L.A.

Fortunately, my son, Daniel, had prepared me for the high cost of things. Housing seems to be about double the cost in Virginia Beach. We spent two weary days searching for an affordable place that met Daniel’s requirements (parking is a big concern and month-to-month is also scarce) and finally came up with a good option about half a mile from his work. He’s subletting half of an apartment so he gets exclusive use of a bedroom and bath plus shared use of the kitchen and living room–$1,300/month includes utilities, wifi, rooftop patio, and a large, reserved parking space in a covered garage big enough for his 4-Runner and motorcycle. 

The Hollywood sign towers over the city and frequently appears between buildings. Perhaps you get used to it but it seems so glamorous to think of Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn walking these same streets. In some ways, all of Los Angeles seems like a giant movie set just waiting for Angelina and Brad or tomorrow’s next star to walk through.

We took Sunday to slow down and drive around. The weather is pretty much always in the 70’s and sunny but Sunday was especially windy.
There were a lot people jogging and walking around at the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. I didn’t see anyone in the water which must be typical, freezing Pacific temperature. But the views were beautiful, the company was excellent, and I had a definite sense of satisfaction at having made it safely from coast-to-coast and having supported Daniel in his quest for a new beginning. 

“ Washington is not a place to live in. The rents are high, the food is bad, the dust is disgusting and the morals are deplorable. Go West, young man, go West and grow up with the country. ”
— Horace Greeley 7/13/1865