A Pit Stop

I remember on family car trips we would stop at the Olive Pit when we were passing Corning, California. I haven't been on this stretch of road for (gulp) over 20 years. So when I started seeing the signs along the side of the road, I knew I had to pull over and see what they had to offer.



They've completely remodeled their shop, and now have a small cafe adjacent to their tasting bar and open shelves. You can peruse row after tidy row of glass jars with tantalizing and tasty offerings such as Blue Cheese Stuffed Spicy Olives and Cuban Pitted Olives.

Of course, I couldn't resist picking up a jar or two for myself. I settled on Deep South Cajun Pitted Olives and Lemon Citrus Olives. Mmm!

Poetry in Motion

Every winter the Oregon coast is host to a unique event: Fisher Poets on the Edge. In the past, my work schedule hasn't allowed me to attend. But this year? I made a plan and escaped to Newport to see and hear what the fuss was about.



I had a little time before the main even on Saturday night, so I grabbed my camera and walked along the docks on Yaquina Bay.



This guy wanted his own space apart from the clan on the neighboring rocks:



That night it was standing room only at the Oregon Coast Aquarium as a lineup of fishermen (and one woman) recited tales and songs of their lives on the sea.



In measured meter and rhyming couplets, they had the crowd spellbound with their words. And in between sets, we were welcome to stroll through the exhibits.



I don't think one could ever tire of watching jellyfish.

By the river

I always feel a bit more at home along the river. I grew up by it. I saw it every day. Crossed it to work, to play, and to worship. And now, when I have the chance to return, it continues to impart a sense of continuity and calm.



I've struggled to define a Thanksgiving tradition since returning to Oregon five years ago. I have childhood memories of watching stormy seas and walking deserted beaches. This year, I decided to spend some time in Astoria, a small town not too far from where I grew up.



I decided to try out a small cabin in a newly renovated hotel, and to explore downtown on foot with my camera.



My trip coincided with the beginning of the St. Lucia Festival of Lights, where the opening ceremony was being held at the local high school.



Naturally, I visited some old favorites, too: the Astor Column, the Astoria-Megler bridge, the Home Bakery.



I think, perhaps, I've found my new Thanksgiving tradition.