So the title of today's entry pretty much sums up how I feel about Santa Barbara, it's paradise. From the lovely weather (ongoing theme with me in California it seems), to the uniquely individual houses with perfectly manicured gardens bursting with bright flowers and fruits. The people are laid back and friendly and there are countless nice eateries and endless places to run, bike, hike and explore. Everything seems orderly and safe but without being too twee an...

Today I have decided that it's a full beach day just to relax and not run around like a tourist. Rather unfortunately when I wake up it's very cloudy. Outside my room Krista has left a pot of coffee (what a great host) and a note detailing all the best beaches in the area and good places to eat (hum how did she know about my love of food?) there was also a reassurance that at this time of the year all mornings start off overcast and by midday the sun should be ou...

Today I am moving on up the coast to Santa Barbara. When I got up I did a 4 mile round trip run to Santa Monica Pier. I stopped at the wooden pier to walk up it and noticed that is was not your typical tacky pier but a little (not a lot, but a little) more upscale. At the end of the pier there is a little display about its history which I stopped and read. On returning back to the house for some breakfast and to pack up and leave, Melodie asked if I wanted to go...