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| Took the backroads to San Juan Bautista... |
A few years ago, I decided to set down roots in my town. I got a new job at a school downtown. And, my two hour daily commute ended. Slowly, I started to make connections with folks at school. As an introvert, it wasn't easy. But, my school was and is a parent participation charter. Parents helped out in my classroom, and over time, I got to know neighbors and colleagues. In other words, I became a part of the community.
Today really brought that idea home. My car winshield is broken, but I wanted to visit some stops at San Benito County's Open Studios. So, I scooted off on the Vespa towards San Juan Bautista. There I was able to eat lunch at the Io family's new restaurant, Inaka. In front of the restaurant was former student, Owen, and his dad. They were buying a new tiled mirror for their home. And, coincidentally, as I sat down for lunch, I ran into Kim and her parents there. I haven't seen Kim in a couple of years. We taught together at my old school. It was great to catch up, and to chat. Lunch was super tasty, and Dave treated us to heavenly mochi for dessert. The interior of the restaurant was lovely, and carefully designed. It was an absolute pleasure to dine there.
The ride back over the hillside was breathtaking. There is a small eucalyptus forest just outside of Aromas, and the heat of the day made it smell amazing. Open Studios was fabulous. I bought some earrings from Diedre Kmetovic, and then spotted a sculpted head at Sally Diggory's studio. It was fun to see where Sally works, and to see her pieces in person. By the way, she is Dave Io's mother-in-law. And, she is my former student, Felix's grandma. Small world, eh?
The drive home was full of a gentle mist from sprinklers in the fields.
