My dear friend invited me to her birthday party, and it was one of the most original and fun evenings I had ever participated in for a celebration! TIFA Chocolate & Gelato closes the store and allows guests to host their own chocolate party. An employee of the store serves as the instructor for the evening and teaches the guests about how chocolate is made. Then, we all get to make our own chocolates! We made original ganaches, sprinkled the outsides of the chocolates with special dusting, and brought in our own appetizers and wines to enjoy all evening! After it was all done, the instructor also treated us to cappuccinos and other coffee drinks. What a creative way to stellabrate a birthday!

Through Facebook Marketplace, I had the pleasure of finding Kj Interiors. I visited their space in Orange County where I picked up a set of dining chairs that were refurbished. Kim has a number of beautiful pieces that are all of very high quality. She responds promptly to all messages and her furniture is reasonably priced.

Drive to this location to enjoy a breathtaking view of Ventura Beach and the coastline. You can take a picnic with you, or simply take in the incredible view and amazing cross. It's a real treat!

*I would Google directions to the location. I typically get off at California St. off the 101 and then make a left when I am facing City Hall. Then, I make a right up a steep hill, which leads me to the park.

This is an excellent hotel to stay at when visiting Orange County. I appreciate that parking, wifi, and a full breakfast are included in the hotel fee. Also, this is an ideal location for a girlfriend getaway because they have affordable packages that includes 60-minute massages. There is also a beautiful courtyard to enjoy your meals and drinks.

Website: http://www.mondocellars.com/villa-nel-mondo.html

I was recently passing through Paso Robles and was going to book a stay at a hotel there, but then I discovered that you could stay at the actual wineries! DONE! I found this gem in Paso Robles. A family-owned bed and breakfast that has incredible views, is beautifully decorated, and very affordable! The inn keepers are two brothers who are extremely kind and friendly. The rooms were comfortable and spacious, and the breakfast was delicious too. This is the way to travel!

I could spend the whole day at the Robert Mondavi Winery. The grounds are spectacular, and the staff is extremely helpful and friendly. In the summers, the winery offers free concerts with headlining artists like Colbie Caillat. I look forward to returning and enjoying a summer night with music and fine wine.

Website: http://www.tobytucker.com/dnqp8nnfzmiocfzri5kfa05frq7d0d

I admire beautiful artwork, and the photography of Toby Tucker is stunning. Toby captures special moments in a beautiful way using natural lighting and love. Whenever a friend is planning a wedding, I highly recommend this talented photographer. His website is worth a stop. Trust me, you won't be disappointed! We never are.

Princeton University is a beautiful campus, and one of the hidden secrets is visiting its adorable children's library. It is located on the main campus and is open to the public. I was inspired just sitting at the table and looking at my surroundings.

It might seem odd to post that a university is a stellar stop, but not in this case. Pepperdine University is known as one of the most beautiful campuses in the world. California weather allows you to visit Pepperdine any time throughout the year for its stunning view, but I recommend that you stop by especially in the last few weeks of September when they place flags on their lawn in remembrance  of the 9/11 victims. There is also a Heroes Garden at the top of the campus that has an infinity waterfall and allows you to pay tribute to the fallen victims of the 9/11 tragedy.

Address:  4101 E Las Posas Rd, Camarillo, CA 93010
(805) 388-5222

This library is stellar (period!). The interior is spacious and beautiful. There is free wifi throughout the library, and there is a coffee shop just outside if you need a little shot of caffeine or relaxing herbal tea as you are reading. Additionally, there is a "Friends of the Library" bookstore next to the coffee shop that has a variety of offerings--movies, novels, textbooks, CDs--all for super discounted prices. If you are in the area, you must stop here. It will enrich your mind and your soul.