I finished up meetings in Santa Barbara and had two days on the weekend to enjoy the area. So where to? The ocean! I spent Friday diving out at Anacapa. I got a great recommendation from the folks down at Force-E in Ft. Lauderdale, and was so glad I did. The second dive was about 50 minutes underwater with about 20+ sea lions. They were so playful! I just sat and watched them for a while, and then got a little into the mix. Turns out they'll imitate you if you do flips, turns, etc. It's a lot of fun. I wish I'd had a camera with me, but I've borrowed the picture to the right from David Govoni. He did a great job of capturing the curious nature of these fun animals. After 3 dives though I was freezing cold, and more than willing to spend some time in the hot tub they had on the boat. If you're looking for a good boat diving experience, I'd highly recommend it.
The next day I woke up before sunrise and headed out to Figueroa Mountain to see if I could find any wildflowers. Here's a few that I did find. Turns out I discovered one of the best spots to see them, on a peak weekend for the blooms. While I wished I'd had a taller tripod, my travel version was great. (And lots lighter!)
The road there and back were equally amazing. I saw so many riders out on the road that day, and was pleased to catch a few from across a field. I think there was actually a century going on that morning, as I'd caught a couple race numbers. Had I known, that would have been a great ride to do after a long week's work! Here's a couple shots I took of the road in and out.
What an awesome adventure! I think you actually have me tempted to get scuba certified. I also would have loved the trip to find the wildflowers--except the early morning part. :)
ReplyDeleteDo it Emily! Then we can go check out this place together!!
ReplyDeletei'm not jumping on the scuba board yet. being on the 'scuba board' would be like walking the plank for me . . . which is kind of what you do anyways, right??
ReplyDeleteGood thing they weren't dolphins - I've heard they have a dark side, and will take you down when you least expect it. Of course, that's probably because they're so smart and know just how bad we humans are for their planet, especially american humans, and especially conservative american humans.
ReplyDeleteSo the next time you dive, watch out for dolphins. Jaws? No big deal, but avoid flipper.
And the jealousy sets in. I loved your pics. You must have a good camera. ;-) (which remind me that I have to look for your cap and bring it to the wedding). Sounds like your trip was amazing, but I bet you're glad to be home!
ReplyDelete@Jonathan Actually, that's pretty close to true this time. I did walk right off the side of the boat. (And I hate jumping from heights!)
ReplyDelete@David Dolphons...this reminds me of Hitchhiker's Guide the Galaxy.
@Leslie It was an amazing trip, and I'm soo glad to be home, and not traveling, except for next weekend, when I travel again.