Coming into 2020 we heard about a virus in China, but did not give it much thought. Proceeded to fly to Hong Kong and the masks and temperature checks we brushed off as cultural. On to Vietnam where we enjoyed the energy and new experiences. We flew back to Japan for a few days and got to know Tokyo, need to return. Other trips to Southern Cal and then Vegas, we keep hearing about the virus but moved on unimpeded. But Vegas…it got real, not as many people and the P-12 tournament was halted. It felt like the virus was chasing us home. And into a lock down.
Lisa’s family contracted the virus and Ron into ICU, we hunkered down and prayed for them. We got a dog, Josie and spent our new free time with her. We gardened more, walked more, read more and as summer came the virus faded. Restaurants re-opened. Things seemed to get better, and then they got worse. We booked an AirBnb in Del Mar, figured we could drive with the dog and isolate in So Cal.
So with governments advising only small gatherings and immediate family, we roasted a turkey in the rental with our boys. Zack and I visited clients the following week in the LA basin, masked and socially distanced. Lumber it seems is immune to the economic pressures caused by the pandemic. Everyone wants a sauna in their backyard, or a deck, or fence. In fact it’s a lumber and housing boom.
The last few weeks Jan and I chilled in this lovely village of Del Mar, lots of walks, sand, beach, sunsets, coffee, a little take out and a lot of cooking in. Picking oranges, limes, lemons and guava. Our song for this trip: La La Land by Bryce Vine & YG. “Come and waste your time with me in California” It was not a waste, it was a revival, lots of Vitamin D, good for the soul. Will we be back? Maybe, but we will get beyond this pandemic and things will be different. I will always look back at the cool vibe here with great memories, positive energy; glad we were able to be locals for a few weeks.