There are all kinds and sorts of seasons. Seasons of life, seasons of the year, society seasons, religious seasons, and more. However, there is one season with the uniqueness of being supplied by Mother Nature. It is a season within seasons, without cost or obligation, and we don’t need to take any action except for the sublime enjoyment we experience, and it’s happening right now. It’s Our Season.
So, why the excitement? Can we talk?
I know you’ve heard of Snowbirds. Perhaps you are one. Lucky you!
But have you ever heard of Smog Birds? No, I thought not.
Smog Birds are those of us who migrate here from the L.A. Basin, ooh! What an ugly name!
We love the clean air and how it lifts our spirits! Some of us have taken up permanent residence and dread that we must return to smogland for various and sundry reasons. Mostly sundry, I think.
So, we Birds of a Feather love to flock together. Let me count the ways.
First, of course, it is our season to enjoy each other’s company. We share life stories and bonding that comes from newfound friendships. Dining together sets the stage for sharing. Oh! The Dining.
Who knew Pickle Ball is a combination sport and social event and not the name of a kitchen device for pickling?
Wow, there’s more to life after 55 here than Hector ever saw coming! But then, Hector was just a pup, you know.
Then there’s The Clubs. Golf? Did someone say Golf? There are only 180+ Golf Courses here in our Valley. The best ones are right here - no surprise to you golfers!
And then there’s The Other Clubs—all 562 of them to occupy your unfilled hours. I might have exaggerated a wee bit about the number of clubs; it’s closer to 91. They’re all great and in full flower during this glorious season!
I’d be remiss not to mention the Writer’s Club, where newbie writers and published authors get together each week to share stories and explore ways to become the next “Charlene” Dickens!
At our meeting last week, a member asked how to spell “participate.” I jumped in and said: L-I-F-E. Yep, that started a conversation about why we all chose to live here, where participation is our everyday life at a level unimagined just a few years ago. We are all amazed at all the great choices this community continues to offer, especially “In Season.”
The season is more, much more than can be imagined. Each year it reveals new layers of intrigue, interests, new friends, and of course, did I mention The Dining? Oh, the Dining! Now, here’s where the Stars come out, Dining Stars, that is. Oh yes, and the other kind too. But who’s watching? The Stars are on the plate!
I’ll let you in on a little-known secret taught at the finest Chef Schools and burned into the brain of our best chefs: “We Eat With Our Eyes First.” Just check out what Chef John is doing at Shadows; you’ll see what I mean. Next time, if there is a next time, we’ll check out more delicious venues. In the meantime, relax and enjoy the Season!