Bewick’s Wrens are small and move fast, often close to the ground, which makes it challenging to photograph them with a pleasing background. This photo was, in a way, assisted by the American Robins.
Hooded Orioles
The Hooded Orioles (Icterus cucullatus) have arrived in Southern California, which is in their breeding range. We’ve heard their chatty sounds for a week or two around our backyard now and on Friday, I finally managed to get a good picture of the couple (albeit individually) as it was coming through for some nectar snacks. 🙂
Kudos to TwoSet Violin
Through social media, I recently discovered, entered, and of course lost myself in the “rabbit hole” of the YouTube channel of “TwoSet Violin“, run by two Australian violinists that just go by Brett and Eddy. As a result, I listened to an unexpected amount of violin music!
Potential
“People who repeatedly attack your confidence and self-esteem are quite aware of your potential, even if you are not.” (Wayne Gerard Trotman)
Kumquat 2023
First taste of our kumquat jam, freshly made in March 2023. Shuwen did all the hard work, harvesting, slicing the kumquat and removing the seeds. All I had to do was follow a recipe (link; she said this requires German precision😅), give it an occasional stir, and fill it into jars at the end.
Do Not Disturb
Just something from our backyard right now: an urban coyote dozing & warming in the sun. I’m putting up the “Do not disturb” sign. 😅
Field Rotation — Tiefflug
Maybe it’s odd to have a chill-out/downbeat track in my “songs to play loud” selection… but there’s something about Field Rotation’s “Tiefflug” — it’s not just catchy, but rather addictive, to me. How it creeps into my brain can only be cured by playing it loud. 🙂
“What you dislike in another may be something you cannot see in yourself. If you are honest, no longer deceiving yourself, you may see that you also suffer, and cause others suffering. Then there is humility. Then compassion. Then calm. The aversion, anger, hate and ranting ceases.” (Unknown)
When Did Dining Become So Shitty?
Three recent dining experiences, made wonderful by “streamlined” (non-existent) service and modern technology. What used to be regular restaurant service has effectively been switched to an “order at the counter” setup, riddled with pitfalls.