California holds a really incredible feeling for me. Warmth, joy, a deep appreciation for memories created there. And especially in Central CA where I've spent a lot of time working at a summer camp and exploring the area. When I go back there, I feel a sense of incredibly loving nostalgia. My friend Emily joined me on the trip and we went hiking through some rolling hills, and then up a big waterfall trail, we raided Trader Joe's twice, I took time to watch the clouds roll by and see the sunset's pink light reflect off the green hills and happy cows.
But I could never leave the PNW. It makes my heart hurt even to leave the little pocket of Walla Walla! On the plane home, I looked out the tiny window and saw the little Blue Mountains and our long endless roads, going to all corners of the valley. I ached for my home! For my husband, for Zuri Girl! The familiarity of home. Far away from busy cities and long commutes. Nick is applying for nursing schools in Portland, and the thought of leaving within the year sends a little bit of panic through my body. Finding a new job, new house, figuring out where I can do my grocery shopping. Little things really, but the familiar is so important to me.
I know eventually, the Hams will need to branch out and move somewhere else. Create a home elsewhere. Because we're young and we need to have lots of adventures and experiences, but oh my home! I need to be brave, but this bird loves a safe place to land.
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