California

 

We were off to California for a two week excursion, partly work, partly play.  So, the first play picture is of real play--golf!  In Santa Monica (near Los Angeles), we attended the final round of the Northern Trust Open (a professional golf tournament), and the excitement was in the air for these two smiling Canadians because a fellow Canadian, Graham Delaet, shown here in his patriotic red and white on the practise grounds, was one of the leaders.   

 

In Santa Monica, Carolyn surveys the extensive beach.  It is a very big beach and is connected to Venice Beach, a great place for a stroll and to people-watch.

 

One of the more well-known landmarks in Santa Monica is its pier, also a nice place for a stroll and to people watch.

 

After Santa Monica, we made our way to Long Beach, south of Los Angeles, where we attended a conference.  Long Beach was not as picturesque as Santa Monica, but one afternoon we went sight-seeing including checking out the beach which was, yes, long. 

 

 

 

After Long Beach, we made our way north to a lovely town just outside of Santa Barbara called Carpinteria.  We had stayed here 4 years ago on our last sabbatical, and clearly we could not get enough of the place then because we made an enthusiastic return trip.  Here--and hold on to your hats-- Carolyn views a lovely rainbow to punctuate our arrival....   

 

One of the attractive features of Carpinteria is its beach, which is perfect for swimming and body boarding.  Every afternoon after work, we sported our wet suits and took to the waves.  A nice way to finish off the day.  A person could get used to this... 

Near our apartment was a salt marsh (an estuary where fresh and salt water meet), a great place to walk and see the local birds, along with a few rather eccentric bird watchers (is there any other kind?).  In the background is the Santa Ynez mountains. 

Beer! Enough said.

 

Very close to our apartment was a local railway stop, so it was very convenient for us to take the train from LA to Carpinteria and, once there, to visit Santa Barbara (15 minutes away), even without a car.  

 

The view of Santa Barbara beach from it main pier.

 

A picture of our apartment in Carpinteria, including Carolyn on our deck surveying the scene.

 

The beach started to get busy on Saturday, the day before we left.  The weekend is often a time when Carpinteria swells with visitors.  It was also a balmy 25 degrees on that day, which doesn't hurt as well.  

 

 

 

Most mornings we would have a brisk walk (Carolyn) or jog (Tony) to a local seal sanctuary about 3km away from our apartment.  Here is a picturesque lagoon in the morning sun en route to the sanctuary. 

 

Carpinteria was a lovely place to return to for brief visit.  We are now heading back to Victoria--also a lovely spot!

 

Love to all!