Yucaipa Christmas

by Judith Evicci

The last part of the journey to Yucaipa California was a climb in elevation. The climb took him out of the Inland Empire Valley smog to about 2600 feet above sea level.

This trip insured that California would host the beginning and the end of his life. It felt good.

After turning off the 10 freeway, Christmas traffic in Yucaipa thinned. Now, which way to the mobile home park that was to be home?

His daughter Linda opened the screen door. "Come in Dad." She threw her arms around him. "Merry Christmas!"

"How was your trip? You look wonderful."

"The drive was a little long for an old guy like me, but I'm fine. The car made the 800 mile trip easily."

"Look around, it's great. Well, it's small, but not too small. It's about 900 sq. ft. We each have a full bath."

"I like it," he said. "Is it all transferred to us now?"

"Yes, the papers are in the works. After you rest, I can show you the town. The town is rural. It's all on one street they call the Boulevard. Yucaipa Boulevard."

Jim put his suitcase down on the bed and lay down beside it. What a comfort it is to have Linda. What would he do without her? He couldn't believe they were united after all these years.

How strange it is to look at a room and know it is the last bedroom you will ever have. Still, Linda and Yucaipa brought him the most joyful Christmas ever.

Merry Christmas and to all a good night.

San Bernardino Mountains