Our second port of call was in beautiful Santa Barbara, California. The weather was warmer and the sun was beautiful. Like Astoria we were greeted with gracious volunteers that provided a shuttle to the historical city center. The Moorish style county court house was our first stop. A clock tower was the central focal point with statuary and fountains on either side of the entry way. This is a city of eternal spring. Flowers were everywhere. Heavily perfumed camelias and birds of paradise were central to the courtyard and Spanish tiles were scattered through out the building. A pedestrian area was full of beautiful work done by artisans from the California area and the Spanish influence was evident wherever we turned. We loved an unusual fig tree. Fits the size of a baby’s fist were growing from the trunk of the three and from roots on the ground. They were dark purple and green and brown. They colors were enhanced with asparagus fern and elephant ears that were growing near them. The highlight of the day was a fresh raspberry tart and freshly ground coffee eaten while a guitarist strummed in the background. The Spanish influence reminded us of San Antonio and of the powerful influence that Spain had on the development of this country. Electronics has not been easy on the ship and we will post photos later.