Childhood on Sunset Blvd.

By ERIC SEGALL | Intern

I lived on Sunset Boulevard for six years. It is on the outskirts of Pacific Palisades next to Malibu. There I hear rushing traffic, but that white noise is the same that helps me fall asleep.

I lived in a small apartment building that many of my friends lived in. I was able to jump across the hedge or head upstairs in order to hang out with some pals.

Neighbors were friendly and I was often invited in to sit and chat, or allowed to conduct a water balloon fight all over the building. Upstairs, Nancy was constantly working on her jewelery and next door, Trish was playing with her yorkie.

People were friendly and understanding that I was a child. It was a community.

One block over on Marquez Boulevard, my friends and I would play at Marquez Charter Elementary School. There was a huge playground where I rode my bike, played on the equipment and walked my dog.

It was a place that felt so different because I never went to school there, but I knew it so well. The school was empty and I often would adventure to see other kids and play.

On the same road, there was Ronny’s Market & Liquor, where I would purchase candy and a tea to relax outside.

Next there was Vittorios, where there was my favorite Italian food. Sometimes we would get delivery to our house when I was sick and other times we would have birthday dinners there.

On the other hand, my grandmother’s house was a little farther down on Sunset Boulevard. I walked there with my mom and my dog to visit her. I climbed up the long steps to greet her and I am warmly welcomed with open arms.

We would make our way inside and exchange our greetings, but my favorite part was her backyard. There is a koi pond, in addition to a wonderful birdbath that is always filled with hummingbirds. They flutter about, drinking nectar and relaxing in a haven. My second dog, Foxy, loved the backyard and would play chase with me.

It was—and still is—a place of family. I am always excited to go there because I know I am going to see my favorite people.