beach

Peace, Love, and Pismo

/ Charlotte / Leave a comment

Back in November 2024, Nanook and I escaped to San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach for a little getaway—my second trip since retiring, and I’m loving this new chapter. We stayed in this incredible loft apartment tucked inside a handcrafted timber-frame barn. The place was full of artistic details—think cozy vibes with unique touches everywhere. It’s surrounded by sprawling oak trees and stunning scenery, making it the ideal spot to kick back and relax.

The barn sits on a 50-acre ranch, with 10 acres dedicated to Tuscan olive trees. The owners craft award-winning olive oil from them and even left us a sample bottle to enjoy. The barn itself is a work of art—authentic timber-frame construction, all held together with wooden joints, no nails. Will, one of the owners, made the handrails and windows himself and had a big hand in building it. Simply gorgeous!

San Luis Obispo on a weekday hums with energy, especially with all the Cal Poly students buzzing around. The streets feel alive—people heading to class, grabbing coffee, or just soaking in the laid-back Central Coast vibe. Downtown SLO has this charming mix of small-town warmth and college-town spirit, with shops, cafés, and that famous Thursday night farmers’ market vibe lingering in the air even midweek.

Then there’s downtown Pismo Beach, especially near that big iconic sign. It’s got a classic beach-town feel—think salty air, the sound of waves crashing nearby, and a relaxed crowd strolling along the main drag. You’ve got cute little shops, seafood spots, and places like Woolley’s, where Nanook and I stopped in. I went for a juicy hamburger paired with an IPA from a local brewery—maybe something from Firestone Walker or SLO Brew, both solid picks in the area. Nanook chowed down on a grilled hotdog, looking pretty content.

One day, we took a short drive out to Kelsey Winery in See Canyon. Man, was it beautiful—rolling hills covered in vines, basking in the golden sunlight. Nanook and I had the best time just chilling there, sipping some wine while watching peacocks wander around nearby. It was one of those peaceful moments that sticks with you, perfect for a retired girl like me taking life a little slower these days.

Back at the loft, I cooked us a homemade meal one night. Afterward, we stepped out onto the balcony and caught a meteor shower—stars streaking across the sky, just the two of us taking it all in. The sunsets were absolutely fantastic, painting the horizon with fiery oranges and soft purples—hard to beat that kind of beauty. Mornings were my favorite, though. I’m a breakfast gal at heart, mostly because I’m lazy and love sipping coffee in my pajamas. One day, I whipped up pancakes and crispy bacon, the smell filling the loft while Nanook waited patiently. Another day, we took a walk along Pismo Beach—sand between our toes, waves rolling in, the perfect way to start the day. Retirement’s treating me well, and this trip with Nanook was pure bliss.

~Peace Out, Charlotte & Nanook

Chasing the Road

/ Charlotte / Leave a comment

In September 2024, Nanook and I embarked on our long-awaited travel adventures, kicking things off with a road trip to Occidental and Bodega Bay, California. With the open road ahead of us and a sense of adventure in our hearts, we set out to explore the beauty of Northern California’s coastal forests and rugged shoreline.

The Charm of Occidental

Tucked away in the redwoods, Occidental is a tiny town that feels like a well-kept secret. It was our first stop, and I instantly fell for its quaint charm. Before checking into our Airbnb, we stopped for lunch at El Mariachi, a fantastic little Mexican restaurant that served up flavorful, authentic dishes. With full bellies, we wandered the town, taking in its laid-back vibe, small shops, and rustic beauty.

Our stay was at a secluded retreat called The Perch, a cozy hideaway perched above a lush redwood valley. It was everything I could have hoped for—peaceful, rustic, and completely immersed in nature. From the outdoor kitchen, where I prepared simple meals, to the breathtaking view from the living space, every detail made it feel like a magical escape. Nanook and I were even welcomed by the owners’ friendly pup, Canela, who eagerly took us on a walk through the woods.

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Mornings in Occidental started with a visit to Howard’s Café, a local gem with a welcoming atmosphere and an outdoor area so I could have Nanook with me. I had what I will have everywhere I go….Eggs Benedicts of various types. Nanook had already had breakfast at our place but he did have a side of sausage. They have a great looking breakfast menu. Sitting outside with Nanook by my side, sipping coffee, and watching the town slowly come to life was the perfect way to begin the day.

Bodega Bay: A Coastal Favorite

One day, we took a scenic drive to Bodega Bay, a place that holds a special spot in my heart. This rugged stretch of coastline is known for its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and its connection to Hitchcock’s The Birds. Naturally, I had to visit some of the famous filming locations, including The Birds Café and the eerie, historic schoolhouse.

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For lunch, I treated myself to a meal at Bird’s Café, where I savored delicious BBQ oysters on the half shell, paired with a refreshing Scrimshaw IPA. With the salty ocean breeze in the air and Nanook happily by my side, it was a moment of pure contentment.

Bathing Under the Stars

Back at The Perch, one of the highlights of my stay was the outdoor clawfoot tub. Tucked away in the trees, it offered the ultimate relaxation experience. One night, I soaked beneath the full moon, surrounded by towering redwoods, feeling utterly at peace. It was the kind of moment that stays with you—a reminder of how magical it is to slow down and connect with nature.

A Perfect Beginning

This trip was everything I hoped it would be: peaceful, rejuvenating, and filled with little adventures. From the towering redwoods of Occidental to the misty shores of Bodega Bay, Nanook and I embraced the beauty of the road, setting the tone for many more travels to come.

~Peace Out, Charlotte & Nanook