Santa Cruz 2019 — Rosie Manock

“… And it is an interesting biological fact that all of us have, in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch it we are going back from whence we came.” - JFK

The above quote has always been a favorite of mine. How true it is. I know when I turn on the 1 after going through Watsonville, it feels as though my mind, body, and soul relaxes. That big sigh of relief has to do with the first glimpse of the ocean. It has to do with a lot of my happiest memories that have happened in Santa Cruz. It has to do with going to the place that feels happy and safe. A place that is home.

For me, after a year of change and loss and also a few great moments, this trip was light and exactly what I needed. These Santa Cruz trips have been happening in my family for generations and so of course it feels natural to go back and feel that comfort and joy.