Big Sur

I just returned from a vacation in Big Sur. Big Sur is my favorite place in California. Everything about it from the rugged coastline to the canopy of trees and quiet streams indulges my senses. When I am in Big Sur I can breathe. Traffic on the highway barely exists, people are friendly, and everything just slows down so you can feel it. There is this very slow and harmonious pulse that beats beneath the surface. It connects you to the life in everything surrounding you. The condors, the rough ocean, the jagged cliffs, the wise old trees, and tiny creatures that poke their heads out of brush all come together.

I grew up in Los Angeles. I am a product of sunshine, boogie boards, and hustle and bustle. Before I turned 25 I do not think I ever could of lived somewhere slow and quiet. I was so used to feeling like I was falling behind everyone else, that a slower paced life would force me to confront stillness. I have spent most of my life afraid to confront that place where I am good enough,pretty enough, thin enough, rich enough, happy enough, and not trying to keep up. Somewhere between turning twenty five and thirty I found a better way to live. I have slowed way down. If my pants do not fit then I grab the bigger pair that week. Who cares. If my bank account is thin, I eat lots of tater tots. Spending time with a few friends really connecting is so much more important to me then trying to fit everyone in one day. I think that slowing down my life has allowed me to connect with people and myself more effortlessly.

Having a wonderful boyfriend who is my best friend has helped. He has seen me at my best and at my worst. He has followed my ups and downs with steady support and positive encouragement. We are both creative people and I think he understands how much that effects the quality of life I want to have. He has been this great support system that has allowed me to see clearly in the moment. It is hard when you are having bad moments. I guess he doesn't judge me...at least not out loud. That is what enables us to connect and share over and over again.

Big Sur reminds me that I do not have to catch up to people around me. Things are always changing in people's lives.  Who we love, where we work, where we live, having kids, getting sick and so much more. Why try to push forward so forcefully when tomorrow anything could happen to change our plans. I have recommitted to staying true to passions while challenging my fears....without driving myself crazy!

Deep breathes, good times with friends, connecting with all my families, learning to find that important sense of freedom and aloneness in love, and eating delicious cheese are my current points of focus. Also... lots of sushi.

Point Lobos State Reserve

Those are Elephant seals at San Simeon!

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park