Cazalea takes readers on a captivating photographic journey through Tecolote Canyon, showcasing the diverse flora and unexpected winter conditions of the San Diego landscape. His Seiko Prospex accompanies him, proving its resilience in varying temperatures. This post highlights how a robust timepiece can be a constant companion during outdoor adventures, no matter the environment.
We walked a canyon this morning. At the top I nearly expired (gasp, gaasp), and at the bottom Mrs C almost (brrrr) froze. My Seiko didn't seem to notice one or the other.
There was no fancy sunset to record ... no clouds on the eastern horizon. But believe it or not, the full moon was still above the Western horizon and was framed by these bushes. I couldn't help but take some photos.
Far above us on the SE rim of the canyon, the Immaculata Church at University of San Diego was being lit by the rising sun.
The southern part of the canyon (left side heading west on the trail) is hidden from direct sun exposure and appears green and lush almost all year.
The plants are soft and fluffy
Odd native melon patch
At the bottom, in the center, is Tecolote Creek. At first we thought it was polluted and murky ... then in horror we realized IT WAS FROZEN. Not ice-skating-safe, but that is a thin layer of ice.
This is the shady respite provided by California Live Oak trees, native to this region. However those bright red leaves standing up above the ground are poison oak. It pays to know your plants!
In contrast, this is a sycamore. The leaves are 10x larger.
We didn't see much wildlife, but all the birds were scratching out their breakfast and flitting around busily. I was lucky this guy was concentrating and stayed still for me.
We finally came to the raging creek, at this point it's about a mile to Mission Bay and the creek is contained by concrete. It's the only place possible to cross.
Be careful, you might have to fight for access to the Narrow Bridge. In this case I was happy to yield right-of-way and let the faster traffic go past.
Boy, her legs look like they have spent a lot of time running this trail...
So how do you like your vegetation?
Soft and shady?
Or Sharp and prickly?
In either case, wear your Seiko and please keep reading.
Cazalea
