WALKING MY WAYS.

WALKING MY WAYS. Last week I had house guests. Which I always enjoy. For many reasons. One being that we visit some of my favorite places. Including Nepenthe, in Big Sur, which we drove to on Friday. Assuming there would be no line. How wrong we were! But after managing to find a parking space, and receiving our pager, and waiting for an hour, we were given a wonderful table. Only then, did we begin to scrutinize the menu.

Which is always a joy. As Nepenthe has an appealing selection. Delicious, wholesome and easy on the eyes. Especially its Ambrosia burgers and french fries, which are always a treat. Of course, the sitting and eating are only a small part of its wide range of amenities. 360 degree views in every direction. Hills. Mountains. Trees. Valleys. Ocean. Birds. Guests. Staff. Umbrellas. Colors. Wherever one looks, one gets rewarded. Whether sitting inside, and being awed by its amazing and overpowering wooden architecture. Or outside, and being enlightened by the stunning views.

Of course, after lunch, or before, depending on our time, we were exposed to another prize. Namely, the Phoenix, Nepenthe’s breathtaking gift shop. With its bountiful array of attractions. Many made in Big Sur. From Jewelry and toys to wind chimes and books. Suitable for all ages. And sexes. And cultures. Always a delight. Especially, if made by hand. And always intriguing. And if one goes downstairs, one is surrounded by an additional display of colorful and woven fabrics. Definitely not cheap. But also unique.

In any event, eventually we made it back to our car. And began negotiating the endless curves and bridges, driving back to Carmel. And possibly visiting more shopping opportunities, in Carmel. For my guests. Not me. Opportunities, which are never ending. And always intriguing. Like the Carmel Bay Company. Which is almost as alluring as the Phoenix. In its originality and variety. On the other hand, finally returning home, and taking a nap, is another form of satisfaction. For me. Always. Finis.