Spotted in Port Aransas, Texas September 2019
Not entirely on purpose but whether on the beach in Lincoln City, Oregon or here along the Texas Gulf Coast I knew all the local dogs’ names, but not the names of their owners. So yeah, say hi to your dog for me!
Oh, and someone desperately needs to wash their car…
Sunset Over Copano Bay, Rockport, Texas December 2019
The show the other evening from my favorite perch overlooking Copano Bay. I will miss this end of day ritual, though I’m pretty sure the sunsets where I’m headed next will be just as stunning. Stay tuned…
After a rather adventurous trip I made it back to Port Aransas in time to gather with friends at the monthly Moonfire (in celebration of the full moon). The evening started with a breeze, so it was a bit chilly out on the beach. In perverse fashion, the temperatures climbed as the night wore on, it was 51 at 6pm but by 9 it was 54. And no, our fire wasn’t THAT big!
Side note: I’m going to avoid flying in and out of San Antonio from now on! I don’t have any problem with the actual airport but apparently my car has issues being left alone. Last time I had to replace the battery, this time I had to buy new tires. Good times!
One of the many side benefits of visiting my friend Lisa is taking advantage of Portland’s quirky, cool music scene. This time we snagged tickets to Purple Reign by the Portland Cello Project. For this production the band was joined onstage by the proficient percussionist, Tyrone Hendrix and the stellar singer, Saeeda Wright – both former members of Prince’s band.
They wasted no time getting us into the groove with a rousing rendition of “Let’s Go Crazy.” You don’t have to like Prince’s music to appreciate the lyrics, “You better live now, before the grim reaper come knocking on your door”.
Later, Saeeda Wright brought the house down with the original, “Share You”, reminding us that we all have unique gifts that we shouldn’t hesitate to share with the world.
Then most of the performers left the stage and the core, touring members of the group played music inspired by Prince.
The full band came back with a medley of “Little Red Corvette” and “Raspberry Beret” before segueing into “You Sexy MF” (which they artfully changed to You Sexy Cello Lover). “Purple Rain” wrapped up the show and “I Would Die 4 You” was the encore. As always, I remain in awe of musicians who push their skills and instruments beyond the norm.
Even though Lisa’s ability to boogie was limited we had a groovy time!
Sunset, Santa Teresa, Costa Rica November 2019
“I was born with nothing,
and I ain’t got much to give,
but I give you my word…”
“Don’t lie to me, it makes you look bad,
don’t lie to me, it’s all that you have,
don’t lie to me, you’re never gonna live it down”
The lyrics to this Mother Trucker’s song popped into my mind during a recent conversation with a friend about personal ethics. Give it a listen, besides being a fun romp there’s a certain amount of truth in there!
For me, a trip to Oregon would not be complete without a jaunt out to the coast. I’ve been visiting the Pacific Northwest for over 20 years and have even been fortunate enough to live here for a time. Though it was chilly, there was still a happy amount of sunshine peeking through the clouds.
Walking the beach was more meaningful this trip since just a week prior I had dipped my toes in the same ocean, albeit some 4,000 miles south. Beach = barefoot in my book, though I’ll admit the 51°F felt a bit cold (hence, the red toes). Obviously, the water was a lot warmer down in Costa Rica!
The Pacific Ocean never fails to mesmerize…
Happiness for Sale, Portland, Oregon December 2019
It’s been said that money can’t buy happiness (with some important caveats). After basic human needs are met (food, shelter, and safety for example) happiness does improve with additional income, but only to a point. After that, more money ≠ more happiness.
While I don’t usually try to buy it, I was pleasantly surprised to find Happiness not only for sale, but on sale. I’ll let you know how it works!
Graffiti, Tucson, Arizona December 2019
I spotted this graffiti Monday afternoon while driving through the barrio on my way to Anita Street Market (a must stop every time I visit Tucson). They make the best tortillas ever – I know it sounds weird but they’re made with cottage cheese. Delish!
Of course, I had to stop to snap a photograph. Think about it: not only did a lot of effort go into creating this statement (schnazzy, two color design) but the artist risked a misdemeanor for property damage in order to declare his pot pie passion. And really, who’s going to disagree? Pot pie is fantastic!
Advisory Sign, Tucson, Arizona December 2019
There are many things to love about my old hometown; the mild winter weather, abundant sunshine, accessible natural areas, prolific wildlife, laid back atmosphere, nice people, and delicious food. And every once in awhile, there’s a little something, like this sign, that makes me smile.
I had to flip two u-turns to take this photo but I couldn’t pass it up. So many questions come to mind: How many man hours did it take to nail down that exact measurement? Does anyone really think any driver has the spatial capability to discern those extra three feet? If the sign was off by the three feet would people just randomly drive into the desert instead of deducing that they should use the upcoming turn lane? And lastly, why not just move the sign the three feet?!
I am convinced that no other signs are that precisely situated, which leads me to think that they should all just say 300-ish feet. That would certainly simplify the sign making and placement process!
I spent my last Costa Rican day in Alajuela, a small town now engulfed by the capital city of San Jose. After settling into my hotel, I set out to enjoy the warm afternoon by wandering the neighborhood. The sound of live music enticed me over to the nearby park and I was pleasantly surprised by the scene.
A large band, replete with a beautiful marimba, had gathered a large Tico crowd. I was mesmerized by the rhythmic swaying of the many dancers. Though I stuck out like a sore thumb (I was the only guera* in attendance and by far the tallest woman – well, to be honest, I was one of the tallest, period) everyone was very welcoming. I was even encouraged onto the dance floor a couple times.
With my uniquely imperfect blend of Spanish/English I learned that the band plays every Sunday afternoon in the park during the dry season. What a lovely way to wrap up my stay. Thanks, Costa Rica, for all your amazing hospitality!
*Guera: White girl or blonde girl.
