It’s January 1, 2022 and just like 2021, we’re pinning a lot of hopes for a better year.

It’s official! My website has been updated to include a shop selling wall art! Not only do I have some beautiful florals and Japanese tree images to offer, I also have a few images of the iconic Colorado Bridge taken last Spring.

Last October, my lymphoma returned for the third time. Before treatment started, I bought a new camera and embarked on a series of photojournalistic adventures around Los Angeles. I figured you’d all enjoy reading about sizzling meats and look at gravity defying Asian noodles at Smorgasburg LA; preview the outdoor wares at the Rose Bowl Swap Meet; experience horseback riding in Bradbury, and visualize how Los Angeles looked two hundred years ago at Olvera Street.

In spite of its many problems, I believe Los Angeles, my hometown, is definitely worth fighting for….

’Tis the season, not just for rushing around buying the perfect holiday gift or decorate your tree that copies a Pinterest image.   It’s also time to reaffirm our bonds with our fellow humans and their spirit animals!

Now why don’t we use the term “swap meet”? That sounds better, right? But if you research the historical origins of “flea market” there are several fascinating theories. Some think the term originated from the outdoor bazaars in Paris where they sold second hand furniture and rugs. A bargain hunter once described them as “le marché aux paces” (“market of fleas”) referencing that the used goods sold there had fleas in them. Americans seem to think all things French are refined and sophisticated so the name has stuck!

While I can’t solve the world’s problems or even tackle our local issues I can at least impart to you the joys of eating and also snooping on a large variety of the population that goes to Smorgasburg LA.

We all enjoy life a little better if there’s time to pursue your passions. For me they’re simple: spending time with family and friends, being in the water and taking pictures. Without having specific photographic assignments, it’s been fun to capture landscapes and birds. But that’s a lonely pursuit and I’d rather do editorial work with people.

It’s been two months since my last post and although I am physically feeling better and still in remission, some days are challenging….

I’ve been focusing more on treatments and recuperating, talking to friends and watching Netflix, rather than writing or photography.

new year, another hiatus…the cancer is back.