Changes in Latitudes

We enjoy being able to travel to many interesting places through the Marriott Vacation Club Timeshare program (yes, that is a plug for a great program). Vacation provides necessary time to recharge batteries and gain new perspectives. Right now we are in Palm Springs ending a week's stay. Here are some observations on the trip.

The desert setting is beautiful, and weather is usually crystal clear and sunny. Mountains surround the desert valley, creating beautiful vistas in all directions. The history of the area is fascinating, from the Aqua Caliente indians to the early history of Palm Springs as a vacation spot. We hiked in the Indian Canyons area, with its palm oases and mountain views. I feel drawn to this area by the sunny weather and the wilderness areas beckoning in every direction.





The area has many cultural and ethnic dimensions which we are not exposed to as often. Hispanics, native americans, and asian influences intermingle with more traditional American cultures. On a trip to the outlets, we hear many non-english converations. It's wonderful; we try not to let our curiosity show.

This week southern California has been pestered by an oddity for this area a cutoff low pressure system, creating nearly a week of rainy weather. It has not affected weather in the desert as much. But Southern California TV news has been saturated with coverage of.....rain. Reporters are scattered around the area doing live remotes, and there are frequent cutaways to the weather person who gives detailed radar updates being pummeled by, omigosh, heavy rain and lighting strikes. The area has very little rain most of the time. So, prolonged rain gets the type of coverage which in the east would be reserved for heavy snow or tornadoes. I envy the sunny, bug free weather here. But the obsessive rain news coverage seems odd to us easterners.

Vacation is a time to relax, reflect, and change the routine. Home seems to involve nearly nonstop obligatory activity. Something is always competing for our attention. Not all of it is important, though it seems urgent at the time. It requires extra effort to maintain focus on true priorities, such as faith, family, and awareness of others. Vacation helps restore the balance. We don't have to go to work, walk the dogs, mow the lawn, run errands for Dad, and answer as many e-mails.



Vacations are a good thing. Even short breaks in the home routine, such as a walk in Bittersweet Woods, are healthy, too. I think I need a break from writing this, too. Bye. Talk later.