Pending departure of longtime friends brings a faraway look to writer's eyes

Bob and Kathy Sears, my cherished companions throughout my Fallbrook years, now have that faraway look in their eyes.

I know the feeling well. It seeps into the soul when a person has one foot planted firmly in the past and the other dipping a toe into an unknown future. I have visited more than 55 countries and lived in 15 places over my 70 years. The longest stretch – some 21 years – has been spent in my beloved Fallbrook.

As it was that we three said: “So long” a few days ago. The Sears are my story today. And together may we pray that safe travel guides their way.

I met the couple at a chu...