Every chance we get, getting away from our realities no matter how small the journey is a must. With the economy failing and the country falling around us, sometimes the tiniest of adventures can save the most sorrowful of souls.
We first encountered Morro Bay for a brief afternoon on our trip up Coast Highway. This time around, we stayed the weekend. The bay is so peaceful. A small stretch of a boating community, a few fresh catch seafood restaurants, and just sea and fog surround your view of Morro Rock as you enjoy a glass of wine by the crackling fire in your modest hotel room. The mood of the weekend: rest and relaxation.
Just a few miles down the road, you glimpse a view of wealth and power; Hearst Castle. It was my first true sight of old Hollywood. Walking the halls and grounds, you can only imagine the brilliance of those who were there before you. Walt Disney, Humphrey Bogart, Eisenhower, Mickey Mantle, Marlon Brando, the Parker Bros. Within the walls you can just feel the essence of all the story-telling, you can see the networking amongst businessmen. Hollywood today fails in comparison. This castle nestled high on the hills of San Simeon, just above the clouds, truly was a magical place. How I would've loved to have seen it bustling with characters.
California is a wonder. Los Angeles to San Diego is such a hustle. The south is a pulsing metropolis of strangers just trying to get by. But further north, in Central and Northern Cali, live the small harbor communities where everybody knows your name. Where just living and loving are fulfilling enough, where the beauty of nature prevails, and all one needs to do is simply be to find happiness. Who knew that happiness was just a car ride away.
