We stayed overnight near Camarillo so we’d be near our departure point on the Pacific Ocean.

Caroline, Jutta, and I were on board a boat heading out to the Channel Islands.

It was a perfect day.

With calm oceans, the sun shining, and a slight coolness in the air, but for a late November day, it was perfect weather.

When we arrived at the islands, the step to get off the boat was a bit precarious and left me more nervous than Caroline and her mom. With some cajoling, I convinced them it was better to stay on board. Lucky for us, the Captain of our craft was good with that and took us on a slow tour of the island.

We learned more about the history of the island and efforts to preserve it. Spotted this natural arch and some scuba divers who were close to the mouth of the inlet.

The waters were obviously clear. On a nearby rock outcropping, a bunch of cormorants were sunning their wings, just enjoying the day as we were.

I have to admit that it was often difficult to see the still hurt little girl inside my sometimes brusk mother-in-law. She didn’t really want to have a sense of humor, but she knew how to laugh, and it’s always been a delight when it comes out of her. I never really know if she enjoys everywhere, we take her or if she’s just happy to hang out with us and see our happiness. I’ll miss this smile when it’s gone; I hope it lives on within me for the rest of my life.

I cannot tell you how this smiling woman is gracing me with such a beautiful gaze, but I know I love her dearly. Today was a bit difficult because of me as I really kind of insisted we stay on the boat, and they both knew I was a bit disappointed. They tried reassuring me that we should try to have Jutta step off the boat but my sense was too strong that Jutta’s strength wasn’t there if she were to slip. So, through what likely appeared as gnashed teeth, I told them I was fine. They both knew better. Not to say we didn’t have a great time on the ocean exploring the island from near the shore but they know I can be difficult. It’ll weigh heavily on me that these memories of not always being easy to deal with.

Back on land and down south, we stopped in at the Red Lion Tavern in the Silver Lake district of Los Angeles for some German food. Not only did my mother-in-law finish that big dark beer but she had a couple of shots of Kirschwasser, and I think it was those two drinks that did her in as she was pretty tipsy as we were leaving. The day closed out with us checking into a motel before heading back to Phoenix the next morning.