Image Magazine, Ireland ~ Travel ~ April, 2002
Excerpt from Birdsongs, Sunshine and Hollywood Stars
By Mary Dowey

Life is turned inside out in a California way that is terribly compelling. Here at home you struggle to the gym through wind and rain. There, you step into the sun and exercise with a smile on your face - power-walking, jogging, roller blading, cycling. I spent my Santa Barbara Saturday pedaling along the seafront for ten miles or so in the morning. And the afternoon? Sea kayaking for the first time, guided by Santa Barbara Adventure Company. Gliding out across the harbour's shimmering expanse among bobbing seals and diving cormorants. "Keep your hips loose and you won't capsize!" shouts the encouraging instructor, with a bellydancer's wiggle. "And keep punching the water to either side with your paddle!" A full body work- out, sun streaked hair and a light California tan in a single day……