Neria visit

While out in CA, I made it to San Clemente to hook up with good friends Chris & Stacy Neria, whose house was under siege by their 3 daughters (Addison, Ashlyn, Avery), and the goodwill of many friends. If you don’t know, Stacy was one of 2 joggers hit by a driver in Dana Point in 2006, and suffered major injuries (click here), now in a wheelchair she steers with her chin. I had not seen them since just before her accident, so we had a lot to share. Here is what I came away with from the Neria’s: kids running around burning endless energy (with parents tuning out said noise), almost-finished Christmas decorations, great wine, Chris glancing at Sports Center while Stacy tells me a story, more chaos, family calling about holiday get togethers, screaming in the bathtub, etc. It sounded like my house or those of any number of friends. Obviously, Stacy’s situation is tragic-their lives are changed forever-but the normalcy of their home was quite comforting. I need to quit snivelin’ about my aches and pains, and what my kids do (and don’t do), and start loving more.

California observations

Some observations since I landed last night at John Wayne from a scintillating 5-hr middle seat flight, of course with seat in my lap. The weather is great here. Moon = cool, sun = warm, like it should be. In Florida, it’s more steambath or sauna.

It’s a beautiful day

Nice day at Four Arts park with my girls