“Palm Springs”

I spent Thursday to Thursday in Palm Springs.

Just a week—but something about it felt timeless. Like the sun paused in the sky a little longer, the breeze whispered slower, and people walked with their hearts already open.

I’ve been here before. I’ve seen the palms swaying like they’re showing off and felt the dry heat wrap around me like a familiar hug. But this time? This time was different.

This time, I met people.

Not just strangers on a sidewalk. Not passing hellos or tourist chatter. I met souls—kind, open, welcoming humans who made the whole city feel like a small town. Everywhere I turned, there was a smile. A conversation. A moment of connection that didn’t feel forced or fleeting. These weren’t just good people. They were great people. The kind that make you feel like you belong—even if they just met you yesterday.

I don’t know if it was something in the air or the way the sun softened everything, but I found myself laughing more. Talking more. Relaxing into myself in a way I hadn’t in a while. I got sunburnt, sure—but that tan is coming along nicely, thank you very much. A small price to pay for a week bathed in warmth—inside and out.

And yes, the traffic lights?

Horrible. Some of the worst I’ve ever sat through.

But the lack of traffic almost made up for it. It’s hard to complain when you’re driving through golden light with mountains in the distance and nowhere you urgently need to be.

The whole scene was magic—modern meets earthy, peaceful yet alive. The desert always knows how to hold its own kind of beauty, but this time, it wasn’t just the landscape that stood out. It was the people. And somehow, it felt like they were exactly who I needed to meet, without even knowing I needed them.

There’s something healing about being greeted like you matter. About being seen without needing to perform. About existing in a space where kindness feels effortless.

As I packed my things and drove away, the sun was still high—bright, bold, and refusing to say goodbye. Just like part of me. I didn’t want to leave. Not yet.

There was still warmth on my skin, still laughter echoing in my mind from conversations that meant more than small talk. The roads felt soft beneath my tires, the mountains still standing tall in the distance, and I caught myself smiling for no reason other than the fact that this place had given me something.

I’ll be back.

Not just for the weather, the views, or the vibe.

But for the feeling. The people. The way Palm Springs reminded me how easy it is to feel alivewhen you’re surrounded by kindness, sunshine, and a little bit of soul.