Cherry Valley.
Today, Marg and I headed to Whispering Pines Road, in Cherry Valley, the home of Marg’s wonderful and beloved parents, George and Susanne, who were good friends to Bev and me. Marg’s dad took me down toward the Mexican border, somewhere below Beaumont, and dropped me off so I could hitchhike and bus it through Mexico, around 1980, I think.
We stopped at one of Marg’s favorites, Del Taco, for a burrito breakfast, and then onto Cherry Valley.
Traveling the local roads, rather then the freeway, is a much sweeter way to travel, with nicer views and ambiance. The Greenspot Market, in the photo above, really has a great selection of Jerky, just like it says in their window. And then we arrived in Cherry Valley and the home of Marg’s parents, and where Marg lived herself for nine years.
I had forgotten in just how lovely a spot the Millard home sits, and how nice and comfortable the house itself is, sitting on Whispering Pines Road.
I very much felt sadness about Marg’s parents not being able to live out their final days in this home, which they loved, and Marguerite still loves. I’m far more sensitive nowadays to people’s final days and the quality of those days because of Bev’s experience, and all the more grateful that Bev was able to pass on in her own home of 30 years, with me right there with her.
The house sits on the edge of a canyon in the San Jacinto and San Bernardino mountains, which it seems fitting to call Millard Canyon. Marg comes out here weekly to take care of the house and gardens, but also just to to enjoy being here. It is a special place.
The day was serene and peaceful, with just the sounds of hawks and other birds, with great views into and around Millard Canyon, which the house sits on and overlooks. I spread some more of Bev’s ashes here, into Millard Canyon and also to the side of the house in an open and grassy area.
I sat outside in the sun and peace, and wrote my blog for yesterday. I’m sorry we we couldn’t be here in the evening to see the stars and hear the coyotes yip and howl.
After a nostalgic and serene day in the Cherry Valley home, we headed back to Claremont. I spotted a photo opportunity in the Marg and Mark’s back yard.
In the evening, we rounded out the day by going to a local joint, Evolve, to see Marguerite’s friend and singing partner, Elizabeth Hangen performing. She was great, and has a million dollar voice. A really nice evening of music, on top of seeing Squeakin’ Wheels last night.
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