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Published: September 12th 2008
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Sunday, Sept. 7: San Luis Obispo
After blogging Sunday, I joined the hostel occupants for a lasagna meal. Everyone was in good spirits...the wine was a-flowin'...but I just wasn't feelin the crowd. There was one girl there, Claudia, from Switzerland with whom I quickly bonded. She and I decided to go into town-only a 6 block jaunt away, sadly, I forgot my camera. We landed at the Frog and Peach bar where it appeared a live band was setting up. This gave us more time to chat about our travels, experiences on the west coast, and our preferences in beer. I lucked out that she, too, likes Alaskan Amber. We ordered a pitcher and took in the scene; a laid back atmosphere with a smattering of different crowds. Once the music started I could not have been more pleased with our choice. The bands playing were Local Natives followed by Union Line. After playing their sets they were very interactive with the crowd which slowly dwindled to Claudia, myself, Levan- a fellow hostel goer from Belgium, and a couple others. The music, conversation and mexican food afterward was great!
Making it home late, I was ready to reast. Unfortunately,
as is a hazard in hostels, we had a snorer. I had forgotten to grab my ear plugs and resorted to the couch downstairs. This sleep was barely sufficient for the long drive ahead of me.
Monday, Sept. 9: The Mojave
All packed up and ready to go, I said goodbye to Claudia and hit the long and lonesome highway west. Only 30 minutes inland and the temperature was soaring. This made me realize my lack of good rest and I decided it would be wise to pull over and take a snooze. First Problem: The desert has no trees, and there is no way to nap in a car in the hot sun. Then I thought I could hike over to a tree and pitch a blanket. Second Problem: That tarantula I saw slowly making it's way across the road. I toughed it out for a bit and finally came to a town with a shopping center and some landscaping, which included a 4x4 patch of grass. I took this opportunity to reboot.
Making my way across the mojave desert, I tried to force myself to take it all in. To be able to remember
it in years to come. But, lo, what is there to remember? Hot. Dirt. Telephone wires. And that damn tarantula. Once I saw the mountains, I knew I was getting close. Wiped out I landed in Las Vegas, greeted by my lovely friend, Holly, and got a great nights rest.
Tuesday, Sept 9: Happy Birthday, Holly!
My day began slowly, as I slept in as late as possible. I fixed lunch and met up with Holly at her work for break. During this time we attempted to make plans for her birthday celebration, but, ultimately, decided to wing it. I layed low til she got off work and we headed into town to Gordon Birsch, a local brewery. Afterwards we walked around, tried on funky shoes and discovered a decorative fountain I demanded her to get in. Later on, at her apartment complex, we went swimming an hot tubbing. This allowed us to catch up on the past two years. I was great getting some quality time and celebrating her life and friendship!
Wednesday, Sept 10: Time to Chill
Today was a relaxed day which allowed me to catch up and prepare for the next leg. I met up with Holly once again for lunch and discussed our plans for the rest of the week. Afterwards I took my car in for an oil and tranny fluid change. Coming back to the apartments I soaked up some sun poolside and delved into my most recent read: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Lots on my mind these days, but nothing too burdensome. I know I am where I am supposed to be and in that I find great peace and joy. My heart is with those back home who have cheered me on so faithfully. And what I want more than anything is to do the same: Follow your hearts and seek the path God has laid for you. Don't be conformed to the ways of this world, instead LIVE DANGEROUSLY AND DREAM OFFENSIVELY! I love you all!
Uckas! XOXOX (((())))
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Amanda
non-member comment
Definitely Spam on Wheels!
Hello sister! I love reading about what you're up to on the road! (I've yet to actually worry about you!) I'm glad you and Holly had some good time together and look forward to your next entry! On a side note: Congratulations to baby James on his big accomplishment! Love to you all down in Texas!