Twenty-Six Miles Across the Sea

Well, it sure has been one of those weeks for southern California landmarks. One of the unique spots of southern California is the town of Avalon on Catalina Island. Avalon feels like nothing else in California; it feels like Europe. At least it does to me.

We don't get out to Catalina nearly often enough, but when we do we always enjoy the relaxing atmosphere that envelopes you when you step off of the ferry, 26 miles off the coast of Long Beach. Avalon is a great place to take someone for a romantic weekend, as the island is beautiful, the town is quaint and there is not a damn thing to do there, except rent a golf cart and putter around the city area (very few actual cars on Catalina which is one thing that adds to the atmosphere) or sit at one of the bars on the boardwalk drinking and people watching.

So, we were shocked to turn on the TV yesterday and see the island in flames that were slowly making their way to Avalon. It would have been a real shame to have lost such a special place and I'm heartened to see today that they have the blaze under control.

I think a weekend to Catalina might just be in the cards for this summer. Strange how the thought of losing something you take for granted makes you want to experience it again.