strange...

being outside of portland is really strange. i've been spoiled by portland's amenities. specifically the social and environmental consciousness there. i've only been wandering the streets of santa barbara for a few hours and it feels markedly different. i asked a woman at our hotel where the local coffee shop was, knowing there is a neat little local roasting company within walking distance, and she immediately pointed me to a starbucks. i told her i was looking for the local place and she vehemently re-recommended starbucks. i gave up on trying to convince her i didn't want starbucks, and set out to the streets to find the damn shop myself. i ran into a man on the way who asked, "do you know where starbucks is?"
"yeah, but there is a cool local shop just down the street that i am trying to find right now. it's really close i think," i replied.
"but, where is starbucks...?" he stated with a rather annoyed tone. i pointed up the street and walked away.

i found the local place and it's really neat, as predicted. it feels a little bit like the bar in 'cheers' (that silly old television show). i think that atmosphere is emphasized by the awesome collection of local old men sitting around tables, shooting the shit. rad.

another portland misconception: i made my coffee order and as the woman at the counter reached for a paper cup i exclaimed, "oh, it's for here." imagining that there would be ceramic option...but no. bummer.

everyone on the street was really friendly this morning, which was a nice change of pace. the plane rides were full of folks that weren't very talkative. maybe there is something about flying that shuts people up...who knows? the fear of death?

i'm at the beach in sunny, gorgeous california and it feels great. i'm trying to soak in as much as possible, and when i come home, i'll share the sunny love.

-kelly