November 22, 2006
Guilty with an explanation
The title of this movement says it all: “Act.”
A week and a half without a blog posting? How irresponsible of me. But life is not quite normal right now, and in a newly chaotic swirl of changing seas, a few strands of kelp passed by without a report. They float along just the same, regardless of my musings. I float along less enriched without them.
The news: I’m moving to new kelp, in different waters. In less than three weeks.
Charles and I decided months ago that despite our great love for the immediate environments in which we live, Malibu and Santa Barbara, our temperments were no longer suited for life in the larger world of southern California. There are a myriad of reasons why, but to avoid a pedantic, whining tirade I’ll be brief and simply say that the area has reached yet another tipping point. Too many people in too small a space with too few resources. Sociologically, this does not always bring out the best in people. If one more driver honks at me while I wait for a pedestrian to cross the street rather than mow them down in the crosswalk, I will get out of my car and scream. Or worse. There are healthier ways to live. And we’re choosing one of them.
This, above, is the ride I’ll be trading for Los Angeles’ congested streets and freeways: The Washington State Ferry, headed back to the mainland yesterday, as Charles and I returned from what will be our new home on San Juan Island. It was exceedingly windy and exhilarating. And whether one sits snugly inside with a book or laptop, or braces against the gusts in awe of the view, there is a general sense of peace and calmness that floats like kelp among the people here. I already feel like I’m home.
Robert Gable said,
November 22, 2006 @ 11:23 pm
Living halfway between the two in the Bay Area, I have to say it’s an interesting trade. One is clearly more peaceful and one more stimulating. I could argue either side. Good luck.
Alex Shapiro said,
November 22, 2006 @ 11:49 pm
Thanks, Robert. This blog will be a good way to share the observations and experiences…
Alex
ACB said,
November 25, 2006 @ 7:49 am
How wonderful! In my past life in Seattle, a group of us had a dream of buying enough acreage for a four-family compound up there. That’s not going to happen now, but I will be visiting often, I hope! If you haven’t already, take a night kayak paddle and check out the fosfourescent (sp?) algea.
Congrats on taking action!
Dave Sartor said,
November 27, 2006 @ 11:28 am
Wow!
(dramatic pause)
It sounds like life-changing decisions are playing out. During this time of upheaval, I wish you peace – and a pain-free back!
May your new digs offer a creative environment leading to many more Shapiro masterpieces.
Sempre forte,
Dave
Alex Shapiro said,
November 27, 2006 @ 3:41 pm
Thanks, Anne-Carolyn and David. Night kayaking– absolutely! I have a fond memory of phosphorescent algae: on Catalina Island, off the coast of Los Angeles, they use sea water to fill their toilet tanks. I always love going into a bathroom there, shutting the door, turning off the light, opening the lid, and… flushing: a private light show!
If you’re ever up in the area visiting, you have to contact me!
🙂
Alex