I made a goal last month to hike, explore, and spend time in either one new location in California or a favourite “haunt” of mine. For August, I went to one of my “old reliables”—my Secret Star Spot!

This place has always been a special location for me, and I've gone hiking and stargazing here many times over the years. And I love coming at different times of the year because you can observe how the land changes with the seasons. But in 2023, I was starting to feel irritated and rather blah about being there. When I was there this past January, I didn’t feel that “sparkle” or restorative feeling I typically get—I just felt like I didn’t want to be there, and lamented the waste of gas. I was starting to think that maybe this place just wasn’t for me anymore.

Since 2017, I’ve made it a tradition of mine to go out and try catching the Perseids meteor shower at their peak. I almost skipped out on it this year but something in me felt like I really should make the effort to go and experience that tradition. This year, I decided to do something different and went early in the morning rather than late at night. Going early in the morning definitely works much better for me. Not only was I more awake, but this also allowed me to hike while I was there and I'm so glad I made that switch!

On our hike, the land was covered in dry brush this time of year which makes the land look like endless hills of gold. We also had a pair of ravens follow us off to the side in the trees as we journeyed in and out which I found rather curious. Maybe it was an omen of some sorts.

I don't know if any of my wishes will come true, but I'm going to be hopeful.
It felt really good to be back here, and I'm glad that this place feels like magic again.