Venturing into a neighborhood not my own, I find quiet and space. But first, I look to the water that drew me to California so many years ago. I would never let go of my love affair with this state, despite the earthquakes, fires and high cost of living. What it has given me is more than what it could ever take away. It is important not to take this for granted, even when it's hard to do much outside of the house these pandemic days. For now, these walks are simple but satisfying.
The houses in this unfamiliar neighborhood remind me of visiting my relatives in northern and southern California. The variety of plants and house colors are a different palette than were in my home state. After each vacation, I would dream of a future home painted vibrant colors that glow in the pacific salted sun.
Here, I try to avoid the few humans I do see. I hear rustling beside me, thinking I was going to be caught unaware. I look over my shoulder to see two deer staring at me, curious but cautious. We watch each other assessing the closeness. Am I hindering their peaceful feeding time? Are they wondering what my next move will be? It is always the camera, my tool of unforgetting.
The houses in this unfamiliar neighborhood remind me of visiting my relatives in northern and southern California. The variety of plants and house colors are a different palette than were in my home state. After each vacation, I would dream of a future home painted vibrant colors that glow in the pacific salted sun.
Here, I try to avoid the few humans I do see. I hear rustling beside me, thinking I was going to be caught unaware. I look over my shoulder to see two deer staring at me, curious but cautious. We watch each other assessing the closeness. Am I hindering their peaceful feeding time? Are they wondering what my next move will be? It is always the camera, my tool of unforgetting.
