Savoring the California Coast

One of my favorite places in the world is Big Sur. It's one of those areas that emit an energy and beauty that is truly other worldly.

Over Valentines, my Valentine whisked

me away and took me down the coast. We stayed at this fantastic little cabin in Big Sur right near Pfieffer Beach, away from the rest of the world. On top of a hill, we could hear the powerful waves crashing in. Up above, we could see an endless sky of stars. How many times have you seen the Milky Way on a clear February night?

We drove down to San Simeon on a misty cold day. We were literally in a cloud and

I'm looking forward to many more trips down the coast while we live here in the Bay. I figure it would be a crime no

t to take advantage of one of the most magical places on earth being so close.any view on the horizon was covered in a white blanket. This made for an eerie, but magical journey. With so many stops on the way down south, we got to see the eclectic coastline: from sleek gray stone beaches, to soft sand and callalily gardens, to marshy jungles and deep sea cliffs. It's amazing to think that all exist within miles of one another. We got to see the infamous and gluttonous Hearst Castle and the fatted elephant seals on the beach miles below. We got to savor homemade croissants from Big Sur Bakery and grill up our own feast of fresh tuna steak sandwiches under the stars.

On the way home, we made our way through a little luxury, Carmel by the Sea. From the most delectable trip-tip BBQ sandwich at Bruno's Deli to lulling by the sea with a view unmatched anywhere, it was truly a romantic and visually stunning trip.

Weekend Explorers

There are a thousand and one reasons to love San Francisco... and really, don't get me started on a list right now. However, one of the best things about living here is the opportunity to endlessly explore, even in the dead of "winter".

An extra long walk from anyone's doorway will reveal a neighborhood most likely unexplored previously. It's too easy and more than enticing to keep on walking - just to see what's on the other side of the next block. And most likely, there will be a wonderful surprise of a newly discovered vintage clothing store, dog park, coffee stand, street food vendor, prettily painted house, park bench, odd-looking tree, amazing restaurant you've been hearing about, and so much more.

When I was first dating John, I would come here from Colorado for a romantic and whimsical weekend to see him and we would spend the whole weekend exploring. I would arrive and we would step outside and head to a far-off neighborhood in the city... and I always thought he had put so much planning into it. Little did I know that he was just all too lucky to simply live here... and no matter where we headed, it was a treat for the senses.

We still go on these exploring weekends quite often. Each time we head out on a Saturday or Sunday morning with only hours to find ourselves in a new neighborhood; and of course, a good spot for brunch. The newness, unknown and small delightful finds make me feel like I am still traveling... finding my own way in life, tasting new cultures, and harmoniously sharing it with the love of my life.

I always know it's going to be a good weekend when I put on my walking shoes.