2018: THE YEAR AHEAD

As noted a few days ago, 2017 was a year best left deeply in the rearview mirror. Tomorrow I leave for a five day visit to Washington, DC, to bury my father. The last of the tasks left from what I noted was a sad time around here. But if nothing else, I am an optimist. Therefore, let's look ahead to see what the new year promises.

In less than a month my wife and I are taking a much-needed vacation in one of our favorite places, Maui. Given financial considerations we're relying upon flier miles and a timeshare, but we're allowing ourselves a few splurges along the way. We've already booked a photographers' high-speed whale-watching trip. Followed the next day by a dinner cruise. Given my family's history with the sea it seems fitting our first real vacation in a while involves a lot of water.

Later in the year plans are pending for a trip up to Vancouver, also one of our favorite places, to burn off some airline tickets that were put on hold given my father's at the time failing health. We're not sure if that well be a land-bound trip, or used to burn off some cruise ship credits. Stay tuned.

Along the way we've committed to taking weekend trips, up and down the coast, as well as our usual Vegas excursions. And adventures around our own area. God knows LA and Orange County are rife with opportunities to explore and experience.

And a few martinis, of course

In other words, trying to get back to what was considered "normal" a few years ago.

And you can, of course, read all about it here.

Thanks for continuing to visit and read.

And Happy New Year. Welcome to 2018.

LONG BEACH, CA - LEFTOVERS

Nothing sadder than the remnants of a New Years Eve party.

Well. Actually, there's a LOT sadder, but this will do until I get my morning cup of coffee.

(And no, this hasn't been sitting around. I took this shot last Sunday.)

2017

Happy New Year.

May 2017 permit you a happier, more fulfilled, and pleasantly prosperous life.

NEW YEARS' EVE - PRESSING RESET

So. After what from nearly all accounts was a singularly bad year all around, we arrive at the start of a new one. It's an arbitrary reset, but a reset nonetheless. 

Wishing you all a firm and final end to 2016, and a resurgent 2017.

THE FRIDAY MARTINI - SIMPLE AND YET PERFECT

It's kinda plain, but that's the testament to the Martini. 

Oklahoma City. Frills not required, despite the publicity the martini usually requires.

A simple martini. And it's Friday to boot. Last in the year.

Goodbye 2016. Don't let the door strike you too hard in the ass on your way out. 

Too hard. A solid *fwump* will suffice.

2017. We need a change. Please be the sunrise in an otherwise pre-dawn world.