Tag: embarcadero

Amazing art in San Diego: Classic paintings of ships!

Illuminating the Sea: The Marine Paintings of James E. Buttersworth, 1817-1894. This very special exhibit can be seen at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Illuminating the Sea: The Marine Paintings of James E. Buttersworth, 1817-1894. This very special exhibit can be seen at the Maritime Museum of San Diego!

Do you love breathtaking works of fine art? Are you fascinated by 19th century history? Do you like to feast your eyes on beautiful tall ships, sailing yachts and ocean scenery? There’s a special exhibit in San Diego that you positively must see!

I was surprised to discover that the Maritime Museum of San Diego, located downtown on the Embarcadero, is featuring a fantastic exhibit of marine art masterpieces by the famous painter James Edward Buttersworth. Buttersworth is considered to be one of the most important painters of the nineteenth century. His portraits of tall ships, racing yachts, steamships and other vessels from that era are beautiful works of genius, resplendent with light, energy and grace. About 600 of his classic paintings exist today, and the Maritime Museum has 24 amazing examples on display!

The exhibition is titled “Illuminating the Sea: The Marine Paintings of James E. Buttersworth, 1817-1894.”  The collected paintings, on loan from Mystic Seaport until May 31, 2016, are so dynamic, detailed and glowing with beauty, they’ll make a permanent impression in your mind. His images of sky and sea are realistic and alive. Colors are rich and subtle; stormy waters seem to spray off a painted canvas; white sails shine. Several paintings depict yachts racing together, engaged in historic competitions that include the America’s Cup, an event that became important in San Diego’s more recent past.

Another interesting aspect of the exhibition is the inclusion of a modern Buttersworth forgery by Ken Perenyi. Visitors to the museum can become a detective, and do their best to uncover the cleverly made fake!

Go enjoy this exhibit of rare, fantastic paintings, then prepare to spend a good hour or two exploring the many historic ships owned by the Maritime Museum of San Diego. You’ll find yourself within a magical world. A world that gently floats upon shining water, alive with history, adventure, beauty and wonder!

Among the classic maritime paintings of world-famous artist James E. Butterworth is a forgery. Visitors to the museum are challenged to spot it!
Among the classic maritime paintings of world-famous artist James E. Butterworth is a forgery. Visitors to the museum are challenged to spot it!
Truly stunning works of art on display inside the steam ferryboat USS Berkeley, hub of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Truly stunning works of art on display inside the steam ferryboat Berkeley, hub of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Illuminating the Sea, James E. Butterworth, oil on canvas. Magic, schooner of New York Yacht Club, winner of the America's Cup in 1870. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons.
Illuminating the Sea, James E. Butterworth, oil on canvas. Magic, schooner of New York Yacht Club, winner of the America’s Cup in 1870. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons.
In addition to this world-class art, the Maritime Museum of San Diego contains a vast collection of nautical objects. It is a must-see destination for those interested in our city's rich history.
In addition to this world-class art, the Maritime Museum of San Diego contains a vast collection of nautical objects. It is a must-see destination for those interested in our city’s rich history.

Here are a couple bonus photographs!  I took them this morning during a short walk before heading to work!

Museum volunteers gather around a ship's yard, which would soon be lifted by crane onto the nearly-completed Spanish galleon replica San Salvador.
Museum volunteers gather around a ship’s yard.  It would soon be lifted by crane onto the nearly-completed Spanish galleon replica San Salvador.
Tall ships San Salvador and Californian docked behind the USS Berkeley. Just a few of the fascinating ships you can visit at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Tall ships San Salvador and Californian docked behind the Berkeley. Just a few of the fascinating ships you can visit at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

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Golden memories: A tribute to Anthony’s Fishette.

People walk along narrow outdoor deck of Anthony's Fishette, a popular casual dining spot for half a century in downtown San Diego.
People walk along narrow outdoor deck of Anthony’s Fishette, a popular casual dining spot for half a century in downtown San Diego.

Their 50 year lease is almost up. Anthony’s Fish Grotto on San Diego’s Embarcadero will soon be no more. They are to be replaced in 2017 by the Brigantine seafood restaurant. A golden era that produced many wonderful, irreplaceable memories is coming to a close.

I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve lingered in ecstasy at Anthony’s outdoor Fishette, which is adjacent to the more formal indoor restaurant. Except when I was a child, I’ve never eaten in the restaurant. But outside, on the deck, inhaling the ocean breeze, listening to the cries of circling seagulls, squinting into the sun and feeling its warmth on my face–I’ve devoured acres of tasty french fries and oceans of fish.

Millions of people around the planet have golden memories of the place. This is my small photographic tribute to Anthony’s outdoor Fishette. I stopped by for a delicious grilled tuna melt sandwich late yesterday afternoon.

Over the years, many of the people who have worked at Anthony’s Fishette gave me a friendly smile or hello. To them, I say thank you.

You have until January 31, 2017 to enjoy this true San Diego tradition and treasure, and to say thank you.

Front of Anthony's Fish Grotto as seen from Harbor Drive. In early 2017, this iconic San Diego restaurant will be demolished.
Front of Anthony’s Fish Grotto as seen from Harbor Drive. In early 2017, this iconic San Diego restaurant will be demolished.
Smiles are typical at Anthony's Fishette. So is sunny outdoor pleasure and yummy seafood.
Smiles are typical at Anthony’s Fishette. So is sunny outdoor pleasure and yummy seafood.
A photo through glass of the small boat dock and blue San Diego Bay as a glowing sunset nears.
A photo through glass of the small boat dock and blue San Diego Bay as a glowing sunset nears.
A reflection in window of Anthony's Fish Grotto of the setting sun. A golden era is coming to a close on San Diego's waterfront.
A reflection in window of Anthony’s Fish Grotto of the setting sun. A golden era is coming to a close on San Diego’s waterfront.
Possibly the best outdoor seating in all of San Diego. Just above the lapping water, with a sweeping, wonderful view.
Possibly the best outdoor seating in all of San Diego. Just above the lapping water, with a sweeping, wonderful view.
Passing by Anthony's Fishette one fine January day. I've walked past perhaps a thousand times.
Passing by Anthony’s Fishette one fine January day. I’ve walked past perhaps a thousand times.
Countless millions of fond memories have been made here.
Countless millions of fond memories have been made here.

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A short, beautiful twilight walk down Broadway.

Walking east on Broadway from the Embarcadero just moments after sunset.
Walking from the Embarcadero east down Broadway just moments after sunset.

I got off work early today.  So I enjoyed some magical time on the Embarcadero.

Moments after the sun set, thinking of home, I walked from the Broadway Pier east a short distance into the heart of downtown. My lifted eyes were fascinated by the changing light.

High buildings in downtown San Diego change color with every passing minute as my feet and twilight steadily progress.
High buildings in downtown San Diego change color with every passing minute as my feet and twilight steadily progress.
People walking a couple blocks east of the Broadway Pier cross railroad tracks in softening light.
People walking a couple blocks east of the Broadway Pier cross railroad tracks in softening light.
The lights inside two tall office buildings in downtown San Diego begin to make interesting patterns.
The lights inside two tall office buildings in downtown San Diego begin to make interesting patterns.
Looking upward across Broadway as I near the America Plaza trolley station, where I'll catch a short ride toward home. It soon will be night.
Looking upward across Broadway as I near the America Plaza trolley station, where I’ll catch a short ride toward home. It soon will be night.

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Music and fun at San Diego Multicultural Festival!

This super nice lady posed while blowing some bubbles! And I got photobombed! What fun!
This super nice lady posed while blowing some bubbles! And I got photobombed! What fun!

Lots of photos today!

Let’s start out with the fun San Diego Multicultural Festival, which was held in sunny Ruocco Park, downtown near Tuna Harbor. I always enjoy walking through the annual event, taking in the cool, happy vibe and listening to some great live music. Here are a few pics!

Remember–tomorrow is the big MLK parade which goes down Harbor Drive along the Embarcadero! It begins at 2 o’clock!

Folks were at the San Diego Multicultural Festival in Ruocco Park listening to lots of great live music.
Folks were at the San Diego Multicultural Festival in Ruocco Park listening to lots of great live music.
This smiling lady representing the WorldBeat Cultural Center in Balboa Park had a table full of beautiful crafts. They'll be having a Let Freedom Ring event on MLK Day.
This smiling lady representing the WorldBeat Cultural Center in Balboa Park had a table full of beautiful crafts. They’ll be having a Let Freedom Ring event on MLK Day.
Super colorful art and wares at the WorldBeat table. Celebrating life, diversity and Martin Luther King Jr. Day in San Diego!
Super colorful art and wares at the WorldBeat table. Celebrating life, diversity and Martin Luther King Jr. Day in San Diego!
People were enjoying drumming on the grass in Ruocco Park, near Seaport Village.
People were enjoying drumming on the grass in Ruocco Park, near Seaport Village.
This cool musician on the stage saw me taking a photo! Hello!
This cool musician on the stage saw me taking a photo! Hello!

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World-famous ship Star of India needs YOUR help!

Decks don't last forever. Our Star's decks have reached the end of their lifetime and now Star of India is in need of YOUR help.
Decks don’t last forever. Our Star’s decks have reached the end of their lifetime and now Star of India is in need of YOUR help.

The Star of India is one of the most famous and important historic ships afloat. Built in 1863, she’s the oldest active sailing vessel in the world and the oldest iron-hulled merchant ship still on the water. She has sailed twenty-one times around the world, surviving the tempests of Cape Horn. She has been caught in a devastating cyclone, trapped in Alaskan ice, and even went aground in Hawaii. She still plies the Pacific Ocean with a volunteer crew. And her hull, cabins and equipment are almost completely original.

So it isn’t surprising the deck needs a bit of help.

The Star of India needs YOUR help!

Why should you help? Read this amazing message from the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s website:

“…Our museum is working as part of an international effort to see Star of India inscribed, along with other great historic ships, by UNESCO as a multi-national world heritage site. Like the Parthenon, the Pyramids, and the Great Wall of China, such a distinction would…see that she lives forever.”

Wow!

Right now, the main deck and poop deck need replacing. The wooden decks have come to the end of their lifetime. The Star of India “was recently awarded a $192,000 National Parks Service Maritime Heritage Grant, one of very few such awards and a testimony to both her historical significance and to the viability of the project for extending her life. However, these funds are available to Star of India only if they are matched by an equal amount contributed by those who love her and want to see her sail for generations to come.”

With YOUR contribution, you can become part of an eternal legacy and help to preserve an important part of world (and San Diego) history. That’s big, very important stuff!

Please visit this webpage to learn how YOU can help!

Looking along the length of the main deck of Star of India. Deck replacement is needed and so is the generous help of the public.
Looking along the length of the main deck of Star of India. Deck replacement is needed and so is the generous help of the public.
Parts of the wooden deck are in pretty bad shape. Time, shoes, salt, sun and rain have taken their toll.
Parts of the wooden deck are in pretty bad shape. Feet, salt, sun and rain have taken their toll.
The Star of India is a National Historic Landmark. The oldest active sailing ship in the world, it's a treasured part of San Diego and world history.
The Star of India is a National Historic Landmark. The oldest active sailing ship in the world, it’s a treasured part of San Diego and world history.
Visitors descend from the poop deck. Beautiful woodwork is found all about the ship. But the elements can be harsh.
Visitors descend from the poop deck. Beautiful woodwork is found all about the ship. But the elements can be harsh.
A very old photo of Star of India's launching day in 1863. Originally it was named Euterpe.
A very old photo of Star of India’s launching day in 1863. Originally it was named Euterpe.
Photo of Euterpe, later renamed Star of India, docked at Port Chalmers, Otago, New Zealand in 1883.
Photo of Euterpe, later renamed Star of India, docked at Port Chalmers, Otago, New Zealand in 1883.
Exquisite section of the stained glass skylight in the teak and oak paneled salon of the Star of India.
Exquisite section of the stained glass skylight in the teak and oak paneled saloon of the Star of India.
Peeking into Star of India's forward house, which contains ropes, tools and instruments which were necessary to maintain and operate the ship.
Peeking into Star of India’s forward house, which contains ropes, tools and instruments which were necessary to maintain and operate the tall ship.
I believe that long timber supported by the forward house and forecastle is the top section of the foremast, which is being refurbished. But I might be mistaken.
I believe that long timber supported by the forward house and forecastle is the top section of the foremast, which is being refurbished. But I might be mistaken.
The Star of India's steering wheel and binnacle on the poop deck.
The Star of India’s steering wheel and binnacle on the poop deck.
The Star of India needs your help! Donate today to help replace the deck, and to preserve this amazing ship for generations to come.
The Star of India needs YOUR help! Donate today to help replace the deck, and to preserve this amazing ship for generations to come.

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Inflating balloons for the Holiday Bowl parade!

Getting a balloon ready for today's Holiday Bowl Big Bay Balloon Parade in San Diego!
Getting a balloon ready for today’s Holiday Bowl “Big Bay Balloon Parade” in San Diego!

The Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade kicks off this morning at 10 o’clock on Harbor Drive near the County Administration Building!

At this very moment, folks are busily inflating the many fun balloons that will be parading down the Embarcadero to the delight of thousands of onlookers.

I can’t make it to the Big Bay Balloon Parade this year because I have to work. But I did get some cool photos that you all might enjoy!

People were out early this morning filling balloons with helium in the parking lot north of the County Administration Center.
People were out early this morning filling balloons with helium in the parking lot north of the County Administration Center.
A truck hauling helium, and numerous big balloon wait ready to be filled.
A truck hauling helium.  Numerous big balloons await, ready to be filled.
This fun-looking one is inflating!
This fun-looking one is inflating!
Looks to me like Humpty Dumpty. With all that gas inside, I think he'll bounce should he fall.
Looks to me like Humpty Dumpty. With all that gas inside, I think he’ll bounce should he fall.
A balloon has been wheeled on a platform across the parking lot, waiting its turn to be inflated.
A balloon has been wheeled on a platform across the parking lot, waiting its turn to be inflated.
Meanwhile, on Pacific Highway next to the County Administration Building, marching bands have begun to arrive for the parade! Highland High School came from Ewing, Missouri!
Meanwhile, on Pacific Highway next to the County Administration Building, marching bands have begun to arrive for the parade! Highland High School came all the way from Ewing, Missouri!
Band members get off the bus with instruments.
Band members get off the bus with instruments.
The balloon-filling had just begun when I walked by. Then I had to rush home to share my pics!
The balloon-filling had just begun when I walked by. Then I had to rush home to share my pics!
It's a happy gingerbread man rising in the blue San Diego sky!
It’s a happy Gingerbread Man rising in the blue San Diego sky!

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Clouds like a dream, above tall ships and palm trees.

Tall ships under beautifully streaked clouds on a late December day in San Diego.
Like delicate magic . . . beautifully streaked clouds on a late December day.

Did you see the fantastic clouds above San Diego’s Embarcadero today? They seemed to be made out of fragile, swirling dreams. They magically appeared in our blue sky, painted above tall ships and palm trees.

Just in case you didn’t see, here are two cool pics!

Amazing clouds above San Diego's Embarcadero.
Fantastic clouds above tall ships and palm trees on San Diego’s Embarcadero.

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Photos aboard Master and Commander’s HMS Surprise.

Elegant stern of HMS Surprise, one of many fascinating ships owned by the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Elegant stern of HMS Surprise, one of many fascinating ships owned by the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

It’s Christmas. I wasn’t planning to blog today. But this afternoon I became a new member of the Maritime Museum of San Diego! (Having lived for 15 years just a short walk from the museum, it’s about time!)

Naturally, I couldn’t wait to visit several of the amazing ships.  The Maritime Museum of San Diego has one of the finest and largest collections of historical ships in the world!

If you’ve ever watched the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, then you’ll probably recognize the HMS Surprise. The beautiful tall ship, upon which many scenes were filmed, is in the museum’s collection. And I took a bunch of photos today!

Becoming a member of the Maritime Museum of San Diego is going to be awesome. Among other great perks, I can visit any of the ships free for an entire year. I can sit in the elegant enclosed passenger deck of the Steam Ferry Berkeley and read and write whenever I please! Right out on beautiful San Diego Bay! How cool is that?

I bet some of you might really enjoy membership, too!  I’m told they are looking for volunteers to help sail their new Spanish galleon replica San Salvador!

For more information, please visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego website.

HMS Surprise in some morning sunlight.
HMS Surprise in some morning sunlight.
The ship you are about to board was originally built as a replica of the British 24-gun frigate Rose of 1757. HMS Rose played a role in the American Revolution and was sunk in Savanna harbor in 1779.
The ship you are about to board was originally built as a replica of the British 24-gun frigate Rose of 1757. HMS Rose played a role in the American Revolution and was sunk in Savanna harbor in 1779.
Detailed model of the HMS Surprise, which is the only operating replica of an 18th century frigate in the world. The ship was used in the filming of Master and Commander starring Russell Crowe.
Detailed model of the HMS Surprise, which is the only operating replica of an 18th century frigate in the world. The ship was used in the filming of Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe.
Visitor to the San Diego Maritime Museum pretends to steer the amazing tall ship, which is docked on the Embarcadero near the historic Star of India, in the background.
Visitor to the San Diego Maritime Museum pretends to steer the tall ship HMS Surprise, which is docked on the Embarcadero near the historic Star of India, in the background.
View of the ship's main deck and lower rigging from the quarterdeck. A portion of San Diego's skyline and the County Administration Building are visible.
View of the ship’s main deck and lower rigging from the quarterdeck. A portion of San Diego’s skyline and the County Administration Building are visible.
Cannon projects from hull of HMS Surprise, which is a replica of a 24-gun frigate of the Royal Navy, based on 18th century British Admiralty drawings.
Cannon projects from hull of HMS Surprise, which is a replica of a 24-gun frigate of the Royal Navy, based on 18th century British Admiralty drawings.
Looking upward at the three masts, furled sails and other complicated rigging.
Looking upward at the three masts, furled sails and other complicated rigging.
Photo through ropes of the nearby Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship, also part of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Photo through ropes of the nearby Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship, also part of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
The ship's bell. Originally named the HMS Rose, the ship was re-registered as HMS Surprise because of her role in the film Master and Commander.
The ship’s bell. Originally named the HMS Rose, the ship was re-registered as HMS Surprise because of her starring role in the film Master and Commander.
Below deck there are many fascinating exhibits, which show what life was like aboard a frigate. Other displays recall the filming of Master and Commander.
Below deck there are many fascinating exhibits, which show what life was like aboard a frigate. Other displays recall the filming of Master and Commander.
Pick the right kind of shot. The Surprise carried a variety of projectiles, each suited for different purposes.
Pick the right kind of shot. The Surprise carried a variety of projectiles, each suited for different purposes.
Artistic depiction of activity below deck during an engagement with the enemy. Operating the cannons was a complicated, dangerous duty.
Artistic depiction of activity below deck during an engagement with the enemy. Operating the cannons was a complicated, dangerous duty.
Feeling seasick? Visit the surgeon. Getting sick at sea was very serious not only for the ill sailor, but also for the entire crew.
Feeling seasick? Visit the surgeon. Getting sick at sea was very serious not only for the ill sailor, but also for the entire crew.
Exhibit in HMS Surprise recalls the ship's doctor in the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Dr. Stephen Maturin was also scientist and naturalist.
Exhibit inside HMS Surprise recalls the ship’s doctor in the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. The fictional Dr. Stephen Maturin was also a scientist and naturalist.
Most of the crew slept below the gun deck in hammocks. Tightly-packed swinging hammocks figured memorably in the visuals of the movie Master and Commander.
Most of the crew slept below the gun deck in hammocks. Tightly-packed swinging hammocks figured memorably in the visuals of the movie Master and Commander.
Ship's Biscuit, also known as Hard Tack, was easy to make and preserve, and became part of the staple diet for British and Spanish mariners on their long voyages in the Pacific.
Ship’s Biscuit, also known as Hard Tack, was easy to make and preserve, and became part of the staple diet for British and Spanish mariners on their long voyages in the Pacific.
Chickens, geese and ducks were carried on board as live food. Officers enjoyed eggs. Fresh meat was reserved for the officers and those sick with scurvy.
Chickens, geese and ducks were carried on board as live food. Officers enjoyed eggs. Fresh meat was reserved for the officers and those sick with scurvy.
In this area near the stern there is a remote station for steering when the ship is propelled by its twin diesel engines. In 2007, HMS Surprise was restored to sailing condition.
A remote station used for steering the ship when she is propelled by her twin diesel engines. In 2007, HMS Surprise was restored to sailing condition.
One of several photos on display from the movie Master and Commander: Far Side of the World. Russell Crowe played the role of Captain Jack Aubrey.
One of several photos on display from the movie Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Famous actor Russell Crowe played the role of Captain Jack Aubrey.
Distinctive figurehead often seen in the popular movie. It now graces San Diego's waterfront.
Distinctive figurehead representing the Greek goddess Athena often seen in the popular movie. It now graces San Diego’s waterfront. UPDATE! I’ve been told it actually represents Boadicea, queen of the British Celtic Iceni tribe who led an uprising against the conquering forces of the Roman Empire.
Photograph of the HMS Surprise as evening approaches. One of many wonderful ships that visitors can board at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Photograph of the HMS Surprise as evening approaches. One of many wonderful ships that visitors can board at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

UPDATE!

A new exhibit called Man-of-War opened on HMS Surprise in May, 2018. There are many new signs around the ship, and the captain’s great cabin is now open to the public. (I intend to blog about the great cabin separately.)

Here are additional photos. Read the captions for explanations about life aboard British fighting ships from that fascinating era.

A new exhibit called Man-of-War aboard the HMS Surprise features new signs describing life aboard an 18th century British frigate. Prepare for Battle!
A new exhibit called Man-of-War aboard the HMS Surprise features new signs describing life aboard an 18th century British frigate. Prepare for Battle!
HMS Surprise was originally the HMS Rose, built in Nova Scotia in 1970. It was purchased by Twentieth Century Fox to be used in the movie Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe.
The ship was built as replica of the HMS Rose in 1970. It was purchased by Twentieth Century Fox to be used in the movie Master and Commander, starring Russell Crowe, and was subsequently renamed HMS Surprise.
Following maritime tradition, the ship has retained its original bell.
Following maritime tradition, the ship has retained its original bell.
Looking at the newly redecked quarterdeck of the HMS Surprise. The rest of the main deck will be restored as well.
Looking at the newly redecked quarterdeck of the HMS Surprise. The rest of the main deck will be restored as well.
An officer on the quarterdeck would issue commands to the sailor manning the wheel, which controlled the rudder at the ship's stern.
An officer on the quarterdeck would issue commands to the sailor manning the wheel, which controlled the rudder at the ship’s stern.
The Disney Wonder cruise ship is seen beyond the capstan. HMS Surprise was used in the filming of the movie Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
The Disney Wonder cruise ship is seen docked in San Diego beyond the capstan. HMS Surprise was used in the filming of Disney’s movie Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.
Many hands turned the capstan to raise or lower the anchor.
Many hands turned the capstan to raise or lower the anchor.
Ordinary sailors relieved themselves at the ship's bow. Hence the name head.
Ordinary sailors relieved themselves at the ship’s bow. Hence the name head.
This was a sailor's bathroom!
This was a sailor’s bathroom!
A man-of-war could remain at sea for many months and travel more than 150 miles per day.
A man-of-war could remain at sea for many months and travel more than 150 miles per day.
On the gun deck of HMS Surprise, replica twenty-four-pound cannons have names like Spit Fire, Beelzebub and Bulldog. Larger than what a frigate would carry, these were used for dramatic effect in the movie.
On the gun deck of HMS Surprise, replica twenty-four-pound cannons have names like Spit Fire, Beelzebub and Bulldog. Larger than what a frigate would carry, these were used for dramatic effect in the movie.
A display demonstrates aspects of a warship's gun and its operation.
A display demonstrates aspects of a warship’s gun and its operation.
Diagram depicts how a six-man gun crew would load, aim and fire different types of shot.
Diagram depicts how a six-man gun crew would load, aim and fire different types of shot.
Sailors lived in their own specialized world, with familiar customs, rules, routines and expectations.
Sailors lived in their own specialized world, with familiar customs, rules, routines and expectations.
The complex often stressful operation of a man-of-war required strict discipline. Punishments included flogging and gagging.
The complex often stressful operation of a man-of-war required strict discipline. Punishments included flogging and gagging.
The English diet at sea was rather simple and predictable. Lots of biscuit, beer, pease, oatmeal and butter. Pork and cheese, too.
The English diet at sea was rather simple and predictable. Lots of biscuit, beer, pease, oatmeal and butter. Pork and cheese, too.
Cooking in the galley was done in calm weather. The Brodie Stove was designed for use on wooden ships where dangerous fire must be avoided at all costs.
Cooking in the galley was done in calm weather. The Brodie Stove was designed for use on crowded wooden ships where dangerous fire must be avoided at all costs.
A rat has found its way into the ship's food supply.
A rat has found its way into a ship’s food barrel.
The Royal Navy issued hard biscuits made of flour and water that were stored in sacks for months at a time. Weevils and maggots were a constant problem.
The Royal Navy issued hard biscuits made of flour and water that were stored in sacks for months at a time. Weevils and maggots were a constant problem.
Costume worn by character Midshipman Lord William Blakeney in the movie Master and Commander.
Costume worn by character Midshipman Lord William Blakeney in the movie Master and Commander.
Unlike the captain who in his great cabin lived in comparative luxury, lesser officers, like the crew, made due with cramped quarters.
Unlike the captain who in his great cabin as a gentleman lived in comparative luxury, lesser officers, like the crew, made due with cramped quarters.
Midshipmen who sought to become officers learned seamanship and navigation. They had to master many skills required to operate and command a ship.
Midshipmen who sought to become officers learned seamanship and navigation. They had to master many skills required to operate and command a ship.
Instruments used to navigate a ship included the octant and sand glass.
Instruments used to navigate a ship included the octant and sand glass.
The doctor's quarters on the HMS Surprise. A photo shows actor Paul Bettany as the film's character Dr. Stephen Maturin.
The doctor’s quarters on the HMS Surprise. A photo shows actor Paul Bettany as the film’s character Dr. Stephen Maturin.
Hammocks were often used by sailors to store clothing and personal items.
Hammocks were often used by sailors to store clothing and personal items.
A suspended mess table where sailors would eat together next to a hammock on the gun deck of HMS Surprise.
A suspended mess table where sailors would eat together next to a hammock on the gun deck of museum ship HMS Surprise.

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San Diego artist spray paints cool Star Wars images!

Finn, heroic character in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, holds a lightsaber. Cool spray paint art by William J. Dorsett.
Finn, heroic character in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, holds a lightsaber. Cool spray paint art by William J. Dorsett.

Check out these super cool Star Wars images! They were created by a talented guy named William J. Dorsett. He’s a great spray paint artist and busker who is frequently seen on San Diego’s Embarcadero, in front of Anthony’s Fish Grotto.

William also happens to be a really nice guy. I’ve seen him working his magic for years during my walks. Not only does he create very unique spray paint artwork, but he also fashions amazing small works of sculpture using corn husks.

And, as you can plainly see, he’s a huge fan of Star Wars!

William loves to demonstrate his unbounded creativity, and did so recently at a local school for excited students. Check out his website to learn more!

William J. Dorsett is a talented busker who often displays his cool artwork on San Diego's Embarcadero. In this photo he's handing a corn husk rose to a passerby!
William J. Dorsett is a talented busker who often displays his cool artwork on San Diego’s Embarcadero. In this photo he’s handing a corn husk rose to a passerby!
Small, colorful spray paint images include a Darth Vader helmet, an Imperial Stormtrooper, R2-D2 and Yoda.
Small, colorful spray paint images include a Darth Vader helmet, an Imperial Stormtrooper, R2-D2 and Yoda.
It's Chewbacca with his Bowcaster blaster under a distant galaxy's stars and a colorful planet.
It’s Chewbacca with his Bowcaster blaster under a distant galaxy’s stars and a colorful planet.
More cosmic, bold spray paint artwork depicts popular Star Wars characters.
More cosmic, bold spray paint artwork depicts popular Star Wars characters.
C-3PO and Han Solo in classic Star Wars poses! Awesome!
C-3PO and Han Solo in classic Star Wars poses! Awesome!

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Do you like to read inspirational, thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!

Another day to be thankful in San Diego.

Two gulls take a nap in the San Diego sunshine the day after Thanksgiving. Many people were taking a pleasant, easy walk along the waterfront.
Two gulls take a nap in the San Diego sunshine the day after Thanksgiving. Many people were enjoying a pleasant, easy stroll along the waterfront.

It’s the day after Thanksgiving. I just took a walk along San Diego’s Embarcadero. If a picture is worth a thousand words, here are 12,000 words that hint at why I’m thankful every day to live in this beautiful city. I could write volumes and volumes.

A sleepy sea lion doesn't care what sort of crazy, wild-eyed antics his buddy is engaged in.
A sleepy sea lion doesn’t care what sort of crazy, wild-eyed antics his buddy is engaged in.
The Maritime Museum of San Diego's historic ship Pilot crosses the bay as white clouds glow gloriously in a blue sky.
The Maritime Museum of San Diego’s historic Pilot boat crosses the bay as white clouds glow gloriously in a blue sky.
This seagull was watching me taking a walk around Tuna Harbor. I wonder what she thought I was up to.
This seagull was watching me taking a walk around Tuna Harbor. I wonder what she thought I was up to?
A couple snuggled on the rocks by Seaport Village watch a gull take flight from the nearby wall.
A couple snuggled on the rocks by Seaport Village watch a gull take flight from the nearby wall.
A busker magician comedian mime guy gets tied up in inescapable rope during his funny routine at Seaport Village.
A busker magician comedian mime guy gets tied up in inescapable rope during his funny routine at Seaport Village.
Mrs. Claus greets a child and mother at the Seaport Village's East Plaza Gazebo.
Mrs. Claus greets a child and mother at the Seaport Village’s East Plaza Gazebo.
A guy carrying a skateboard ambles past outdoor diners at Sally's Seafood on the Water.
A guy carrying a skateboard ambles past outdoor diners at Sally’s Seafood on the Water.
A helpful tot picks up a photographer's tripod after a photo shoot at Embarcadero Marina Park North.
A helpful tot picks up a photographer’s tripod after a photo shoot at Embarcadero Marina Park North.
A snowy egret checks out a small stone in the Marriott Marina on San Diego's waterfront.
A snowy egret checks out a small stone in the Marriott Marina on San Diego’s waterfront.
Magnificent clouds the day after Thanksgiving on San Diego's Embarcadero. Visible is a Dole cargo ship at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal.
Magnificent clouds the day after Thanksgiving on San Diego’s Embarcadero. Visible is a Dole cargo ship at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal.
Taking flight in the sunshine.
Taking flight in the sunshine.

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Do you like to read inspirational, thought-provoking fiction? Visit my Short Stories by Richard writing blog!