Tag Archives: Adventure.

Remembering Jim: Love, Loss, and Lifelong Adventures

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“I talk about him because I’m proud.
I talk about him, because he deserves to be remembered.
I talk about him, because even though he’s not physically with me, he’s never far from my mind.
I talk about him because he’s part of me, a part that I could never ignore or disown.
I talk about him because I love him still, and I always will. Forever. Nothing will ever change that.”
I Talk About Him/Scribbles & Crumbs

On October 9, 2012, Jim, my husband entered the hospital for the last time. Neither of us knew that he would not leave and come home. Neither of us thought that the end of his life was around the corner. Neither of us knew.

Thirteen years ago on October seventeenth my husband of 21 years died. He entered the hospital the day before his birthday. Almost two weeks later, he died the day after my birthday. Yes October is a emotionally mixed month for me.

Oh, and wait a minute. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I know that some people who have had breast cancer are dedicated to this month. I thank them for that. I, though from the beginning of having breast cancer in 2010 have wanted nothing to do with this month. I don’t want pink anything. I want to move forward without the celebration and thinking of myself as a survivor. I want to live.

Welcome to October
Always an action packed emotional month.

It seems strange to think it has been thirteen years since Jim’s death. Sometimes it seems like it has been that long. Other days, it feels like it was yesterday. Sigh.

I spent most of my younger adult life thinking that I was going to be single my whole adult life. I made it to 38 and then Jim showed up and my life changed forever.

Each year I take time to remember Jim in writing, in thought and in love.

Jim & me dancing Contra Dance

Many relationships were made and dismantled on the dance floor of the New England Contra Dance community. If you have never tried this form of folk dance I suggest you try it. It is so much fun and it is certainly a way to meet people and make friends. And, oh the music! One night, this tall blue-eyed man showed up. That ended the idea of being single for the rest of my life.

Scottish Country Dance Ball

Jim followed me to other dance communities. He became a fine Scottish Country Dancer. We ballroom danced and chose to try several other forms of dance in communities around San Diego. It was fun. He did a mean waltz and polka. It was so much fun to have a dance partner.

The connection was strong and within a year we were a couple. I moved from San Diego in the fall of that year. I became a traveling nurse with Albuquerque as my destination. He didn’t want a long distance relationship. I said “How do you know if you don’t try it?”

Four months passed. Jim and I made several trips between Albuquerque, NM and San Diego, CA. I returned to the west coast and Jim. We moved in together and became a life couple. Was he my soul mate? I don’t know. I do know that even if it wasn’t perfect it was pretty darn close. From the moment we started to date we were close.

Everything was shared. Each month I would hike into the mountains to contemplate whether this was still a relationship I wanted. He would roll his eyes and waved me off. I would come back for another month. When I asked him if he had any doubts. He looked me in the eyes and said no. Eventually the monthly journeys move to every six months and then every year. I continued to hike and contemplate this wonderful relationship once a year until his death.

I have always been an explorer and adventure traveler. He joined me.

We took the train to Oregon. We climbed old growth Douglas Firs. and camped in the top of the trees. Did you know that there are no mosquitoes 25 feet above the ground? Since we were camped over 100 feet off the ground we were never bothered by those pesky little creatures.

Tree Climbing & Tree Sleeping

One year we kayaked the Nā Pali  Coast off the coast of Kauai. The only way to see this coast is by helicopter or boat. On one of the short kayaks, we sailed through the air on the backside of a wave. Other travelers kept saying, “this doesn’t look good.” It wasn’t but oh the fun. We survived. When we finally kayaked the 15 miles down the Nā Pali coast, we went into caves. We greeted sea turtles swimming by. We got to see firsthand this amazing and remote coast.

Another Hawaii trip found us inner tubing through the sugar cane fields and kayaking the rivers on Kauai. This and the Big Island were our favorites places to visit in the 50th state.

On Tour of the Galapagos Islands

Other adventures included Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. We Winter Camped and snowshoe hiked in Yellowstone National Park. We camped and explored Canyon de Chelly in Arizona by horseback. Jim had never been on a horse in his life. When a friend invited us to join her for a long weekend in Alaska. We enjoyed a long weekend of cross country skiing, yoga, and contra dancing. Always dancing. We explored our country, the outback and the cities.

Due to Jim’s love of astronomy we finally saw the total solar eclipse over Angkor Wat in Cambodia. During the summer months, the California desert becomes too hot. He would load all his astronomy equipment in the car and we headed to the desert. We camped in the remote areas of Anza Borrego State Park. There, we would stare at the heavens and talk into the early hours of the morning. The key to summer visits is to arrive after 5 pm. Be ready to leave by nine in the morning. Even in the summer the evenings are cool and pleasant. And…there is no one else out there.

Then there was the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Jim and I hiked it a couple of times. The real life changer happened when we decided to take a river raft adventure. It lasted 15 days with friends from Lee’s Ferry to Diamond Creek.

Looking out at the Mighty Colorado

At first Jim wasn’t sure he wanted to go. It was too long. What would he do if he got bored? I made one phone call to a long time friend, Sharon, who had rafted the canyon several times. After his conversation with her, he hung up and we made reservations. After that trip we always talked about “Before Grand Canyon” and “After Grand Canyon”.

This is a description of some of our travels. There were so many more adventures than listed here. We were always looking for the next new adventure. It was such a great experience to have someone to share the unique and normal with.

Now I carry on alone but not really. I carry remembrance of him and our life with me. I move forward toward the next adventure. And I carry the joy of those 21 years with me as I grow and change and remember. Some people have said that I should let him go and move on. I am not sure what letting him go means. How can I do that? Those 21 years changed my life. They made me grow into the person I am today. I carry my growth with me always.

I continue to adventure by myself. My friend in our soft adventures is gone. I wonder sometimes how different my life would have been if he was still here today. Yes, I have no doubt I would still be with him. I would still be taking the hike into the mountains every year. I would watch as he waved me off. And then another year would unfold.

Today I am thankful for Jim, for our positive and wonderful relationship. I am thankful to move forward and be so much more than before I met him. Today I am thankful for Jim and all those years of adventure and wonder.

Hmmm…Where to next?

Exploring the Hidden Gems of California’s Central Coast

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A woman who I worked with posts photos on Facebook. She occasionally asks readers to guess where her office is that day. Maybe I should do something similar and ask my followers where I am today.

A little over a week ago I left San Diego and drove north. I camped along the way. I enjoyed a night at Lake Cachuma, near Santa Barbara. My husband, Jim, liked to say God Bless You any time I said the lake’s name.

After spending the afternoon and evening I continued north to Pismo Beach. This is such a lovely little town on the Pacific Coast. Pismo Beach is a classic beach town and is located about half way between Los Angeles and San Francisco. It is known for its wide white sand beaches, the boardwalk, a monarch butterfly grove and cinnamon rolls.

I set up camp at the State Beach. Then, I walked out to the ocean to watch the birds, people, and sunset. I like this little town. It is often on my radar when I am moving north or south along the Pacific Coast.

For the next month I am in Salinas, California. I know you have met Woody the cat in earlier blogs. I am house sitting for him and his companion, Rocky the dog. I am getting my animal fix. I will be here for the next month while their owner travels “Down Under.”

Woody
Rocky

I always look forward to coming here. Why? The Elkhorn Slough is about 20 minutes from the house. My kayak is excited to put in to one of my favorite places. Migration season is here and that means I will see all kinds of shore birds, ducks, pelicans and more. Sea Otters are plentiful. I adore those creatures that look so gentle but can be quite aggressive. And who knows what else will show up on my explorations of the slough.

Monterey and Carmel are close to Salinas as well. There are great cycling trails. I can bike from Monterey to Pacific Grove and beyond. There is the 17-Mile Drive to explore too. The Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row are also near by. I like taking advantage of what is close by when I stay somewhere.

I have one friend coming to visit. I am not sure if she is coming to visit me. She might be visiting because she also wants to get out on the Slough. It will be good to have someone to paddle with and share Wow experiences.

Otter in the Elkhorn Slough

If you can time it right, you are more than welcome to visit. I know my friends Pat and Sandy have been here to kayak the Slough with me and they are always welcome to return for another visit.

After a month in Monterey County I will be heading south once again to have another type of adventure. Stay Tuned.

Today I am thankful for so many things. I am so thankful that I discovered the RV lifestyle. Buying an RV opened up a whole new world to me. I am so thankful for all the friends I have made. I am thankful that these friends trust me with their homes and their animals. I am thankful that they want to come and visit and explore with me wherever I am.

Today I am Thankful.

Discover the Hidden Gem of Point Roberts, WA

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Just south of Vancouver BC is a point of land known as Point Roberts. Point Roberts is surrounded on three sides by water. It is bordered by Canada to the north. It is part of Washington state and the United States. The only way to get there is by car crossing the International Border or by private plane or boat.

On a sunny early summer morning I decided to visit Point Roberts. I drove from Richmond (south of Vancouver). I crossed the International Border and spent a late morning and afternoon touring this unique area of the United States.

Point Roberts was created in the mid-19th century. At that time, the United Kingdom and the United States settled the Pacific Northwest American-Canadian border dispute. They resolved the issue with the Oregon Treaty. The two parties agreed that the 49th parallel would define The boundary between their respective territories. The small area that incorporates Point Roberts is south of the 49th parallel.

During the 1858 Fraser gold rush, prospectors from Victoria, BC attempted to avoid tax collection. They briefly settled Point Roberts. Their settlement was called Robert’s Town. It consisted of six wooden buildings, including a store and saloon. It lasted less than a year.

In 1949, there was talk about Point Roberts seceding from the U.S. and joining Canada. In 1973, a drought that caused the wells to run dry created tensions between Point Roberts’s U.S. and Canadian residents. The Americans threatened to cut off the Canadian residents’ water supply. They also hung up signs saying “Canadians Go Home.” This was unless the Canadian municipality of Delta agreed to supply water. An agreement was signed on August 28, 1987. It requires the Point Roberts Water District to buy raw water each year.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Point Roberts was acclaimed as the “safest place” for avoiding coronavirus. This was due to its isolation from the mainland United States and Canada. The very low case numbers also contributed to this reputation. Limited access to the rest of the United States and Canada was a factor. Additionally, border closures into Canada kept the case numbers very low.

As the pandemic worsened in both countries. In 2020, a study found that Point Roberts had lost 80 percent of its business. It also lost hundreds of seasonal residents. This was a result of the pandemic and border shutdown. The area was described as a “ghost town” by the local chamber of commerce director. It had no confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of September 2020.

The Port of Bellingham set up a temporary ferry in August 2020. It connected Point Roberts to the mainland. The Canadian government waived its mandatory COVID testing requirements for Point Roberts residents in 2021. The decision followed negotiations with Washington state. The border was fully reopened for non-essential travel in August 2021 and the ferry service ceased the same month.

The City of Delta installed a chain-link fence at the end of English Bluff Road in 2025. This was done to deter accidental crossings. An elderly man accidentally walked into Point Roberts. The fence was poorly received by local residents and at least one Delta council member demanded its removal.

The Marina

Approximately 1300 people live in the 5 square mile area of Point Roberts. The big attraction is the nature and the wildlife. Point Roberts has it all. The community has a golf course, a marina and two restaurants.There are four parks and coastal beaches to explore.

Lighthouse Marine Park is a 21-acre park on the Salish Sea and my first stop. Park amenities include a boardwalk, picnic areas,playground, trails, boat launch, and 30 campsites for weekend of camping. I chose to walk the beach trail to gaze out on the water. I hoped for whales but a seal was all I saw.

Mt Baker from Lighthouse Park

On a beautiful day I saw Mt Baker on the mainland, in Washington State. The beaches are like the beaches in Washington, Plenty of drift wood was scattered along the beach. The beaches are rocky and wild.

Monumet Park

This park is known for “Border Marker Number One”. It is the western most border marker between the U.S. and Canada. The park is a canopied forest of cedar and fir trees.

Lily Point Marine Reserve Park

Lily Point Marine Reserve spans 275 acres of forested upland and beaches. It is known for its towering sandstone bluffs. When beach-side, pilings can be seen running out into Boundary Bay. These pilings are remains from the Alaska Packers Association cannery. This cannery once operated here in the late 1800s.

Maple Beach

This beach is a popular spot for beach combing and swimming. It sits on the northeastern corner of Point Roberts. It is known for its sandy beaches and tidelands. At low-tide the tidelands stretch for a mile or more.

After a morning and early afternoon exploring I stopped for lunch at Kiniski’s Reef Tavern. The food was good and the view from outdoor seating was exceptional as I looked out over the Salish Sea.

Somewhere along my travels I read about Ollie-Otter’s Baker Box. I decided I needed to go find this interesting local landmark. There is a cottage bakery there Ollie-Otter’s Bakery is in a cottage behind the bakers box on the curb side. There were wonderful goodies waiting to be bought.

The Hungry Hound Barkary had a small box next to the street side bake box. This business is owned by Ollie Friedman. Ollie may have some growing to do but he has big dreams.

This is what is written on the sign in the photo.

“Hi I am Ollie. I own the Hungry Hound Barkary. Yep I’m 11 but I have BIG dreams. Someday I want to be an astronaut and work for NASA. To make that happen I need coding classes. So to raise money I’m taking over the dog treat business. Thanks for stopping and supporting my dream. I hope your pup enjoys the retreats.”

If you would like to support Ollie’s Dreams here is the link to his Go Fund Me Page. Ollie’s Path to NASA. I believe, much like my husband did, that it is important to support these young people no matter their dreams.

After a lovely morning and afternoon, I approached the International Border. I crossed back into Canada for a few more nights. Before I made my way back to the United States.

I enjoy exploring the unknown. I definitely would return to Point Roberts again. I could easily see camping there and taking a leisurely tour of the area.

I am grateful for my friends. They guide me to unusual places. This year I can add Point Roberts to places that are unique.

Today, as every Day I am Thankful.

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Exploring the Northwest: Travels and House-Sitting

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I have not been very faithful to this blog lately. I have been traveling and enjoying experiences. Lately, people ask me where I am. I decided that it is time to let you in on my current spring and summer plans.

I drove north through Oregon and Washington, visiting friends along the way. It was nice to catch up with friends as I continued to Whidbey Island, WA.

I spent two summers house sitting for good friends on Whidbey. They went off camp hosting in the beautiful wilds of this country. I took care of their lovely home overlooking Puget Sound. Night after night the sunsets never let me down.

I met this little brown song sparrow while I was there, Birdy Boy. We have maintained a friendship over time and distance. We met on the deck in 2021. I have never had a friendship with a bird before. I returned in 2022. There he was, still waiting to resume our friendship. We picked up where it had left off the year before. Two years later, 2024 I returned and there he was just like I had never left. This year I spent two nights with Sandy and Jim and, yes, Birdy Boy. He greeted me with singing. He hopped onto my feet, knees, arms, and hands. He sang away and caught me up on the past year. I am amazed that this has persisted over time and distance. My heart delights in this unique friendship.

Oh Canada

May 20th I crossed the border into Canada. It was a quick and clear crossover. I was welcomed. Then, I set off to catch the ferry to Vancouver Island. I will be spending the next few months here. First stop was a beautiful campground near Victoria, Pedder Cove. I managed to slip into the water and kayak in this beautiful bay. I love all the hidden bays of the northwest.

Two days later I met up with 40 other Roadtreks at Sooke River Campground. Not a Rally, a Meetup ensued. For three nights and four days we gathered as a group and enjoyed each others company. I even found people to kayak with. It was fun to be around all the positive energy of a group of people. I reconnected with those I had met before and met new friends along the way. It was a good weekend and I am glad I encouraged myself to join up with this group of people.

Since the weekend I have been island hopping in the South Gulf Islands. Pender Island was a small outdoorsy island. When you go to Pender you look for things to do outdoors. I planned to put the kayak in the water. Instead, I hiked to the high summits on North and South Pender. Neither hike was long. Sometimes distance doesn’t matter, incline does. It is nice to know I still can do these climbs. I am thrilled to see the wonders at the end of the ascent.

My campground on Salt Sorings Island.

Salt Springs Island. was a much larger island. There are more people here, including many artists. People come to this island for the art. I managed to attend the Saturday Market. It was not a farmers market as much as it was an arts and crafts market. Did I find things to buy? Yes.

This past year I joined an organization, Trusted Housesitters. Starting this week, I will be taking care of two kitties, Stanley and Sitka. I’m house-sitting near Qualicum Beach, close to halfway up the island on the east side. It is a beautiful area. The best part is that I have a good friend who is a fellow photographer and lives there. Guess what we will be doing?

I am still new to this idea of house-sitting for people I don’t know. So the jury is still out on how much I will be choosing to do this. I am still deciding if this is a good fit for me. I like the idea of staying in one area for a more extended time. This way, I can explore more in depth and get to know the area. Maybe I will join a yoga class and have other opportunities to explore the local area.

Some of you have asked where I am. If you have been wondering, this is my current update on my spring and early summer plans. I followed the weather north. I enjoy meeting up with friends and like minded travelers. I like exploring the unknown.

Today I will meet up with the family that I will be cat sitting. The next day the owners leave for a cross Canada trip. I get the kitties and a home to nestle in for a few weeks.

I am thankful for my continuing adventurous spirit. I am thankful that I push myself to explore the unknown. I am thankful for family and friends. Even if they question my sanity, they continue to support me and my life choices.

Today I am Thankful.

Exploring Community Living as an Older Adult

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Since the third week in April EmmyLou and I have been driving north for the late spring and summer. Where am I going? I am back in the land of ferries. The Pacific Northwest and Vancouver Island. 

What is pulling me back to this area again? First stop is Sooke River Campground and a meet-up with Roadtrek (my rig) owners. These Rallies are fun. It is a good way to meet like minded people and enjoy a long weekend together. 

I have a cat sitting gig for two weeks in Qualicum Beach. This community is about halfway up the east side of the island. Much of my summer is unknown, and I am good with that. There is so much to explore in western Canada. I am not sure where my summer will lead me. 

Since my seventieth birthday I have been on a mission. What to do with the rest of my life. I never felt a lot of the common age markers, (30, 40, 50) really affected me. But my seventieth rolled in strong. 

I have been getting my papers in order. As a solo older woman I have begun to think of living alternatives. How do I want to live? Do I want to live in a community? What does that all look and feel like for me. 

Community has an appeal to me as I have discovered in my current lifestyle I get lonely. I miss a stable sense of community. This will certainly will be one issue that will pull me off the road, full time.

I have visited a few 55 and up communities over the past years. I went mainly because I have friends that live in these communities. They enjoy them and are involved while living independently in their own homes. Classes, trips, groups, travel are often included in this life style choice. 

I have been to one Continuing Care facility in Washington, a year ago. It was interesting but not a place that I think I would be interested in, at least not now.

One community, Enso Village was on my way north in Healdsburg, California. I have followed this community since its early planning stages. I decided to arrange an appointment to see it as I moved north. It was quite an interesting place and not inexpensive. It initially was introduced by the Zen Center in San Francisco. It is now affiliated with the Kendal Corporation and is the first Kendal community on the west coast.

“Kendal began in the late 1960s. A committee of the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) sought “a better way in retirement.” Their search was based on Quaker values. The first community opened in 1973.

The Kendal Corporation began in 1989 and is an aging services leader providing support and skills to the Kendal System. Since then, new Affiliates have either been developed from the ground up or have chosen to become a Kendal Affiliate. The Kendal Corporation supports a System that is structured on what is called a federal model.  Each Affiliate is locally owned and managed with its own independent board of directors, as each Affiliate is independently operated. The Kendal Corporation and the System afford access to tools and practices that empower and support.

The Kendal System stays true to its roots. It continually evolves to meet the needs of residents, staff and wider society. This combination of tradition and innovation creates an environment that fosters learning, community and integrity. 

Kendal communities are designed to meet different needs and tastes. They range from park-like campuses in small college towns to apartment living near metropolitan areas. No matter the site, all share a commitment to lifelong learning, community service and wellness. They offer optional financial plans to meet individual needs. They also supply higher levels of care as residents’ circumstances change.

Several communities offer a continuum choice of moving directly into higher levels of care if needed. Others specialize in higher levels of care. One offers primarily an independent living option and another is a life plan at home model.”

Is this model of living for me? At the moment I am not sure. When the last units are full I will put myself on the wait list. It is an interesting choice not to be ruled out. Most people move into these places and love them. Some move in and leave again but that appears to be the minority.

I am also interested in another community model known as Co-Housing. These are more multi-generational housing with a community model in mind. Some of these are very specific so it is important to investigate these communities well before committing to one. The ideal way for me to try out these communities would be to rent a unit. Rentals are hard to find.

Before i can commit to the community models I feel like I need to envision the rest of my life. Not the small things, but how do I see myself living. What is important to me? I want to see how I would feel living in these environments.

I have tended to see some of these communities as a place where I will live and die. The dying part is macabre. Especially with the progressive care model my emotional mind sees it as a place where I wait to die. Now I know that is not what people that live there do. I need to encourage change in this scenario in my mind, to a place to live. So far I have not been one hundred percent successful in changing this. I am nevertheless willing to see these places as an optional lifestyle.

Another choice is to stay living independently in my own home, condo, flat, etc. Some people do live this way. They are quite comfortable being on their own. They have help come into their homes when they need it. I am not sure this is the best choice for me. I believe that socializing with other people will become more important for my mental health as I age.

I am exploring what I want to do with this next chapter of my life. I am also thinking and sorting through my options. I did not expect these life choices before Jim, my husband died. We had each other. Now I want to investigate my options so I can make informed choices, both mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

My life adventure continues. There is no need to make a decision today or tomorrow. But, I do see myself making a choice in the not too distant future. It is time to change it up once again.

Today I am thankful for confusion that will eventually lead to clarity. Today I am thankful for the choices I have to consider. Today I am thankful for my little RV that offers me a home on my current path.

Today I am thankful.

Memorable Moments in Hawaii: A Two-Month Journey

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Do you know how long it takes to edit a slide show? It seems like forever, but I finished the video this morning. Two months may as well have been two years. I love looking at this slide show because being in Hawaii for that long was magical. Most people go for a week or two. Now, I wish I had stayed longer.

For those of you who don’t know me well, I hate to make plans. I had to plan for two months and more (what would I do on my return?). Finally, I sat down with many photos and created a slide show of my two months in the Fiftieth state.

What was special about my time there?

  • Soft and Gentle Trade Winds Keeping Me Cool Twenty-Four Hours a Day.
  • Green and Lush, Everywhere I Looked.
  • Birds I Have Never Seen Before.
  • Big, Really Big Waves.
    • Sunsets, Golden Glowing & Sunset Watchers. It is a Passion.
    • Visiting With Friends. They Let Me See Their Hawaii
    • Flowers, More Than I Could Begin to Describe. What Were They?
    • Orchids
    • Volcanos That Chose Not to Errupt When I Was There.
    • Kind and Wonderful People Everywhere I went.
    • Pineapples.
    • Shaved Ice.
    • Octopus and Other Colorful Fish. Snorkeling in the Beautiful Blue Hawaiian Water.
    • Green Sea Turtles Deep Sleeping on the Beach.
    • Mojitos and Lava Flow.

The list could go on, but I don’t want to bore you. Maybe you could go to Hawaii sometime and experience another amazing place on our planet. Then, you will find your own memories and magic moments.

Enjoy the slide show. It is a bit long. Just remember, I am a photographer. It is hard to eliminate too many photos when there was so much to see and do.

Today, I am thankful for the adventures in my life and for your willingness to join me in my experiences.

Today and every day, I am Thankful.

Unique Stays on the Big Island: Memorable Experiences

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My computer is back up and running. Yes!

When you last heard from me, I arrived on the Big Island with my friend and fellow bird-watcher, Zee. Being on the Big Island was a great way to end two short months visiting the 50th state.

First I want to tell you about the places we stayed. When I planned this trip, I knew I did not want to stay in Condos on the beach. It just is not my style. So, I searched for three interesting and unique places to stay on the Big Island.

Our first stop was Hilo. Thanks to VRBO, we ended up in the Rain Forest Apartment, a one-bedroom apartment with a futon in the living room. The owners are artists, one specializing in art in the garden, which was rich, lush, and green. At night, tiny lights sparkled like ferries in the trees and bushes.

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The other artist painted the apartments with the beautiful, lush colors of the tropics. Sea turtles were painted on the ceiling, floor, and walls. The hot water heater was covered with a decorative cloth, and a sun was painted on the ceiling. Her paintings hung on the walls. It was a welcome place of refuge after a day of touring.

We then moved to Captain Cook, on the island’s southwest side. Here, we found our way to a Balinese-style home. It was so interesting, amazing, and private, and I believe it was my favorite place I stayed on the whole trip. It was open to the outdoors continuously with screens on the windows. The master bedroom was behind an open-style kitchen and dining room.

The bathroom was across the walkway, and a shower was next to it. My room was up a flight of steps, with a Balinese bed built up high. I could see the treetops and the ocean. I have always liked being on the second floor and hidden from the world.

Up another flight of steps was yet another room for contemplation and writing. Other areas of the property contained a screened-in bathtub and daybed.

Everything was surrounded by nature. Geckos wandered freely through the lush gardens. One morning, the owner, Linda, gave us access to her home to take photos of the Java Sparrows at her feeder. They are the prettiest little birds.

Linda is also an artist and a delightful human being. Before we left, she had made us one-of-a-kind key chains and had let us each choose a stone heart to carry with us. OB, her kitty, greeted us each time she visited our home. He knew where the treats were. I would definitely return here again and again.

Finally, we stayed in a tiny home on a Coffee Farm near Kona, thanks to Glamping Hub. While Zee remained in the Master Bedroom on the first floor, I climbed up and down the ladder to the bedroom on the second floor. The best thing about this place was the large outdoor covered lanai. This area was designed like a living room with chairs and a couch. There was a fire table for heat on the cool evenings. The whole area was covered, so we did not have to worry about rain. It was one more delightful stay of many on this winter trip.

I have always enjoyed searching for unique places to stay while traveling. These three places and those on Kauai and Oahu have kept my streak alive. All of these places fit my description to a tee. I am glad I took the time to investigate the uniqueness of residences for this trip. They helped make this trip just a little bit more memorable.

AnnE Poining out more beautiful spots.

I spent the last three days with a friend who lives in Kona. Yes, she lives in a condo, but it is also a home, and I was welcomed with open arms into her life. For the last few days of my stay in Kona, I had a tour guide, so I got to see the island from a resident’s point of view. We explored unique spots on the Big Island, did some hiking, and explored small, unique shops. On my last full day, I saw some of AnnE’s favorite beaches and snorkeled at Two Step. The thrill of the moment was observing an octopus for several minutes as it moved across the ocean floor. I feel blessed.

On February 28th, I boarded Hawaiian Airlines and began the process of returning to the mainland. It was tough to say goodbye. There was so much that I saw in my time there. I met terrific people, swam, got knocked around by the waves, ate delicious food, hiked, and took photos to my heart’s content. The birding was terrific, and the sea life was amazing. I have fallen in love with green sea turtles. And the list could go on.

I am not done telling you about my two months on the Islands. As I sort through the myriad of photos, there will be more to come.

Today, I am thankful. I am thankful for the opportunities that present themselves. I am grateful for all the kind people I met in Hawaii and continue to meet each day of my life. And…ooh all that nature.

Today, I am thankful.

Aloha-Uh Oh Computer Trouble

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I moved over to the Big Island five days ago. My friend Mary and I are here until the end of the month.

I wanted to tell you more about the trip but computer tragedy struck and I no longer have a functioning keyboard. I am now limping along with my iPhone. Although I use my phone a lot I am not great typing long on it. Sigh.

Before my communications went south, I did spend an amazing day at The Hawaiian Botanical Gardens and I mad a slide show of that day. And I can share that with you. If you ever get to the Big Island definitely add this destination to the top of your list.

A Magical Day

It was lush. It was quiet. The flowers were odd and unique and beautiful. And the Orchids-Oh My! Even after spending a day at Volcanos NP, this Garden was the top hit of my visit so far.

I will attempt more. Until I get comfortable doing this on my phone enjoy the video.

Aloha from Hawaii.

The Importance of Community During Tragic and Unsettling Moments

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I am sitting in my lovely VRBO this morning, thinking about the last week.

FIRE

The Los Angeles fires were horrific. So many people lost their homes, their livelihoods, and so much more. What saddens me is hearing people say that because some who lost their homes were wealthy, they can just replace what has been lost. If only it was that easy.

Emotionally, no one’s life is the same after a horror like this. Money or no money, the emotional toll remains for most.

Did you know that many organizations in Los Angeles are helping their own and those further abroad? When I began exploring how to help those in need, I found organizations I did not even know or think about.

How The Arts & Entertainment Industry Is Supporting Los Angeles Fire Relief

Alt Comedy All-Stars 2025

On Jan. 31, Alt Comedy All-Stars 2025 will occur at the Fonda Theatre at 8 p.m. The benefit show for Comedy Gives Back will raise funds for comedians affected by the wildfires. The talent lineup includes Patton Oswalt, Zach Galifianakis, Bob Odenkirk, John Ennis, Jill Talley, and more.

Celebrity Donations & Volunteers

An abundance of the Hollywood elite has taken to Instagram, donation drives and more to help rebuild Los Angeles. Paris Hilton, whose Malibu home was destroyed by the Palisades Fire, launched an emergency fund through her foundation, 11:11 Media Impact, to aid displaced families with young children. She urged Instagram followers to donate and kicked off the fundraiser by committing to match the first $100K raised and contributing another $100K.  Beyonce’s foundation, Beygood, also announced a $2.5 million LA Fire Relief Fund to aid families in the Altadena/Pasadena area, during the week after the fires began (Jan. 13 to 17). As confirmed by People, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have taken in friends who were forced to evacuate to their homes and have plans to take action through their Archwell Foundation. Eva Longoria was among volunteers cleaning up the streets of Pasadena. She also pledged $1 million to support relief efforts and urged followers on Instagram to support The California Community Foundation and The Latino Community Foundation.  

Getty’s L.A. Arts Community Fire Relief Fund

The J. Paul Getty Trust has teamed up with the Mohn Art Collective (Hammer Museum, LACMA, MOCA), East West Bank, Mellon Foundation, TheBroad Art Foundation, Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Qatar Museums and Ford Foundation to establish the $12 million L.A. Arts Community Fire Relief Fund. Administered by the Center for Cultural Innovation, the emergency fund will support artists and arts workers in all disciplines who have lost residences, studios or livelihoods or have otherwise been affected by the wildfires. Applications open on Jan. 20. 

Hollywood Pantages Theatre

The Hollywood Pantages Theatre donated $125,000 to five organizations: the Los Angeles Firefighters Foundation, the Los Angeles Police Foundation, the Entertainment Community Fund, Project Angel Food and Broadway Cares/ Equity Fights Aids. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the devastating fires impacting Los Angeles and our surrounding communities,” said Jeff Loeb, president of The Hollywood Pantages Theatre. “We are deeply grateful for the heroic efforts of our firefighters, first responders, and the countless neighbors who have stepped up to lend a helping hand during this difficult time. Your courage, resilience, and compassion inspire us all.”

LA Gives Back Fire Relief

On Jan. 29, The Bellwether will host LA Gives Back, and 100 percent of proceeds will benefit charities that support the community, firefighters, and animals affected by the wildfires.

Netflix

The streaming titan donated $10 million to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, California Community Fund Wildfire Recovery Fund, World Central Kitchen, Motion Picture and Television Fund, and Entertainment Community Fund. “For many people who aren’t familiar with it, Los Angeles conjures images of palm trees and red carpets; mansions and movie stars,” co-CEO Ted Sarandos said in a statement. “But for those of us lucky enough to call this city home, Los Angeles is far more than that. It’s a family — one made up of extraordinarily talented, hardworking people from all over the world and all walks of life, many of whom came here chasing a dream.”

The Producers Guild of America

The Producers Guild of America and the Entertainment Community Fund have established a fund to support film, television, and emerging media producers affected by the fires. Producers can apply online for financial assistance, and those seeking help can donate through the Entertainment Community’s website. Already, $300,000 has been raised. 

Universal Music Group

Leading the way for the overhaul of Grammy week, Universal Music Group canceled all of its Grammy-related events on Jan. 13. Instead, it will redirect the resources it would have used for the events to assist those affected by the wildfires. “L.A. is home to so many of us,” UMG said in a statement. “We are committed to helping and supporting the music community, our artists, our teams, and the people of Los Angeles get through this horrific episode.” 

Warner Bros. Discovery

Alongside setting up an emergency relief center on its studio lot, Warner Bros. Discover pledged $15 million to immediate response and rebuilding efforts. “Our studio has called Burbank home for more than 100 years, and we are focused on what needs to be done to help those impacted rebound from this disaster and rebuild in the weeks, months, and years ahead.”

YouTube x Google

YouTube teamed up with Google and Google.org to donate $15 million to organizations offering immediate relief in Los Angeles, including Emergency Network Los Angeles, the American Red Cross, the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, and the Institute for Nonprofit News. “Los Angeles is the heart of entertainment and storytelling and has an impact on culture all over the world,” YouTube CEO Neal Mohan said in a blog post. “It’s also where many YouTube creators, artists, partners, and our employees call home. Like so many, we’ve been heartbroken by the devastation from the wildfires and want to do our part to support the community as it rebuilds.”

And these efforts are just an example of how Los Angeles and those further away are helping everyone recover from this life-changing event.

Loss on a Local Level

The North Shore community has been suffering a tragedy for the past four days. Over the weekend, there have been big waves, up to a forty-foot face on some waves. Two local teens disappeared after a date at Sharks Cove on Friday night. Sharks Cove is a well-known snorkeling spot.

When they didn’t return home, the girl’s mother notified the authorities. They found their clothes and car on a beach north of the cove. The Coast Guard, the Life Guards, and local organizations got involved. Over the weekend, they dove, snorkeled, flew helicopters over the site, and used jet skis to transport all the searchers. The family sat on the shore and looked out to sea. As of today, they have not been found. Slowly, the energy returns to normal, yet losing these two young lives will forever affect the community.

It makes me aware that no one is on permanent vacation or holiday. Reality has a way of shaking me out of my comfort zone. What can I do? For now, I can donate money to the victims of fires. I can help in the best way that I can. I can hold them in my thoughts and give prayer.

It is more complicated with the local community here on the North Shore. When they asked everyone to keep an eye on the water, I did. I noticed others walking among the lava rocks on the rocky coast. Everyone was looking. For a brief moment, the community, locals, and visitors alike searched the best way they could while not getting in the way of the Coast Guard and Searchers. Now, through breath and prayer, we can hold these families of such tragic loss in light, in prayer, or however you individually honor those in need of loving, non-judgemental, emotional support.

As my world gets thrown asunder, for a moment, a day, or longer, I will continue to find ways to lovingly support those in need. I can do this physically, financially, or through prayer. I can identify when making an unsound judgment on others, take a breath, and release the judgment so those unfounded feelings are not released into my universe or the universe. These are not the times for personal judgment. This is not about me; it is about others and me stepping out of the way so those in need will find unconditional love and support.

Today, I breathe deeply and send what I can to those in need. I hope that my breath will wrap around all of them, and maybe I will create one little spark of love and hope in a world that needs it so desperately now.

Today I am Thankful.

Hawaii Adventure: My Exciting Travel Plans

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I have hinted at big plans a few times in my past posts. I hesitated to mention them because so many of my plans this past year have changed, and I decided to wait and see if these plans would change, too.

I am Hawaii Bound.

I love big waves, and I love to watch surfers on big waves. I just love big waves. I decided to see big waves before they were too physically demanding for me to get to.

Hawaii, Here I Come.

So far, my plans have remained steady. Now that January 2nd is approaching quickly, I decided to finally inform my readers of my plans.

I leave on January 2 to spend a month on the north shore of Oahu. I will be within a short distance of the beaches and big waves. And if you are wondering what I will do, I will watch big waves and take photos of them. There is also a nature reserve near where I am staying, so birdwatching will also be on the list. I plan to explore this island as I have spent little time here.

A friend, Tina, will join me at the end of January. After a few days on Oahu, on February 1 we will travel to Kauai. Kauia has always been a charming and adventurous island. I love the vibes of this island and always feel welcomed when I spend time exploring there. I will be there for two weeks. Tina will be there for the first week. When she leaves, another friend of mine, Zee, will join me for the rest of my stay on Kauai.

And lastly we will explore the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. Zee will be with me for most of this visit. There is always so much to see and do on this island. Snorkeling, hiking, and visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, which has been erupting again recently. I have chosen some interesting and unique places to stay on this island and I am looking forward to each one.

I enjoy traveling alone but having friends join me makes this adventure even more enjoyable. The last few days of my trip I will visit with a good friend who lives in Kona and then all of a sudden it will be March and I will be heading to the mainland. Where did the time go?

Hawaii
Kauai

I don’t like to make plans, and it is hard for me to do so. This trip required a lot of planning. It was a bit overwhelming when I started putting it together, but once I made my housing reservations, each piece of the trip slipped into place. Yet, oh my goodness, it was a lot of work for a non-planner. It was stressful and caused me to lose some sleep. I am ready to go. Well, almost, I am packing.

On the last day of December, EmmyLou goes into storage for two months. This will be the longest I will have left her since 2019. She is getting spiffed up and ready to go indoors. Once a month, she will be plugged in for 24 hours, and her generator will run for an hour. I know I am paying for this service, but she will be ready for me when I return. And….if I give them 24 hours’ notice, they will wash and detail her before I pick her up. What more could I ask for?

I am off on a new adventure. I am excited, nervous and a wee bit apprehensive. The bottom line is, I am going. Once the rig goes into storage I can breathe another sigh of relief. And after two nights with good friends in San Diego celebrating the New Year, I will be on my way.

Aloha!