Boardwalk Beach in January

Santa Cruz, CA

Once again our neighborhood received mandatory evacuation orders. Where else to go but Casablanca Inn? They happily accommodated our SIP evacuation.

2020: December Wrap-Up

Santa Cruz Mountains

At the end of a challenging year, complete with Shelter in Place holiday season, Japanese maples are still a celebratory red against the sky. For a couple more weeks, anyway.

January’s Rainbow

Santa Cruz Mountains

If only a photograph could exude the delightful fragrance of an early narcissus. The smell wafts all throughout our neighborhood.

December Dahlias

Santa Cruz Mountains

As unlikely as it seems, in rare years a giant dahlia blooms in my yard in December. Its frail pink color is decidedly un-winterish.

Wintry World

Lake Tahoe, CA

Even a land-locked lake like Tahoe can produce significant surf in winter when the wind is up.

The Icy Onset of Winter

Emerald Bay State Park, CA

When the winter temperatures drop and it’s raining in the mountains, ice glazes over the landscape.  

January’s Rare Flower

Santa Cruz Mountains

No matter how cold the nights, the camellia will bloom come January. In damp woods or beside seaside homes, this winter wonder brightens winter days throughout Santa Cruz county.

Signs of Spring in Winter

Santa Cruz Mountains

After weeks of winter rains, plum blossoms burst into being. Thus begins a new annual cycle.

Winter Colors

Santa Cruz Mountains, California

January is a quiet and contemplative month. We’re past the holiday socializing, days are short, and the weather is chilly. Many of us want or need extra rest.