“I can see you” — Sleeping Canada Goose Image by kenne
This big ‘Honker’ is among our best-known waterfowl. In many regions, flights of Canada Geese passing over in V-formation — northbound in spring, southbound in fall — are universally recognized as signs of the changing seasons. Once considered a symbol of wilderness, this goose has adapted well to civilization, nesting around park ponds and golf courses; in a few places, it has even become something of a nuisance. Local forms vary greatly in size, and the smallest ones are now regarded as a separate species, Cackling Goose. — Source: audubon.org
Del Mar Racing Paddock Area (August 13, 2014) — Images by kenne
We have spent the last few days in the San Diego area. Since this is the summer racing season at Del Mar, and not having been there, we decided to go watch the horses. It’s and attractive racing facility — very California.
“The Dining Room Table,” A Still Life — Images by kenne
In a little while we will be leaving Tucson, driving to San Bernardino to be with family as we celebrate the life of Virginia Chapman, Joy’s mother.
Since Virginia’s death, we have spent time reading Marie Howe’s powerful book of poems, “What the Living Do.” In a time of grief, her poems provide instruction for the living, one of which I share with those who follow this blog:
The Dream
I had a dream in the day: I laid my father’s body down in a narrow boat
and sent him off along the riverbank with its cattails and grasses. And the boat — it was made of bark and wood bent when it was wet —
took him to his burial finally. But a day or two later I realized it was my self I wanted
to lay down, hands crossed, eyes closed. . . . Oh, the light coming up from down there,
the sweet smell of the water — and finally, the sense of being carried by a current I could not name or change.
Virginia Chapman On 85th Birthday (June, 2009) May she rest in peace! — Image by kenne
What made Virginia special
was understanding that love
is something you give
without having a reason —
maybe that’s what makes
some women so special.
— kenne
With Virginia’s passing, the family and friends will not be celebrating her 90th birthday this June, at least not as planned. In lieu of our not being able to share her 90th birthday celebration, I share a video of her 85th birthday party celebration.
Virginia Chapman’s 85th Birthday Celebration, June, 2009
Jeri, Mother Virginia, Joy & Jody (July 8, 2012) — Image by kenne
Less than three weeks ago, Joy was in southern California planning her mother’s 90th birthday celebration with sisters Jody and Jeri. This past Tuesday, she returned, this time to her mother’s deathbed. This afternoon Virginia passed away peacefully. She is survived by her eight children, many grand and great-grandchildren.
West Coast Surfing On A Rainy Day (Oceanside, California)– Images by kenne
Ode To Surfing
While herein words I cannot put Nor in frame may cameras capture Those hallowed waves through which we slip And ride this life of rapture. To be or not The state of me Rests on a vexing question. Were not I dealt this salty deck “Not to be” leads in which misdirection? Yet here we are While lost are thee If not aboard and riding free For we may fleeting lines convey The pulse which guides a surfer’s way.
We just got back from Rancho Cucamonga, Temecula wine country and Pala Casino in southern California where we were spending time with Joy’s family. Pala Casino Spa Resort is a nice place in the Temecula wine country near San Diego. Being the non-gambler in the family, I spent most of my time outside near the pool area reading, and writing.
Pala Casino Spa Resort Pool Area
Pool Bar Cafe
Ode To The Gambling House of Worship
Buttons pushed Touching the screen Smoke in my eyes —
I play.
Grabbing a drink Easing the loses The game goes on —
Pandemic Fun In The Park — B&W Image by kenne
Snow On The San Bernardino Mountains — Image by kenne
Water Lily Blossoms — Image by kenne
Del Mar Racing Paddock Area (August 13, 2014) — Images by kenne
“Thanksgiving Cigar” — Image by kenne
James, Justin and Chase Enjoy The Pool While In Southern California Last Week. — Image by kenne
Jacaranda Tree Blossoms In Redlands, California — Images by kenne
“The Dining Room Table,” A Still Life — Images by kenne
Virginia Chapman On 85th Birthday (June, 2009) May she rest in peace! — Image by kenne
Jeri, Mother Virginia, Joy & Jody (July 8, 2012) — Image by kenne
West Coast Surfing On A Rainy Day (Oceanside, California)– Images by kenne
Becoming is Superior to Being 