Winter Wanderings
- February 17th 2008
- Uncategorized
While much of the United States is stuck in a midwinter chill, dreaming of tropical places, I am thoroughly enjoying the blissful beauty that is the desert travel season. In the Southwest part of the United States, spring is breaking forth in a budding of green everywhere. Recently on a drive out to Palm Springs I reveled in the beauty of the giant white windmills dancing silently against a normally drab landscape magically turned green.
This is my favorite time of year in Southern California. It’s the lowest point in the tourist season, but it’s the time when the beauty of the land truly comes out. Santa Anna winds, which blow inland from the sea during the summer and cause tourist and native lungs to clog with Los Angeles smog, have reversed due to the warmer water off the coast (brought in by the Gulf Stream moving North). These strong gusts now blow the air clear of particulates and enables even my allergy-infested aunt to venture inland. The rainy season, which is typified in Southern California by an average of one rainstorm a week, usually at night, is upon us and makes the drought tolerant native plants bloom and bud in their frenzy to do as much work as possible during their short growing season. While sitting outside at a local cafe, the gray bush that has been simply erosion control for the past 9 months is suddenly a fragrant lavender bush that wafts soothing smells your way.
It’s also a great time to get outside and explore the offerings that Southern California has. Since it’s colder out, all the mountain resorts are making snow full-blast and good skiing is easy to be had. Also, the change in the Gulf Stream that occurs when the planet tilts away from the sun causes the temperature in the off-coast water to rise. Which means that winter is the best time to go surfing, just bring a towel for when you get out. Rain has caused all the wildlife to come out so hiking and walking are extra special at this time of year. Finally, if you’re into amusement parks, they offer specials to locals since this is a low season for them. Not only do you get a cheaper deal, you also get an emptier park. Why would anyone go to Disneyland in July if they can go in February or March?
So, if you can, wander this winter. Get out there, do things, enjoy yourself. Although the days may be shorter, they’re gradually getting longer now and we’re on the upward climb towards Solstice so you will have more and more time each day to do things. Leave all those long hours at the office until Summer. That way you can make work pay for the air conditioning.
The second paragraph is a lovely description of Southern California. Makes me want to hop a flight out west…and to warm weather. I hate the cold!