Nixon and me

So, this is just one of those ‘one of those things’ things, ya know?

I live in the same town as the Western White House.  Past president Richard M Nixon’s vacation home on the coast in Southern California. It is also known as La Casa Pacifica. I had the opportunity to work there for a few days as grunt labor for a painter I know. Offered and accepted a short peek around. Public viewing and tours do not happen here.

“This is where Nixon met with Brezhnev”, “This is where the Nixon’s slept” Sort of – The current owners have made many changes over the years.

This past weekend, I was up in Ojai California, again working but in a different capacity. Being a long drive I was in my casual travel clothes with my fancy Sunday best on a hanger enjoying the view from the back and side window.

Upon arrival I shown to the guest house where I could relax, clean up and dress up. This space is arranged as a work-out room with small bedroom and bathroom off to one side. I commented, “This a very nice house”. I meant it, it is a really nice place!

The home owner took that time to present me with some history. The house, and the house next door as well, were built by/for a famous actress of the 1940’s era. It is also the house that Richard M Nixon stayed in while remodel and new construction as being done at La Casa Pacifica. Go figure.

This time, I was in the very same room that Nixon, Kissinger and Salinger sat in. I was in that room in my boxer/briefs dressing up to work. Later I was in the very same room that the Nixon’s slept in.  I was all dressed by then.

There is literally no point to any of this. Just a coincidence and curiosity. Made the 6+ driving to and from so much the better. Besides, the place is beautiful, the owners and family members that had me there were exceptional hosts! I felt and was treated more like a guest than a ‘vendor’.

So – some Nixon-ish stuff I have to call my own.  In fact, today, while I am moving, I think I will take  break to drive on by and wave.

Peace,

A V