A haven from the past

JAMES PRIBRAM

Moving is brutal. I recently moved from South Laguna to Oak Street

and what a difference. I can feel that old Laguna vibe every time I

walk into my new place or sit outside in the backyard. To be quite

honest I feel like I have time warped back a few generations or moved

to Hawaii.

The backyard has rose bushes, loquat, fig and artichoke trees. I

feel extremely lucky to find such a place. Especially when I was

beginning to think that such places no longer exist here in Laguna

Beach. Places that have a deep-rooted charm to them. A type of place

where an entire generation of a Laguna family lived.

I can tell they loved this house; it was their dream house. The

perfect place to raise a family. Off of the side of the garage they

even had a grapevine growing that was greatly cared for. I’m hoping I

can somehow bring it back.

It’s a nice feeling when you have good friends that can help you

with the plumbing, the fence and a little or a lot of painting.

The neighbors have all come over and introduced themselves. It’s a

nice quiet street, if I could only get the sparrow and the crow to be

a little more quiet in the early morning hours. But it’s classic

watching them chase each other around.

Soon we will have our first load of washing hanging out back on

the line that is still there. Actually, I have to admit that seems to

be a bit of a stretch but I like the vibe it gives the backyard.

Maybe I should hang up some wash just to stoke the generation who

lived in the home before me.

I wish I new the family name.

It is said to be the first home built on Oak Street. I think I

would have enjoyed living in the roaring 20s.

Ah yes, the little yellow house was built in 1926, from a Sears

kit. Classic stuff and a lot of work.

Peace.