The Merchant Marine Express

California offered a pleasant and relaxing encounter for the last week and a half. My wife and I enjoyed the visit back West with my father and step-mother, Sharon in Pasadena,California. The family house was adorned with holiday decorations and in addition, the garden and courtyard were a nice compliment to the refreshing air of the southland. Birds chirped and leaves still cling to their branches as the Fall season never left.

During the time, the walks in public gardens such as Huntington Library and Descanso Gardens presented the soul with warmth and beauty. A lot of opportunity presented itself as I took full advantage of taking fantastic photographs. Although it was wintertime, some of the Camellias peeked out from their branches and lightly brushed alongside almost reminding us that there was still life this time of year.

I was able to make visits with a few friends and a warm thanks to Michael Zullo, who has continued to be an incredible mentor as well as a father figure and his wife, Joy. Friends of papa, Patty and Steven invited us for a grand dinner to their suburban sprawl as flavorful authentic Mexican food was prepared by Patty, herself. The waft through the air was filled of tortillas and cooked beef. Their son Daniel was recovering after a long day of Parade watching as he was still noticeably tired but an enjoyable host, at the least.

Michelle and I were treated to a nice day at Universal Studios Hollywood with complimentary tickets provided by a friend of my father’s; Susan was gracious enough to offer the passes to this unbelievable event. The “city walk” which displayed shops relating to movies, television and cartoons, alike, was a pleasant sight for the eyes. Dora, The Explorer was even spotted as she cruised around with backpack, in tow! Michelle desperately wanted a picture with this popularly animated youngster. The main tour which took place in a motorized tour bus, contained some interesting facts as well as backstage peeks at real movie settings and props.

The Southland was inviting as the weather was a nice break from the chill of the midwest. Most days brought clear skies and relatively warm temps…hovering in the low seventies. I was comfortable with only a long sleeve shirt and a light sweatshirt, even though most Californians I noticed bundled up as if the winter brought unusually cool weather conditions.

Finally, it was nice that both my Uncle Clay and Cousin Shane could make it out for the weekend as we all shared a wonderful dinner together, at the family home in Pasadena. This gathering only happens, once in a lifetime. Life is too precious and short to make such a chance meeting go by.

A vacation ashore along with the holidays and the traveling sure have made for memorable moments. Shipping may soon be in the future as my preparedness for work will be on my mind.

Most mariners find time to spend time with those who mean a lot to them once a tour aboard a ship is complete. It’s not everyday we can make those calls to dear friends or family while at sea. And while we work, we secretly plan for those occasions once we’re ” on the beach” to execute those plans in order to fulfill the dreams we had during those days, at sea.

Happy New Year folks! Have a great day no matter where you are!

Tags: Michigan – Home Port