I am relearning the art of what used to be very natural for me–solitude. I still love the idea of it, but to be honest, am a bit intimidated by it these days. It’s difficult to set aside (or make myself set aside) time for it. The ocean makes me hold still the longest, so today I went to Malibu. This is my favorite beach there. In all of southern California, actually, at least at this point.

Rumor has it this beach functions as a nude beach during summer months.

But, scarf + coat = not summer and/or not nude:

I think half the fun of going to Malibu is the drive to get there. Since I live further north than I used to, I got to take the scenic route through the canyons. No photos….didn’t want to drive off a cliff.

Listened to Ryan Adams…Paper Route…The Pipettes…Chopin…Jan Kazcmarek…eclectic enough.

Good to get away. Good to come home. Good to feel like I have one.

For me, the skyline has changed.

When I drive back into the city after a long day out, I strain to see the skyline a few miles ahead. Looking to the horizon, my eyes trace the steady lights from the now familiar buildings that tower in the darkness–always facing the same direction they were facing when I left them last. Always in the same order. I’m able to spot the skyline off in the distance, but when I see it I don’t feel the same way I used to. The skyline isn’t exhilarating anymore.

Now, it’s comforting.