THE LONGING

How do you compare apples to oranges? Is it possible that while eating an apple and completely enjoying it, you could suddenly have such a longing for the sweet citrus of an orange that you want to put the apple down mid-bite to delight in the orange? Comparing apples to oranges is so cliche, but it is the only way I can think of to compare rural Southeast Georgia to Los Angeles. Today, I am longing for L.A.
I had big plans to write something funny today, but my mood is pensive. Maybe it is because I cannot get L.A. off my mind. Tom and I shared a bottle of wine last night after putting the babies to bed and we took a walk down memory lane. The biggest life changing events took place for me in Santa Monica, California.
1. I advanced to the best job of my life.
2. I met and MARRIED my amazing husband. For those of you who met me already married, you have no idea what a miracle it really is that I finally dated and married the RIGHT kind of guy.
3. I gave birth to my first born child, the second love of my life. My little surfer boy!

Then we left. I did not intend to leave; it just happened. We traded one set of benefits for another.
Here I get to stay home with my babies. There I would work full-time. That is the biggest benefit I can think of. I have TIME with them.
What I miss?
Ocean air kissing my face while I run on the beach.
Mountains.
Hiking every weekend.
Pete's coffee only a walk away.
The "chill" atmosphere.
Any store you name only a stone throw away.
The taste of authentic mexican food.
Amazingly fresh farmer's market every weekend.
Main Street Santa Monica and Montana Avenue shops.
My few but special friends.

This missing is just today. Because as I prepare for our trip, I let myself remember what I loved. I may be a rare person but I REALLY LOVE L.A.