Today we took a road trip to Santa Barbara. We had been on the road about 10 minutes when Nola piped up from the back, “Uncle Tim’s a dodgy driver.” The commentary was more a reflection of the bumpy road condition than my husband’s driving ability, but it was hilarious nonetheless.
We arrived in downtown Santa Barbara right around lunch time, so that was our first stop. Then we took a little stroll down the street and back, stopping for ice cream before heading back to the car. We went to the Old Mission Santa Barbara and took some photos, but no one seemed interested in taking the tour. Nola loudly announced in the gift shop that she wanted to go someplace more exciting.
So we went to the beach, or rather a park with a nice view of the beach. After some running around and somersaulting, Nola decided she wanted to go to the actual beach. On the way there I realized I was missing one of my lens hoods. I had changed lenses soon after getting out of the car and stuffed it in my bag, but it must have fallen out. My husband dropped the rest of the group at the beach and we headed back to look for it.
Fortunately, I found it about 15 feet from where I had changed lenses. I ran back to the car and we returned to the beach and parked. The girls were sitting at a table at a cafe right on the sand. It seemed an opportune spot for a round of cocktails. Nola ran around and dug in the sand while we enjoyed some adult beverages. By the time we left, the sun was just starting to set.
Back at the house, Nola finally seemed to be warming up to me. I was the recipient of unsolicited cuddles and she sat in my lap while finishing her dinner. I also had the privilege of being offered a piece of her pear, because she’s good at sharing. Then she wanted me to watch a couple of cartoons with her. I have no idea what I did to get into her good graces, but I’ll take it.