Panera?

$3.89 for a bottle of tea at  Panera?  Prices like that make me feel like I'm back in Australia! Except this is US dolla -  which currently makes it about AUS$5.

3 miles

Looking at options to get to a bluff overlooking a public beach. Bus: 1 hour 20 minutes. Walk: 1 hour 2 minutes.

After 10 hours of work

The lab I'm working in has no windows. So at the end of the day I step outdoors and am greeted by this view. Santa Barbara is one of the more beautiful towns in the US. There is plenty to explore up in the hills, and not too far offshore are the Channel Islands. I'd like to be hiking the hills and sailing, but for now, I'm working. I have no car / transportation other than public or car rental, and no connections to a sailboat yet. Hopefully, before I leave this place I'll have time (and the transportation) to explore. It's odd to be in such a gorgeous place and be thinking I'd rather be in Australia with my wife. But it seemed employment was a longshot there, so I'm back in California where my license and skills are worth something. I'm definitely glad to be working again; to feel useful before I retire and get serious about my hobbies.

Mashed peas?

I skipped the Irish Pub when I realized the $10 options were only until 3pm. So I went to the British place on the tourist strip and got mashed peas,  shepherd's pie,  and a Strongbow cider for yes,  more than $10. The pie and mashed peas were better than in Australia,  but also more expensive than there.

KP duty

I bought some second-hand cookware and some new eating utensils, but haven't yet purchased plates or cups (except one coffee mug). So I've been using the same paper cup for a week. I don't think I can wash it. I need to bring home a plastic cup from work - I've been throwing away 2-3 a day there.

Cruise Santa Barbara?

Didn't realize cruise ships park off shore here. The street trolley operator says about 50 a (winter?) season. They run extra street trolleys when the boats bring tourists ashore. Santa Barbara's Hospitality Team

Moving Ventura?

Side of bus: Keep Ventura Moving!

Front of bus: Funded by Santa Barbara County Measure A