Gold Mine in the Sky

Here is a picture J took on her trip to Paris - I mean, Las Vegas.
Despite the sunny skies, many of us long to escape to warmer climes. I'm still feeling generally apathetic in life so would rather wait until I get some verve before I go on a trip for fun. Hate to waste a warm sunny place feeling grey inside. Started a new medication and am now on the "wait and see" or "wait and feel" plan. The drug has one major possible side effect of a potentially fatal skin rash. Not a drug you would want to take casually.
Back to trip talk. We've been considering the coast for a quick trip. Not a warm place, but the ocean has it's appeal in all seasons. When I first moved to the glorious Northwest, I thought the ocean was right here, like it was in the Bay Area. I live by the water, it's cold and salty, there are ships here - how far could the ocean be? Far. If I had a boat and could take it as the crow flies, maybe it wouldn't take too long, but to drive to the ocean from our little island is like a three or four hour drive. Not exactly a day trip. So we are thinking of making a long weekend and touring the coastal area of our fair state. Or maybe we'll just get on a plane and go to the American Southwest where temperatures are currently 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
In other news, I will be taking another family ob trip to California. States continue to deteriorate, mental and physical. Middle sister carrying a heavy load which I am bound to share. We are each thankfully and gratefully blessed with wonderful partners so the load is eased a bit. J knowingly entered into this relationship knowing I was schlepping a set of luggage and she has most generously and thoughtfully helped to carry it. God bless her and her curly hair.
The Citizen's Academy has been fun and informative. The three hours have run over both nights so far and I was still eager for more. Class is also way better when you're not working for a grade.
Hope you are comfortable wherever you are. Keep on keeping on!