Do it your way. Then: lap of luxury

SANTA BARBARA! I got to spend the last couple of days with Eugene friend, Kali and Sahalie her adorable white muppet-dog. She's working for UCSB and has actually only been in town about two months herself. It was nice to have repose from the larger mob (we're still at around 20 people) - but even better to catch up with a good friend. I was fortunate to get to spend 48 hours in her adorable studio which came with many luxuries: shower, internet, bed, kitchen, the cutest dog...ability to g-chat with my love...it was amazing.
The first night was spent at prof. Chin's house - a beautiful home and family with the most welcoming hospitality. Can you imagine having two young children, and inviting some twenty homeless capoeiristas to sleep in your space?! And then cooking them an amazing dinner, and breakfast? Truly gracious.
The days previous were trying. I have this head cold that won't seem to go away (actually, now that I've slept indoors in a bed for a couple nights it feels better). On top of that, Keith and I were left behind the larger group and had to put in an 75ish mile day to catch up... the good news is that 75 miles feels great. The other news is I'm learning a good deal about myself and ability (or lack thereof) to maintain composure in difficult situations with acquaintances. Or: have you seen my "bitchy face"? I might have ended up hiding in front of a volkswagon outside one night to cry out of frustration, because yes, I am a seven year old.
In other news: I still don't like the iphone.
The area of the coast between Big Sur and La Santa Monica is totally new territory to me. It's amazing to explore by bike!