After working in Chico for the morning, we drove the backroads,wandering our way through rice paddies, walnut orchards, tomato fields and seemingly forgotten about towns, on our way to Point Reyes — a romantic getaway for hubby and me.


I knit while hubby drove. Remember the yarn catastrophe?


We pulled into Nicasio in the late afternoon and I just had to stop and check out Old St. Mary’s.


One Mesa, the bed and rest where we stayed, welcomed us with flowers, views and …


a cozy Moonlight Room. I strolled for a while after we got settled.


Many flowers and quiet corners awaited me.


We enjoyed wine on the patio overlooking golden California foothills peppered with organic farms and horse ranches.


Speaking of wine, a local favorite, Palace Market had plenty to choose from. I particularly liked the name of this little jewel.


We chose a Broc Cellars “Carbonic” Carignan to enjoy with our dinner at Stellina.


Perfectly cooked penne noodles with squash blossoms and pesto. We also enjoyed a selection of warm olives, crusty bread and garden fresh salads complete with tiny violet flowers … heavenly!


Before dinner, as we waited for our table, we walked around Point Reyes Station and found this sweet toy shop. Notice the sign: “nope.” Okay, I am going to confess my minute, or two, of complete stupidity. My husband asked this writer, “What do you think they do with the sign tiles when they aren’t closed?” Hmmm. What could they do to let people know they are open? I didn’t get it until the next day. How about you?


The next morning, we strolled through the well-stocked farmer’s market and picked up lunch: fresh figs, Cowboy Cheese (produced in Point Reyes) and a Brickmaiden crusty loaf. Off to the sea! The local paper served as our plates.


Aren’t these figs beauties?


Even more gorgeous were the Belladonna lilies that stood swaying above the Pacific Ocean.


And there I am, eating, as usual.


Situated on Tomales Bay, Inverness is just up the road from Point Reyes Station. This old fishing boat hasn’t experienced the open sea in quite some time.


A lonely pier post.


Saltwater restaurant has an interesting story.


And they have wine on tap. Ah, more wine …


Inverness is also home to Tomales Bay Soap Company. The owner is a Creative with a capital C! All of her soaps are crafted using vegetable and essential oils. The colors are achieved by crushing herbs and other concocted ingredients to turn out vibrant, earthy bars of luscious goodness. Check it out!


Come back next week to learn about our experience at the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse where we almost died climbing the 300-plus steps back to the top of the bluff.



by Amber Galusha
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