California Part 1

So, Paul and I are completely blessed to have family that live in some of the prettiest, coolest places in the country.  We made our way for our annual visit to San Francisco and Monterey a couple of weeks ago and wanted to share some photos with you fine folks.

We spent the majority of our time in Monterey, which is considered the central coast of California.  It is truly one of the prettiest places I have ever been.  When we are there we always make a quick little trip to Carmel  by the Sea.  It is an absolutely adorable little town and filled with fantastic restaurants and stores to boot.

We had lunch at Casanova Restaurant one day, and let me tell you it did not disappoint.  It's a cute little building, kind of off the beat and path of the main drag and it is some kind of good.

Lavender for sale outside of Casanova

Table for two inside of Casanova (how cute is this place?)

We also took a day trip just south to Big Sur.  I love Big Sur, it's stunningly beautiful to witness and pictures can't really do it justice.  We had lunch at Ventana, it's and Inn (never stayed there) but they also have a fabulous restaurant with stunning views overlooking the ocean.  Another great place we've eaten at while visiting Big Sur in the past is Post Ranch Inn.  Also great views, wonderful food and great service.

One of the many gorgeous views of Big Sur from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

 Wine room at Ventana....nuff said

We also took a little journey down 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, it's filled with little stops along the way to admire the beauty that is the west coast.  It's a fairly touristy thing to do, but it's beautiful.

So that's it for now, I will be sure to share some more pics and places in SF.