FIELD NOTE // FN-009 | LOCATION: OAKLAND | DATE: 2025-12-04
The Long Way Home
Fall lighting is strange. It’s sharp, low, and always feels a little "off," like the world is tilted slightly on its axis. On a walk around the lake a few days ago, I decided to take the long way home instead of my usual shortcut through Broadway.
I found myself on the "dusty side" of the lake. I’ve always been a bit judgmental of this section. The benches here aren't my favorite—there are no trees for shade, the ground is dry, and it generally lacks the curb appeal of the other side.
But that day, I stopped.
Despite my critiques, every single bench in this "unappealing" section was full. Where I saw a lack of shade, these two saw a front-row seat to the shimmering water. Where I saw dust, they saw a moment to pause. It was a good reminder that "life" doesn't wait for the perfect setting. Sometimes the best view is just wherever you happen to be sitting together.
