Desert to Ocean

From the Arizona bone dry desert, to California. Phoenix was a pleasant stop over, I really felt like resting so I did. Had plans to go to Sedona or the Grand Canyon, however my hotel room was just too comfortable. I like Phoenix, there's a great coffee shop called Lux that is one of the top ten coffee shops I have ever been to.

Today was another adventure. My car starting stalling this morning but I decided to trek on. Driving in fear, I just wanted to make it to Redondo Beach, after that my car could break down. An hour outside of LA, my car went kaput. Luckily I got off an exit and wasn't road kill. Had someone tow me 20 miles(what my policy covered). Brian was the name of the tow guy, he started telling me about his tow business and I was glad for some company and learning a little about this stranger. I wasn't the only one with problems. I always know this intellectually but its a good reminder to experience it. He is working like a dog to get his towing business off the ground. He works seven days a week and is on call for a lot of that. More bad news at the car shop. My car needs 1300$ worth of work and I could be completely gouged, but they know I am driving cross country and my options are limited.

My friends pick me up out in Anaheim and we go back to Redondo. The cool breeze of the ocean air feels so refreshing, especially after the desert. I see some whales peeking out of the trees.

 Its time for a hearty Italian meal and I gorge on stuffed shells, chicken parmigan, and spicy sausage pasta. Then its time for a bike ride. I love bike rides. There is no way to be unhappy riding a bike in a beautiful place as the sun sets.

I made it. Got to live another day. It wasn't perfect but it worked out. So glad I had a friend to greet me and take me bike riding, that my car didn't stall in the middle of the highway. That someone could tow me, that I am near the ocean and out of the desert. Tomorrow is a new day. Start of a new California dream. You might even see me cruising around in this.