desert life

Signs of life in such a dry place. It's a blooming cactus. Personally, I think the plant is reaching for the sky to get a better look of the ocean. The picture doesn't do it justice...it's so beautiful here.

Santa Barbara Monastery

Here a few picks from the monastery in Santa Barbara. It is such a beautiful place, but I have not grasped the discipline of contemplative thinking. I was absolutely stir crazy after 4 hours. Even still, it was good for my soul.

Here is a view from my car. The mountains before me, the ocean in my side mirror.

Solvang California

The largest Danish population in the US. It was cute -- touristy -- felt like I was at a section of Epcot. But when I'm 60 I plan to come back and have a really good time here.

Hybrids and a Higher Power

I made it to the monastery in Santa Barbara. It's beautiful! I'll post pics soon. Have you ever wondered what kind of cars a brotherhood of monks would drive? I have the answer....I saw them leave in a Prius. I was very proud of them.

Karen Morris, this reminds me of where we celebrated Easter a few years back...except in the mountains, on the ocean, with a gentle breeze blowin...not freezin' our tushies off!!

Quirky California

I decided to take two days and go on a personal retreat. There's a monastery in Santa Barbara, but they could only take me one night, so I pricelined a hotel in the area. Of course I can't afford a hotel in Santa Barbara, so priceline hooked me up in the "outskirts" about 40 miles away in Buellton California.

That's right, Buellton. Perhaps you've heard of it? Their claim to fame is clearly marked on bulletin boards as you arrive....Buellton....Home of the famed Split Pea Soup. Wow. Split Pea Soup, really?

Of course I made a bee line right for the pea soup place and had a bowl. I can't say if it was good or not since it was the only time I've ever had it. But still, when in Buellton, right?

I'm going to swing by Solvang. The largest Danish community in America before I head to Santa Barbara, so stay tuned for some pics from Solvang. You won't want to miss out. Perhaps they are famous for Corn Chowder?

Phone Woes

If you are looking for me the next few days, you'll have to email. My phone was submerged (don't ask, don't tell). But after some online research I should be good to go by Thursday morning!

THE VERANDA

Here's a little place I made right outside my sliding door. I refer to it as, dramatically, THE VERANDA.

Basically it's a way to create a sitting area and not stare at a cinder block wall. Around the block, there was a "free" sign on a stack of wood, including these shutters. I just nailed them together, added a shelf (again free wood)....and my favorite $3 find at IKEA, the hanging candle holder.

I wish you could see the tree above. It's the sweetest persimmon tree. I just love sitting under it.

Next I want to get a rug, or some kind outdoor lighting. It has to be battery or solar though. Let me know if you have suggestions. And the next time you are in town, I'll pour you a drink and we'll sit in the VERANDA.