20th Annual SLOIFF: Jeff Bridges!

Last night's King Vidor Awards was nothing short of magical. Ever since the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival's (SLOIFF) announcement that Academy Award^®-winning actor, Jeff Bridges, would be receiving the festival's highest honor, the galvanized SLO air has sizzled with anticipation. 

When my parents and I arrived at the majestic Fremont Theatre in downtown San Luis Obispo at dusk, the buzz and excitement swept us away. Soon after taking our seats, my sister and her fiancée joined us and it wasn't long before the festival's dynamic duo, managing director, Charlotte Alexander, and the artistic director, Wendy Eidson, kicked off this electrifying awards show.

At the beginning of this red-hot event, I had to face my fears. SLOIFF's board president, Paul Metchik, called me on stage to accept the President's Award. I stood in front of hundreds of people in the sold-out audience and gave a short acceptance speech. Terrifying but exciting! Awarded for my years of volunteer service, serving on the SLOIFF board  of directors, and helping to create the local winery participation in the festival, I couldn't have been happier. 

After the filmmaker awards the great actor, James Cromwell, presented Mr. Bridges with the King Vidor Award. Let me tell you, the Dude still abides. During the Q&A, he was warm, charismatic, honest and downright likeable. 

At the after party, held at the nearby SLO Masonic Lodge, local wineries and restaurants provided delicious sips and nibbles, while the celebrity guests of honor mingled with the ecstatic crowd. What a celebration. A truly incredulous night that I'll never forget!

Here I am on stage at the Fremont Theatre—facing my fears and feeling grateful.

Jeff Bridges, receiving his King Vidor Award.

I'm thankful I was able to share this incredible evening with my parents, my sister and her fiancée. A special thanks to my mom for gently, but firmly, pushing her way through the reception crowd to make sure she got pictures of me with both Jeff Bridges and James Cromwell. Big smile!

20th Annual SLOIFF: Day 1 of Movies!

Yesterday I cried at least twice. But I also smiled, laughed and learned a heck of a lot. By attending three screenings at the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLOIFF), I watched a little-known piece of history unfold in the riveting documentary, "Second Opinion;" I discovered the heartening life story of a Morro Bay resident in "Botso: The Teacher from Tiblisi;" and I learned the whole story of the high school student who gained national attention in 2010 when she collapsed at a cross-country meet and crawled across the finish line in "Running for Jim."

Not only did these powerful documentaries bring three very different stories to life for audiences, but after each screening the filmmakers were present for Q&A's. Being able to engage in these illuminating sessions and hear their "stories behind the stories" after watching their films is what makes a film festival so extraordinary.
 

Filmmaker Eric Merola and Science Writer Ralph Moss at Downtown Cinemas in Downtown San Lius Obispo

In "Second Opinion," filmmaker Eric Merola recounted the 1970s events of science writer, Ralph Moss. Moss, who blew the whistle on a massive cover-up on a promising cancer therapy being tested at Sloan-Kettering, was also in attendance for the Q&A. This movie screens again today at 4pm at La Perla Del Mar in Shell Beach.

Wachtung "Botso" Korisheli, SLOIFF's Managing Director Charlotte Alexander, Writer/Producer Hillary Roberts Grant, Director/Producer Tom Wallters, and Producer David Thayer at the Fremont Theatre in Downtown San Luis Obispo.

"Botso: The Teacher from Tiblisi" shares the extraordinary life of one of San Luis Obispo County's long-time residents, Wachtung "Botso" Korisheli. His early hardships in Stalinist Georgia brought him to the United States, where he's lived an exemplary life as a musician, sculptor, teacher, mentor, husband, father and friend to many. This film portrays one of the most inspirational stories I've ever seen and audiences have the opportunity to watch it Sunday, March 9, at 10am at the Palm Theatre in downtown San Luis Obispo.

SLOIFF's Artistic Director Wendy Eidson and Director Robin Hauser Reynolds at the Fremont Theatre

In 2010, remember the media blitz when 16-year-old Holland Reynolds collapsed near the finish line at a cross-country meet, then crawled through the finish to secure the title for her team and her ailing coach? Her mother, Robin Hauser Reynolds, co-directed the inspirational film, "Running for Jim," which shares the story of Jim Tracy, the most decorated high school cross-country coach in California history, and serves to bring awareness to the fatal Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), which Coach Tracy is currently battling.

I hope you can attend some of the SLOIFF's screenings and Q&A's over the next three days where you can laugh, cry and learn. That's a wrap!

20th Annual SLOIFF: Opening Night!

WHAMM! The 20th Annual San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLOIFF) got off to a Gotham good start. American icon Adam West, best known for his role as the famous Caped Crusader in the 1960s classic television series, Batman, was honored last night at the Fremont Theatre. 

After a screening of director James Tooley's documentary, "Starring Adam West," the world's foremost Batman accepted the festival's Spotlight Award. This honor, bestowed to one of Hollywood's most humble, genuine and funny actors, brought Bat Fans and people from all ages to take part in this historic night in downtown San Luis Obispo. 

For over 40 years, Mr. West has left his mark both as a family man as well as an actor, and the evening's captivating film, directed by his son-in-law, delved into Mr. West's early life all the way up to the present. The enthusiastic audience learned of his modest beginnings growing up on a farm in Walla Walla, Washington, his journey starting out as a young actor, his ties to San Luis Obispo, his infamous role as Batman, his setbacks in Hollywood, his many accomplishments in TV and film leading up to the present day, and his real-life role as a husband and father. After the movie, audience members eagerly lined up to ask questions, thank him...and one lucky man even checked off a bucket list item. 

"Rhett...get in the batmobile," Mr. West playfully demanded into the microphone. The audience laughed and Rhett walked back to his seat with a smile and a glow. 

It was easy to see how Mr. West's starring role from the 60s still leaves a lasting impression. A woman thanked him for making her difficult childhood better by being able to watch his show. Another woman thanked him for his influence and talked proudly of pursuing live theater. She even professed a Batman tattoo on her chest. A confident-sounding young boy admitted he was nervous to stand in line to ask Mr. West if he was ever nervous when he filmed his shows. Mr. West responded, "Always!" and commended his young fan.

The repertoire between Mr. West and his adoring audience was nothing short of ZAMM! He is one of the most genuine celebrities I've ever encountered at the SLOIFF and those in attendance last night surely felt his warmth and sincerity as he connected with everyone. He emphasized how much happiness he's found over the years bringing happiness to others and at one point looked straight at the audience and said, 'You know what? I'm no Dark Knight. I'm the White Knight." That says it all.

The evening started with a BANG! at the VIP reception at Luis Wine Bar in downtown SLO.

San Luis Obispo celebrity magician, Rich Ferguson, pulled some SWISH! and SWOOSH! for guests. Pictured from left to right: Los Angeles radio personality, Ralph Garman, Adam. West, and Rich Ferguson.

The majestic Fremont Theatre was the perfect locale for this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime event.

Pictured from left to right: KROQ's Ralph Garman, who presented the Spotlight Award and moderated the Q & A; Adam West; and the film's director, James Tooley.

ZZZZWAP!

20th Annual San Luis Obispo International Film Festival

The Fremont Theatre

It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLOIFF). I first attended this cinematic celebration in 2007 and that was that. The next year I put my volunteer efforts to good use and didn't look back for the next six years. I morphed into the role of wine coordinator, and eventually served on the board of directors. 

Once again the SLOIFF is gearing up to bring film, wine and fun to San Luis Obispo County from March 5 - 9. Since I personally feel this festival is the most outstanding event to take place in SLO County during the year, I wouldn't miss the 20th annual celebration for anything. Although I might be biased, one thing's for certain: Movies matter!

When's the last time you laughed, cried, screamed, cringed in disgust, learned something enlightening, felt compelled to help an egregious injustice, or felt the hairs on the back of your neck stand up...just from watching a movie? That's the human connection at play. Watching stories unfold on the big screen is more than just a pastime. 

Over the years at the SLOIFF, I've watched countless documentaries, independent films, classic movies and short films that have left a lasting impression. By viewing films I normally wouldn't have the opportunity to see or might never hear of otherwise, my mind has broadened, my heart has expanded, and I've developed a new appreciation for filmmaking.

Adam West

At the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival, audiences have the rare opportunity to attend movies with filmmakers in attendance. At screenings in various theaters and venues around the county, attendees can ask questions and hear stories directly from the filmmakers about how their movies transpired. And at the special events, we all have the occasion to hobnob with celebrities. 

I'm no name dropper, but here are a few highlights. Batman will be attending Opening Night at the Fremont Theatre in Downtown SLO. Actually, the actor Adam West, best known for his lead role in the 1960s Batman TV series and the1966 Batman feature film, is this year's Spotlight Award recipient. The new documentary, "Starring Adam West" by Director James Tooley, will play on the big screen followed by a Q & A.

Jeff Bridges

On March 8, the Dude himself—Academy Award^®-winning actor Jeff Bridges—will receive the 2014 King Vidor Award.  Presented by actor James Cromwell, a former King Vidor Award recipient, Bridges and Cromwell will engage in an onstage conversation, followed by a screening of "The Big Lebowski." Guests can rub elbows with these fine actors at the SLO Masonic Lodge, where local restaurants and wineries will provide a taste of the SLO life at the after party. 

Whether you're planning a visit to San Luis Obispo County next week, or if you're a SLO resident in need of a staycation, check out the festival web site for the full film schedule and entire lineup of special events. Tickets are currently on sale and it will be money well spent.

Remember: Movies matter!

2013 King Vidor Award Recipient, Oscar-nominated Actor John Hawkes

2010 Surf Nite at the Fremont Theatre

2010 King Vidor Award Recipient, Academy Award^®-winning Actor Alan Arkin

Hobnobbing with Actors Robert Carradine and James Cromwell at the 2010 SLOIFF

Downtown San Luis Obispo: Luna Red

With spring temperatures reigning supremely over San Luis Obispo County this weekend, I couldn't resist eating Sunday brunch outside. There was no question of where I wanted to go: Luna Red. 

This global tapas bar serves guests inside their chic restaurant, as well as on their relaxed outdoor patio. Located on Chorro Street in Downtown San Luis Obispo, directly across from the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, I couldn't wait to sample their brunch menu while dining al fresco. 

Although I'd visited Luna Red several times before and enjoyed some of their house-made charcuterie and other small-plate delicacies, this was my first time to indulge in their weekend brunch. Their innovative menu presented me with a difficult choice: With tempting dishes like pan fried chilaquiles, custard-soaked French toast, and arepa benedicts, what to choose?

I finally settled on the house-made chorizo benedicts. Venezuelan corn cakes (arepas) and spicy chorizo sausage patties provided the first two layers, while perfectly cooked poached eggs sat loftily on top. A creamy, delicious manchego-paprika hollandaise sauce completed this contemporary eggs benedict creation, while tasty herbed potatoes fared splendidly on the side and helped lop up the decadent sauce.

Lest I forget the organic Bloody Mary, this was the first time in my life to imbibe in this cocktail. As a result, I can't compare this spicy, tangy concoction to any others, but I must say I would certainly try one again.

The next time you're in San Luis Obispo City on a weekend when the sun is shining and the temperatures are splendid, I highly recommend stopping for an indulgent sojourn at Luna Red.

SLO County Events: Week of February 17

One thing's a given in San Luis Obispo: No matter the time of year, there's always something fun to do in various nooks and crannies of the county. This week is no exception! 

Click on the links below for more information, including ticket sales. As always, feel free to post your comments below to let readers know about other upcoming events.  

Cambria
February 22: At the Western Dance Jamboree, enjoy a day of western dance workshops and an evening dance.

Downtown San Luis Obispo
February 20: Free moonlight hours at the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. On the third Thursday of each month, the museum offers gratis admission from 5 - 8 pm. This educational event coincides with Downtown SLO's famous Thursday Farmers Market.
February 21: Groove to the sounds of Jeff Bridges and The Abiders at The Fremont.

San Luis Obispo City 
February 22: The San Luis Obispo Symphony Ball & Auction promises an evening of adventure at the Embassy Suites Hotel. 
February 22:  Listen to the sounds of choral music from around the world at Cal Poly Choirs' Winter Concert: 'Songs of Travel' at the Christopher Cohan Center.

Paso Robles
February 21 & 22: Wine Country Theatre presents the romantic comedy, 'It Had to Be You,' at Via Vega Winery. Check their website for additional dates in February and March. 
February 22 & 23: The 46 West Wine Safari is selling tasting passes benefiting Zoo to You. Taste wine at participating 46 West Wineries with visiting exotic animals.

San Simeon
February 22: As part of the Coastal Discovery Month & Stewardship Ocean Film Festival, enjoy a free screening of "The Living Sea" at Hearst Castle's Iworks large-format theater.
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Pismo Beach: always a great place for a walk, anytime of the year.

SLO County Events: Week of February 10

The Sochi 2014 Olympic Games are in full swing. In case you need a break from your television and all the action, here are a few events taking place in San Luis Obispo County over the next week. The upcoming three-day weekend, which coincides with Valentine's Day, is the perfect time to take advantage of some of this week's occasions.

Just click on the links below for more information about reservations and costs. As always, feel free to post in the comments section below if you'd like to share an upcoming SLO event that I've neglected.
 
Arroyo Grande: Laetitia Vineyard & Winery
On the evening on February 13, indulge in chocolate and wines at Laetitia, featuring Mama Ganache Chocolates.

Atascadero: America's Funniest Valentine 
On February 15, get ready to laugh. 

Avila Beach: Garden's of Avila St. Valentine's Day Celebration
Sycamore Mineral Springs Spa & Resort is offering two different tasting menus in their esteemed restaurant. Mmmm. 

Cambria: Robin's Restaurant "Love Can't Wait" Prix Fixe Dinner
Check out their pre-Valentine's menu offered on February 13 and prepare to swoon.
  
Downtown San Luis Obispo: The Palm Theatre 
The Oscars are only a few weeks away and the Palm Theatre is currently screening Oscar Nominated Shorts through February 13. I love this independent theater, which not only happens to be the United State's first solar powered movie venue, but also has what I believe to be the nation's most affordable concession stand. You can even purchase hot herbal tea to wash your snacks down.

Downtown San Luis Obispo: Luna Red 
Reserve your spot now for a seductive four course prix fixe menu for two on Valentine's Day. 

Paso Robles: LXV Wine's Pre-Valentine's Dinner 
For those in the mood, LXV Wine presents their first Reverse Pre-Valentine Dinner at Il Cortile on February 12. 

San Luis Obispo: The Temptations
On February 14, this acclaimed musical act will perform at the Christopher Cohan Center at Cal Poly. 

San Luis Obispo: Some Enchanted Evening
Opening February 14 at the San Luis Obispo Little Theatre, the songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein come alive.

Enjoy your week!

Pismo Beach, earlier this morning.

Upcoming San Luis Obispo County Events

The new year is in full swing and San Luis Obispo County is gearing up for some fabulous events! Here's a sneak peek at some of the upcoming regional attractions during the first few weeks of February. Click on the links below for more details, and if you feel I've neglected an amazing event that you'd like to share, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Morro Bay: 2014 Tall Ships Arrive February 7 - 11

The tall-ship Lady Washington, a replica of one of the first U.S.-flagged ships to visit the west coast of North America, will find a temporary home in Morro Bay. Check their schedule for walk-on tours and ticket sales for adventure and battle sails. 

Paso Robles: Valentine's Day at Vina Robles

Tickets are now on sale for an elegant candlelight dinner prepared by Thomas Hill Organics, paired with the wines of Vina Robles, and serenaded by the pianist, Richard Moratin.

Paso Robles: Chocolate Fountain Valentine's Weekend at Robert Hall Winery

From Friday, February 14, to Sunday, February 16, enjoy Robert Hall Winery's complimentary chocolate fountain. 

Paso Robles: Singles Celebration Day Wine Tour by Breakaway Tours

Tickets are on sale now for February 15 and 16. Visit four wineries by limo, enjoy a picnic lunch, Valentine's Day candy...as well as a surprise at the last winery!

Pismo Beach: Monarch Butterfly Grove

Through February, you can catch a glimpse of the several thousand monarch butterflies that dwell in clusters in the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove.

 

Downtown San Luis Obispo: Art After Dark

On the evening of February 7, visit new art exhibits at various locations around downtown SLO. This is a free event!

San Luis Obispo: Claiborne & Churchill Vintners' Wine Library Tasting 

Claiborne & Churchill is one of my absolute favorite wineries in SLO County. Their straw bale winery is located at the edge of the Edna Valley wine region; tickets are now on sale for their annual library tasting event, coming up on Saturday, February 15. 
 

HAVE FUN!

San Luis Obispo County Winter Waves

There is something intoxicating about the sound of crashing waves. I've lived in San Luis Obispo County for well over a decade and I don't think I will ever tire of visiting the local coastline. 

Yesterday, in anticipation of predicted high winter swell, I went in search of monumental waves. I visited three different beaches—each one enveloped in cloudy, sultry skies—and captured fleeting glimpses of waves breaking with tremendous force. 

Here are a few snapshots. 

Early morning at Pismo Beach: beautiful satin swell.

Early afternoon: Cayucos State Beach. With Morro Rock in the distance, what an awe-inspiring view.

Late afternoon: I headed to Morro Bay. People came out in droves to watch the surf break behind Morro Rock. 

Click here for more information about SLO County beaches.

San Luis Obispo County Vacations

Pismo Beach sunset.

Lately I've been dealing with a big problem: How do I spend my free time in San Luis Obispo County?

With so much to choose from, like wine tasting, dining at farm-to-table restaurants, hiking local trails, hitting sandy beaches, visiting farmers markets and so much more, how to prioritize my leisurely activities?

I did a little research and discovered the following web sites useful in navigating SLO County's choice endeavors. Whether you're planning to visit this pristine area for a vacation, or you're a slocal who lives here and needs suggestions for a staycation, the possibilities of how to spend your time are endless. 

I hope you find these sites helpful to fine-tune your SLO itinerary.

WineCoastCountry.com
This web site focuses on the county's coastal region and breaks it down into ten regional destinations; conveniently lets you search for lodging, activities, restaurants and wineries by region; and provides an upcoming events calendar. You can even build an itinerary, complete with maps. Please note, they do not provide information on Paso Robles wine country.

VisitSLO.com
Brought to you by the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce, this site lists the chamber members' lodging, restaurants, wine tasting, activities, shopping and news/media information. You can conveniently search lodging and restaurants by price and location. They also have several quick links that provide more information on the county, including a virtual visitor's guide. 

VisitSanLuisObispoCounty.com 
You can find links to dining, activities, upcoming events and can easily book your lodging through this site within any of the county's communities. And to boot—they offer a free visitor's guide and a section on local deals.

SanLuisObispoVacations.com
They provide popular things to do in San Luis Obispo City and the surrounding area, vacation ideas, hotels, deals and packages. You can also sign up for their Secrets of SLO newsletter and receive email tips about upcoming events and special offers. 

If you have other sites you'd like to recommend, please leave your suggestions in the comments section below. I'd also love to hear about some of your SLO County favorite pastimes, places and establishments. 

I hope you discover something new and exceptional in San Luis Obispo!

This evening's sunset at one of my old standbys: Pismo Beach.

100 SLO Days

Some of you know that in 2012 I launched a blog called 100 SLO Days. This site was my way of holding myself accountable after committing to exercise for at least 30 minutes per day, consecutively for 100 days. I felt blogging each day about my workout adventures in San Luis Obispo County would help keep me accountable. It definitely did. 

But something else happened along the way. When I hit the local beaches and hiking trails, I documented my outdoor activities by bringing a camera along. I captured wildflowers growing on the Bluffs Trail in Montana de Oro in Los Osos, humpback whales feeding in the harbor at Avila Beach, lizards sunning themselves on Bishop Peak, and awesome sunsets at Pismo Beach. My camera became an extension of my surroundings. 

Although those initial 100 days are long gone, I still continue my frequent outdoor workouts. Please consider following along with me on 100 SLO Days. I promise to offer up some sound fitness advice once in a while, and I'll keep trekking with a camera in hand...bringing you snapshots of this California Central Coast mecca. 

Warm weather and high wind conditions brought choppy waves to these surfers in Shell Beach yesterday.

The clouds brought this dreamlike sunset.

2014 New Year's Intentions

Don't worry, this isn't another blurb on New Year's resolutions. Well, actually it is, but since today is the start of a brand new year and many of us are introspective, hopeful, and ready to jump into 2014 with good intentions, I just can't help myself. 

I'm actually not big on resolutions as I believe in goal setting throughout the year. If there's an objective I want to achieve, I don't think it makes sense to wait until January 1 to declare my ambitions. But for the past few weeks I've been pondering numerous objectives that I'd like to bring to fruition in the new year—and I've been stressing about them. 

With a bevy of good intentions flowing through my mind—like exercising, reading and meditating daily; eating healthier foods and drinking more water; running races; exploring new hiking trails; taking up a water sport; cultivating new friendships; traveling more often; studying Japanese again; launching a new website; publishing more stories and pictures; finishing decorating my home; hiring a housekeeper; taking more cooking classes; learning and creating new recipes; buying a new camera and improving my photography skills—I've felt as if my 2014 wishlist was a jumbled mash in my brain. 

Then this afternoon...I had an aha moment. This welcome revelation occurred to me as I was reading friends' and family members' comments about some of the San Luis Obispo County pictures I posted on a social networking site. I realized something very important yet genuinely simple: I just need to keep on doing the things I love. I believe that when you come from a place of elation, the Universe helps align your intentions and good things happen. 

So, I'm going to relax and trust that I'll get wherever it is that I want to go. I wish you the best in 2014 and beyond. Thank you for following along on my SLO County adventures.

2013 New Year's Eve Sunset at Pismo Beach.

 

2014 New Year's Day Morning at Pismo Beach.

Holidays at Hearst Castle

For many of us, the end-of-year holidays are steeped in tradition. This year I added a new rite to my Christmas jubilee by visiting Hearst Castle. During the month of December, festive decorations gild the entryways and adorn the lavish interior of San Luis Obispo's illustrious villa, and guests can choose from one of several guided tour options to soak in the grandeur. I purchased a ticket for "The Grand Rooms Tour" and boarded a bus that took us high up the winding road that leads to the former estate of the late publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst.

Sitting lofty above the unspoiled coastline of San Simeon on "La Cuesta Encantada"—the enchanted hill—this palatial retreat, completed in 1947 by Hearst and his architect Julia Morgan, is a testament to sheer determination. After inheriting 250,000 thousand acres of ranch land in 1919 after his mother's death, Hearst enlisted Morgan to "build a little something" on the hill where he grew up camping. 

This little something, built over 28 years, grew in extravagance to encompass "Casa Grande," the main house comprised of over 68,000 square feet of grand rooms and a movie theater, as well as several impressive guest houses, two opulent swimming pools, extensive blooming gardens, and tennis courts. In its heyday, the property even had a private zoo. 

Now a California State Park and open to the public almost every day of the year, Hearst Castle is a landmark tourist attraction. Following are a few glimpses of the holiday sparkle and largess of a bygone era. 

Influenced by a trip to Europe with his mother when he was 10 years old, Hearst became a lifelong art and antique collector. He embellished his estate with treasures acquired from all over the world and this hilltop retreat is now a living museum. In the Assembly Room of La Casa Grande, Christmas trees and bright boughs of holly brighten remnants from the past.

 In the Refectory—named after a monastery dining hall—Hearst's guests dined while surrounded by sheer opulence from floor to ceiling, yet still had the informal comforts of home provided, like paper napkins and ketchup bottles. These accoutrements were similar to what Hearst grew up with on his childhood table. Filmmakers modeled this Gothic-inspired room for the dining hall in the Harry Potter film series. 

This poinsettia tree added crimson cheer to the Morning Room. What a place to have tea every morning!

After guided tours, guests can stroll the gardens and pools at their leisure. The dramatic Neptune Pool, influenced by ancient Rome and studded with Roman columns, holds 345,000 gallons of water and is surrounded by fine art and open views of the surrounding mountains and nearby ocean. 

During my visit in mid-December, San Luis Obispo County warmed up to ideal temperatures in the high 70s. I have to admit that lounging around the Neptune Pool was my favorite part of the tour.

While wandering around the estate's grounds, I stumbled upon this charming little 3,620 square-foot guest house, Casa del Sol. In order to withstand earthquakes, all of the structures on this enchanted hill are made of steel reinforced concrete. The architecture is influenced by historic styles from Hearst's travels.

The reflective Roman pool is the last site of exploration before boarding a bus for the five-mile ride down the hill. This splashy indoor pool, tiled from top to bottom with glass mosaic tiles, is simply amazing. 

 

No matter what time of year you visit Hearst Castle, it is always a sight to behold.

Wishing you holiday grandeur and a very happy new year!

San Luis Obispo Horizon

During this splendid time of year when the clouds return, I find myself constantly gazing at the sky. When puffy formations blow across the horizon, I know chances are good that at the end of the day I'll find a spectacular light show where clouds meet the water. But sunsets are fleeting, never predictable, and never ever the same.

This evening I chased clouds all the way to Shell Beach in the southern part of San Luis Obispo County, hoping to catch a worthwhile view. Oh, boy, was I ever in the right place at the right time. Here is a progression of tonight's end-of-day phantasmagoria.

 

 

 

 Quite a light show in Shell Beach.