Skies cleared today over Southern California, following a six-day drenching that has killed at least 9 people and triggered hundreds of mudslides. The deluge has caused millions of dollars in damage. More than 100 homes in Los Angeles alone have been deemed unsafe. Scores of roads remain blocked by mud and debris, and officials say the damage is so bad that some roads may not reopen until the summer or fall.

Southern California resident Kathleen Miller is trying to focus on the positive aspects of living in the Golden State, as she dries off from this week’s stormy weather.

In this radio diary, she takes on those who wonder if it is worth paying all that money to live in the land of earthquakes, wildfires, and now, mudslides.

Guests:

Kathleen Miller is a writer living in San Juan Capistrano, California. Her recently completed memoir is “The Man in My Mailbox.”