My mother has been up for two weeks but I sadly haven't been well. Yesterday I got together all my energy for her last day in California. We decided to go for a walk around the area we used to live with her, my brother and his wife.
We first went to Bodega Louie in Downtown LA for delicious Portabello Fries, and pizza, then we drove to Highland Park.
We lived in Highland Park for a year in 2000. (Before moving back to Massachusetts, to Maine, back to California, back to Maine, and then back to Los Angeles again.) It really has changed in 20 years. The neighborhood where a guy kept trying to get me in his van; has become a hip hipster hippotropolis. We didn't spend much time there, we took the train to Old Pasedena. But I still want to spend more time another day.
We used to frequent Pasedena when we lived in Highland Park. It was easier to get to than other places
Old Town Pasedena has become less "old" over time; but it still has it's charms. This is one area in LA I would live if I could afford it. The combination of great culture, and tree-lined streets surrounded by nature, creates a calm yet inspiring environment.
I haven't been to Pasedena since a friend that lived there died. Even during yesterday's visit I thought of her everywhere we went. She was with me the last time I visited each of these towns. It is hard to keep from being sad, but one must make new memories; however hard it is.
We ended the night in South Pasadena; probably my favorite between the three neighborhoods. It is calmer than Pasedena and more covered in trees. We used to walk there when we lived in Highland Park; I forget how long a walk it was. It did not have half the activity then that it does now. The cafe where I used to see free music is still there; although with a new name and new ownership.
We ended the night shopping at a few local stores before taking the train back. I need to take the train more; explore the foothill towns. Perhaps I will share my adventures here.
