We were told to return to our seats and informed we could leave one person at a time. There, on the gang plank we had our temperature taken.  If it was 100.4 or greater you were pulled aside.  We were the first people off, so I don’t know if anyone fit that category.  Wayne passed with flying colors.  I, next, continued to fail several attempts.  On the fourth attempt, I passed. Whew!  Wayne was already plotting how to stash me in a hotel, fly to Boston, rent a car, and return to rescue me.  Having passed the Covid-19 airport test, we had a 5 hour layover at JFK, which we spent in the Delta Sky Lounge with free food and drink.  This is a highly recommended way to reduce the stress of flying.  At last we got on the plane to Boston, landed at 9pm where the agent said we were the first plane to land since 7:30.  Rented a car at Hertz where the clerk said it was a terrible time with their business.  

Masked Agents at Alitalia

Beautiful Sky and NYC skyline from JFK

It does feel good to be home not only in terms of safety and assurance, but just to have our life style back.  As much as I love travel, the accommodations are never as nice as what you have set in your own home. We also feel completely normal and healthy but will self-isolate for 14 days.  

Arrivederci Roma

We have lasting memories of our time here.  We've walked many miles on ancient roads.  Had funny and touching encounters.  My shoes are beginning to squeak and have a few holes.  My do-it-yourself travel hair cut is less than flattering.  We had a few road blocks to our plans and missed some great museums and churches.  But, all in all, we wouldn't have foregone the experience.  We enriched our knowledge of art, history and culture. I can now talk with my hands while graze mille rolls off my tongue.  We made great new friends through Home Away. When we travel here again, we will make a point of contacting them.  We truly find the Italians charming, friendly, helpful, funny and the loudest talkers we've ever encountered.  Wayne made one last carbonara for lunch today which we enjoyed while overlooking the Roman Forum on a beautiful sunny afternoon.  Rather than leave the apartment and risk some unforeseen and unwelcome event, we relaxed, packed and reflected upon a great if not unique vacation. The above video greeting is to our friends John and Kathy who are in Lisbon and called us earlier today with well wishes.  

In yesterday's posting I forgot to mention our encounter with the street sanitizer.  We had met up with this vehicle a few days ago.  Thinking it was just a sweeper, we stepped into a doorway to avoid the scattered debris.  Instead of debris, we were sprayed down with disinfectant.  At least we were virus proof from the waist down.  Today, as this one approached we knew to steer clear. Then, in a state of hopefulness we marched home on the wet, freshly sprayed cobblestones.  

Leaving On A Jet Plane

Pasquino, the 'talking' statue

We wanted one last visit with Pasquino, the talking statue, where we earlier posted our anonymous complaint about the yellow peril, Trump.  All but one posting was gone.  Basically that posting warned of a government that imposed drastic measures on a population.  I'm assuming it was referring to the Italian lock down of all businesses save markets and pharmacies and the stay at home edict.  The streets remain empty.  I'm surprised at the Italian compliance.  Perhaps personal experience with the virus.  Or even memories of struggling through WWII.  Is that too much of a stretch?  Apparently, US citizens are too complacent.  Florida beaches are packed with students on spring break.  

The State Departments warnings have sparked us to book a flight home rather than waiting to see if we can leave Rome on April 4 and reschedule our Lisbon flight home to Boston.  We first booked today for a Monday March 23 departure.  Then a new warning came from the State Department that asked Americans to leave Europe ASAP or risk an indefinite stay.  We rebooked for Saturday, March 21.  Now, I regularly check the airlines to make sure it is not cancelled. The old reliable institutions are no longer dependable. Things may yet worsen in the US, but I will be happy to be back in my studio and begin to prepare for spring gardening.

A good walk. 

Dolce Far Niente

Sunset Over Rome Forum

We are healthy and coping well.  Getting a bit bored and trying to figure out how to get home as things become obviously more complicated.  One issue we have had is with a booked direct flight out of Lisbon on April 6 with TAP.  Our original plan (the best laid plans????) was to fly to Lisbon on April 1.  Spend some quality time with our friends John and Kathy.  Then fly to Boston on April 6.  TAP has changed that flight tol Newark with no provided connection to Boston.  We got this April 6 business class flight with credit card points.  Now we are unable to get to Lisbon at all.  TAP will not cancel or change the flight because we booked with credit card points.  We must do it through Chase credit card.  Chase is not answering the phone nor do they have any online dispute connection to use. I'm sure eventually this will be resolved.  Our other plan to book from Rome to the US is a 16 hour flight in economy with Delta.  There is a 4 hour layover at JFK.  It is such a mess.  We had a nice long walk today. Otherwise we remain sweetly bored.  

Buon Compleanno a Wayne

Birthday Boy

Not everyone can celebrate their birthday in the Eternal City.  Usually on Wayne's birthday, cities like Chicago color the river green and Boston has a huge parade.  But today not even one pub was open in Rome.  However, friends far and near, old and new, all sent greetings. We thank you.  To my surprise, I took no pictures yesterday other than the one above.  Wayne recorded our walk to the market and found a neat graffiti.  

Wherein We Go to the Circus

Circus Maximus

There were no chariots in the Circus Maximus today.  Over 6.5 football fields in length, it stretches all the way to the far trees on the horizon.  On the left is the Palatine Hill which is closed.  We walked through the length of the Circus to the Tiber and then over into our old neighborhood of Trastevere. There, we thought of food shopping in our familiar Conad Market.  But the line was significant and we opted to go elsewhere.

Selfie on the Tiber.  Proof of our good health.

It seems that the Victor Emmanuel Monument is a geographical marker for us.  Sitting high atop the Capitoline Hill it is visible from nearly everywhere.  We often use it as a guide for heading home.  Today as we passed it on our way home, I took a picture of the palazzo which was the final home of Napoleon's mother.  She had been exiled from France after the fall of her son and lived here until her death.  If you look carefully at the palazzo on the right, you will see a projecting green covered balcony on the second floor.  It is here that she would sit and watch the activity in the piazza that fronts where the Victor Emmanuel Monument now sits. She had the balcony covered so she could sit unseen. She was of a minor Italian nobility family which probably accounts for her Italian welcome and residency.

Napoleon I's Mother's Balcony

Other pictures at flicker show our salmon colored apartment building sitting behind the Colosseum.  flickr