The Count Down

Saint Monica watching over Santa Monica

Why is it that I am now getting back to blogging as the time of departure grows near? This odyssey isn't over yet, but the time in Santa Monica is drawing to a close. We fly out to the Northwest on March 31 and return on April 4 to get into the car and start our trip eastward.

Have I mentioned I LOVE Santa Monica?!! However, living a temporary existence, even in paradise, makes me a little antsy. I miss my friends, my routine and my identity. We have met some really nice people during our stay, and the people in Santa Monica are generally very friendly, however, the short time here doesn't really promote "bonding."

On the upside, I have reconnected with lots of people. Not the least of which is spending some "quality" time with Claire. Then there is Sarah, Matt and Helena; Pete and Judy; Dave and June; Don and Sherrie who live here and were from "past lives." And also those who "came through" like Peggy; Liz and Gerry; Jen and Dru; and Laura and Dick. So, I haven't been lonely.

I made a list of stuff I wanted to do when we came here. I am almost completely through it. To mention a few: We've been to the Geffen and saw a dynamite play; went to a TV show; visited downtown LA and saw the Disney Concert Hall; hiked at Will Rogers State Park; saw a Wright house; visited the canals of Venice, CA; ate at Phillipe's (where the French Dip Sandwich was invented); saw Pacific Ocean sunsets; saw Ben Affleck on the street (but didn't see Larry David); heard Henry Mancini's daughter sing Moon River and her awesome saxophonists play the Theme from Peter Gunn. What is left? Going to see the TV game show Jeopardy! (going tomorrow); riding bikes on the beach (Wednesday); and eating at Baby Blues Bar-B-Q in Venice.

So much to do, so little time.