Monday, April 6, 2015

West Coast Mini Vacation

With this last weekend being a 3 day weekend for me, I was really wanting to go out and do something fun! I wanted to go somewhere I hadn't been and enjoy some of this beautiful California weather. After MUCH discussion with my co workers, I decided on Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, and Pismo Beach. Although, I did not know exactly what to expect from any of these places, I was pleasantly surprised by all. I am trying to plan another trip out to continue with such a fun area!

To begin with, Keith and I stopped in Paso Robles for some wine tasting. We had heard they had some great wineries around there, and again was not sure of what to expect. This is a little less than two hours from us, so we woke up early Saturday and began on our way. About 15-20 miles outside of Paso, there begins a winery about every 1/2 mile on both your left and right sides. I had looked into some of the reviews, as well as suggestions, so we kind of knew where to begin. When we began, we walked in like we had no idea what was going on, because we didn't have any idea what was going on. I learned very quickly, that I am not the most classy person to have ever wine tasted. I was loving the Saltine Crackers they placed in front of you! We went on cave tours, tasted whites, reds, and learned all about growing grapes and building vineyards. We had so much fun trying something new and going winery to winery. We hit 5: Robert Hall, Vina Robles, Tobin James, Eberle, and Wild Coyote. These places are all so unique and fun in their own ways. It is amazing how many Wineries there actually are in this area. We learned there are around 300 wineries just in the small area. I do not know how anyone could come close to hitting them all!

Later on that night, we drove into San Luis Obispo. This is also where Cal Poly University is located. They had a very "artsy" downtown with a lot of fun restaurants, shops, and bars. Again, there was no way we could even begin to hit all the places that were suggested. This is a town I would really like to go back and see what it has to offer. The downtown was just the beginning and it was so fun to walk around.

Saturday we hit up Pismo Beach. A very "beachy" town. I loved this town because of all the surf shops, casual wear, and fun atmosphere. We walked out onto the Pier, walked the boardwalk area, and were able to hit up some fun little patio stops. I couldn't imagine living near a beach. I do not know how any would go to work. You could tell the "lifers" and the "tourist" very easily, and I believe I would fall into the "lifer" stage very quickly if I ever got that opportunity. What a fun way to get to spend a three day weekend!

Easter was very laid back and enjoyable. A nice Sunday brunch, a dog park visit, and outdoor enjoyment were taken in by all! I hope you had a very Happy Easter!

Robert Hall Winery
Robert Hall Cave Tour
 Winery #2
3rd Stop!
Eberle
Beautiful View
Pismo Pier
Love this view
Lunch Stop! Highly Recommend!


Easter Brunch
Dog Friends!

February/March Madness

     Another month is passing by so quickly. I cannot believe it is April. So much to talk about in one blog! I guess waiting a little longer isn't a bad concept, I have no worries of what to add! February was mainly filled with lots of basketball, as always. This means, Keith is out and about and busy as ever, and I am catching any game I can, but also finding new things to do in Fresno. I am absolutely loving the weather!  Who knew you would be able to do so many outdoor activities during these early months. I have enjoyed being able to take the dog for a walk, bike ride when I can, and lay out by the pool as much as possible. This whole job thing however, is taking a toll on my lay out times, which means weekends are key.




     Fresno State Women's Basketball team finished regular season with a 20-8 record. It was such a fun season and great games to watch. We headed to Las Vegas for their conference tournament and lost in the semi final game. Because of the great season we had, we were invited to the WNIT. We beat San Francisco to head into Round 2, where we lost to St. Mary's to conclude the season at 22-10. Although you never want to end your season on a loss, the season was filled with a lot of positives and a great 1st year at Fresno State.




     Las Vegas was overall a great time. How can you not enjoy being in such a crazy atmosphere for a week. Both my parents and Keith's were able to join us for the week and catch two basketball games and lots of laughs. We were able to do all that we wanted and only left with a little less than I came with ;). We wont talk specifics. My parents set me up with great lodging, and we were so close to everything in need. UNLV put on a great tournament and we were able to find our own entertainment when we were not watching basketball. We were very "touristy" on the off days and enjoyed, the Pawn Shop, Eiffel Tower and its amazing view, Bellagio Fountains, and Fremont Street. It was a bit wild, but a whole new side of Vegas I had never seen before. It was such a great atmosphere with the Mountain West, Pact-12, and WAC conference tournaments going on. College basketball fans were everywhere and made for a very memorable trip.




     My new job has been going great! We are gearing up for two major events that both come in the fall, but have plenty of planning to do. I have enjoyed the people I am working with, and being able to open myself up to even more new things here in California. I still miss home and the people there. My family recently celebrated two very special birthdays. Little Reese (Matt and Jana's) turned 3! She is growing more into an adult everyday. Her amazing laugh and smile can make anyone melt. I love receiving pictures and videos of all my nephews and nieces and the frequent Face time of watching them play. Our sweet Keeley (Mitch and Christy's) also turned 1! How can that be? Her adorable outfits and bows keep me laughing continuously. I would love to see her closet and count how many times she wears an outfit, I am not sure I have seen her wear one twice!






    The next couple months do not have a lot of plans, but some fun California adventures on their way. We are looking forward to making some fun stops, as well as a trip home this summer!




Preparing for Game 1




Game 1 Victory!


Bill, Keith and Jan


The whole clan!


Kim and I ready to cheer on the Dogs!




View from the Eiffel Tower


Fremont Street!

Dad in the Pawn Shop


Finding new things to do in Fresno! Wine Festival



Keeley's 1st Birthday




Happy Birthday Reese!