They must have changed zip codes since I left West L.A. lo those many years ago. Glad you aren't in the smog belt. That was the only reason I turned down acceptance by USC, where my father, an alum who never even graduated, was none too keen on me becoming a Bruin, a move I've never regretted.

And yes, I knew the elementary school boast was a self-defacing send up. I once had to go talk to a High School English class. Never again.

Sometimes I miss Santa Monica (I was born at St. John's), but other times... well, I guess I like nature too much. Mountains, trees, ocean. And small town (relatively) atmosphere. Hope I never have to return to LA for anything other than a visit. (My mom lives in Malibu and when duty calls, it calls collect.)

How old is "the kid?" Sounds like weekend visitation the way you tossed it off.

Book will arrive in a few days.

Where is Colima? I lived on Barrington for a few years, and then Bundy for a few more, long before OJ got away with the crime of the century.

Cathryn