every day is a holiday

Beverly Hills, what a thrill! I really love visiting LA, where everything somehow feels like a movie set. There's just something fun about seeing so many people outside enjoying the weather, beaches, and sites no matter what day of the week it is. There's an adventurous energy in the air, which I personally channeled into my first time behind the wheel on the freeway (made it out alive, not eager to try my luck again). Besides the dear family and friends we had the chance to visit on this particular trip, there were many highlights that made our time in la la land special. Living my best boardwalk life. What would the Santa Monica Pier be without the irresistible  Hot Dog on a Stick ? I indulged in a classic beef corn dog with a fresh homemade lemonade—delectable! I don't know if this combo would taste as delicious in any other setting, but with the crowds milling about and the sea salt breeze blowing through the air there is no better mid-day snack.

A visit to sunny San Diego! La Jolla was our home base for this leg of the trip. There are tons of restaurants and things to do right here in town, but the relaxed vibe also allows for pure relaxation. Truthfully, we spent many hours lounging in the luxurious mattress-thick cushions by the hotel pool at  La Valencia Hotel and Spa , but we managed to find some favorite spots for both eats and sites while we were in town. Poolside at La Valencia Duke's  has a relaxed surfer-dude vibe that immediately put me in the San Diego mindset. We were famished after a somewhat traumatic flight (a story for another day) so rather than wait for a patio table with a view we sat down at the indoor bar, manned by a super friendly California dude. The fish sandwich was fresh and delicious, made from seared oho and served on soft brioche with a tangy slaw.  Nine-Ten  is a La Jolla gem. The back terrace had beautiful views and a nice low-key yet upscale atmosphere. The Fava Bean