As Christmas approached, our family eagerly anticipated the holiday break. With the kids enjoying more than two weeks off from school, we sought to make the most of our time together. While Northern California usually blesses us with year-round sunshine, the end of December often cloaks the region in rain and gloom. Determined to sidestep the dreariness, we opted for a short getaway to San Diego, renowned for its pristine beaches and idyllic weather.

Our journey commenced with a delightful exploration of La Jolla, a gem boasting breathtaking natural vistas and a wealth of marine life. From the moment we set foot on La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores, where seals find respite, we were captivated by the serene scene. Among the seals, one in particular stood out—a lone figure whose expressive gaze seemed to beckon me. Its vivid presence against the tranquil backdrop of the ocean stirred my artistic sensibilities. I couldn’t resist capturing its essence in my journal—a moment frozen in time, as the seal released a weary yawn, tempted by the soothing embrace of the sea.

’The unperturbed Seal’, LaJolla Shores, San Diego

As evening descended upon La Jolla Cove, we reveled in the symphony of nature, serenaded by the chorus of birds preparing for nightfall. The rocky formations dotting the coastline appeared almost sculpted, their layers seamlessly blending with the rhythmic dance of the waves. Each hue and texture spoke volumes, a testament to the boundless wonders of the natural world that never cease to amaze me

‘The contrast’ LaJolla Cove, San Diego

With the day’s experiences still fresh in my mind, I retired to our accommodations, brushes in hand, eager to immortalize the beauty we had encountered. As I painted, I couldn’t help but marvel at the intricate interplay of light and shadow, color and form—a tangible expression of the magic that awaits us in every corner of this remarkable world.

And so, as the sun dipped below the horizon, I drifted off to sleep, my heart brimming with gratitude for the adventures that awaited us in the days ahead.”