Brown Motion

 Amid the gloom and havoc of 2022 in different spheres; from plummeting asset prices to RSV infections ailing many to an all out war between people in the Russo - Ukranian geographies there were good things happening. We completed a full year (as in four seasons) of living in the Carolina region of the eastern United States after a long stint on the left coast and balmy days (which had started turning to embers and ash more often toward the end). Having enjoyed the spring, summer and fall this winter came with much needed rain in the area.  As the year winds down we continued our ongoing exploration of the culture and peoples of the area with a trip to a boat parade on a local marina; to an art museum in a former Mint; to some roller coaster fun with lights and Christmas Decor and finally a trip to visit a local estate that hosts a brilliantly lit garden and markets its Christian message.  It is property that was once owned by the Evangelist and Minister called Billy Graham. Below are

 Back in California I remember we once visited Orange County to witness people with boats light them up and parade them on a waterfront. Probably on the Pacific.  I think it was somewhere near Newport. Now in the Carolinas we got to see the spectacle more at length and up close. On the lake. As part of the culture here people socialize through various mechanisms and while it is cold and dark outside they have found ways to keep active and engaged. Thus the boat parade with lights and Santa and other inflated suspects /subjects to deck their decks. Families come out in droves. Both the boat owners who hand out candy to passersby while moored in the dock and the passerby visitor public who are there to sit by bonfires and have a good time. As newcomers to the area we were drawn by the excitement like moths to the flame.  Had good time chatting with locals, some who religiously come each year and some who drop in every so often, even from 100 miles away. As dusk turned to night the lights

 Walking the woods near the house one morning I happened on this fella. Life was peaceful at that moment. It had rained the prior night so the air still had a mist like quality.  Sun just trying to break through the branches devoid of foliage. The stream in the woods was now a brook.  Babbling to an extent. Slight breeze to knock off what few leaves there might be trying to hang on for who knows what.  Those were the only sounds. All was right with the world.