Recently, I found an article recommending couples should return to old ways of courtship to keep their relationship fresh and alive. Certain I’d discovered a source of vintage dating information, I eagerly read the seven points listed. I was quickly disappointed when all seven suggestions boiled down to one simple statement: put away the electronics and talk.
This is what the characters in my books already do. Nothing new and one of the reasons I enjoy writing about times gone by. One of the suggestions was to get in the car and go—no video games, no smart phones—just two people in a car reviving the long-ago practice of Sunday drives. This is something my husband and I used to do when we were dating and newly married. We would head in some direction, pick roads we didn’t know and wander aimlessly—eating when we were hungry, returning when we were tired. I thought it might be good to try it again.
We impetuously headed toward the coast. Carpinteria soon became our destination. It was the first time we’d attempted that journey since the devastating mudslides last winter. We were surprised work is ongoing. Our usual freeway entrance was closed. New overpasses are under construction at a couple of sites. Dirt is still piled along the freeway.
Nonetheless, we made our way to a hamburger stand we noticed on previous visits. The long lines turned out to have more to do with location, location, location than with their superior cuisine—they are the closest food stand to the beach at the end of Linden Avenue. I can recommend their French fries highly.
My favorite eatery in Carpinteria remains Nutbelly, also on Linden Avenue, despite the disturbing squirrel on their sign. Squirrels fall into the same category as rabbits for me—gardening adversaries.
We found this sign on our stroll to the business district. Oh no! Tsunami evacuation zone! Thankfully, only 100 feet beyond the sign, we were safe again. Funny thing, the road went downhill after the first sign. I’m certain if the ocean made it that far, it would keep going.
We stopped at a few stores along the way, an antique store, Roxanne’s quilt shop and finally, a charming pint-sized nursery, where I kept America green by purchasing a few succulents for a project I’ve planned since December.
Here is a charming little house I’ve noticed for years. It’s something of a model for Hannah’s house from Truer Beauty. I love the porch. It could use a rose bush growing alongside.
I’ve long fantasized about owning a cottage in Carpinteria. It’s still a small town. There are vintage homes within walking distance of the beach. It has a lovely climate, although it was a bit warm and humid the day we visited. There are definitely homes that could use some TLC. Maybe one day, I’ll be the person who restores one.
What not to do with your splendiferous Victorian home. Yes, those are gargoyles on the roof.
We made one more stop at Francisco’s on the 126 to get some fruit and veggies. They also carry my favorite honey flavor—avocado—dark and not too sweet.
It was a delightful day—good to get out of the house and share an experience. The car will always be my imagination machine. I returned with ideas for two blogs and the next part of my short story.
One last thing. I’ll share my completed succulent project. I do manage to finish something now and again—besides books!
