A Couple of Decades Apart

You know how the story goes: Siblings or a family take a group photo and then repeat the process for years in a row. So, here I am with our two sons way back in the day circa 2007 or so. I think, but I'm not sure, that we were in Newport Beach sitting on a bench at Fashion Island while most of the women were in a store.

Now, the above photo is just a few months ago. All our kids and their families were in town for a mini-reunion. Someone had the idea to do this, remembering the photo at the top. We took so many shots of the three of us because we couldn't stop laughing. Me, especially. Good, good times!
 

The Shine of Christmas

 

Many years ago, I took this photograph while at the beautiful Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach. To call this location a nursery is as much a misnomer as it is to call Disneyland a garden variety amusement park. No other nursery can compare. It's filled with all sorts of eye candy- including the original Disneyland Bandstand- and signage with a nod to the Daveland blog.

I love the "sparkle" of Christmas! It is a time when everything looks bright and new. Whether it is lights shining brightly on buildings old and new, ornaments hanging on the tree, the glow of candlelight at a Christmas worship service, or the gleam in the eyes of children, it brings the warmest of smiles to my face.

Just imagine what was running through the minds of the Magi as they encountered the Christ child centuries ago! Whether He truly glowed as many painters imagined or not, here was the hope of the world, the Light for all men, before their very eyes, given in the most easily received form- that of a child. Their gifts were humble compared to the Gift of Life He gave to all who would believe and turn to Him, but they were substantial and said much about the mission of Jesus Christ.

One brought gold- a gift given between kings. Its symbolism not lost on peoples of the region. Here was one king acknowledging another. A human king with limited realm honoring the King of All Creation.

Another brought frankincense- a gift given between lovers. A perfume of sorts, symbolizing the relationship that this God Who Became Man wanted to have with the people He created. It was out of love, Jesus came to earth to die; and it is from His love that we can be revitalized given hope when all is lost. God desires we love Him with all that is within us. A love that grows over time.

The last brought the gift of myrrh. Quite an odd gift choice, as this spice was also used for embalming the dead. Imagine the young mother Mary and her husband Joseph, receiving these visitors- and receiving the gifts intended for the young Jesus. They must have known the gift of myrrh symbolized his coming death. But little did they know He would rise triumphantly from the grave as well, defeating the plans of the enemy of men.

We can also carry this glow as we look to Him. In the Old Testament, the Psalms give us this beautiful description: "I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame."

I love this piece of Psalm 34. It reminds me that regardless of the evil I have done or continue to do, God himself waits to forgive me when I come to him in humility. This is the brightest and "sparkliest" of all Christmas messages! And I pray this is the Christmas message that rings in the depths of your soul- and may it be the Christmas message you pass on to those you know and love.

Merry Christmas to each of you! May His Love fill your home!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Discovering California

Traveling around the world? Not happening soon. But when it happens again? Great! What about traveling back home in California? Here's some of my favorite posts throughout the years- without Disneyland in sight. Not all, but just a few:

Snapshots of Napa- The vineyards of Napa and Sonoma are world famous for a reason! 

Coast Stories- California as I love it! There's so much more than Disneyland. The natural beauty of the state shines through here.

Outside the Norm- All the quirkiness of San Francisco obscures the beauty of its attractions- sometimes to the detriment of those who've never lived in the State. 

Mission San Juan Capistrano- A bit of California history preserved for the adventurers of today. Sometimes you have to look backward in order to see the future.

The American Rivera- Arguably one of the most beautiful cities in California, Santa Barbara is showcased here.

No Disneyland?- Palm Springs to Newport Beach and beyond, I never get tired of exploring the Golden State. Here's proof a visit there doesn't need to include Disneyland or California Adventure to be terrifically fun!

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

More Disneyland Paris to be Found in Denver

Back about two years ago, I posted some beautiful photos showing an unexpected connection between Denver and Disneyland Paris. This garden structure was originally built for EuroDisney’s Main Street. Well, we just returned from the Denver Botanical Gardens, and I had to take a look at it again with a summertime atmosphere. 

It wasn't as enchanting as during the winter, but it was still pretty sweet. Reminded me of Walt Disney World and the Magic Kingdom favorite, The Crystal Palace- but on a much smaller scale.

The original blog story and the beautiful wintertime pics can be found on my post here. 

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

A Bit of EuroDisney in Denver

Every visit to Southern California, we attempt to go to Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach. Not only is the place stunning, it also houses a slice of Disneyland history. The famous Disneyland Bandstand now resides within the confines of the nursery. (See can see my post about it here.) Little did I know that a bit of glamorous EuroDisney finds its home in my city of Denver, Colorado.

I have visited the beautiful Denver Botanic Gardens so many times that I can't count them. But today, for the first time ever, I noticed something I never saw before. See below.

The gorgeous solarium was ordered by the Walt Disney Company and planned to be installed in their first French parc. As you can tell if you enlarge the above photo, it never made it.

Seven of these lovely structures were ordered and never installed, but this one in Denver is the only one available for public display. My cel phone photographs do not do justice to the detail.

Where were these to go? Certainly the green painted metalwork is striking in its similarity to what is found on Main Street U.S.A. Were they to be used in the gardens found right in front of the theme park? Were they not so simple bus stop structures designed to welcome guests in case of inclement weather? I have no idea. Yet they are beautiful, no doubt.

Interestingly, we had walked right by the structure one evening at Christmas while we were enjoying the annual Blossoms of Light decor.  I never noticed the little metal sign I photographed today. Maybe its because it wasn't lit, or perhaps I was too busy enjoying the lighting on the solarium and the contents within. 

Seeing this today was like a "kiss" from God. It brought an instant smile to my face- and a discussion of just how we might have to return to that beautiful French Disney park.

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

California Without Disneyland

 

Southern California but no Disneyland. For a Disney theme park lover, is a good time even possible? The answer is yes- absolutely!

Let's start with perennial favorite (get it?), Roger's Gardens in Newport Beach. Not only is it home to the original Disneyland bandstand, it's just a beautiful place to explore. 

The indoor and outdoor rooms are filled with blooms and style. I particularly loved the "book nook" with its archway spanning across the width of the walls. This photo above, does not do it justice. You've got to see it for yourself.

Gabby's 

In the old Orange Circle, just about a block or two away from Chapman College, is a brand new and incredibly tasty Mexican restaurant- Gabby's. It's not cheap- but then the area has become very trendy- yet the food is a fresh and flavorful take on what could be cuisine taken for granted in Southern California. The main room and bar take you to another place and time. An artistic and culinary triumph. The chips and salsa are winners too. A necessary great beginning to a very, very good meal.

The very top photo and the directly one above are taken at Pacific City, a new outdoor shopping center literally across the street from the roaring surf of Huntington Beach. It was a perfect California dream day- just right for a cup of coffee while taking in the view... and dreaming of days gone by when we lived there.

A lemon tree blooms in early March? Must be California!

You're looking at my in-laws back yard and their fully fruited lemon tree. Between this, gardenia, and ever blooming red and pink bougainvillea, not to mention eternally sunny days, I always ask myself "Why did I move?"

Fun in Palm Springs.

Onto Palm Springs. Even though its only an hour and a half away, there are so many diversions in this desert town, it feels like a whole new state and an entirely different culture. This fire pit in the gardens of a retro styled hotel resort - Parker in Palm Springs -made for a perfect end to an incredible meal nearby.

OK, we snuck away to Downtown Disney for an hour one night before we departed the O.C. It was crowded, lively, and just great fun. Even without a visit to Disneyland or California Adventure. 

For those of you who have never ventured outside of the Disney parks, there's a whole new world out there. Go explore it!

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

A Quiet Coastline

Not your typical beach glamour shot today. During most of our recent trip to the land of LA, the skies were over cast everytime we got even close to Newport Beach or Laguna. It certainly wasn't swimming with people, but the fact that it was empty and calm made it a delightful time. There's something about me being at the beach regardless of the season. It's a time I always feel the power and presence of God- and Jesus himself feels so close to me here. I know he is everywhere, but the roar of the ocean always calls me to him.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Welcome Back!

Just returned home from our vacation away. Oh, my back! Small seats on United, uncomfortable at best. Lots of pains, but lots of stories to tell. Including my one son-in-law's first visit to Disneyland and California Adventure. Stay tuned...

Countdown to Relaxation

Let the countdown begin!

It won't be long until we are on our way for a fun in the sun filled week in California. The land of dreams and opportunity. (Sounds like a great advertisement, doesn't it?) Cannot wait!

Wanna see more great photos and a detailed trip report from another visit? See "Coast Stories" here.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Take Me Away

Loving the summer but not digging the mountains this year. I miss the ocean. Missing the body surfing, the breezes, the balmy nights, and most of all- I miss the gentle lapping of the waves on the shore. Take me away...

Coast Stories

True confession time: Disneyland was not the highlight of my recent trip to Southern California. It wasn't the construction at California Adventure that made my mouth fall open. It was the beach, or I should say, the beaches that captured my attention, my heart, my thoughts. 

Admittedly, I am an Orange County snob. There is not a single beach in Los Angeles County that compares to the beauty found in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Capistrano or Dana Point. And please, don't get me going about San Diego- it's absolutely gorgeous, too. Los Angeles does have it charms, however- more on that later as well.

As I had two and a half days to myself, I started the morning by sleeping in and then heading down to Peet's Coffee for my morning java. I sat by the fountain in this little plaza by Fashion Island, sipping my brew, reading the paper, and thinking about the day ahead.

This was to be a driving day, and I'd stop along the way as the spirit moved me. Jumped into the car and turned left onto Pacific Coast Highway. Driving all the way down to Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, the beauty of the endless stream of bright red bougainvillea contrasted with the gorgeous sky and deep blue waters. There were many moments I wished I were the passenger instead of the driver. Although I missed the company of my wife, it was really a treat to quietly drive and just stare at the seascape I grew up knowing and loving.

After a couple hours at Mission San Juan Capistrano, (photos to come in another post), I stopped in Dana Point for a short little nap on the beach. What a treat to feel the warm sand, hear the ocean waves, and bake in the 80 degree sun of late October. It is an odd thing to say, but I always hear God speak to me in the sound of the waves. The beach is my preferred perfect place to rest, to pray and to focus on the majesty of God. It is more rejuvenating to me than just about anything else I can think of.

After an hour or so, it was time to move on, so I headed north. Eventually, I could feel the calming of my spirit and the gift of quiet. It's impact was undeniable. Things seemed right in my world.

This was my first true vacation since February, a short trip to San Antonio for my Dad's 70th birthday aside. It had been a busy work year for me. Between the planning for three big service projects, including my participation in a two week service trip to Asia, and my heavier than normal work load, I needed this rest. I was tired but not discouraged. Yet, it had been a full, satisfying but very tiring year.

Next stop was Laguna. I had planned to just walk the beach, but once I walked on to the sand and into the water, I decided I had to go in. I quickly tore off my shirt, dropped by sandals and camera. Diving in straight away, the briskness of the water was refreshing, its salty taste brought me back to my youth. The sun instantly began warming my body. This was why I loved the ocean- and this was what always seemed to be my siren's song.

More time passed as I watched families on the beach. The squeals of little kids experiencing the surf was a treat to hear and a riot to observe. The combination of apprehension, a bit of fear and sheer delight of the unknown brought a smile to my face, and I couldn't help giggling a bit inside.

After enough time, I hopped back in the car and took off for Huntington beach. There were more adventures ahead that day. Those hours before me of quiet, rest, sun, surf, and sand were just what I needed to regroup, pour my heart out to my God, and be encouraged. Soon enough I would be back in Colorado and all would be a memory- but what grand ones they would be!

(Photos copyright Mark Taft.)

The Original American Bandstand

During our recent and wonderful California vacation, we stopped at one of our favorite places: Roger's Gardens, a nursery in Newport Beach. Calling it just a nursery is an injustice. It is an attraction unto itself. While spectaular any time of the year, it is decked out for Christmas, and mobbed with people at its annual after Christmas sale.

For all the times I have been to this place, I never noticed that Roger's Gardens was now the home of the original Disneyland Bandstand. How had I missed seeing it all these years? This bandstand is the very one that used to first sit in Town Square at the opening of the park, later moved to Frontierland in a place now part of New Orleans Square! It was eventually retired from the park and purchased by the Gardens in the 1970s.

This little piece of history is just another reminder of how Disneyland is so much a beloved and honored part of Southern California. Since the park's opening in 1955, citizens of the area have moved from the earliest stages of childhood to middle age, and working for the Mouse has almost become a rite of passage for many. What a nice surprise to find one more memory in a place I least expected to find it.

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)