Stargazers...

Last night we tried to escape the bright city lights, the infamous marine layer, and smoke from a nearby fire, in an effort to watch some falling stars. Our wonderful neighbors joined us on the quest. After sampling a few spots, we finally settled on a flat dusty pull-out, high in the hills above Santa Barbara. Though we could still see the faint glow of the city below, it was dark enough for us to witness a few of nature's fireworks. Mixed with the excitement that came from announcing a sighting, was this underlying tone of youthfulness. In many ways, we were all transported back in time in our minds, as we reminisced childhood stargazing parties and camp outs in the yard. I had forgotten how mesmerizing the night sky can be. Thankfully, our spontaneity allowed us to rediscover those feelings, and to reconnect with the innocent part of our selves that still believes in the magic of falling stars.