The Sleuthing by the Seaside series is set in a suburb of San Diego and incorporate local landmarks, like the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve depicted on the Home Page. My talented daughter-in-law, Lexi Skousen, painted the beautiful watercolor posted at the top. The original is hanging in our home. In the center of the page is a gorgeous photo of the Broken Hill Trail taken by photographer Steve Shuey. Many thanks to both of them for allowing me to include their handiwork on my website.
The Reserve is perched up high, atop majestic carved bluffs. The Torrey Pines State Beach and Los Peñasquitos Lagoon stretch out below. The Reserve has walking trails that snake around the ravines and stunning overlooks with panoramic views. It houses endangered plants and animals and unique geological formations. The convergence of three natural wonders (beach, lagoon, and reserve) creates a scenic oasis in an urban jungle.
My husband loves to run on the trails at the Reserve. It’s his “happy place.” I enjoy the scenery, but not the running. I like to meander along the pathways, observing the flora and fauna. If you go too fast, you miss too much. That’s my excuse, anyway, and I’m sticking to it.
We’ve created many memories over the years wandering the footpaths with friends and family. One of my favorite recollections is from a family reunion many moons ago. Grandpa led a hike at the Reserve and then Grandma organized a picnic afterward at the beach, cousins gleefully running amok. On another occasion, in a moment of insanity, I agreed to take a group of squirrely cub scouts on a nature walk at the Reserve. Luckily, I returned with the same number of boys with which I departed…and only a slight headache.
The reserve is a place of natural beauty and awe-inspiring views. It instills my soul with peace and joy, provided I don’t have to run.
