Ciocolat

Asheville, North Carolina offers an array of restaurants, wine bars, galleries, bookshops; there is something here for everyone. I stumbled upon this lounge while walking to a local bookstore. The lounge had exactly what I was hoping for... Ciocolat! The Chocolate Lounge in Asheville was fantastic! Their signature liquid truffle can be ordered with dark, light, lavender, honey or mild chocolate, I had the dark chocolate. The smell of fresh chocolate and espresso are two of my favorite smells. If you are ever in Asheville, The Chocolate Lounge is a must, your senses will definitely be very pleased!

Linnaea's

One of my favorite places to grab a cup of coffee in San Luis Obispo is Linnaea's. The vibe is artsy, earthy and peaceful. Take your coffee to the back patio and you will find yourself sitting for hours. I love the plants, art and atmosphere. Grab a good book or a friend who can carry a conversation and believe me you will find it hard to leave this little cafe. A must order is either a classic latte or their sweet chai. You can find Linnaea's off Higguera Street located on Garden!!

Petit Soleil

The Central Coast is one of my favorite places! San Luis Obispo is a hidden gem nestled between mountains and ocean. Every time I venture down to San Luis Obispo I stay at a Bed and Breakfast called, "Petit Soleil". Each time, my husband and I stay here we are always amazed. Petit Soleil offers a cozy, french atmosphere that is always inviting. Each room is themed in a soft way, all rooms invite you in and instantly allow you to relax. The back courtyard has a marshmallow soft swing where you can sit and read a book or just enjoy relaxing. In the morning breakfast is served and can be brought back to your room. The breakfast is fresh and made with rich ingredients that have you dreaming for more, once home. Petit Soleil, means little sun and that is just what it is, not over done, simple and thoughtful, always inviting!

Sweet things in Hot Springs

Here are some photos that I took in Hot Springs, North Carolina. Everything was in bloom, and the colors filled the scenery. The town is quaint, vibrant and calming, here is a little taste, enjoy!

Brotherly Love

I took this picture at a place called Max Patch in North Carolina. At first, I wanted to capture the three hikers from Holland, but after taking the picture I realized I captured my husband and my brother in law too. Going thru my photos I realized that this was one of my favorite photos from the trip. The brothers from Holland were on their way to finish the Appalachian Trail and my husband and brother in law were having a moment. There is no better place to connect and experience life than in nature, some of my favorite moments in life have been while I was outdoors, simply living.

Earth Day

In honor of Mother Earth, I wanted to post this picture I took on a stroll in San Francisco. I figured it is quite fitting for today. The earth offers a palette for all of us, go out and appreciate it!!  

The Appalachian Trail

Over the weekend I took a small trip to Hot Springs, North Carolina. Hot Springs is located smack in the middle of the Appalachian Trail. The AT spans from Georgia to Maine, and can only be done starting from March and ending no later than October. The Trail attracts hikers from all over the country in search of one thing, an ADVENTURE. In Hot Springs, I met over a dozen hikers that all shared stories with me and explained why they were hiking the trail. I must say they inspired me and I plan to do a leg of the trail at one point in my life. The trail itself is challenging, surreal and inviting, if you are into challenges and an adventure I encourage you to look into hiking the AT.

Life

Embrace life and treat everyday like an adventure!!!

Lait et Beurre

One of my favorite memories is sitting at the breakfast table one morning and being brought the freshest milk and the largest block of butter I had ever seen.  The milk was literally just squeezed out of a cow's tit. Why is everything in France better? Fresh milk, butter and family, who needs anything else!!

BOEGE

I took this picture after a hike in the countryside of France. Usually, if I am missing France, I go through my photos and can always find one that takes me back to my favorite valley, La Vallee Verte.

Mandarinquat

I stumbled upon this unique fruit the other day grocery shopping. I had no idea a Mandarinquat could be so fantastic. I've been adding them diced up into my salads and the flavor this piece of fruit adds is like nothing else. They're pretty seedy but their skin is tangy, sweet and edible. If you feel like making a great summer salad, add a Mandarinquat, it will definitely spruce up your salad!!

A Place to Hike

San Diego offers more than just beaches, there are also great places to hike. Here at Cowell's Mountain, the novice or experienced hiker can enjoy a day of hiking together. The path has switchbacks that are great for first timers and trails that head straight up the mountain for what I like to call, "the crazy hiker".  The view from the top is quite amazing, with views of San Diego and the majestic Pacific! Dust off your hiking shoes while on vacation and go see San Diego from a hiker's point of view!

ZANZIBAR

 

Over the weekend I was introduced to a yummy cafe in San Diego. Zanzibar is an artistic cafe that has local artists' paintings on every wall and has a cozy feel at the same time. I ordered their Chai Latte, it was amazing. I love when my lattes are served just warm enough not to burn my tongue and nothing is better than drinking from a mug. Zanzibar can be found on Garnet in Pacific Beach, San Diego. Their omelets are just as tasty as their coffee and any foodie would love this place!

Italia

I have been going through some of my favorite photos from all of my trips and stumbled upon this one. At the time, I remember admiring the colors of these boats. These boats represent Italy incredibly well, bright and full of life!

A New Place to Swim

For those avid swimmers, I recently discovered a new and more adventurous place to swim... AQUATIC PARK. Aquatic Park is located in San Francisco on Bay Street between the Marina District and Pier 39. I love open water swimming but had never attempted to try swimming in Aquatic Park until about a week ago. I loved it and can't wait to go back. The best time to go is in the morning at 7 am, being that it is less crowded and the water is as smooth as glass. Timid of swimming in open water? Encourage your friends to swim with you, because when it comes to swimming in the Bay the more the merrier!

ahhhhhhh Parissssssss

My favorite city is Paris. I visited here in 2007 and can't wait to go back. The best way to get around in Paris is with your own two feet. Walking was my choice of transportation and was the best way to get a taste of the city. I love Paris for its history, baguettes, cafes, and the people. J'aime Paris!

vibraaaaaant

Open air markets or farmer's markets are amazing at this time of year. I feel as if fruit tucks itself away all winter and comes out to show all of it's glory in the spring. Everything in spring is fresh, alive and vibrant. Head to a local farmer's market, enjoy the colorful fruits. Also, try to pick up a fruit or vegetable you would never buy, it's always great trying something new!