Got to experience the not-so-glamorous side of Orange County this week – apparently, Consolidated Waste Services’ HQ isn’t Laguna Beach. A week of installs and good meals gave the sense that everyday California isn’t much different from many other places around the country and day to day suburbia is alive and kicking from coast to coast. Nothing crazy, got to see Goldi and Seema last night and Jen’s friend Sari and her fiancée Michael on Wednesday. My coworker who went out with us both nights probably won’t ever want to hear wedding talk again – Goldi got married two weeks before us, and Sari ties the knot in November, so wedding and newlywed talk was rampant. God, that sounds old. The highlight of the trip, other than seeing friends, was unquestionably lunch at In-N-Out Burger. Since Avi introduced to this oasis nearly 10 years ago in San Diego, it’s a must-have for any trip out west. I’m actually disappointed I flew out so early on Friday, thus not being able to bag a couple for the trip back home for dinner (oh yes, that’s been done before, on the redeye to boot). For those who haven’t had it and are flying west of the Rockies, Google yourself one of their locations, then find out all the stuff that’s not on the menu (since the menu only has Single, Double, Fries, Soda, and Shake on it). Do it, don’t think about the caloric intake, and enjoy one hell of a meal. You can thank me by bringing me back a Double Double (or Triple Triple) Animal Style.
Part II
The trip also confirmed that my family and friends have it right when they leave within a stone’s throw from the coast – any coast, apparently. The Lefevers lived within stumbling distance from the beach in Santa Monica for awhile until heading back east, and Avi and Jeanie are somewhat proximal to the Pacific Beach area of San Diego, one of my favorite destinations. Makes you wonder what those in Eufaulu, OK (just passed at 30,000 ft) think when they get their first taste of salt air and mother ocean – and why they head back to middle America. I suppose my incomprehension means I’m just meant to be near the sea.
Got to watch USC take one to the chin from Oregon State, in Mark Sanchez’s stomping ground no less – the same Oregon State team that the boys from State College thrashed 45-3 in Happy Valley a few weeks ago. Another good sports weekend looms – Phils, Brewers, and the Choke Artists Formerly Known as the Mets fighting for two playoff spots this final weekend, with the Phils a game up on both. PSU on national TV Saturday night against ranked Illinois. Dallas on national TV at 4pm on Sunday, looking for their 764th victory in the last 10 years against the Redskins (remember when this actually used to be a competitive rivalry?). Even the Beagles have a national game Sunday night, in what is going to amount to a crazy Sunday for lots of people in the Delaware Valley.
The trip also confirmed that my family and friends have it right when they leave within a stone’s throw from the coast – any coast, apparently. The Lefevers lived within stumbling distance from the beach in Santa Monica for awhile until heading back east, and Avi and Jeanie are somewhat proximal to the Pacific Beach area of San Diego, one of my favorite destinations. Makes you wonder what those in Eufaulu, OK (just passed at 30,000 ft) think when they get their first taste of salt air and mother ocean – and why they head back to middle America. I suppose my incomprehension means I’m just meant to be near the sea.
Got to watch USC take one to the chin from Oregon State, in Mark Sanchez’s stomping ground no less – the same Oregon State team that the boys from State College thrashed 45-3 in Happy Valley a few weeks ago. Another good sports weekend looms – Phils, Brewers, and the Choke Artists Formerly Known as the Mets fighting for two playoff spots this final weekend, with the Phils a game up on both. PSU on national TV Saturday night against ranked Illinois. Dallas on national TV at 4pm on Sunday, looking for their 764th victory in the last 10 years against the Redskins (remember when this actually used to be a competitive rivalry?). Even the Beagles have a national game Sunday night, in what is going to amount to a crazy Sunday for lots of people in the Delaware Valley.
P.S. Speaking of Jersey, this was the license plate I saw parked down the street from Sari's house - I don't know why the hell I didn't steal it...
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