Monday at the Beach

On Monday...a perfect, gorgeous day in Southern California, I went to work and found out one of my bosses was sick and wouldn't be in so I ended up getting the day off. I headed to the beach and spent the day writing and taking pictures.

It's so wonderful to just sit and enjoy nature. Here's some of God's beauty.

This cluster of birds flew in circles & then landed directly in front of me

 

 

 

 

My hubby stopped by to visit me

 

 

BLOOM WHEREVER GOD PLANTS YOU!

Beach "Drum" Video For You!

Today after church I told my hubby I wanted to go down to the beach, grab a slice of my fav pizza & sit out in the pavilion area next to the pier and just relax. With all that's gone on, the beach just seems to fade all my stress away. It was a little breezy and the air was crisp, but it felt perfect. I don't know what it is about the beach...the crashing waves, palm trees, kites flying overhead, or just the general laid back environment that slows down the time, cares and worry's of life.

Today however was extra special. As we sat down, there were three guys who had brought various drums to have a beach jam session. The rhythmic beats of the drums adding to the calming feel of the crashing waves. As we ate, the group began to grow. Random people of all ages seemed to pop up out of nowhere & join in, adding more drum varieties, tambourines, and large shakers.

We finished eating & laid on the grass, staring up at the clouds, palm trees and pelicans gracefully soaring overhead. Allowing the music to eventually lull us away from all the built up tension. I told my hubby, "We haven't actually relaxed like this since Hawaii." It's strange how I live so close to the beach and don't take advantage of it. I'm going to make a point of enjoying it more.

As we left I recorded it to share with all of you. I didn't want you to miss out on the magic of the moment. Enjoy!

 

Unnecessary Words

When beauty abounds I struggle to find words profound.

Copyrighted Photos by: Lisa Petrarca
Please ask permission to use

Only in Southern California

Elephant in the clouds
double click photo's for larger view

We took a trip out to Moreno Valley for a funeral service for our friends dad who passed away. It was a touching & beautiful service, which is exactly how it should be done-'A Celebration of Life.'

We were driving home & I noticed the amazing light shining down through the clouds. I was thankful I had my camera with me...these are the things that took my breath away.

It's as if the Lord was guiding him home...



The following week while my parents were here visiting we headed down to the beach to grab a bite to eat and sit out in the warm California sunshine, catching some rays.


They really enjoyed this...they live in Utah and it's snowing & freezing there this time of year. It was really windy as we headed down to the pier. I turned to take a few shots of the beach & palm trees when I noticed the picturesque snow capped mountain tops framing the palm trees.

Only in Southern California can you head out in the morning to surf and then an hour later be on the slopes snow boarding/skiing.

I don't think I could ever live anywhere else...

all photos by: lisa petrarca

Carmel By The Sea

I LOVE these pictures we took on our way back from our trip. We stopped off at Carmel By the Sea and took some fun shots. My hubby's a goofball...he never ceases to surprise me. I told him to pose pretty for this pic (this is what he gave me)....he cracks me up!

~My tattooed punker turned ballet dancer~

Not to be out done (i've always been a tomboy); I climbed the tree (even though I'm afraid of heights)...I wanted a cool shot too!


More tree climbing below (check out the little asian girl peaking out)~She was mad we were climbing in her tree.




Isn't it a gorgeous place? Click to see CARMEL BY THE SEA OFFICIAL SITE