I went back to California recently to visit a friend, my first visit since 2022. All of my relatives have moved away, primarily due to the expense of living there.

We went to Cuyucas Beach, with a splendid view of Morro Rock. For many years I lived within 20 miles of the Pacific Ocean. It was always a calming influence to me, through many troubles and tribulations. It is good to look at something massive, that was there before you were born, and will be there long after.

I took the Amtrak train back to Salt Lake City, first on the Coast Starlight, then the California Zephyr. The agricultural fields were almost completely empty, no doubt due to the aggressive ICE raids in progress at this time.

I grew up in the Bay Area, and it was good to see Richmond and other places in Northern California. The Sierra Mountains were green and gorgeous, and I remember the times we went camping in Yosemite, rather casually. Someone would go up on Friday night and “reserve” three camping spots for the family. I fell into the Tuolumne River at age 12, but fortunately grabbed onto a rock while my little sister found someone to help.

It is good to be able to take time to reflect on life’s passage, and not just be “stunned by the hammer” (Baldwin) of the onslaught of daily events.