Rain!

We woke up yesterday morning to wet streets, driveways and sidewalks, but this morning there was real rain!

Our neighbor's flat garage roof has puddles on it! Rhythmic little thud sounds come from the rain drops hitting the skylight in the living room. I especially love the hiss of tires on the street - that sound is absolutely RAIN to me.

Today would be a great day to go down to Scotty's on the Strand for lunch. Nothing fancy - maybe a grilled cheese and bacon sandwich - just to get the chance to sit by one of their big windows and look out at the sea.

Scotty's has a great and simple view - window, sidewalk, sand. The beach in rain or in what passes for winter out here is spectacularly deserted. The sand curves in windblown drifts, the Hermosa Beach pier looks as if it goes out to sea forever. What few people there are out are anxious to get back in. They walk briskly, not a slow-paced stroller among them.

Grey skies, gusts of wind and rain! What a gorgeous day!