I’m still in the middle of re-capping 2014’s Love & Splendor Workshop (HERE and HERE), but I had to share a little post of excitement about the location of this year’s workshop: San Luis Obispo, California.  I grew up in southern California but have made California’s gorgeous central coast my home for the past 3.5 years.  It is truly a magical place and as I tell people, it’s everything I love about California (stunning beaches, lots of natural beauty, varied landscapes, incredible food, sunshine and perfect weather) minus everything I dislike about California (traffic, smog, hustle and bustle).  While I am still in LA/OC frequently (with our families still living there, plus weddings), I feel an immediate sense of peace when I cross through the Gaviota Tunnel into the Santa Ynez Valley.  I feel truly blessed to live in a place where many people choose to vacation.

San Luis Obispo county is home to numerous microcommunities, each with its own unique look & feel.  If you love to see rolling hills of vineyards as far as the eye can see, head to Paso Robles (or parts of Arroyo Grande).  If the beach is more your style, my favorites include Shell Beach and Avila Beach.  Nearby Morro Bay reminds me of Monterey, with its charming embarcadero, docks, and wildlife (you can always spy an otter or sea lion nearby).  You can hike the Nine Sisters, bike in the city or the country, kayak along the coast (my husband’s favorite), and surf along Pismo Pier.  The farm to table concept is highlighted beautifully here, with easy access to locally grown food, local wild caught seafood and locally raised livestock.  Can you tell I love it here?

You may know that SLO was named as the “happiest city in America” by Oprah and highlighted as one of the top 4 happiest cities in the world by National Geographic and Reader’s Digest HERE but more recently, the New York Times did a piece on how to spend 36-hours in this idyllic area.  If you have 5 minutes to spare, check out their fun video with some glimpses of local favorites.  Also, the companion article shares many more fabulous recommendations, including my favorite local restaurant, Ember in Arroyo Grande.  Big hint: a good handful of things mentioned in the video and/or article will be incorporated in this year’s Love & Splendor Workshop.  I cannot wait to share the beauty and JOY of this area with new friends.

If you are looking for an inspiration, informative workshop experience that will also double as a soul-refreshing retreat, I can think of no better place to be than this fall’s Love & Splendor Workshop.  More info coming soon!!

I hope you’re having a fabulous Thursday — thank you for stopping by!