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Get Super Healthy Hair With Herbal Vinegar!
If you’re like me, you are probably tired of shelling out tons of money for shampoo and conditioner. How about trying to figure out what to buy? Then there are the ingredients. Have you ever looked at what they are putting in those expensive hair products? Lots of creepy chemicals, many I can’t even pronounce. Sadly, many commercial hair products often do the opposite of what they are supposed to do. Instead of helping your hair, the harsh chemicals they contain often damage it. Did you know you can get healthy hair naturally for just pennies? Herbal vinegar helps return your hair’s health by removing dirt and yucky buildup. What’s more, most experts agree that vinegar is safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair. Follow this simple tutorial for the most happy, healthy hair ever!
Step One: Gather Supplies
You will need at least two cups of organic vinegar, a cutting board and chopping knife, and a large jar or crock with a lid.
Step Two: Choose Herbs for Herbal Vinegar
For my herbal vinegar, I chose lavender, rosemary, bergamot and peppermint which I have growing at my farm. You can choose anything that is organic and pesticide free, there are no hard or fast rules.
Step Three: Make The Herbal Rinse
This is the fun part. Chop the herbs on your cutting board so that you have approximately one cup. Put this into the jar. Add about two cups of vinegar, making sure that it covers the herbs. Stir thoroughly, and then put on the lid. That’s it! Let your herbal hair potion rest for at least two weeks.
Step Four: Strain the Herbs
This is the important part. Use a mesh strainer to remove the herbs from the vinegar. What is left is a concentrate of all those beautiful herbs!
Step Five: Dilute
You need to dilute this concentrated vinegar by adding an equal amount of water. For example, if you end up with two cups of vinegar, you will add two cups of water to it. Finally, it’s done! Apply the rinse to dry or wet hair for at least 3-5 minutes, making sure to gently massage into the scalp. If you want to condition your hair, you can also add a tiny bit of jojoba or coconut oil, no more than 1/4 tsp. Rinse hair well with warm water until clean.
Use your herbal vinegar in place of your shampoo. You will be amazed at how clean your scalp feels and how soft and shiny your hair looks. And best of all, it is safe, organic and is not hurting the earth. For more information on how to use flowers and herbs, check out The Aromatherapy Garden by Kathi Keville. This author is simply amazing, and if you love gardening it is chock-full of information. You may also enjoy checking out some of the best herbs for your hair by Minaz at Hair Buddha. Other posts you may enjoy include My Favorite Herbs and Soothing Summer Herbal Teas.
Thank you for visiting my blog! Wishing you peace, love, happiness, & beautiful vistas!
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5 Super Easy Ways to Use Up Eggs
As all of us chicken parents know, summer is the height of egg production. Longer days with more sunlight start those hens a-laying. This can lead to having a big stockpile. Giving eggs to friends, family & neighbors helps, but what to do with the rest? Here are some easy tips for using up those extra summer eggs.
1. Recipes to Use Them UP!
Egg salad, potato salad, noodles, custards, French toast, lemon curd, quiche, and frittata are all dishes requiring lots of eggs. Deviled, fried, scrambled, or poached, there are endless possibilities.
2. Freeze Without The Shell
You can’t freeze them in the shell, but you can freeze the insides. To freeze, crack yolks and whites into a bowl and mix briefly, then pour into ice cube trays. If you want to keep the whites and yolks separated you can do this too. Whites don’t need to be beaten, but yolks do and will require the addition of 1/2 tsp. salt OR 1 and 1/2 tsp. sugar for each cup of yolks, so decide if you will be using them for savory or sweet (and don’t forget to label which they are!) Once frozen, you can remove and place in a freezer appropriate storage container.
3. Freeze The Yolks
Freeze hard boiled yolks. You can’t freeze hard boiled whites or they will be rubbery and unappetizing. The easiest way to do this is to separate the white from the yolk, then drop the yolks in a pan of water so they are just covered. Bring the water to a boil, then remove the pan from heat and let stand 10-15 minutes. Drain the water and voila! The yolks are ready to freeze.
Source: Yummly 4. Pickle Them
Make pickled eggs. These are hard-boiled eggs cured in a brine. This was a technique used before refrigeration. My friend Jaclyn made some and brought them to work once for us to try, and they were delicious as well as super pretty. Here is a great recipe for pickled eggs.
5. Give Them to Your Critters
Feed them to your pets! Cooked eggs can be fed to your dog, chickens, cats, etc. Eggs are an excellent source of protein, calcium, iron, B vitamins and amino acids. Never give raw eggs to animals due to risk for bacterial poisoning. Feeding raw could also interfere with absorption of vitamin B. Always check with your veterinarian prior to giving them to fur babies if you suspect allergies. My German Shepherd, cats and chickens love them!
Helpful Tips:
- Always label stored eggs so you know when you first stored or froze them. Include added ingredients, such as salt or sugar.
- You can freeze eggs for up to a year.
- Always thaw frozen eggs in the refrigerator; never attempt to cook them straight from the freezer.
- For recipes, 3 Tablespoons of thawed raw egg = 1 egg.
- Never go into the chicken coop barefoot!
Thank you for visiting my blog! You may also like Rare Chicken Breeds and Common Chicken Sayings. Wishing you peace, love, happiness, & beautiful vistas.
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Top 10 Free Things to Do in Monterey
Planning your visit to the Monterey area but dreading the cost? Need some budget friendly options? While it is true that many things are costly here, there are also tons of super fun activities that are completely free. And what could be better than that? Here is my list of the top ten free things to do in Monterey.
Free Beaches
Bring your beachitude because sand, sun, and water await. Take your pick of beaches: Delmonte, Mcabee, San Carlos, Breakwater Cove, Lovers Point, Asilomar, Carmel, Carmel River, and the list goes on and on. Find treasures in tide pools, build sandcastles, fly a kite, watch surfers, scuba divers, paddle boarders and kayakers, or catch a glimpse of pelicans and harbor seals. You may even spot a dolphin or whale! If you choose Asilomar Beach, you may also want to check out nearby Point Pinos Lighthouse. Located at the corner of Asilomar and Lighthouse in Pacific Grove, the lighthouse is currently closed to visitors, but you can still view it from afar.
The beginning (or end) of the trail at Lovers Point in Pacific Grove. Free Recreation Trail
Walk, run or bike next to the beauty of the ocean on the fantastic Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. This wide paved trail follows the old abandoned Southern Pacific railroad line and passes by or through all the tourist hot spots including Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf. You will also have many views of and access to several beaches. My favorite part is between Monterey and Seaside, when you pass through a canopy of heavenly scented eucalyptus trees. The trail stretches for 18 miles from Lovers Point to Castroville. Dogs on leash are welcome. For more information, see rec trail.
Free Secret Gardens
Visit the secret gardens scattered throughout old Monterey. Peaceful and serene, these walled gardens are sure to delight, and many have benches where you can sit and read a book, enjoy a picnic, or simply contemplate the beauty around you.
Free Farmer’s Markets
Check out local farmer’s markets. There are Farmer’s Markets every day of the week here! My favorite is the one on Alvarado in old Monterey on Tuesdays. Three blocks are closed off to allow tons of vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables, crafts, yummy food and more. For more information, see local farmer’s markets.
Free Picnics
Enjoy a romantic picnic with your love(s). Check out my list of the Ten Best Picnic Spots in the area.
Haunted Hall & Jail
Visit a spooky jail and courthouse where people were hanged outside on the balcony. Built in 1849 in the Greek Revival Style, Colton Hall has a colorful history. It was named after Walter Colton, who was mayor, coroner, judge, and sheriff (in addition to other titles) from 1846-1849. In 1854, a jail was built next to it. It’s said that no one ever escaped from the jail due to its thick granite walls. Those convicted to death were hung by a rope over the balcony on the second floor. While there are thankfully no longer any hangings at Colton Hall, there is a free history museum, located on the second floor. There you can learn about how California became a state here, and see a copy of the original constitution. For more information, see Colton Hall and Old Monterey Jail.
Tool Around Town on a Trolley For Free
Save money on parking, avoid traffic congestion, and escape a potential parking ticket by taking the trolley. Completely free, the MST trolley operates July 3rd through September 6th, 10 am to 6 pm daily. Sites it visits are downtown Monterey, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf. For more information including schedule and departure/drop-off sites, see Monterey Trolley.
Clam It Up
Sample scrumptious clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf…for free! There is nothing like the taste of clam chowder here. Perhaps it is the backdrop of the cool ocean breeze, the cacophony of crying seagulls and barking sea lions, and the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor. Whatever makes it taste so good, I don’t know, but Monterey clam chowder is simply magical.
Happiness is a Hike
Drink in all the natural beauty the area has to offer by going for a hike. Check out the twelve best places to hike in Monterey County!
Butterflies Are Free
A must-see, the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary is located in nearby Pacific Grove, called PG by locals. Thousands of monarch butterflies overwinter here on the Monterey pines and eucalyptus trees from October through March. This has given PG the moniker “Butterfly Town”. Butterflies are free to fly, and so are you. No wings or cha-things required. For more information, see Sanctuary.
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I hope you enjoyed learning about all the fun things to do in the Monterey area for free. Because the best things in life are indeed free. You may also enjoy Delicious Places to Eat in Monterey on a Budget. Thank you for visiting my blog. Wishing you peace, love, happiness & beautiful vistas!
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The Very Best Soothing Summer Herbal Teas
Have you planted herbs that are going growing like crazy now? Or maybe you picked up a bunch of herbs at the farmer’s market and are wondering what to do with them all? Herbal teas are a great way to use them. A cup of tea is one of life’s greatest comforts, and herbal tea can help you stay hydrated and healthy. Many herbs contain vitamins and antioxidants that help strengthen our immune systems and give us energy. They may also have essential oils, minerals and fiber that contribute to overall well-being. Here are some great ways to use those herbs to create homemade teas to help heal your mind and body. The best part is that unlike regular tea, there is NO caffeine. Each recipe is for one cup of herbal tea. For each recipe, pour boiling water over the herbs and steep for 8-10 minutes. The final step? Strain the herbs, and enjoy!
Peppermint Basil Potion
Peppermint tea is often used for soothing heartburn and tummy troubles. Basil is clean and refreshing. Use two teaspoons of chopped peppermint leaves and 4-5 basil leaves.
Ginger Hugs Tea
This tea is useful for stuffy colds and also brings energy and healing. Use a teaspoon of fresh ginger, a teaspoon of chopped mint, and a squeeze of lemon. You can add honey to sweeten it if desired.
Smarty Pants
Smarty pants tea may assist with sharpening memory and concentration. Use 1/2 teaspoon rosemary leaves and 2 teaspoons chopped spearmint.
Love & Peace
This tea is great to drink when you are feeling bummed out or overwhelmed. Use a teaspoon of lavender, a teaspoon of jasmine flowers, and 1 cinnamon stick. Use only Jasminum species such as J. officinale, J. sambac, or J. polyanthum. Pick the flowers during the warmth of the day when the dew has dried, as buds or freshly opened flowers. Lavender relaxes the body and decreases anxiety. Jasmine has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces stress. Both scents are known to induce calm. Cinnamon is known to increase mental focus and help upset stomachs. The scent of this tea is heavenly.
Calming Chamomile
Another calming tea, chamomile is known to reduce stress and tension as well as fight bacteria. It can also improve digestion. It has a fruity, apple-like flavor. Use two teaspoons of chamomile flowers.
Delicious Dandelion
Dandelions are rich in vitamin K which helps prevent blood clots, and calcium which helps maintain bone health. It is also high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help your body detoxify. Do not drink dandelion tea if you are allergic to ragweed and related plants as it may cause an adverse allergic reaction. It also interferes with the absorption of many common antibiotics. Do not drink dandelion tea if you are taking antibiotics. If you have discussed this with your physician and have been given approval as to its safety, use two to three teaspoons of dandelion flowers.
Fabulous Fennel Tea
The licorice flavor of fennel infuses this tea, and helps with digestion. Use a teaspoon of fennel seeds or several fennel leaves.
Luscious Lemon Verbena
Zesty and refreshing, this tea can also aid health including digestion and pain. Add one to two teaspoons of chopped or torn leaves to your cup.
Ravishing Rosemary Thyme
Bold and invigorating, this tea will give you a pop of invigoration. For one cup use one teaspoon rosemary leaves and two teaspoons lemon thyme leaves. You may add honey if it’s a little too strong.
Helpful Tips
- You can experiment with combining herbs you like to create your own unique concoction; just remember that the longer you steep your herbs, the stronger the flavor will be.
- When in doubt, don’t add too many herbs at the start. You can always add more, but you can’t add less!
- Use only organic, pesticide-free and chemical fertilizer-free herbs & flowers.
- You can substitute dried herbs for fresh, but the steep time will be shorter, usually only 3-4 minutes.
- Always talk to your physician and get approval before consuming any herbal tea to ensure your safety. Some herbs may interfere with medications you are taking, or may be dangerous due to possible health issues you may have.
Thank you for visiting my blog. You may also enjoy Nine Best Fresh Herbs To Use In Your Kitchen and 23 Yummiest Gluten Free Foods at Trader Joe’s. Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas!
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Amazing 4th of July Decor You’ll Love!
Banner available on Etsy at SunnyBanners. The 4th of July is rapidly approaching and I am busily digging out all my patriotic decor. Whether you like to just do a little something on the front porch or go all out, here are some amazing patriotic decor ideas I think you will love!
Using vintage quilts adds a cozy, comfy vibe that will make your 4th of July perfect.
Photo credit: Jamie Brown. Hand-made by Jamie Brown, this super cute “Old Glory” sign will help you celebrate Independence Day in style. Available at her Etsy shop, ToeFishArt, they are almost sold out!
Source: @myweatheredhome Get fab farmhouse vibes using vintage and rustic items.
Wreath available on Etsy, at The Door Charm. Using a patriotic wreath on a door or above the mantel adds the perfect patriotic touch. Check out Cari Anne’s beautiful creations on Etsy. I love the bows!
Source: @oops.i.dunn.it.again Stars and stripes make this dining room so 4th of July festive.
Source: Pottery Barn These Americana cotton/linen napkins will add 4th of July flair.
Chair Back Covers available on Etsy at SeasonalHeirlooms. Sometimes, just switching up something you already have will do the trick. How about these patriotic chair back covers! Isn’t this just the cutest?
Wow! Just can’t stop admiring this beautiful porch by Bonnie Ainsley Hunt @simple_and_lovely and owner of Simple and Lovely Art on Etsy.
Source: @rusticlivinglife Another beautiful 4th of July porch. Drooling!
Source: @houseonlouisemeadow The perfect patriotic place settings to make your celebration complete.
Source: @havenberryvintage Using vintage items to decorate for the 4th of July provides a unique glimpse of the past.
Curtains available at Bed Bath & Beyond. Show your true red, white & blue love with these flag curtains.
Source: Oriental Trading These simple burlap hanging fans create festive wall decor.
Thank you for visiting my blog! I hope you found some patriotic decor inspiration. You may also like The 5 Reasons You Will Love These Summer Finds!, What the Color of Your Flowers Says About You, and Garden Gates of Carmel. Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas.
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The #1 Guide for What to See and Do in Romantic Carmel
Charming gardens, fairytale homes, sun-kissed beaches, art galleries, and award winning wineries and restaurants, Carmel has it all. If you have followed my Instagram or Pinterest accounts over the past few years you know I have an obsession with Carmel-by-the-Sea. Exploring this seaside paradise is one of my favorite pastimes. As a local, I have put together the perfect guide to help you know what to see and do once you get to this romantic destination. Your Carmel adventure awaits!
Follow the Breadcrumb Trail to the Fairy Tale Cottages
Check out the Fairy Tale Cottages. The majority can be found in the area bordered by Ocean Avenue on the south, Santa Rita on the east, 5th Avenue on the north and Torres Street on the west. To learn more about these darling cottages, check out another guide to these cottages at Adventures of a Home Town Tourist. This amazing lady is full of details, history, you name it! There is also a self-guided audio tour available. I suggest just walking or driving around because there many more quaint and beautiful homes, both old and new, throughout the town.
Time for Coffee & Snacks!
Grab a cup of coffee and snack at Carmel Valley Coffee or Carmel Bakery or tea and crumpets at The Tuck Box.
Check Out the Art Galleries
Art galleries can be found everywhere here. That is not surprising given the fact that Carmel was founded by artists and writers. There is so much creative energy here, no doubt inspired by the beauty all around.
Go Shopping, and Spend as Much as You Want, Little Missy or Mister
Go shopping. Most of the stores here are not chains, but there are the exceptions, for example, Anthropologie and Tiffany’s. That means you can find some very unique and special items. My friend Laurie, recently visiting from the LA area, swears that she can’t find her favorite wraps anywhere except for one little shop in Carmel. If you are a pet owner like me, check out the super cute Carmel Dog Shop and Diggidy Dog for toys, treats and more.
Play in Candy Land
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Cottage of Sweets. Fudge, divinity, lemon drops, licorice and more await you in this magical cottage.
Hike at Point Lobos
Visit Point Lobos just south of Carmel River Beach. It is simply breathtaking, and you may even catch a glimpse of harbor seals and more!
Drink With the Dogs
Enjoy “yappy hour” with people and their pooches at Doris Day’s Cypree Inn. Guide yourself past the lovely outdoor seating area near the mural of Charlie Chaplin inside to the lounge. The walls are covered with Doris Day movie photos. Love this place!
You’re Starving, Get Something to Eat
There is no lack of amazing food here in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Enjoy mouth-watering meals at renowned restaurants. One of my personal favorites is Dametra, which has great vibes as well as tasty food. You might even get a musical serenade from one of the cooks while you eat. Other favorites are Mission Ranch, Grasing’s, Flaherty’s Seafood Girl & Oyster Bar, Il Fornaio, Tommy’s Wok and Miracle Sushi.
Find Zen at the Beach
I think the perfect time to go to the beach is near sunset. Watching those ethereal shades of color reflecting on the waves and clouds is simply magical. If you are bringing your fur baby, keep in mind that whilst dogs can run free on Carmel Beach, they are required to be on leash at Carmel River Beach. Also note that while surfing is popular, wading or swimming here is not advised due to dangerous sneaker waves and rip currents. In fact, Monastery Beach is referred to by locals as Mortuary Beach due to the number of folks swept out to sea there every year.
Time to Wine Down
Wine tasting is another awesome activity while you are here. There are tons of amazing and award winning wine tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea. My favorite is De Tierra, not only because their vineyard is just down the road from me, but also because they have a spectacular pinot noir and chardonnay!
Take Photos in Front of the Carmel Mural
Before you leave this fairytale town, don’t forget to snap a selfie in front of the Carmel-by-the-Sea mural. It is located at the corner of Mission Street and 6th Avenue across from Devendorf Park . You may want to check out my guide to the the most beautiful Instagrammable spots in the area as well!
Helpful Hints:
- Bring clothing you can layer, it can be quite chilly in the morning and evening here, and the wind can be very strong at the beach.
- Watch for pedestrians when driving, especially when on side streets where there are no sidewalks. Carmel residents are often out walking their dogs.
- Acquaint yourselves with all the beach regulations. My friend Whitney received a very steep fine for having a bonfire on the beach because she simply didn’t know the requirements. For more information, see beach rules.
- Parking is free, however, it is limited to 2 hours or less in the business district. Unlimited free parking is available at Vista Lobos parking lot on Torres and 3rd, the Sunset Center parking lot on 8th between Mission and San Carlos Streets, and the Del Mar parking lot near the beach at the end of Ocean Avenue. Be aware that many Carmel residents have “no parking” signs near their property and please be respectful of this.
Thank you for visiting my blog! I hope you found my guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea useful and informative. I just know you will love it! Wishing you peace, love, joy, and beautiful vistas.
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The 5 Reasons You Will Love These Summer Finds!
What are you up to this summer? Planning any trips? Get-togethers with family or friends? My summer is off to a great start. My keyword for this summer is “optimism”. I was able to recently get together with a group of colleagues for dinner and it just really felt good. Like, finally, a return to normalcy. I have been planning some fun day trips and also some fun activities, such as making homemade soy candles (new post to come!) and working in my garden. Father’s Day will be pretty sad, since I recently lost my Dad in January, but I know he is in a better place. I can carry on all the things we both loved, such as enjoying the sunshine (with sunscreen!), gardening, going to thrift stores, and wearing hats!
Summer = Happy
Whether you will be heading to the beach, the lake, or just chilling out in your own backyard, here are some great summer selections, from sandals to slushies. They are not only comfy, cute, happy, colorful and fun. but will also help make your summer the best one ever. I am obsessed with these and hope you love them too.
Source: birkenstock.com
Summer = Cute
Birkenstock Yara Sandals. One thing about these is that if you are like me, they run about a whole size bigger than your regular size. Crazy but true. Also these are sold out in black on Zappos, but you can still get them at Birkenstock. Super comfy, super cute, and will make your feet super happy this summer
Source: anthropologie.com
Summer = Colorful
Brightly Colored Tops & Dresses. Tired of all the monochromatic trends? Coming out of Covid we all need brighter and happier times. Be gone Voldemort shades. This top from Anthropologie definitely fits the bill.
Source: oldnavy.com
Summer = Comfy
High Waisted Straight Leg Jeans from Old Navy. Have you ever been forced to perform the skinny jeans dance, struggling to free your feet from the teeny tiny pant leg bottoms when trying to take them off? Not so with these guys, loving them! FYI, they run a bit small so you may have to go one size larger than what you usually wear.
Summer = Sweet
Watermelon Slushies. Sometimes the best finds are sweet treats! I love this one. It’s like putting a big ol’ bunch of summer in a glass. Recipe: Freeze 3 cups fresh watermelon cubes overnight. In a blender, combine frozen watermelon with an extra 1 cup fresh watermelon, juice from 1/2 lemon/lime, and add 1 tablespoon of raw honey/ agave/ organic maple syrup. Garmish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Enjoy!
Summer = Old-Fashioned Fun
Picnic Baskets. Pack up the fam and head out to your happy place with this cute picnic basket from amazon.com. Nothing is better than having an old-fashioned picnic with the peeps you love.
Summer is a time to enjoy longer days, more sunshine, and good times with family and friends. Thank you for visiting my blog. You may also enjoy Wine Tasting in Carmel Valley, California! Hope you have a beautiful and blessed summer. Wishing you peace, love, joy, and beautiful vistas!
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The Most Beautiful Instagrammable Spots in Monterey!
Central coastal California offers so many spectacular attractions. From sun drenched beaches, to dramatic rock formations, to fabled architecture, there is beauty everywhere. As a result, photographers are naturally drawn to the area. Instagrammable opportunities abound not only in Monterey, but also in neighboring Big Sur, Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Pacific Grove. Follow along with me to see some of the most beautiful Instagrammable photo spots here in Monterey County!
1. McWay Falls in Big Sur. First on my list is McWay Falls. Featuring stunning views of an 80-foot waterfall cascading into the Pacific Ocean, this spot is Instagrammable gold. It is a long drive, however, it is definitely worth it! To read about the area’s history see McWay Falls. For park info, see Julia Pfeiffer Burns. Location: Located 37 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1 near mile marker 35.8.
2. The Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur. For a few brief weeks during the winter solstice, the sunset casts an ethereal glow through the Keyhole Arch, however, the area is absolutely gorgeous year round. The magenta tinted sand and unique rock formations offer boundless photo ops. For more information, see Keyhole Arch. Location: Just south of the Big Sur Station at mile marker 45.64 on Highway 1. Be sure to watch for the hairpin turn on the right. Follow Sycamore Canyon Road approximately two miles to the parking area. For park information see Pfeiffer Beach.
3. Nepenthe in Big Sur. This iconic bohemian restaurant has been the haunt of artists and writers such as Henry Miller, Anais Nin, Man Ray, Ernest Hemingway and more. Why Nepenthe? Because it features not only jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Big Sur coastline, but also a colorful kaleidoscope of other Instagrammable shots. For more information see Nepenthe and Menu & Hours. Location: 48510 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920.
4. Bixby Bridge in Big Sur. While you are not guaranteed the perfect shot at this popular spot, you most certainly won’t be disappointed. One of the most photographed bridges in California, Bixby Bridge is 13 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1.
5. The Mural in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Doesn’t this just holler “fashion/style shots”? This was completed just last year, and is meant to depict the ocean and the rebirth of hope. Location: Corner of Mission St. and 6th Ave., across from Devendorf Park in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
6. Fairytale Homes in Carmel-by-the-Sea. One of the magical things about this area is the abundance of fairy tale homes, many originally built by Hugh Comstock in the 1920s. For more information on these homes see Fairy Tale Cottages in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Getting a shot of one of these cuties is undoubtedly a must when visiting Carmel! Location: While you will find these sweet cottages tucked away throughout the town, there are several in the area bordered by Torres St., Ocean Ave., 5th Ave. and Santa Rita. Storybook Cottage is located within this region on Santa Fe.
7. Lovers Point in Pacific Grove. Featuring breathtaking views stretching from Monterey to Pebble Beach, Lovers Point, located in Pacific Grove, is simply stunning. Lovers Point has been the setting for several films, for instance, the “Big Little Lies” HBO series. You will definitely find many Instagram-worthy shots here. For more information see Lovers Point. Location: 17th Street and Ocean View Blvd., Pacific Grove, CA.
8. Asilomar State Beach Gazebo in Pacific Grove. Stretched between Lover’s Point and Pebble Beach, this magnificent beach features walking paths, boardwalks, and benches overlooking crashing waves and stunning rock formations. A solitary gazebo, accessible from the boardwalk, provides the backdrop for dramatic photos, especially at sunset. For more information, see Asilomar. Location: Sunset Drive, Pacific Grove, CA.
9. Pacific Grove’s Quirky Victorians. Pacific Grove is known as “America’s Last Hometown”. Beautiful Victorians line the streets of this seaside village, providing the perfect Instagrammable shots. Location: Pacific Grove, California.
10. The Lone Cypress in Pebble Beach. This iconic tree towering above crashing waves will undoubtedly provide the backdrop for your next epic shot. Location: 3212 17 Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, CA.
11. Cannery Row in Monterey. Historic buildings, charming restaurants, shops and hotels line the streets. Further down Cannery Row you will find the Monterey Bay Aquarium. There are so many Instagrammable shots here, so little time! Location: Cannery Row begins at San Carlos Beach Park at the corner of Reeside Ave. and Cannery Row, Monterey, CA.
12. Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey. There are so many visual stories to tell here. Firstly, the buildings are painted in eye-popping pastel colors. Secondly, the harbor houses a variety of boats. Thirdly, sea life abounds, including pelicans and seals. Finally, the long strand of beach and flowers blooming on the banks add further appeal. As a result, you are sure to find some Instagram-worthy shots. Location: 101 Washington St., Monterey, CA.
Thank you for visiting my blog! I hope you found some inspiration after viewing my favorite Instagrammable spots here in Monterey County. If you can think of more, let me know in the comments section. Wishing you peace, love, joy, and beautiful vistas.
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Thrift Store Treasures: How to Find the Best Deals
I have been a thrift store addict all my life, as well as a consummate estate saler and flea marketer. There is nothing like the search for a bargain to set my heart racing. Whenever I travel, I always look for thrift stores! Why? One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. I also love that I am preventing more debris from going into our landfills. Plus, getting something at a fraction of what it cost new can feel pretty good. Pre-loved items are definitely a win-win. Here is my guide to what to buy and how to get the best deals.
Source @pinterest.com Clothing. Name brand apparel that was originally ridiculously priced can be found for a fraction of that at the thrift store. Jeans are one item that you can find for far less than you would pay retail. I highly recommend trying clothing on before you purchase it as many stores have a no refund policy.
Source @pinterest.com Shoes & Handbags. While it is highly unlikely that you will find a Chanel bag like this at a thrift store, never say never. Sometimes things turn up that you would have never thought possible. It is not uncommon to occasionally find high end shoes and handbags.
Books. Tired of paying top dollar for books? I have found so many good books at the thrift store, including recently released best sellers, usually for two to three dollars. It would seem that many people read a book once and then donate it? Lucky me! There are also cookbooks, textbooks, and children’s books galore.
I discovered this vintage handmade tatted lace handbag at a thrift store in Carmel-by-the-Sea for $2.00! 
Shabby Chic table I found in Monterey for $20.00. Vintage/Antique Items. I have found lovely furniture, beautiful vintage china and all kinds of treasures at thrift stores. There are also always vintage pyrex dishes, candle holders, wine goblets and more, all very modestly priced.
Artwork and Frames. We have all heard stories of someone purchasing a painting at a thrift store that turned out to be worth a fortune. Clearly, this is rare, however, you can often find beautiful artwork and lovely frames at extremely reasonable prices. It’s always fun to find something beautiful for far less than it would cost new!
Source: @pinterest.com Children’s Toys and Games. As an occupational therapist working with children, I am always looking for things to improve fine motor, motor planning, and visual perceptual skills. Thrift stores never fail me.
Seasonal Decor. Looking for holiday decor at an affordable price? Thrift stores will never disappoint. There are always amazing deals for Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, and more.
Monterey Farmgirl’s Tips for Finding the Best Bargains:
- Shop frequently. The more you visit the greater your chances of hitting the jackpot.
- Nearly every store has sale days. Sometimes this can mean up to 50% off or more. Check with stores to learn about their specials.
- The early bird gets the worm. Go early in the morning to get first pick, and find out when the store restocks merchandise.
- Don’t forget to ask about senior citizen or military discounts.
- No time to go shopping in person? Check out these fabulous online thrift stores: thredUP, Worn Wear, and Swap.com.
Three super cute tops I found at Goodwill a few days ago, all for $20.00! Here are some of my favorite thrift stores in the Monterey area: Branches Resale Shoppe, Yellow Brick Road Benefit Shop, Central Coast Goodwill, and St. Vincent de Paul. Thank you for visiting my blog. I hope you found some helpful information. You may also enjoy Best Guest Dresses for a Beach Wedding and Scrumptious Strawberries: Fanciful Finds You’ll Love! Wishing you peace, love, joy, and happy thrifting!
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Cottage Love in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Originally settled by a band of bohemian artists and writers, Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the prettiest cities you will ever see. Visitors feel as though they have stepped into something from Grimm’s Fairytales, and perhaps they have. Part of the allure of this seaside town arises from the storybook homes populating it. Romantic cottages are waiting to be discovered around every corner. There’s just something about these cozy abodes that tugs at your heartstrings and makes you fall in love with them. Here are some sappy but sweet cottage quotes about these lovelies. Enjoy!
I am excessively fond of a cottage; there is always so much comfort, so much elegance about them. I advise everybody who is going to build, to build a cottage. ~ Jane Austen. Anything ever written by Jane Austen is solid advice, in my humble opinion.
Every antique farm-house and moss-grown cottage is a picture. ~ Washington Irving. This is true, hence my obsession for photographing them excessively.
A cottage will hold as much happiness as would stock a palace. ~ Hamilton Wright Mabie. I have never lived in a palace, so cannot draw such a comparison. And even though I believe happiness comes from within, living in a Hugh Comstock dwelling like this would certainly amp up the happiness factor.
Everyone can identify with a fragrant garden, with beauty of sunset, with the quiet of nature, with a warm and cozy cottage. ~ Thomas Kinkade. Mr. Kinkade, of all people, understands the veracity of this statement.
Her modest looks the cottage might adorn, sweet as the primrose peeps beneath the thorn. ~ Oliver Goldsmith. These are actually clematis flowers and they do appear to be peeping over the gate. Petal peepers!
I knew by the smoke that so gracefully curl’d above the green elms, that a cottage was near. I said, “If there’s peace to be found in the world, a heart that was humble might hope for it here”. ~Thomas Moore. Agreed, I would love to find peace in this cottage!
Give me the sea and a little cottage just to be. ~unknown. Definitely!
Thank you for visiting my blog. You may also enjoy The Garden Gate Story: Inspiration from Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Magical and Enchanting Gardens of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas.
If only this were true! Source: Pinterest. ,