337/365 – Fire

Devastating wildfires are sweeping through California again. Back in October wildfires hit Northern California, leaving 42 people dead and destroying some 8,400 structures, including homes and businesses. Today, fast-moving fires swept into Ventura County, in Southern California, burning thousands of acres, forcing thousands of people to evacuate, and stifling surrounding counties, including Los Angeles, with smoke. I’m in Santa Monica, further South from Ventura, and while so far the fires haven’t reached us, the strong winds have brought a lot of smoke and dust to the area, making it not safe to be outside for too long. Our poor mailman was wearing a mask and complaining about the smoke. 😦

Weekly Photo Challenge: Jubilant

For this week’s photo challenge Michelle invites us to share images that say Jubilant.

This little guy was screaming and giggling so hard, even the savvy Santa Monica Pier seagulls were a bit taken aback by his jubilation.

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The pigeons at San Marco Square, in Venice, were not bothered by this girl’s jubilation. Jubilant_DSC1302

But there is no bigger expression of jubilation than the roar of adoring soccer fans after a goal.Web_DSC0470_edited-1

Weekly Photo Challenge: Gathering

My response to this week’s Photo Challenge, Gathering.

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A daily ritual in Santa Monica: locals and tourists gather to watch the sun go down.

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Turtles have no choice but to gather in the pond. Santa Barbara, CA.

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Venice Beach residents gather on the Ocean Front with their four-legged friends.

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Guys gather for a beer and idle talk in Venice Beach, Los Angeles.