In the clouds

Dear Friends,

I had the best day last week. Tara and I went to our favorite trail, on Mount Laguna. We only brought our younger dog, Hana, because the older dog is too frail to hike anymore. So that was a bit sad, but mom stayed home with the old fart.

That day was the coldest of the season so far. It had rained the day before, and we ran into patches of mist and rain on the scenic drive east. The scenery was so beautiful as usual, and as we got to the mountain town Julian, there were so many trees with fall colors. We headed through Julian to the Sunrise Highway, and the landscape grew more dramatic, with sweeping views over hills and valleys. The whole drive was accompanied by our favorite true crime podcast. It was all very cozy on a chilly gloomy day.

We parked by a fantastic viewpoint. The view there is absolutely spectacular. It is so refreshing to my soul. It sweeps out over the Anza Borrego Desert, a distant expanse under blue skies while we looked down from under thick clouds.

Then we hiked along the trail, that view to our side. In the hills ahead, bursts of golden foliage shone among the dense greenery. It was chilly and windy and mostly gray, and I was so thrilled to be out in it. The trail is so special to me, as we have had memorable family hikes here over the years. And its rugged and expansive beauty always moves my soul. I was so happy that I giggled and ran at times. Tara and Hana usually were behind me, so I could feel like I was on my own for a bit. That is so rare for me, and I relished it.

Then we went to Julian for lunch and pie. I love the pie there! But I was exhausted. I slept most of the drive home.

That day has been in my mind since. I really needed to get away to somewhere inspiring and out of my routine. This was perfect.

I have not been posting as much because I am low in energy these days. I am also working to unveil a new offering next week. So stay tuned!

What is a day you like to escape to for a day or so? I hope you are all doing well and enjoying fall!

Your Friend,

Danny