Au revoir 2017

Last year at this time I was worried about the impact of the incoming presidency. Unfortunately our worst fears have been surpassed. I always imagined that America's system of three branches of government would provide the checks and balances to outweigh the ignorance or ineptitude of the chief executive. I was wrong. And we have seen America's reputation in the world sorely tarnished. Never have we seen racism, sexism, and xenophobia unleashed by a public figure interested only in himself and his personal fortune. Who knows what horrors lie ahead as the tweeter-in-chief enrages our enemies. It is embarrassing and frightening to be an American right now.

But enough of politics. We are all fed up with 24 hour news coverage that staggers from one outrage to the next.

My brother, Joe Aragon

On a more personal note, my year had its ups and downs. My younger brother Joe died in March. Far too soon for a man of such talent and charisma. He is dearly missed.

On a far happier note, my son Eric finished his PhD in Chinese Medicine, receiving his degree from Hong Kong Baptist University - the only westerner in his class. Needless to say, I am extraordinarily proud that both of my sons have earned the title "Dr. Brand."

With his arduous studies behind him, Eric married the beautiful Shuchen Yeh in Taiwan. Their wedding included some fascinating traditional rituals such as serving tea to the parents before the wedding. Eric and Shuchen now split their time between Taipei and Boulder.

I spent a lot of time taking photographs in 2017, but probably my favorite photo expedition was in August when my friend Margo joined me to photograph the total solar eclipse visible just south of Portland. 

Besides the total eclipse, 2017 also included other firsts for me. In September I visited Vancouver B.C. with friend Cindy Gration. 

What a great city to explore on foot and via bicycle!

Finally, in November, I traveled to Cuba with a small group to discover the rhythms of Cuban music with lessons in drumming, song, and dance. 

 When I wasn't making music, I spent hours walking through Havana, camera in hand.

And after a week in Havana, we traveled to the Viñales valley and visited a tobacco farm with cultivation methods hundreds of years old. Fascinated, we watched as our host demonstrated the art of rolling cigars. Dipping the end in honey resulted in a sweet smoke!