5-17-10 -- Santa Barbara to UCLA

Camping in freeway rest stops is usually a recipe for bad sleep, and this was certainly no exception! Last night I set up my tent in a darkened corner of the picnic area where I would be unobtrusive. After browsing the web for an hour or so I heard a rock whizz by and hit the bbq next to my tent. I let it go assuming it might just be a fluke. Three peaceful minutes went by before another stone buzzed by the tent, and hit my bike. Now I was PISSED. I turned on my headlamp, ripped open the front of the tent and flew out onto the grass. I was wearing boxers and a ratty t-shirt. With my hair pointing in all directions from sleep, and eyes as red as the devil, I towered over the little fucker. He was a younger boy, perhaps 9 or 10 – looking fairly sheepish by now. I was furious, and beyond setting a good example. “DON’T FUCKING THROW ROCKS AT PEOPLE!” The little bastard looked like he might have pissed his pants. His parents quickly rushed over and apologized before ushering the kid off to their SUV for what was sure to be a more severe reprimand.

Unfortunately that wasn’t the end of my rough night. I should have enough stealth-camping experience by now to know better than to pitch a tent on a beautiful lawn that is mysteriously growing in a dessert. Right about 1am the sprinklers came on full blast. Sometimes you can just sleep through it, as the tent is pretty waterproof. Unfortunately this time the sprinkler heads were the low-spraying variety and went right under the rain guards, directly into the tent. I shot out of my sleeping bag and managed to cover the sprinkler head with my plastic coffee mug. Problem solved – back to soggy bed.

The ride today has been pretty dismal. I got on the road at 7:30am, and was greeted by blistering cold and a nice sprinkle. Boo….I’ve made it as far as Caprentria so far. Santa Barbara was cold and overcast. The white sand beaches and pier were completely abandoned. I’m having a late (11:45am) breakfast before heading off again. I hope this weather turns around. I’m shooting for my sister’s house near UCLA by tonight. I’ll let you know if I make it.

Here are pictures of what the residents of Carpentria claim to be the largest Wardholme Torrey Pine IN THE WORLD:

I circled my bike so you can get an idea of just how big it is.




11:00pm: Made it to UCLA at about 7pm. It was a grueling day! 127 mile ride….. rain, cold, wet, but HERE. I’m too pooped to write. Check in again tomorrow.