We took a mini vacay to The Resort at Pelican Hill for our "2nd annual pre-4th of July celebration." The resort sits on over 500 acres by the Pacific Ocean in Newport Beach. Its relaxed style takes inspiration from the Mediterranean, which suits the Southern Californian grounds perfectly. We found the resort to be very family friendly.

The bungalows and villas are spread out along scenic pathways. Our favorite style -- no tall buildings filled with hallways and elevators -- just an airy, comfortable feel. The rooms are the largest we've stayed in, every room feels like a suite. And the service is impeccable.

We spent most of our time at the pool. Their Coliseum Pool is a perfect circle measuring 136 feet in diameter. It's stunning and the kids loved it.

An upper level cabana.

Camp Pelican is for ages 4-12, so we're not there yet, but we can still enjoy the splash pad.

Post-swim nuzzle, followed by a bubble bath.

Future Olympian on the bocce ball court.

We had breakfast and lunches at the Coliseum Grill. It just feels so vacay to eat outside, gazing at the pool.

Morning latte.

Pre-lunch popcorn.

Tuscan Caesar.

Blackened Fish Tacos.

For dinner, we headed over to the Pelican Grill.

Filet Mignon.

Cioppino.

Gluten-free penne with bolognese.

We brought our own sparklers to get us into a festive mood. Hope you all had a great 4th of July!

Our close friends renewed their vows at Santa Barbara's Bacara Resort & Spa over the holiday weekend. We thought it was the perfect excuse to spend a few days relaxing at the oceanside retreat. I was reminded how the grounds at the resort are some of the best around. And the wedding, overlooking the ocean, was very special. Here's a peak.

I love this huge succulent and cactus planter as you pull up the the entrance.

Gorgeous green and white blooms greet you in the lobby.

Drool-worthy orchids and peonies.

Let's get cozy by the lobby fireplace,

My favorite part of the resort -- lush grounds surrounding the Spanish-style villas.

Brixton was in Heaven being able to explore and run around the resort grounds.

B's Outfit -- Sweatshirt: Mimobee via Eggy, Pants: Nununu, Shoes: Nike, Air Jordan's

The Bistro patio, complete with ocean breezes.

Power breakfast. Though it isn't on the menu, they will custom-make any omelette you'd like.

Post-brekky walk to the beach.

Pool time!

The wedding ceremony, on the outside grass of the Beach House restaurant, overlooked The Pacific. The the flowing white hupppah, housed a crystal chandelier and was tied with gorgeous pink and white flowers. STUNNING.