Santa Cruz

“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”

I’ve always liked this quote, and as we honor Earth Day, it continues to resonate.

I’m grateful to live in a state with strong environmental laws, beautiful lakes and streams, access to clean drinking water, and a commitment to combating the climate crisis. I hope we’re not too late.

A serene stream flowing through rocky terrain, surrounded by trees and sparse vegetation. — Alum Rock Park, San Jose

A coastal view framed by tree branches, showcasing waves crashing on the shore under overcast skies. — Carmel by the Sea, Carmel

A woman wearing a gray sweater and blue jeans stands on a sandy beach with a seal resting in the background, overlooking a serene ocean view. — Año Nuevo State Park, Elephant Seal in background

Scenic view of a suburban area with palm trees, greenery, and cloudy skies in the background. — View of Silicon Valley from Harwood Hill, San Jose

A serene garden landscape featuring well-manicured lawns, a reflecting pond, and neatly trimmed hedges. In the background, hills are visible under a clear blue sky, with a prominent yellow tree adding a splash of color. — Filoli National Trust, Woodside

A group of sea lions resting on wooden docks above green water. — Beneath the Santa Cruz Wharf
Sea Lions

Three horses grazing in a lush green field with rolling hills in the background under a cloudy sky. — Open Space, San Jose Foothills

A close-up of green and yellow flowering plants among various types of lush foliage in a garden setting, featuring distinct succulents and vibrant orange flowers. — My Humble Garden

“The earth is what we all have in common.” — Wendell Berry

I took a road trip this weekend with a small group of close friends covering several hundred miles of California. We started in the Bay Area, moved south to Santa Cruz, and then traveled “The 5” to Marina del Ray. The trip was extraordinary in many ways. I had joyous, but all too brief reunions with friends from my theater days; wonderful re-acquaintances after thirty years. Through the connectivity of Facebook, I’ve opened doors to people I would never have met, while drawing back the curtain from parts of my life I was sorry to see fade away. I’m still reveling in this friendship high.

We passed miles of coastline and rolling hills, and the not so elegant oil-well pumps and truck stops. Garden enthusiasts like me reaped the benefits of travel in early spring: flowers everywhere.

Here are a few of my favorites.