How fortunate I am to live in one of the most beautiful places in the country. There’s been no shortage of ugliness in San Luis Obispo County, yet as soon as I round that curve going south on the 101 and the Pacific Ocean magically appears….I feel better instantly. While there are countless places that offer seaside access, my preferred spot is a residential street in Pismo Beach near the Marie Callendar’s restaurant. After parking I waddle down the seemingly endless stairs until I get to the sand. My pants always get soaked– I can’t be on a beach without at least making contact with the water– and there’s sand in my car for the next week. No matter how thoroughly I brush myself off both before and after getting into Wanda, sand manages to find its way into my apartment too. I can easily sit here for hours on end. It is a calm, safe, and happy place for me.
Because I didn’t discover this little slice of paradise until I had a vehicle, Adam’s never been here with me. I can’t wait to show it to him. When we pack a picnic lunch and bring Tatum he’s going to be so delighted. Although I’ve vacationed at the beach plenty of times I’ve never actually lived near the water, and Adam had never been to the beach prior to our arrival in California– so this is new experience for our little family. Some of the locals say you tire of the beach after a while. Honestly I don’t see how that could happen…ever.
I am blessed to see the wonder of creation around me. As soon as I catch that first glimpse of ocean, my entire mood is transformed. Optimism replaces pessimism; serenity replaces anxiety; faith replaces helplessness; quiet determination replaces anger; a feeling of contentment [albeit temporarily] eases my sorrow; and the sunshine warming my body and the breeze tickling my face replaces my isolation. I am not alone.
While I’m no photographer, I think these images fulfill my mission: showing you as best I can what I see from my vantage point. Even the most stunning shots typically don’t do a gorgeous place justice. I give thanks for living in a place of great beauty. Something tells me I wouldn’t be experiencing the full cathartic effect of nature if I lived in a place such as….Detroit. My sacred spot is the first family outing I have planned once I have recovered from my surgery.
10 days until Tatum arrives. <3
With infinite love, gratitude, and respect,
Sloane
