Shake, shake, shake, señora

I'm way behind in documenting what was a momentous occasion for us, but I figure better late than never.

About a month ago, we experienced our first earthquake. Of course it was immediately followed by texts, emails and Facebook messages all along the lines of "You're a real Californian now!," "Do you regret moving there?" and my favorite, "Which disaster do you prefer, a tornado or an earthquake?" Umm, neither. (Tornado.)

The quake erupted out of La Habra, just 4 miles north of Fullerton. Fullerton is our new favorite hang-out area, and we just so happened to be enjoying a drink with our visitor Kelly in beautiful downtown Fullerton when it happened. Quite a coincidence. It lasted all of about 6 seconds (longer elsewhere). Here's how it played out.

00:00:01 A slight rumble underfoot. The band playing next door sure is pumping the bass. I’m TRYING to have a CONVERSATION.

00:00:02 I mean, really. The bass is so heavy, it’s shaking that wall. These kids and their rock music.

00:00:03 The ground is really rocking now. Whoa. Are we on a boat? (I'm not the quickest thinker.)

00:00:04 Let me try to stand up.

00:00:05 Let me try to stand up again.

00:00:06 Guys, guys, I figured it out. Earthquake!

Oh you already knew that? You mean quick-thinking Pat had already scoped out the safest place on the patio and was instructing us to get under a table? He’s a good guy to have around, that one.

It was much scarier than I expected. I knew earthquakes could be violent, but you really have no frame of reference until you're in one. I immediately understood how it could easily bring down buildings and bridges. I always figured if one hit, I would run to my safe spot. But I didn't factor in that it would be rocking so much that I would barely be able to walk, let alone run! Lesson learned.

Anyway, that has been our recent excitement. Kelly stayed with us for a week and we ventured out for a few fun activities. We're making friends and finding our social life again. The weather is heating up and I am itching for SUMMER. You'd think you would be in a summer mindset year-round here, but just like anywhere else, the air is filled with an anticipation for scorchingly hot days, cricket-filled nights, and that perfect summer twilight in between.

Pat and Kelly got to see a taping of the Conan O'Brien Show.

Jazz club in Fullerton.

Kayaking at Sunset Beach.

Our first beach bonfire.

Sunset dinner at Laguna Beach.

Title lyrics – Jump in the Line, Harry Belafonte