san pedro daily photo

hiatus

2011-01-14T08:20:00.000-08:00

photo 1/13/2011 4:57 pm

skywatch friday

visit other skywatchers here

hi·a·tus

[hahy-ey-tuhs]
–noun, plural -tus·es, -tus.
a break or interruption in the continuity of a work, series, action, etc.

I started San Pedro Daily Photo on Jan. 3, 2009 to share my love of this unique town located on the seaside corner of America's second largest city. Posting almost daily through August 2010, sharing photos of spectacular sunrises over the Port of LA, roses in my garden, the parks, and more. Then came a month of whirlwind traveling and Project Food Blog, a contest that took many hours a week in competition with some of the world's best food bloggers. It was a blast, a blogging experience like no other.

So after PFB I had intended to resume daily posting on spdp but, well, you know, life is busy and for no reason in particular I have not resumed my daily posts of this darling little town. My trusty Boston Terrier, Wilson, and I still walk the parks and streets and beaches of San Pedro almost every day of the week, but now, sans camera. One day, perhaps soon, the camera will make its way back into the pocket of my sweatshirt, and I will resume posting micro and macro photos of my charming little town?

In the meantime, I want to thank you for your comments, support, and interest in San Pedro... San Pedro is a most photogenic town, we could post daily for years of the port, the beaches, the local hills, the distant snow-covered mountains, the interesting people, the flora, the fauna, the charming homes, the historic buildings, and on and on.

I still blog avidly on my other site Taste With The Eyes. I hope you will stop by over there and pay me a visit. It it mostly about food, food photography "where the image is meant to titillate and inspire the cook" but there are also San Pedro events and local restaurants woven in too. And an occasional photo of our breathtaking sunrises over the Port. And I plan continue to share our favorite seasonal local event, the Sunken City Supper Club. So, please, let's remain friends. And know how much I love this little town and continue to appreciate your support and friendship.

Fondly,

Lori Lynn

Elegant Picnic by the Sea

2010-10-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends -

Taste With The Eyes is still competing in Project Food Blog!

Elegant Heart Healthy Picnic by the Sea

Congratulations, you're one step closer to becoming the next Food Blog Star!
Your entry has advanced to the next round of Project Food Blog 2010.
Your next challenge? "Road Trip."

Challenge Prompt: For this challenge, you're tasked with creating a delicious meal that will travel well and still look great. From picnics and school lunches to bento boxes, or any other meal on the go, you need to whip up a entree, side, drink, and dessert to enjoy after hitting the road. Be sure that your meal fits inside the Project Food Blog Road Trip Cooler. (from foodbuzz here)

Please stop by Taste With The Eyes to read the contest entry and experience the breathtaking scenery and delicious heart healthy picnic at Royal Palms State Beach in San Pedro here!

quesadillas florales

2010-10-12T23:22:00.000-07:00

quesadillas florales

Hi Friends - I am still in the contest!

Thought I would share my latest entry!

See you soon.

Lori Lynn

edible flowers and herbs harvested from my garden this morning

rose, geranium, lavender, day lily, marigold, mint

Once again I turn to John Sedlar for inspiration. After a most enchanting lunch at his restaurant Rivera in downtown Los Angeles, we fell head-over-heels for his Modern Southwest Cuisine. The chef serves tortillas florales with "indian butter," a spread made from avocado. Here, I take his idea to embed flowers into the masa and make decorated quesadillas filled with brie.

making tortillas

2 c. corn masa flour
maiz seleccionado y nixtamalizado
(selected corn treated with lime)

sprinkle 1/4 t. sea salt

add 1 1/4 c. water, mix thoroughly to form a soft dough

form masa into a ball

cover masa with damp cloth, let rest 5 minutes

take a piece of dough

roll between the palms to form a ball

cover masa balls with a damp cloth to keep moist

tortilla press

place a sheet of plastic wrap on the press, place one ball in the center, cover with another sheet of wrap
close lid and press down on lever

open lid, remove top layer of wrap

decorating tortillas

rose and marigold

rose, geranium and lavender

rose and mint

after placing the decoration, re-cover the tortilla with wrap, apply the press again

leave tortillas in individual wrappers until ready to cook

making quesadillas

slice brie, remove most of the rind

heat an ungreased skillet or comal over medium-high heat

add tortilla to the pan, cook about 5o seconds on each side

keep tortillas warm between folds of cloth napkins

cook plain tortillas, top with slices of brie

when brie starts to melt, top with a decorated tortilla

slice quesadillas into quarters

pour refreshing beverages
and serve quesadillas florales!

Project Food Blog

Competition Overview

Project Food Blog is the first-ever interactive competition where thousands of Foodbuzz Featured Publishers are competing in a series of culinary blogging challenges for the chance to advance and a shot at the ultimate prize: $10,000 and a special feature on Foodbuzz.com for one year.

Voting for entries on the first challenge will kick off September 20th, and contestants will be whittled down over the next 12 weeks via exciting challenges related to food blogging.

Entries are voted on by Foodbuzz Featured Publisher peers and rated by our panel of judges including: Dana Cowin, Editor-in-Chief of FOOD & WINE Magazine; Nancy Silverton, Founder La Brea Bakery, Co-owner Mozza; Pim Techamuanvivit, Author of ChezPim.com and The Foodie Handbook

Winners advance to the next challenge, including one lucky Reader's Choice winner who earns auto advancement to the next challenge (solely based on Reader votes; not applicable in the final round).

Join the fun! Follow Project Food Blog for contest updates and help us discover the next Food Blog Star!

(from Foodbuzz.com here)

Challenge #4: Picture Perfect

Challenge Prompt: Sure, you can take a pretty picture. But your task here is to go above and beyond and use photography to create a step-by-step, instructional photo tutorial. It could be anything from how to bone a chicken to how to make your favorite recipe, but your photos need to guide the reader through the steps.

UPDATE:

Votes may be cast now through Oct. 14th. If you are a fan of quesadillas florales, please vote here! Muchas Gracias!

Dear Friends

2010-09-21T08:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of San Pedro Daily Photo,

It has been a busy month! Lots of traveling, building a new little home in Las Vegas, and getting ready for the start of another school year. I had planned to resume my daily posting on the first day of autumn, but I have decided to push that back just a wee bit further as I have entered my food blog Taste With The Eyes into a contest called PROJECT FOOD BLOG in search of the next Food Blog Star sponsored by Foodbuzz.

The first challenge started with the charge to write about "what defines you as a blogger," which I have reposted here. The next week's challenge is to cook a Classic dish (with heavy competition from 400 talented bloggers), followed by the hosting of a Luxury Dinner Party (my specialty). This is so much fun! And time consuming. So San Pedro Daily Photo is taking a back seat until the contest has run its course. I look forward to resuming the daily postings from our charming little town! Thanks for your continued support and patience.

Lori Lynn

What is Taste With The Eyes?

Come, have at seat at the table. Can I get you a glass of wine? A crisp Grüner Veltliner, a luscious Pinot Gris, or perhaps a jammy Pinot Noir?

Taste With The Eyes is my other home, the one without walls. It's here that I'd like to introduce you to my precious family and my cherished friends. It's where we'll have a blast cooking with my nephews Stone, 8, and Jett, 6. Join us as we celebrate the holidays, Passover and Thanksgiving being my favorites. Smell the roses, take a tour of my garden. Attend our themed dinner parties, like the Tribute to Jackie O dinner complete with pillbox hats or our over-the-top Top Chef Dinner with Stephanie Izard.

Travel with me and dine at the world's finest restaurants from Chicago to Las Vegas, New York to Paris, and the local hole-in-the-walls too. Oh, and don't miss our underground-style restaurant, The Sunken City Supper Club. It's a fresh, local and secret place to seasonally mingle with friends and neighbors – to enjoy the camaraderie, great food, wine, and the awesome intimate jazz standards performed by local musicians. We hold one event per season, and the menu always reflects seasonal ingredients.

So please, be my guest. I've spruced up the guest room just for you. Stay as long as you'd like. You inspire me with your enthusiasm, your kind and thoughtful comments brighten my days.

Taste With The Eyes is not about last night's dinner, baking, or a recipe blog. There are many talented bloggers who write about those things very very well, and I am a devoted fan. I'm a visual learner and a visual cook, and it is from that style of cooking that Taste With The Eyes "where the image is meant to titillate and inspire the cook" was born. On Taste With The Eyes I share dishes that are unique, special; ones that highlight a technique, ingredient, or combination of flavors that titillated me.

I am also thrilled to share our restaurant adventures with you. After spending nearly 3 decades in the food and wine industries, it would break my heart to contribute to a restaurant's troubles by posting a negative review. If I come across a problem while dining, I discreetly communicate my disappointment with the management and leave the reviews to the critics. So on Taste With The Eyes, you'll experience only our favorites, the places that impressed us the most.

Lastly, you may have read about my personal challenge with high cholesterol and that I sadly lost my father to heart disease when he was just 49 years old? Last year my doctor informed me that if I couldn't get my cholesterol down by diet and exercise, I would have to go on medication. That news was the motivation for a brand new way of cooking. So in addition to all the fabulous entertaining and dining, I am sharing my passion for satisfying heart healthy dishes. Sure, I still serve sumptuous foods to company, but I am equally enthusiastic about heart healthy cuisine.

Project Food Blog

Competition Overview

Project Food Blog is the first-ever interactive competition where thousands of Foodbuzz Featured Publishers are competing in a series of culinary blogging challenges for the chance to advance and a shot at the ultimate prize: $10,000 and a special feature on Foodbuzz.com for one year.

Voting for entries on the first challenge will kick off September 20th, and contestants will be whittled down over the next 12 weeks via exciting challenges related to food blogging.

Entries are voted on by Foodbuzz Featured Publisher peers and rated by our panel of judges including: Dana Cowin, Editor-in-Chief of FOOD & WINE Magazine; Nancy Silverton, Founder La Brea Bakery, Co-owner Mozza; Pim Techamuanvivit, Author of ChezPim.com and The Foodie Handbook

Winners advance to the next challenge, including one lucky Reader's Choice winner who earns auto advancement to the next challenge (solely based on Reader votes; not applicable in the final round).

Join the fun! Follow Project Food Blog for contest updates and help us discover the next Food Blog Star!

(from Foodbuzz.com here)

Challenge #1: Ready, Set, Blog!

Cooking, photography, and writing about my culinary adventures on Taste With The Eyes is a source of much joy. This little food blog is an ongoing learning experience, a terrific creative outlet, and a source of pride. It is an excellent medium for making new friends from all around the globe. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with you.

Reading your blogs provides an unlimited source of inspiration, a conduit of creativity, and a heartfelt connection through your personal stories. Your enthusiasm is infectious. I cook, dine, laugh, and cry with you. I learn so much from you, way beyond food and cooking. You amaze and inspire me.

Is the feeling mutual? If so, I would be honored if you would consider Taste With The Eyes as a contender for the next Food Blog Star.

Top 9 Photos

Top 9 Photos are the best of daily posts from the Foodbuzz Community, as chosen by the editors and users. Over the past year it has been such a delight to have many photos chosen as Top 9. Thank you! Below, I've created a "meal" from several photos that were Top 9 picks. Enjoy!

Snack: Unique Almond Pizza

Soup: Albondigas with Hatch Chiles

Salad: Dreamy Meyer Lemon Salad with Edible Violas

Pasta: Heart Healthy Whole Wheat Spaghetti, Tuna Sauce

Vegetable: Roasted Rainbow Carrots with Miso Butter

Main Course: Black Cod with Miso, Black Radish & Ponzu

Dessert: Profiterole Trio
vanilla, chocolate & caramel ice cream filled pastries
hot double chocolate fudge sauce

Beverage: The Absinthe Ritual

Is a picture worth a thousand words? I hope you feel warm and welcomed by Taste With The Eyes' hospitality. It has been an absolute pleasure to have you as a guest in my home. Please come back soon.

Bon Appétit and Cheers to Our Healthy Hearts!

Fondly,

Lori Lynn

UPDATE:

Votes may be cast by clicking on the header button "Vote For This Entry" next to the red heart, here:

http://www.foodbuzz.com/project_food_blog/challenges/1/view/626

See You in September

2010-08-23T18:09:00.000-07:00

We are doing a fair share of traveling and will have lots of neat photos when we return.
Hope you are enjoying your summer!
Thanks for stopping by, see you soon...
LL

SkyWatch Friday - Returning to LA

2010-08-20T00:02:00.000-07:00

Downtown Los Angeles

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Beautiful Beach House

2010-08-19T06:35:00.000-07:00

Thank you Kirk & Al for the wonderful time we spent together exploring the Oregon Coast, for your gracious hospitality and most importantly, for your friendship!

Spirit House & Sequoia

2010-08-18T05:53:00.000-07:00

Coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) occupy a narrow strip of land approximately 470 miles in length and 5–47 miles in width along the Pacific coast of North America.

The Thai Spirit House placed in an auspicious spot on the property provides shelter for the spirits that were displaced by the building of the home.

Geocache

2010-08-17T06:09:00.000-07:00

In search of a GEOCACHE.

Look there, behind the pot!

The geocache contains small trinkets...

...and a logsheet for finders to sign in. If you take something from the cache, leave something of greater or equal value.

Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, outdoors and then share your experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people from all age groups, with a strong sense of community and support for the environment. There are over a million active geocaches around the world. (visit geocaching.com to learn more about this worldwide treasure hunt)

This geocache is in Manzanitas, Oregon. Happy hunting!

Mushrooms

2010-08-16T05:37:00.000-07:00

We came across all sorts of mushrooms in the forest, but, alas, not the State Mushroom:

The 1999 Legislature recognized the Pacific golden chanterelle (Cantharellus formosus) as the official mushroom of the State of Oregon. This mushroom is a wild, edible fungi of high culinary value that is unique to the Pacific Northwest. More than 500,000 pounds of the Pacific golden chanterelles are harvested annually in Oregon, representing a large portion of the commercial mushroom business.

Cape Falcon, Oregon Coast

2010-08-15T05:20:00.000-07:00

Necarney Creek

2010-08-14T05:41:00.000-07:00

Suspension Bridge over Necarney Creek

Necarney Creek, Oswald West State Park

Wild Salal Berries

2010-08-13T05:07:00.000-07:00

Spotted on our hike in the Oswald West State Park.

Native to the Pacific Northwest.

Similar taste to blueberries with a slight hint of almond.

Use to make jam or wine!

Water Dog Paradise

2010-08-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

Short Sand Beach

(not for Wilson, he can't swim)

Smugglers Cove

2010-08-11T18:56:00.000-07:00

Dad & Daugher

it is quite a hike to get to the beach

love her squid towel

Fireweed

2010-08-10T11:52:00.000-07:00

Epilobium angustifolium

Fireweed or Rosebay Willowherb

@ Smugglers Cove, Oregon

This pretty, tall, flowering plant grows in open areas with little competition, such as sites of forest fires and forest clearings, hence its name, FIREWEED.

Nehalem Bay, Oregon

2010-08-09T18:04:00.000-07:00

Imagine waking up to the song of the seagull, spending your afternoon on a kayak trip around Nehalem Bay, then taking a short walk over the dunes to the beach. There you'll sit with a blanket and watch the sun set over the ocean in the shadow of Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain. Finally, snuggle down for the night while the ocean waves sing you a lullaby. This is Nehalem Bay State Park...

(from oregon.gov)

driftwood

2010-08-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

Driftwood at Short Sand Beach at Smugglers Cove

Great State

2010-08-07T10:28:00.000-07:00

Message board at trailhead:

This is a great state.
Love, Corinne

P.S. I love you!

We agree with the unknown hiker called Corinne!

Greetings from the Oregon Coast

2010-08-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Flying to Portland

2010-08-05T13:13:00.000-07:00

Food & Wine in flight?

Three Sisters Volcanos

2010-08-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

Traveling to Oregon!

Bowl o' Roses

2010-08-03T21:54:00.000-07:00

Day Breaker Floribunda Rose

Stairway to Heaven

2010-08-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Construction at my new neighbors' house in Vegas.

Theme Day: BRIGHT COLORS

2010-08-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

Gee, is it August already? Summer Camp ends in a few weeks...boo hoo.

I hope you are enjoying your summer!

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Choices Choices

2010-07-31T22:06:00.000-07:00

My sister and I had great fun at the studio picking all the options for the new little house in Vegas. Here is the final decision on flooring, cabinetry, and countertops.

Graphite Brown granite countertop and full backsplash in kitchen.
White on White cultured marble for bathroom vanities.
Thunder Gray carpet for 2 bedrooms and great room.
Grizzly Gray "slate" flooring for kitchen, hallways, bathrooms, office.
Birch recessed panel cabinetry with black knobs in kitchen and bathrooms.
Black kitchen appliances.
White walls, enhanced baseboards.

This design is so different than my current house, with its wood floors and every room a different color, and where there is absolutely nothing gray.

SkyWatch Friday - Desert Sky

2010-07-30T00:02:00.000-07:00

Sunset

Las Vegas

110°

Taken on my trip to Vegas last weekend. Are you a fan of the dry desert heat?

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

my dirt in the desert...

2010-07-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

...soon to be a small 3 bedroom, single story home.

I think that pile of rocks in the foreground is just about where the front door will be located.

street names

2010-07-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

Subtle Color Ave. & Art Nouveau St.

In a few months, there will be a brand new little house here.

Las Vegas communities have some interesting street names. Many seem to have adjectives. I think it would be fun to name all the streets in a town. I know I wouldn't use numbers (First Street) or letters (Avenue A), that's too boring.

How about a theme? Names of grapes - Pinot Gris Avenue and Zinfandel Street, or food like Truffle Avenue and Caviar Street? How about naming all the streets after your family and friends? What do you think Mom? How about Joyce Terrace? Bill Boulevard, Donald Drive, Randi Road, Paula Place, Wilson Way? Lori Lynn Lane is quite euphonious!

not in pedro

2010-07-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

That's the Las Vegas Strip!

I've been in Vegas making plans to build a new little house for long-term investment/retirement purposes. Looking forward to sharing the progress on San Pedro Daily Photo.

Long Beach Airport

2010-07-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

The terminal building was first dedicated in 1941 and designated a Cultural Heritage Landmark in 1990.

Who Am I?

2010-07-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

what are YOU grilling?

2010-07-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

King Trumpet Mushrooms on Rosemary Skewers

SkyWatch Friday - Glorious!

2010-07-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Sunrise on the Hills
by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

I stood upon the hills, when heaven's wide arch
Was glorious with the sun's returning march,
And woods were brightened, and soft gales
Went forth to kiss the sun-clad vales.
The clouds were far beneath me; bathed in light,
They gathered mid-way round the wooded height,
And, in their fading glory, shone
Like hosts in battle overthrown.
As many a pinnacle, with shifting glance.
Through the gray mist thrust up its shattered lance,
And rocking on the cliff was left
The dark pine blasted, bare, and cleft.
The veil of cloud was lifted, and below
Glowed the rich valley, and the river's flow
Was darkened by the forest's shade,
Or glistened in the white cascade;
Where upward, in the mellow blush of day,
The noisy bittern wheeled his spiral way.

I heard the distant waters dash,
I saw the current whirl and flash,
And richly, by the blue lake's silver beach,
The woods were bending with a silent reach.
Then o'er the vale, with gentle swell,
The music of the village bell
Came sweetly to the echo-giving hills;
And the wild horn, whose voice the woodland fills,
Was ringing to the merry shout,
That faint and far the glen sent out,
Where, answering to the sudden shot, thin smoke,
Through thick-leaved branches, from the dingle broke.

If thou art worn and hard beset
With sorrows, that thou wouldst forget,
If thou wouldst read a lesson, that will keep
Thy heart from fainting and thy soul from sleep,
Go to the woods and hills! No tears
Dim the sweet look that Nature wears.

CrAzY GoOsE

2010-07-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

All the rest of the geese and ducks hang out in the pond and streams at Averill Park. Not this guy. We usually find him on the street corner at Weymouth and Averill Park Drive. And it is the same goose that was chasing kids on the other side of the park last February, we can tell by his unique black spots. Maybe he just doesn't like water? What do you think?

Mural on Gaffey Street

2010-07-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

@ Babouch Moroccan Restaurant

Summer Camp

2010-07-20T11:36:00.000-07:00

SHAVING CREAM FIGHT

Prepping for Party

2010-07-19T11:16:00.000-07:00

This is my kitchen at 7:30 AM getting ready for our Sunken City Supper Club Event. And that's only half of the sliced eggplant, there's more around the corner. Also avocados, peaches, and tomatoes...

Eggplant & Spiced Lamb recipe here.

Pretty Agapanthus Flower

2010-07-18T11:14:00.000-07:00

Rainbow Morning

2010-07-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

Same one.

SkyWatch Friday - What's a Rainbow without Color?

2010-07-16T10:31:00.000-07:00

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Happy Anniversary SkyWatch! 3 years today!

Early Morning @ White Point

2010-07-15T22:22:00.000-07:00

Bistro Lori Lynn

2010-07-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

Bon Appétit!

Taste With The Eyes recently participated in the 5 Star Makeover Summer '10 Special. In addition to making over a classic dish (bistro duck) into a contemporary dish, I also made over my living room into a French Bistro. More here.

Long Stem Roses

2010-07-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

Wildfire Hybrid Tea Rose.

Some of the stems are 3 - 4 feet long.

My Boy

2010-07-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

Time for another photo of Wilson.

Mariner of the Seas

2010-07-11T07:18:00.000-07:00

Bon Voyage.

Port of LA

2010-07-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

Seen from the top of 17th Street.

SkyWatch Friday - Red White & Blue

2010-07-09T08:01:00.000-07:00

Thus concludes a week of patriotic photos from San Pedro, California. Happy Birthday America!

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

A Week of Red White & Blue #6

2010-07-08T20:30:00.000-07:00

E pluribus unum
Out of many, one.

A Week of Red White & Blue #5

2010-07-07T08:10:00.000-07:00

AMERICA (MY COUNTRY, 'TIS OF THEE) by : Samuel F. Smith, 1808-1895

My country,' tis of thee,
sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing;
land where my fathers died,
land of the pilgrims' pride,
from every mountainside let freedom ring!

My native country, thee,
land of the noble free, thy name I love;
I love thy rocks and rills,
thy woods and templed hills;
my heart with rapture thrills, like that above.

Let music swell the breeze,
and ring from all the trees sweet freedom's song;
let mortal tongues awake;
let all that breathe partake;
let rocks their silence break, the sound prolong.

Our fathers' God, to thee,
author of liberty, to thee we sing;
long may our land be bright
with freedom's holy light;
protect us by thy might, great God, our King.

A Week of Red White & Blue #4

2010-07-06T01:42:00.000-07:00

You're A Grand Old Flag by George M. Cohan

You're a grand old flag,
You're a high flying flag
And forever in peace may you wave.
You're the emblem of
The land I love.
The home of the free and the brave.
Ev'ry heart beats true
'neath the Red, White and Blue,
Where there's never a boast or brag.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
Keep your eye on the grand old flag.

You're a grand old flag,
You're a high flying flag
And forever in peace may you wave.
You're the emblem of
The land I love.
The home of the free and the brave.
Ev'ry heart beats true
'neath the Red, White and Blue,
Where there's never a boast or brag.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
Keep your eye on the grand old flag.

A Week of Red White & Blue #3

2010-07-05T00:31:00.000-07:00

Pedro Patriots

Every year for the last 25 years Patriots Vince and Dee Villa host a 4th of July party honoring country and flag. The early morning Independence Day celebration in is held in front of their home at 1153 W. 18th St., San Pedro.

Flag raising is at 8 AM with a continental breakfast and beverages including Bloody Marys served afterward. Hope to see you there next year!

"On July 4, 1776, fifty-six dedicated patriots resolved to risk everything in the hope of a new beginning. Elected to represent colonists from across the thirteen British colonies on the American continent, they decided to embark upon a grand experiment, to form a self-governing democratic republic.

They were risking their lives. Had they failed, they would have been hanged as traitors, their lands confiscated by the Crown, their fortunes forfeited, and their families left disgraced and destitute.

Yet they succeeded, and the freest, safest, and prosperous nation in the world was born."

by Ken Blackwell

A Week of Red White & Blue #2

2010-07-04T07:43:00.000-07:00

God Bless America

My Home Sweet Home

my home sweet home (outside view)

my home sweet home (inside view)

God Bless America by Irving Berlin

"While the storm clouds gather far across the sea,
Let us swear allegiance to a land that's free,
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair,
As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer. "

God Bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Thru the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America, My home sweet home.

God bless America, My home sweet home.

A Week of Red White & Blue #1

2010-07-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

wishing you a wonderful weekend!

SkyWatch Friday - Marine Layer Moving Onshore

2010-07-02T11:19:00.000-07:00

In the case of coastal California, the offshore marine layer is typically propelled inland by a pressure gradient which develops as a result of intense heating inland, blanketing coastal communities in cooler air which, if saturated, also contains fog.

from wikipedia

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Theme Day: REFLECTIONS

2010-07-01T00:02:00.000-07:00

Palm Tree Reflection in the Stream

Averill Park

San Pedro

The Daily Photo collection of blogs began in March of 2005 when a man in love with his city wanted to share it with the rest of the world. The Paris - One Photo A Day blog was thus launched by Eric Tenin, an amateur photographer, and soon became an unexpected phenomenon.

City Daily Photo Theme Day:

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Headwaters of a Mini Urban Stream

2010-06-30T19:50:00.000-07:00

The newly renovated pumping system pumps the water from the base of the pond at Averill Park at Weymouth Avenue to the top of the stream at Dodson Avenue, where it begins to flow with this waterfall.

I took the one less traveled by...

2010-06-29T23:30:00.000-07:00

The Road Not Taken

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Robert Frost

(and Wilson)

Pretty Betty

2010-06-28T23:58:00.000-07:00

In April I planted a Betty Boop Floribunda Rose in my garden.
No flower arranging skills necessary, snip off a stem and place in a vase.
It doesn't get much prettier, does it?

Happy Birthday Father Adam!

2010-06-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

Wishing a very happy milestone birthday to my dear dear friend Father Adam, and to everyone else whose birthday is June 26!

This chocolate cupcake is for you!

SkyWatch Friday - Jacaranda Blooms

2010-06-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

Here in Southern California, blue jacarandas can bloom twice a year, in the spring and the fall, the springtime blooms are much more showy however.

With its bell-shaped flowers and fern-like leaves, the blue jacaranda can grow up to 40 feet tall.

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Single-Story Cape Cod

2010-06-23T03:17:00.000-07:00

Cape Cod #6

In my quest to document all the Cape Cod style architecture in San Pedro, here are links to:

Cape Cod #1 - Classic Style, Detached Garage

Cape Cod #2 - Near Averill Park

Cape Cod #3 - Unusual Front Garage

Cape Cod #4 - Charmer Near Beach

Cape Cod #5 - Nostalgic, Grandma's House?

Lace and Old Paint

2010-06-22T03:12:00.000-07:00

Nostalgic Cape Cod

2010-06-21T22:48:00.000-07:00

"Grandma, are you home?"

Number 5 in my San Pedro Cape Cod series,

this darling home has many features

of traditional Cape Cod architecture

with the exception of a chimney!

Traditional, Colonial-era Cape Cod houses had many of these features:

Steep roof with side gables
Small roof overhang
1 or 1½ stories
Made of wood and covered in wide clapboard or shingles
Large central chimney linked to fireplace in each room
Symmetrical appearance with door in center
Dormers for space, light, and ventilation
Multi-paned, double-hung windows
Shutters
Formal, center-hall floor plan
Hardwood floors
Little exterior ornamentation

The first Cape Cod style homes were built by English colonists who came to America in the late 17th century. They modeled their homes after the half-timbered houses of England, but adapted the style to the stormy New England weather. Over the course of a few generations, a modest, one- to one-and-a-half-story house with wooden shutters emerged. Reverend Timothy Dwight, a president of Yale University, is credited with recognizing these houses as a class and coining the term "Cape Cod."

Much later, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, a renewed interest in America's past inspired a variety of Colonial Revival styles. Colonial Revival Cape Cod houses became especially popular during the 1930s. These small, economical houses were mass-produced in suburban developments across the United States.

Twentieth century Cape Cod houses often have dormers. The chimney is usually placed at one end instead of at the center. The shutters on modern Cape Cod houses are strictly decorative; they can't be closed during a storm.

Links to:

LIVE LAUGH LOVE

2010-06-20T22:25:00.000-07:00

CUTE

GARDEN

SIGN

Wildflowers Brighten the Day

2010-06-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

After yesterday's gloomy photos the lovely wildflowers from my neighbor's yard help brighten the day!

SkyWatch Friday - June Gloom

2010-06-18T08:38:00.000-07:00

June Gloom over San Pedro

June Gloom is a Southern California term for a weather pattern that results in overcast skies with cool temperatures during the late spring and early summer in the mornings and afternoons.

An offshore marine layer of stratus or stratocumulus clouds are persistent year-round off the coast. In June they move ashore and create the cloudy, cool effect on land.

Early mornings during this period are typically foggy, with an occasional drizzle. The fog turns to low clouds by late morning and early afternoon. Finally, by afternoon, solar heating is sufficient to evaporate the clouds. Often the overcast will evaporate ("burn off") quickly in inland areas, but will linger most of the day along the coast. (from wikipedia here)

June Gloom at the Entrance to the Port of LA

I hope your skies are sunny and bright! Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Goose Poses for Photo

2010-06-17T23:58:00.000-07:00

Grape Vine, Two Ways

2010-06-16T23:45:00.000-07:00

Mini Adventure in a Mini Forest

2010-06-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

After living here for almost a decade, and walking my dog Wilson around the neighborhood daily, I discovered a mini secret urban forest one and a half blocks from my home!

The Mini Secret Urban Forest Story

At the Bottom of the Half-Alley

We usually walk on the sidewalk, but this day we walked in the alleys for a change. As we walked down one alley, I was curious about what used to be a perpendicular alley planted with fruit trees and finished with stone work. The neighbor living next door noticed me and advised, "The figs are not ripe yet."

"Oh, I'm just taking some pictures," I said. I learned from him that the alley was so steep here that decades ago the city closed it off worried that someone might crash into the house at the bottom. It was neglected and became an eyesore. The neighbors asked the city to maintain the area, but that never happened. So this man got together with his neighbors and planted the little half-alley with fruit trees and vegetables, and flowers, and built a nice stone wall by hand. After thanking the older gentleman for the explanation, we walked up the next street and circled around to find the top of the half-alley.

At The Top of the Half-Alley

We've walked this alley before, it dead-ends about halfway down...or so I thought.

We walked over the grassy area and found a short cement pathway leading into the mini forest.

Look, a trail!

Fig Trees

Squash

Secret Gardens

Rooftops through the forest.

Follow me!

The trail ends back at the stone wall.

I waved to the gentleman as we walked by a second time!

The Lady's Chariot Awaits

2010-06-14T00:02:00.000-07:00

In what did you ride on your 15th birthday?

Becoming A Lady

2010-06-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

The Quinceañera, Quinceañero, or Quince años ("fifteen years" in English), in Latin American culture, is a coming of age ceremony held on a girl's fifteenth birthday. The term Quinceaños refers to the birthday of the celebrant, and the term Quinceañera refers to the celebrant herself. Like many other coming-of-age ceremonies, the Quinceaños is associated with the Quinceañera "becoming a lady."

(more from wikipedia here)

Cape Cod Charmer

2010-06-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

Cape Cod #4

I'm always on the lookout for Cape Cod homes, that is the style of my own home. There are not many in San Pedro as it is an East Coast design, with its steep sloping roof, chimney with fireplace, dormers, multi-pane double hung windows, and shutters.

I think the color they chose to accent this house is charming, especially since this home is located very close to the beach. What do you think?

Links to:

Cape Cod #1

Cape Cod #2

Cape Cod #3

SkyWatch Friday - GIVEAWAY & Matilija in the Sky

2010-06-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

My food blog, Taste With The Eyes, just turned 3 years old.

In appreciation, I am giving away a copy of Charlie Trotter's Vegetables, one of the most inspired vegetable cookbooks ever written. For a chance to win please stop by Taste With The Eyes and simply leave a comment on my "Blog is 3!" post here. And thank you for your continued support, it is a pleasure to get to know you!

Wishing you blue skies! Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

TaStE WiTh ThE EyEs is 3 Years Old!

2010-06-10T23:58:00.000-07:00

Taste With The Eyes

where the image is meant to titillate and inspire the cook

Please stop by and help me celebrate!
Thanks for all your support!

Go Fish

2010-06-09T07:02:00.000-07:00

Cabrillo Fishing Pier

Weenie Roast @ Cabrillo Beach

2010-06-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

Romee's Weenie Roast

Cabrillo Beach Picnic Area

Ice in Paradise

Delicious dessert by our friend Sanam

of My Persian Kitchen blog.

YAY for Romee!

2010-06-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

The gang who joined Romee Romero (center, white t-shirt) as she completed her amazing goal of walking every single block of our town down to the very end of the Cabrillo Fishing Pier. Her entire journey is documented on her marvelous blog San Pedro Block by Block.

Sweet Success! Congrats Romee!

Walking back to the weenie roast picnic that Romee hosted for her supporters.

Gosh, how we love our town!

Happy Birthday Sally!

2010-06-06T17:47:00.000-07:00

Mini Sherry Almond Bundt Cakes

for your party!

recipe here

Love, Your Friend,

Lori Lynn

We're Headed To Cabrillo Beach...

2010-06-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

...to join Romee on her walk out to the Fishing Pier!

I've been following Romee's blog since she began in August. Here's a link to her first post and her blog philosophy. Wilson and I walk the blocks of San Pedro almost every day. But we usually stick to certain areas like Averill Park, Paseo Del Mar, Friendship Park, Cabrillo Beach, South Shores, Royal Palms, 22nd Street Park, Harbor Avenue and the Port. Romee on the other hand had this brilliant idea to cover the entire town by foot. Every. Single. Block. And take awesome photos, document it daily and share lots of interesting information about our town. She even has a section on local restaurants called San Pedro Bite by Bite. If you are looking for an expert on San Pedro - a historian, an aficionado, you will find that in Romee and her blog! It was my pleasure (and Wilson's) to get to know her and join her on two of her walks! We'll be there on June 6 at noon at Cabrillo Beach when she completes her goal of covering all of San Pedro with a final walk down to the end of the Fishing Pier. Romee says, "I was telling someone about my plan to have the weenie roast at the beach to celebrate the end of SPBXB. I want to get everyone who comes to walk to the end of the pier with me as a group, but then this someone likened it to Forrest Gump’s cross country run. So if you want to get your Forrest on with me at the pier, eat some hot dogs and win some prizes then come on down to Cabrillo Beach Sunday June 6th at noon." (more here) Congrats Romee! You ROCK @ San Pedro Block by Block!

SkyWatch Friday - Overlooking Royal Palms State Beach

2010-06-04T08:07:00.000-07:00

Tidepools. Swimming. Surfing. Diving. Picnic Area.

Promenade. Restrooms. Showers. Playground.

And a view of the beautiful blue Pacific!

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Table Setting

2010-06-03T05:49:00.000-07:00

At our Sunken City Supper Club event here.

White Point Bluff

2010-06-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

bluff1 [bluhf] Show IPA adjective, -er, -est, noun
–adjective
1.
good-naturedly direct, blunt, or frank; heartily outspoken: a big, bluff, generous man.
2.
presenting a bold and nearly perpendicular front, as a coastline: a bluff, precipitous headland.
3.
Nautical . (of the bow of a vessel) having a full, blunt form.
–noun
4.
a cliff, headland, or hill with a broad, steep face.

Theme Day: FUNNY SIGNS

2010-06-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

A walking school bus is a group of children walking to school with one or more adults. If that sounds simple, it is, and that’s part of the beauty of the walking school bus. It can be as informal as two families taking turns walking their children to school to as structured as a route with meeting points, a timetable and a regularly rotated schedule of trained volunteers.

From WalkingSchoolBus.org

I see these signs in Palos Verdes everyday on my way to work. The signs are more cute than funny.

The times have definitely changed. Your thoughts?

Today is Theme Day at City Daily Photo, over a thousand bloggers from all around the globe are posting a FUNNY SIGN from their home town.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants.

Memorial Day 2010

2010-05-31T08:38:00.000-07:00

The American flag flies over the lifeguard station at Royal Palms State Beach.

Memorial Day 2010

Honoring those who have died defending our freedom and preserving our liberty.

Thank You For Your Service.

From Garden to Table

2010-05-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

Arrangements from our recent SUNKEN CITY SUPPER CLUB party here.

Makes You Want To Paint...

2010-05-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

Today at Friendship Park.

SkyWatch Friday - Good Morning World!

2010-05-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

As the sun rises over the Port of Los Angeles.

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Two Blogs Posting the Same Photo on the Same Day!

2010-05-27T17:44:00.000-07:00

Is this a first? Take a look here!

I've been following Romee's blog since she began in August. Here's a link to her first post and her blog philosophy.

Wilson and I walk the blocks of San Pedro almost every day. But we usually stick to certain areas like Averill Park, Paseo Del Mar, Friendship Park, Cabrillo Beach, South Shores, Royal Palms, 22nd Street Park, Harbor Avenue and the Port.

Romee on the other hand had this brilliant idea to cover the entire town by foot. Every. Single. Block. And take awesome photos, document it daily and share lots of interesting information about our town. She even has a section on local restaurants called San Pedro Bite by Bite. If you are looking for an expert on San Pedro - a historian, an aficionado, you will find that in Romee and her blog!

It was my pleasure (and Wilson's) to get to know her and join her on two of her walks!

We'll be there on June 6 at noon at Cabrillo Beach when she completes her goal of covering all of San Pedro with a final walk down to the end of the Fishing Pier.

Romee says, "I was telling someone about my plan to have the weenie roast at the beach to celebrate the end of SPBXB. I want to get everyone who comes to walk to the end of the pier with me as a group, but then this someone likened it to Forrest Gump’s cross country run. So if you want to get your Forrest on with me at the pier, eat some hot dogs and win some prizes then come on down to Cabrillo Beach Sunday June 6th at noon." (more here)

Congrats Romee! You ROCK @ San Pedro Block by Block!

los tres paraguas

2010-05-26T07:18:00.000-07:00

cabrillo beach

Caribbean Vibe

2010-05-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

Sheila is a Litterbug

2010-05-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

Matilija Poppies Pop in May!

2010-05-23T12:51:00.000-07:00

Matilija Poppy

Romneya coulteri

Huge matilija poppy shrub at Friendship Park.

With huge flowers the size of your hand!

Sunny-side up!

(more matilija here)

Picnic with a View

2010-05-22T21:34:00.000-07:00

Bogdanovich Recreation Center Picnic Area

1920 Cumbre Drive

San Pedro

SkyWatch Friday - Clouds & Mustard

2010-05-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.

Time to Bid FLAT STANLEY Adieu!

2010-05-19T07:46:00.000-07:00

When Flat Stanley first arrived, he sat on my desk for a few days. Finally he got dressed in a Lakers uniform and embarked on his Southern California adventure. He was mailed back to Chicago, the same way he arrived, in an envelope, but this time wearing Kobe Bryant's uniform, along with photos and a journal of the time he spent exploring LA with Aunt GeeGee.

Self-portrait

Aunt GeeGee (that's me) with Flat Stanley

Bye-bye Stan! I'm guessing in three more years when my other nephew, Jett, is in second grade, Flat Stanley will be back!

The Story

My nephew Stone's second grade class has just finished reading the book Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown. In the story, Stanley is flattened, but not hurt, when a bulletin board falls on top of him. His parents, Mr. & Mrs. Lambchop, send him on a vacation (in an envelope) to visit relatives.

Each student in Stone's class has chosen a friend or relative to entertain Flat Stanley on another trip. Stone chose me! I was instructed to dress Stanley in a way to reflect his visit to Los Angeles, so we borrowed Kobe Bryant's Laker uniform! Now Stanley is ready to explore San Pedro, Los Angeles, and the Port.

TODAY he returns to Chicago (in an envelope) with photos and a journal of his trip. Stone's class will mark each location that Stanley has visited on a world map. They are excited to see the places where Stanley Lambchop went on his globetrotting adventure!

Links to FLAT STANLEY'S DAILY ADVENTURES:
AMERICAN MERCHANT MARINE VETERANS MEMORIAL

FLAT STANLEY AT AVERILL PARK

FLAT STANLEY RIDES THE RED CAR

FLAT STANLEY LEARNS TO DRIVE SCHOOL BUS

FLAT STANLEY AND THE LAFD

FLAT STANLEY VISITS THE LIBRARY

FLAT STANLEY SLAM DUNKS!

FLAT STANLEY LAMBCHOP VISITS MEAT SHOP

FLAT STANLEY HAS LUNCH WITH NANA

FLAT STANLEY AND THE IN-N-OUT BURGER

FLAT STANLEY TAKES A NAP

FLAT STANLEY AT THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES

FLAT STANLEY TAKES A HIKE

SkyWatch Friday - FLAT STANLEY AT 6 AM

FLAT STANLEY VISITS LA CRUISE TERMINAL

FLAT STANLEY VISITS LOS ANGELES MARITIME MUSEUM

FLAT STANLEY AT THE VINCENT THOMAS BRIDGE

2010-05-18T09:33:00.000-07:00

The Vincent Thomas Bridge is Flat Stanley's last stop on his California adventure before returning home to Chicago.

VINCENT THOMAS BRIDGE FACTS

-- Third largest suspension span bridge in California,
after the Golden Gate Bridge and San
Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, respectively.

-- First welded (not riveted) suspension bridge in the
United States.

-- Only suspension bridge in the world supported
entirely on piles.

-- Named after Assemblyman Vincent Thomas of San
Pedro. In 1961, the California Legislature passed a
special measure to name the structure after
Thomas in honor of his persistence and faith
in the bridge's future success.

-- Required 92,000 tons of Portland cement, 13,000 tons of lightweight concrete,
14,100 tons of steel and 1,270 tons of suspension cable to construct.

-- When the Bridge opened in 1963, a 25-cent toll was collected in each direction.
On grand opening day, Assemblyman Thomas paid the first toll. In 1983, the toll
increased to 50 cents for westbound traffic and was free for eastbound traffic.
In 2000, the Bridge was considered “paid for” and the toll was repealed.

-- Painting the bridge is a routine and continuous maintenance job, handled by Caltrans,
which requires 1,500 gallons of zinc, 500 gallons of primer and 1,000 gallons
of green paint to cover the span.

-- In 1996, the Los Angeles City Council declared the Vincent Thomas Bridge as
the City of Los Angeles’ official welcoming monument.

from PortofLosAngeles.org

FLAT STANLEY VISITS LOS ANGELES MARITIME MUSEUM

2010-05-17T09:01:00.000-07:00

U.S.S. NAVAL MONUMENT

HEAVY CRUISER CA-135

see Stanley over there on the plaque?

WW II MEMORIAL

Propeller from Heavy Cruiser

U.S.S. Canberra CA70

Dedicated to the Gallant Men and Ships of

The United States Navy

The LA MARITIME MUSEUM is housed in the former San Pedro Municipal Ferry Building, which ceased operation in 1963, coinciding with the construction of the Vincent Thomas Bridge. One of the largest maritime museums in California, it boasts 75,000 square feet and features more than 200 ship and boat models, a variety of navigational equipment and an operating amateur radio station. Historical references cover the fishing industry, tall ships, commercial shipping, U.S. Navy, Merchant Marine and recreational sailing.

FLAT STANLEY VISITS LA CRUISE TERMINAL

2010-05-15T09:27:00.000-07:00

CRUISE SHIP SAPPHIRE PRINCESS

"Bon Voyage!"

SkyWatch Friday - FLAT STANLEY AT 6 AM

2010-05-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Flat Stanley wakes up early to watch the sun rise.

VERY SOON he will return to Chicago (in an envelope) with photos and a journal of his trip. Stone's class will mark each location that Stanley has visited on a world map. They are excited to see the places where Stanley Lambchop went on his globetrotting adventure!

FLAT STANLEY'S DAILY ADVENTURES:
AMERICAN MERCHANT MARINE VETERANS MEMORIAL

AVERILL PARK

FLAT STANLEY RIDES THE RED CAR

FLAT STANLEY LEARNS TO DRIVE SCHOOL BUS

FLAT STANLEY AND THE LAFD

FLAT STANLEY VISITS THE LIBRARY

FLAT STANLEY SLAM DUNKS!

FLAT STANLEY LAMBCHOP VISITS MEAT SHOP

FLAT STANLEY HAS LUNCH WITH NANA

FLAT STANLEY AND THE IN-N-OUT BURGER

FLAT STANLEY TAKES A NAP

FLAT STANLEY AT THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES

FLAT STANLEY TAKES A HIKE

Every week over 350 websites from all over the World share their Sky images here.