A place in the sun

My family moved to California in November of '08. I was left behind in order to continue attending school in Greenville, IL. We had known for a while that Cali was the next likely place for our family to live, so it was no real surprise when the "For Sale" sign went up in front yard of our St. Louis home. Although, I secretly loathed that sign. Several times I envisioned myself ripping the stake from the ground. The thought of scaring off possible home buyers by ranting and raving about in the front yard like a crazy woman came to mind as well. I always hated that whole process: waiting in my car outside the house, like some creep, trying to stay occupied with a book I had grabbed, while the prospective buyers took their sweet time criticizing my beloved home. It really put me in a bad mood...

Eventually I got over the whole possessive house thing and accepted it for what it was. I mean, it's family that makes a house a home right? And mine was moving. The destination definitely had me thinking. California...I mean, wow. It got a great response from people, tons of enthusiasm and remarks about jealousy and great weather. Good conversation for airplanes and what not too. And don't get me wrong, I was fully aware of the fact that I was basically moving to the coolest part of the country; a prime vacation spot with just about the prettiest views in the world. But people always failed to see what I struggled with. Hello, I have friends! And not friends that are good for a laugh or as a shopping buddy. These are strong relationships, bonds set deep with embarrassing middle school memories, late night baking, a shared faith, and mutual dislike for early mornings. In all seriousness these girls are the real deal. They're there for me, through thick and thin. Breakups, self esteem issues, you name it, they are there. And now I have to give that all up in return for phone call counseling and a once a year visit. No way Jose', I want chick flicks and late night talks in my kitchen on a regular basis, thank you very much. So, yea, that was a bit of a struggle for me.

But I'm out here now for the Summer, in the land of sun and surf. And it's beautiful, beyond compare. The sloping hill sides dotted with vineyards, the ocean vast and blue and sparkling like you wouldn't believe in the morning sunlight. And all the color that a year round tropical climate would bring. You wouldn't believe the flowers. And then there's the pastel beach cruisers coasting a long the boardwalks, the fresh produce of the farmer's market in tow. The hippies and homeless add their own color. Music along the streets, the blend of a dozen different ethnic foods wafting about. It's a sensory overload and something I never get bored of.

More to come from a place in the sun...