San Diego, Again

I'm sitting on Debbie's balcony that looks out onto the boats and palm trees of the Shelter Island marina drinking a cup of coffee in jeans, a t-shirt and bare feet. It's overcast but so much warmer than up north. I've been back 5 hours and have come to the conclusion that San Diego will always own my heart.

I feel I'm pretty happy up north in my new home. I love my house, the area is gorgeous and quiet. I get farm fresh food from the ranch just a few miles away, I've got a good job and I've made some wonderful friends.

As we circled San Diego to prepare for landing, I looked out towards Old Town and felt a rush of memories sieze me. My childhood and a good portion of my adult life was spent making memories here and I forget how much of a part of me it is until I come back and it's an overwhelming flood of emotions each time.

We landed in the commuter terminal and walked down the steps onto the tarmac. I looked left towards the harbor and the dowtown skyline and again felt a surge of memories and emotion.

Not to mention it was so warm! Even with overcast skies and "dreary" weather, it was so uplifting compared to the northern winter. After settling in at Debbie's place I went for a run on Shelter island, staring out at the harbor and the Pt. Loma penninsula. I could see the light house where Candace got married, and Cabrillo National Monument where her dad's ashes lie. My dad's ashes aren't too far from here, a mile out to sea off the coast of Ocean Beach... or where they once were. I suppose they could be clear across the world by now, drifting among plankton and kelp, weaving in and out of the gills of fish and sharks as they breathe.

I drove up the road to Trader Joes to get a couple things and it only took between 5 and 10 minutes. If I want to go to Trader Joes where I live, I drive 1 hour one way. As I climbed out of the car, the sun shone brightly on my face and the moment did not go by unappreciated. It was a quick easy trip, and the sun was warm and comforting. I realized it has been since being in Arizona for Thanksgiving that I have actually enjoyed being outdoors.

Which is where you'll find me now...sitting on the balcony listening to the world go about its usual business and waiting for Debbie to get home from work.

I'm reminded of a song by Death Cab For Cutie, except that song sounds more like being a stalker. "I will possess your heart" and I feel like San Diego does.