california - and more specifically napa - has it figured out in some ways. the weather, their love of culture (and wine - OH THE WINE), and their appreciation of simple, wonderful, classic things.
and then, in other ways, i can't figure it out - housing prices, it's lack of available living spaces, and its separation between rich and those who live within millimeters of the poverty line. there's something within me that pains with acknowledgment of the disparity that exists in places so close to me. the visible and shocking way in which those who have, live directly alongside those who do not.
the plain reminder was sometimes a bit much. without the ability to help. do anything, really.
i should say, napa was beautiful - their landscape is unbelievable, and despite drought, it's golden hues were dream like.
and, of course, any small moments with my parents, are enough to calm a mind that is stressed.
that, i needed.