The Westgate Hotel San Diego

The Westgate Hotel San Diego

In San Diego Southern California signs of Winter are subtle indeed. We have a few trees and plants that blaze orange and then drop their leaves in the Autumn. But we don’t get any snow except in the nearby mountain town of Julian where they serve the most wonderful apple pie a la mode. The Westgate Hotel has nurtured a tradition of Christmas tree lights, nutcracker ballet dancers and mugs of hot cocoa.

Swiss Army Knife Adventures

Swiss Army Knife Adventures

On a Valentine’s Day early in our relationship, Mark presented me with a brand-new Swiss Army knife because we both loved hiking, backpacking, and opening bottles of beer and wine. Little did I know how many wild and amazing adventures on which this knife would accompany us. It stayed in my back pocket much of the time while we rambled around the USA and Alaska on our nine-month journey in 1986. I have had MANY embarrassing moments in my life, but one in particular reigns as THE MOST MORTIFYING.

Notre Dame – Reveries

Notre Dame – Reveries

Summer is not necessarily the best time to visit Paris, since most of the locals depart, surrendering the city to the tourists.  But since we were booked on a cruise leaving Amsterdam for Iceland in late July, and had always wanted to see Paris together, we decided to go for the week prior to boarding the ship.

Mono Brow

Mono Brow

What’s a mono brow in a green down vest? It’s me, of course! Men are incorrigible teasers. But that’s what I like about them. That’s why for the last three decades, I have ridden mostly with men who love to tear it up on their mountain bikes. And who don’t mind me tagging along. There’s this green down vest which I have been wearing on winter rides in the high desert since I first started mountain biking.

Queen Califia Magic Circle

Queen Califia Magic Circle

Queen Califia Magic Circle Upon entering the Queen Califia Magic Circle, one wonders, How could we humans live without music and art? These expressions feed the soul, inspire and enthrall us. One of my favorite artists is Niki de St. Phalle, who spent her last days in...
Chocolate – How Sweet It Is

Chocolate – How Sweet It Is

Chocolate – How Sweet it is Chocolate reigns during various holiday seasons like Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter.  It figures prominently during lavish food soirees and becomes more temptation than many of us may be inclined to desire.  It’s a...