MCGRATH STREET PUMPKIN PATCH

We had a "fall" day in Southern California! So we stopped at McGrath Street Pumpkin Patch in Ventura to celebrate. We pass this patch on our [near weekly] drive to Santa Barbara so I was so excited to finally check it out.  

This pumpkin patch was just heaven on a cool, crisp day. Lots of space to run around, drive a wheelbarrow, pick out heirloom pumpkins and talk to the goats, llama and sheep.

These colors are killing me. 

I love that Mila got a chance to run through an actual patch. So much fun! 

Jacket: J.Crew | Dress: Go Gently Baby | Leggings: Old Navy | Boots: Hunter 

5 CALI GETAWAYS TO TAKE BEFORE THE END OF SUMMER

(The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay)

Are you looking to have one more fabulous getaway before the end of summer? With less than a month of official summertime left, I've made my list of Top 5 California resorts to ensure a grand finale to your 2015 summer season. Let's go!

1. POST RANCH INN, BIG SUR.  

High atop the cliffs of Big Sur, the 39-room resort is surrounded by incredible mountain and ocean views. The rustic-luxury hotel offers a world-renowned restaurant, an infinity pool, spa and plenty of romance. So much romance that the resort has an 18 and up age requirement. And don't forget to stop by the amazing Big Sur Bakery while you're in the area!

2. THE RITZ CARLTON, HALF MOON BAY

Set upon a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay is located 23 miles north of San Francisco. The resort was completely renovated and refurbished in March of this year, with rooms decorated in cool blue and grey tones, to match its oceanic surroundings. The resort features two championship golf courses, so bring your clubs.

3. SAN YSIDRO RANCH, MONTECITO

Rated by Forbes as the #1 Hotel in America, San Ysidro Ranch is nestled in the Montecito Foothills of Southern California's wine country. The ranch occupies 500 acres of coastal landscape, just a few miles from downtown Santa Barbara. Their private cottages are individually and uniquely decorated, all including fireplaces or stoves. Their property also includes 17 miles of active hiking trails, a hillside pool and sumptuous gardens. I also hear that their extensive and impressive wine list is a BOOK to behold. 

4. MONTAGE, LAGUNA

Located on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific, the 30 acre beach resort is located in the heart of Laguna Beach. The resort features 248 Craftsman style rooms, all featuring ocean views. The hotel is also home to three restaurants, two pools and a renowned spa. If you are looking for the quintessential California beach resort, this is the place.

5. CALISTOGA RANCH, CALISTOGA

Located in a secluded Upper Napa Valley canyon, on 157 oak lined acres, Calistoga Ranch is a luxury retreat completely engulfed in nature. The Ranch's culinary team sources only the finest organic ingredients to create seasonal dishes to reflect the area. The resort offers wellness classes, such as yoga and Tai Chi. Check out their chicken coop and bocce court on the way to their indoor/outdoor spa.

Now I want to go on vacay too!!! xx

MONTECITO'S THE HONOR BAR

Nothing makes me happier than a daycation to Montecito (Santa Barbara), and The Honor Bar (from Hillstone) is a favorite spot for lunch. It's a small setting with a small menu (which is always a good sign).

The Macho Salad (chicken, avocado, almonds, dates, goat cheese, corn) and Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri. Toddler hand not included. 

Some great chairs to lounge in while having something refreshing to drink.

Really a pleasant setting to get you into that daycation state of mind.

CARPINTERIA SEAL SANCTUARY

The Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary is an easy day trip from Los Angeles. But you really only need an hour there. So if you're on your way to Santa Barbara, it makes for a good stop to get out and stretch your legs.

It's home to almost 100 adult seals who give birth to their cubs on the Carpinteria shoreline. 

The sanctuary is a protected birthing habitat for harbor seals [from December] through May every year. 

The winding trail leads down to a beautiful coastal view.

Lots of room for running.

The trail goes for miles along the bluffs -- offering great views overlooking the ocean. 

This way!

There they are, the mommies and babies. The Sanctuary recommends bringing binoculars, and you can see why. The beach is closed so this is the closest you're gonna get. 

Taking it all in. [Mila's dress is by Nellystella.]