2020 Spring Photo Contest Winners

Thanks to everyone who submitted photos to the Val’s Road Spring Photo Contest. Before naming the individual winners, I would like to announce this year’s winning flower. “Representing the State of California: The Poppy.” We were blessed with an abundance of poppies this season. Coincidentally, all the winning photos except... read more

Walking down Inflation Street

No, this isn’t about the economy. It’s just a light post about walking around in my neighborhood. Since I am banned from nature trails now, I am getting to know the streets in my neighborhood better than I ever intended to. The most obvious thing I’ve learned: there are tons of little kids around here. With Easter just behind us, I... read more

Spirit Distancing

While we ride out COVID-19, I am following the rules about social distancing. But a person can only stay indoors so long. Since my neighborhood walks aren’t too exciting, I did a Google search on (you can guess it) “cemeteries near me.” I was completely surprised when the Olivenhain Cemetery popped up – only three miles from my house. I... read more

The Joy of Sixty

No, this isn’t about “The Joy of Cooking” turning sixty. It’s all about me being in the 60 plus demographic and wanting to rant about it. So to keep it simple, I’ve made a list. 1. I can’t say I’m middle-aged anymore because I probably won’t to live to be 120. 2. A cashier at Michael’s Craft Store discreetly asked me... read more

Spring Photo Contest

For 2020, I’m changing the rules for my nature photo contest. Instead of road themes, I’m looking for shots with color. And nothing says color more than nature waking up in the Spring. My only restriction is no single flower shots (i.e. no close ups of one blossom). I’m looking for hillsides or fields in bloom. Bonus if any shots include... read more