Smoked Salmon?

I am now living 2,505 miles away from everyone who knows me and all my quirks. When we landed at the San Diego airport, I made a point to talk to myself in a whisper. I would often go through major life changes in total silence — just going through the motions. However, while I was walking through the passenger boarding bridge to the destination gate, I said, “I am going to be the highest expression of myself.” I had to hear the words reverberate out loud. It took so much planning, moving, and money to make this move happen. And now, it’s a story told. When putting in my address for basic forms or delivery service, I casually type the street name and zip code, as if I was always here. In some way, I think I was. 

I liken this move to the experience of becoming a parent. You wait nine long months to meet your bundle. So, by the time you hear your child call you mommy or daddy, it feels natural — your countenance agrees like, yes, that’s who I am. 

I daydreamed of palm trees and cool cafes while curled up on my oversized sectional in Virginia. There’s a zing in the air here. I can’t quite put my finger on it. But, the carefree nature of people and professionalism makes me smile. You’ll see a businessman with colorful socks and flip-flops having a casual conversation with a female colleague who mirrors his style. And the best part is, everyone is a “transplant” — a new term. On the West Coast, they call people who weren’t born here transplants, and I love it. Meeting someone who was actually born in San Diego is like going to Mars and seeing a Martian. You know they must be there, but meeting them is extra special. They know the lay of the land and all the best places that are Instagram-worthy. 

The past 9 days can be defined by one word: Amazon. Did I tell you that Amazon is my best friend? He knows what I like, suggests things I need, and brings me my packages within two days. We completely started over in this new apartment. Why? Because what’s a fresh start with old dishes? I wanted to feel completely brand new. No reminders of anything connected to 'once upon a time'. Chapter 2024 is all about newness and reinvention. 

Our apartment complex is such that your self-esteem immediately improves when you walk the floors and use the amenities. It doesn’t take more than a few days to hear yourself say, "Yeah, I deserve a hot jacuzzi after a long day. Of course, the mail room should shine a blue light on the package that's mine so there’s no confusion. What would I do without a 2,000-square-foot lounge or state-of-the-art 24-hour gym?" It’s surreal. And full disclosure, it makes me want to cry. Happy tears. Every day.

The sun comes up on the left side of my bedroom window. 

I found that the architecture in most buildings here includes wall-sized windows and it is a feast for the eyes. Oh, how thankful I am for this view… this life. Even when I am doing nothing, I remind myself that just being here is an answered prayer. 

My children are adjusting well. Every day they learn how much more independence they have here and it’s a treat to witness. Currently, I am at the Modern Times cafe, waiting for my youngest daughter, Mila, to meet with me and get some schoolwork done. In suburbia, I would never ask her to walk 15 minutes to meet me anywhere. Mainly because I am a proud 'hovercrafting parent'. But, in the city, youth independence is normal and gives them the chance to practice navigation and being responsible. However, I must admit that I do track their devices to make sure I can always get to them in the event of an emergency. When will I stop tracking their locations? I plead the fifth.

The Modern Times Cafe.

I passed by this restaurant yesterday in the rain. There was a beautiful girl at her laptop in the window and funky vibes inside — from what I could see. Turns out, being lost in the rain isn’t a bad thing. I told myself, “I am going back to write at that cafe tomorrow.” And here I am at the moment. I ordered avocado toast and the cashier asked, “Would you like smoked salmon on top? It’s really good.” I must admit that I did see that option and wasn't going to get it. But, there was something about her glee that suggested it was possibly an experience.

She was right! It hit every note and I will definitely be getting this delicious meal on toast again.

Before leaving the restaurant, I used the restroom. Have you truly lived if you haven’t sat on a heated toilet seat? The answer is no. When I walked in the restroom, I noticed a large, electronic toilet to my left. When I closed the door, the toilet seat lifted up on its own. I thought that was the end of toilet tricks until I sat down. Cue the oohs and ahhs. It was a perfect body temperature warm and I realized then and there… some cafes really do have it all. Perfect views. Bangin' avocado toast with smoked salmon. And a loo fit for royalty.