"Staycation" Walk: Kensington

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Today was Marie's birthday, so before a dinner out, we decided to stroll through the bucolic Kensington neighborhood. Only downside: streets were torn up for a major water project, and an utility undergrounding program. Nonetheless, the homes and gardens were beautiful.

"Staycation" Walk: Bankers Hill

May 13, 2010

Jacarandas in bloom on Bankers Hill.

Eclectic residential architecture on Bankers Hill, including an Irving Gill restoration (beige house with an iron gate and Mission-style exterior lighting).

Self Realization Center (former campus of Bishop's School day camp site). Note elephant sculptures and lanterns in front.

Restored 1912 Spruce Street Pedestrian Bridge. Note: lush Spruce Canyon was carpeted in nasturtium flowers this mid-May day.

Apologies to readers: Due to cancer recurrence that affects the left arm, commentary is brief and may not be located exactly where it should be.

We are trying a second round of chemotherapy, to see if another partial remission occurs. Let's hope so.

"Staycation" Walk: Normal Heights

May 8, 2010

This is the first of a series of blogs about walkable neighborhoods in San Diego. Our first neighborhood was in the community of Normal Heights. This walk focused on the scenic north side of the community overlooking Mission Valley.

Our first destination was Cromwell Gardens, a six-acre estate located literally on the edge of Mission Valley. Note: this is a privately owned property available for viewing by invitation only.

The main house, built in 1927, was originally of English Country design, but has been remodeled extensively over the years. There is also a brick cottage, set within the rose garden.

The extensive gardens are a labor of love for the Parenti Estate, maintained under the expert care of the Friends of Cromwell Gardens.

One of the more unusual features is the bougainvillea tunnel, overlooking a side canyon. Note: bring a cane or walking stick to help navigate the steep trail.

Also note the beautiful flagstone waterfall.

Marie's service club, Altrusa International of San Diego, held a fundraiser there for the Wellsprings Faith and Hope Community School, located in Zambia. Here are some pictures of members and guests who attended the function.






After leaving Cromwell Gardens, we decided to stop by the Carmelite Monastery of San Diego, 5158 Hawley Boulevard. Click this link for a detailed description of their mission.

Although the chapel was closed to the public, we still enjoyed walking through their beautiful gardens. Note the exquisite architectural detailing of the chapel.