Lost in the Horton Plaza Garage

Have you ever been lost in the Horton Plaza Garage? I have.

Well, not really lost, but I couldn't find the way back to my car after attending the San Diego Rep Theater.

We've been to the theater about 15 times now, so I have finally figured it all out. But it sure took a while, and I still have to pay close attention so I know where I entered the mall (say, Lady Footlocker, and can find my way BACK to the same doorway). I think it is one of the most confusing complexes I have been in (and coming from Boston, which is famous for parking garages, that is quite a feat).

I need a handheld GPS just for getting to and from my car. And for finding the right car exit so I am heading in the right direction to leave town.

When I saw there were FRUITS or VEGETABLES, I figured it would be easy. HAH! And actually it is not the garage itself but getting TO and FROM Horton Plaza that makes no sense. I suppose when it was built it was quite the thing. But their signage is terrible, and all the nooks and crannies, small stairwells, slow elevators, multiple floors, and twists and turns in the mall itself drive me nuts. I'm not a big shopper so I don't pay much attention to the stores - perhaps that's my problem.

In any case, if you have not been there...beware. And if you have, I suspect some of you know exactly what I mean.

The Meditation Gardens at the Encinitas Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat

Need a place to chill out and enjoy nature?

Why not take some time to work on your holiday shopping along the Coast Highway in Encinitas (lots of shops and restaurants), then enjoy some quiet time visiting the Meditation Gardens at the Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat in South Encinitas.

Located on the bluffs above the ocean, and just north of the famous surfing beach, Swami's, the Meditation Gardens are a beautiful place to relax, and enjoy some peace and quiet.

I spent some time there yesterday...enjoy the photos!

Help for Those Facing Foreclosure

Unfortunately one of the results of the changing market is that many are facing, or could face, foreclosure.

My focus on this blog is about living here in San Diego, and short sales and foreclosures are part of that reality.

There is a new 24-hour hotline available to folks who may need advice and counsel on dealing with potential or impending foreclosure. The site is managed by the Homeownership Preservation Foundation, and HUD approved, and provides 24-hour advice (bilingual) to people who have questions or need help deciding what to do, what to expect, and how to cope. You are not alone!

Call HOPE NOW at 1-888-995-HOPE (4673)

Surf's Up in San Diego

The surf was up, today, way up.

There were surf advisories last night and today the beaches were crowded with surfers and lots of folks taking in the views of the bigger than normal waves.

I stopped by Cardiff and then Swami's beach in Encinitas to check out the scene.

You can read more about my visit today and view a video taken at Cardiff State Beach of the surf.

Time to Cut Your Christmas Tree

Our annual holiday tradition includes heading out to a local tree farm and cutting down our tree. We've done this for years, in all kinds of weather, and living in New England for so many years (and for 2 years in Minnesota) this usually meant cold, snowy weather - MINUS 25 in Minnesota one winter! And lots of tree farms.

We were so pleased to find that we could do the same here in Southern California, although the trees are different (Monterey Pine and Noble Fir are popular and grow well in this climate), and fewer folks seem to go for cutting down trees as opposed to the ones on the lots.

We have now gone to Mission Pine Tree Farm in Fallbrook for 3 years in a row, so it has become our new California tradition in our Carlsbad home. They are located at 4062 South Mission north of the 76 (Mission). Phone them at (760) 728-5262.

Here is a list of places for trees from the local newspaper, with some advice on picking the right tree. And if you are outside my area, here is a huge list of tree farms around the country.