Well I drove by the house that I grew up in as a kid
We locked ourselves in basements and we taught ourselves to sing
It took me back to every single night that we would spend
Strumming, drinking, singing of the lives we wish we had
It was always out of reach
Outstretched arms opening
California's far away
Tired eyes hide the pain
Though I don't know if I'll make it
At least I'll know I tried
California's on my mind
The house is a new color, my dogs still buried in that backyard
The ironies not lost on me, I know change is pretty hard
Is it okay if I'm nostalgic but still wish for better days
What's it mean if I look back and don't feel badly that I've changed
It was always hard to breath
Idle hands trembling
California's far away
Tired eyes hide the pain
Though I don't know if I'll make it
At least I'll know I tried
California's on my mind
Maybe you'll get there in time
California's on my mind
