Early last week, Diego the 30-foot Gray Whale decided to explore San Diego Bay, cruising past North Island and down to the Coronado Bridge.
Marine biologists think that Diego is a juvenile whale on his first migration between Baja California and Alaska, Being an impetuous youth, Diego may have been one of the first whales to leave Baja and on his first solo migration is just trying to figure out how to make his way.
Being youthful, he may have been curious about the bay or maybe he wanted a break from his long journey. Eventually, it is believed that he will find his way back out into the open waters when he gets hungry.
In the meantime, dozens of tourists and locals have gathered along both shores of the bay hoping to catch a glimpse of Diego. Some have been rewarded with the sight of an occasional spout of water and a glimpse of gray breaking the surface of the water.
Just today, around 8:00 am, Diego made an appearance beneath the Coronado Bridge. If you are lucky enough to see Diego, please share your photos of him.
Most importantly though, be respectful of this beautiful creature that has chosen to spend a little time with us.
Every Wednesday the free Coronado weekly newspaper, The Coronado Eagle & Journal, is delivered throughout the community. Unlike some weekly newspapers in resort type towns, it is filled with more than just real estate and restaurant ads. It truly tells of all of the events that happened in the community during the past week and informs us of the upcoming events.
One of the regular sections is the Letters & Commentary section where letters from members of the community are printed.
This week’s edition included an extremely bittersweet letter from a family whose 14 year old son James had died suddenly. I had heard the story from friends a few weeks ago ~ living in a small town, our joys and sorrows are shared regularly. I don’t know the family, but felt so sad for them just the same.
As would be expected, their letter spoke of their shock and sadness at the loss of their son. But rather than focus on just those feelings, they went on to write a very inspirational thank you to the community of Coronado.
Here is just a part of what the letter said:
“Our family has received over 300 cards, several from strangers. It is amazing to be wrapped in so much love and caring. This community is exceptional in many ways, the exquisite beauty of the area, the perfect climate, but the people are the shining jewel in this town.”
They ended the letter saying:
“We will always miss James and we will always ask why but from this suffering we have seen more love than we knew existed and we thank you all.”
Beyond all the glitz of the Hotel del Coronado, behind the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowd, and away from the day trippers on the beach there lies a community of people with deep spirit. A community that lends a hand, gives a hug, comes together in good times and bad and celebrates its victories and mourns its losses ~ together. This is my Coronado.