Coastal Christmas...

We were lucky enough this year to celebrate part of Christmas up on the central coast. Andrew flew into Santa Barbara so he would be able to spend a little more time up here before we went to down to LA to spend Christmas with the family. Andrew said he's jealous we moved here after he had already moved out :) It had been raining for what seemed like weeks, so when we had one clear day we definitely took full advantage of it. We ate at Giovanni's in Morro Bay, went wine tasting, and explored of bit of Montana de Oro.

The tide was low enough we were able to go see some of the caves! We had to cross through some water & it was FREEZING, but the caves were so amazing.

We took the scenic route home and came upon this breathtaking view! I definitely live in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Smith Family Christmas Party

We survived the Smith Family Christmas Party! We went down to southern California for a little over a week to fit in all our Christmas festivities. Sunday started with grandma's birthday. The next week consisted of days & days filled with family get togethers :) The biggest Christmas event we have is the Smith Family Christmas Party. I think we figured out we've been having this party for over 50 years! Pretty impressive. The party was a huge success though. We had 55 people, my aunt won the quilt, and I walked away with some ridiculous bingo gifts... That's what I call a successful party!

Ceramics.

Last night was our last ceramics class. It felt like elementary school because we had a little party! Everyone finished off any glazing they had left & just snacked a visited. All in all it was a really great experience. Unfortunately every good thing I made broke :( I guess that's the name of the game with ceramics. Our teacher had all of his work out for us to browse/buy. He's SO GOOD with colors & glazing. My mom and I each bought a piece (we couldn't control ourselves!). My choice is the green & blue vase... Isn't it great! I think it would take a few more classes for me to be able to do that :)

New Frontiers

While the central coast is severely lacking in decent regular shopping, we're actually doing pretty well in the grocery shopping department. It just got much much better though! A New Frontiers opened in SLO! New Frontiers is very similar to Whole Foods. It's basically heaven for those with any type of food allergy! They also have a really amazing ready made food area & coffee/juice bar. They have gluten free sandwiches, pastas, cupcakes, soups, salads... It's so tasty!


One of the things I have missed the most since giving up gluten is ravioli. I finally found someone who makes really good gluten free ravioli! Is it sad to say that a grocery store is my new favorite restaurant?

Yosemite!

We had a gorgeous & snowy Thanksgiving!

I think this was my 4th National Park of the year. I really want to visit every single one now! I have all the details of our Thanksgiving on my other blog here!