CALIFORNIA DREAMING
Our Trip to Sonoma County and San Francisco

Our California vacation came at such an odd time. We were in the middle of a small kitchen remodel that turned into a major one in the blink of an eye. Seriously, if you’ve never had to go through a remodel, it’s like opening up a can of worms – all the original plans were tossed out the window. But what really made matters worse was that my stepdad had just been diagnosed with cancer.  So even though we were physically on vacation, our brains and hearts were just not there. We had all these things at home that we were worrying about making it hard to be present in the moment and enjoy everything that was in front of us. But despite all that, we still managed to have a pleasant time and I would love to go back someday when we’re in a better frame of mind. I’ve always said that I’m a West Coast girl at heart and California did not dissappoint.  Between our stay in Healdsburg and San Francisco, we got to see a little bit of everything! The natural beauty of the National Seashores of Point Reyes, the breathtaking redwoods at Muir Woods, the vineyards in the Russian River Valley, the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s a little something for everyone – city and nature lovers alike!

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February 3, 2014 - 9:17 pm

Dena - absolutely beautiful. you’re amazing! xo

February 4, 2014 - 8:06 am

Elly - Hey lady, Just wanted to say I’m sorry about your Step Dad. Sending much love and happy thoughts your way. :)

February 4, 2014 - 10:05 am

Maddy {Mad Hearts Photography} - Thank you, Elly!

February 4, 2014 - 10:08 am

Sarah - I was so sorry to hear about your stepdad. I hope things are looking up now. But as always, your photos are gorgeous and it looks like it was a wonderful place to visit!

February 4, 2014 - 10:38 am

JWS3 - Great pictures! makes me want to visit!

February 4, 2014 - 11:17 am

Keeley @ My Life on a Plate - I’m sorry about your stepdad’s diagnosis. I’m sure your family is under a lot of stress right now.

Your photos are beautiful (as usual!). I’ve never been to California, but I am likely going to go once or twice this year for work. I’m looking forward to it.

February 4, 2014 - 12:12 pm

Maddy {Mad Hearts Photography} - I think the diagnosis comes as a major shock and you can’t help but experience a whirlwind of emotions. Everyone handles it differently, so we all had our own emotional process to go through, as well as our own opinions on how to fight this battle. But we are definitely on the other side. My step dad is responding well to treatement and things aren’t looking as bleak as they once did. I also think it’s helped us to appreciate the time we do get to spend together even more so.

And how lucky that you’ll get to travel to Cali! I love it there. This is my second time (last time I went to San Diego) and every time, I feel like I could pack on my bags and move there immediately. I love the laid back mentality (I know that’s one thing East Coasters hate about CA) and I love how much time people spend outdoors: hiking, rollerblading, biking, surfing, shopping at the farmer’s market, beach bumming…I feel like they definitely lead a healthier lifestyle than we do here.

February 10, 2014 - 11:01 am

Life with Kaishon - I don’t know how I have missed all of these gorgeous posts. They have been the perfect thing to read this morning. I have had a couple of very stressful days dealing with a work situation and this has been such a blessing. Your work always amazes me. I loved it from the very first time I ever laid eyes on it.

And I love you too.

I pray for your Dad every day.