Welcoming Summer, the Santa Barbara Way

With everything going on in the world, my friends and I thought it would be a great idea to get together (safely), catch-up, and hang out on the beach. I haven’t really seen many of my friends since the quarantine started. Frankly, it was a nice reminder that none of us are alone during these bizarre times and that every one of us has gone through something life-altering. However, being together…Helped. A lot. 

There’s the quote circling around right now by Leslie Dwight that says, “What if 2020 isn’t cancelled? What if 2020 is the year we’ve been waiting for? A year so uncomfortable, so painful, so scary, so raw…” It resonates with everyone. I had high hopes for 2020, along with everyone else. But, let’s be real…2020 isn’t all that we anticipated. As a matter of fact, it’s been pretty horrible. Things you never expected to happen, happened.  

It’s easy to get caught up in the anxiety and uncertainty that has surrounded us since March. Personally, I was caught up in my whole world while trying to deal with the curve balls being thrown my way. It took me a couple of months and a lot of self-love, but I’ve finally found acceptance.  

I know a large percentage of people are struggling with accepting the life changes that were presented to them. I’m fortunate enough that I didn’t lose my job, family, or friends, but I did lose other important things. I’m still able to trek forward and continue with my life, just not how I usually would. Will things ever go back to completely normal? I don’t think so. Will we get back the things we’ve lost? I don’t know. But, are we all in this together? Yes, and that’s how I’ve found peace throughout these past months.  

I know it’s challenging to spend time with friends in person. I believe we’re all at the point where Zoom meetings have become mentally draining and exhausting. I highly recommend that you get creative! Go for a walk, lay in the hot summer sand on the beach, go for a hike, or take a long drive up Highway 1. Do the things you need to do in order to receive clarity. Find happiness in the small things. Remember, joy comes with sips not gulps. 

So, I’ll leave you with this simple thought…

What if 2020 is the plot twist we’ve all been waiting for? A complicated reset.  

Boutique Picnic Event Planning: Santa Barbara Picnic Co

Wine: Folded Hills 

Photography: Scott Otis