Hermosa House Sit

The great thing about local house sit opportunities is that you’re available to fill in at the last minute. We house-sat in Hermosa Beach earlier this year; the weather was glorious and we enjoyed an extended stay. This time around, the weather is still glorious; and although we’re only here for a few days – this time we have extra responsibilities.

Santa delivered a couple of kittens to the kids for Christmas, and we’re looking after them while their “parents” are away for New Year. They’re like little lap dogs! Following us around everywhere, and when we sit down, they’re straight on our laps for a snuggle. There’s something very comforting about a purring kitten snuggled up against you. They’re so lovable and trusting, and were a real joy to look after.

New Years Day

I made good use of the close proximity to the beach and went jogging along the sand a couple of the evenings. The first evening the sunset was so spectacular with not a cloud in the sky, that I vowed to take the camera with me on my next run.

Unfortunately the sunset was quite so good the 2nd evening, but as you’ll see in these photos, the 2nd place sunset was still pretty worthwhile, and as well as capturing some great shots, I got my new years resolution of “more exercise” off the ground.

Manhattan Beach Pier and Beach

Most of the day had been shrouded in marine layer, and it still hung heavy in the air as I looked North to Manhattan Beach Pier, but it thinned out as I ran closer to Hermosa Beach Pier.

There were still plenty of people of the beach at this time of the evening, and the low tide provided an expanse of flat sand to run along.

Hermosa Beach Pier

I had to pick up the pace to make sure I made it to Hermosa Beach before the sun set.

There were quite a few people on the pier to watch the sunset, but I think the best view in the house, was from the sand.

It was low tide, so I was able to position myself underneath the pier to capture the last vestiges of sun as it slipped below the horizon. There was just one lone surfer, lying on his board hoping for a set of waves worth riding.

Setting Sun on Hermosa Beach

Here’s the remainder of my favorite Sunset photos from my New Year’s day run:

Captured this lone dog-walking gazing into the sunset as the waves lapped around their feet.

The reflection of the setting sun on the sand, created a rich orange and copper playing field where the birds hunted  for dinner.

By day, the lifeguard huts provide an elevated vantage point for scanning the landscape; By night, they’re picturesque silhouettes for sunset photography.

Once again I’m reminded how lucky we are to be living in Southern California.