March 18-20, The Pacific Coast Highway

We left Los Angeles and made our way over to the Pacific Coast Highway, a winding and incredibly scenic two lane road that follows the coast of California. Our spirits soared with the views over the ocean. We covered a lot of distance in a short time, but felt that we lived and loved the entire route. Though I don't know how we failed to realize that Solvang was of "Sideways" fame and passed right by it. However, we did sample some area vintages and I was surprised to find that my favorite was a Pinot Noir Rosé (What? Rosé? Blasphemy!) from Salisbury Vineyards, housed in a 102-year-old schoolhouse near San Luis Obispo. It certainly eased the Solvang pain.

Pismo Beach. Our campsite along a small waterway. In the other direction, dunes and the ocean. This is where we officially fell in love with California.

Morro Bay. Hands down, a highlight of the trip. We spent a few days here, wandering amongst the rocks. I love the dreamy quality of this slightly unfocused photo. Definitely a contender for future home decor. I'll have to do a survey of everyone's fave photos; I'm always amazed at which ones stand out to different folks!

A memorable lunch spot. We pulled up, facing the ocean, and set about making some homemade sushi!

Cambria. The entire town seemed to be sunshine, adirondack chairs, gardens and happy, lounging people. This boardwalk stretched for miles along the ocean. We were so busy admiring it that we drove down a dead end road, got stuck, and gracefully unstuck ourselves with a tricksy move in a B&B driveway, for which we were applauded by the lounging residents.

Right when you despair of seeing wildlife is when you stumble upon several hundred massive elephant seals.

That enormous mound in the middle of the foreground is a male elephant seal. I love the set of spooning females behind him to the left!

Sunset in Big Sur.

Being East Coasters, we mostly see the sun rise over the ocean. It was a pleasure to watch it set on the other side of the continent.

Watsonville. Home of artichokes as big as a child's head.

Obligatory cute dog picture!