Word of the month: “Apricity”
The feeling of being warmed by the sun on a winter’s day is described as “apricity”. Derived from Latin, it refers to the specific comfort of basking in the sun during the cold winter months—a rare and precious word for a wonderful sensation. (Mathew Rush)
What’s In A Name?
Names come from many sources and stay with us for life. In traditional times, they were often derived from physical surroundings. For example, Yarrandandi, an early resident of Pleasant Hills, likely had a name meaning "Pretty Boy Born Under A Yarran Tree" (Wiradjuri: Yarra for River Red Gum and dandi for male form of pretty).
In the Western world, names are often passed down from relatives, while others are coined from humorous or celebrity sources—like Peter Peters or Laurie Lawrence. Some parents choose double names or rhyming slang, which requires a bit of bravery for the child!
Interestingly, a suburb in San Francisco is also named “Pleasant Hill”. Initial research shows it has a high Chinese population and dates back to the Gold Rush times.
Vale: A Winter Visitor
Pleasant Hills’ long-time winter resident (a local bird) is no longer with us. After ten years of visiting from the mountains each winter, he passed away recently. He will be missed by those who kept scraps handy for him during the lean months.
Bob Marshall