Flamingos Are Fun

One of my favorite things about Venice is the whimsy that you can find around just about every corner. People being creative, eclectic ... FUN. That's why we all rail against the BUBs (Big Ugly Boxes) going up all over, because that's not who we want to be. Boring. Never. So, though this flamingo fence has been up for ages at this house in the canals, I especially enjoy it now.

A flamingo fence. Why not? I love it. Further on along my walk, I went by the great yard of Gena Lindenbaum on Pacific and 24th, and saw not only another flamingo in the yard, but a bunch more knitted branches and little gnome friends, making it even more whimsical than when I first chanced upon it last Summer.

Thank you to all of the fun people still doing their part to make Venice the creative vortex that it's always been. It is noticed, and very appreciated. Love you, Venice!

Summer Solstice - Sun Rainbows and Paul Chesne

The Summer Solstice went down in spectacular fashion in Venice, with all the very best things about Summer ... the beach, friends, barbecues, music, sunshine, and fun you could actually feel in the air.

After a particularly wondrous swim in the Pacific, I collapsed on my blanket and stared at the sky as the saltwater tingled on my skin. Directly above us, a complete circle rainbow took shape around the sun! It was magical, and I took it as a pretty good omen for our Summer ahead ...

After a few more sessions in and out of the water, it was time to go get ready for that day's barbecue. As we pushed our bikes back across the sand, I heard the unmistakable sounds of live music being played nearby. That could only mean Paul Chesne.

I love when my friend Paul just sets right up anywhere, and this was the 10 year anniversary of the Paul Chesne Band, and they were celebrating by kicking out their jams right there on the sidewalk, to the delight of all the passersby. Here they are playing my favorite, "You Owe Me"...

Getting to hear one of your favorite tunes live just moments after stepping out of the sea, as a friend hands you a cold beer as you dry off in the sun ... is just perfect.

Summer 2014 ... we're off to a great start!