A Sunday Well Spent: Half Moon Bay and Sam's Chowder House

I'm sad to admit that as a Bay Area native, I've only been to Half Moon Bay one other time before today's trip. Just the scenic drive there makes this town worth the visit! It's a great place to explore and do what I do best, eat! After I tried The Lobster Roll from Sam's Chowder Mobile at the Treasure Island Flea Market, I did a little research and discovered that the original restaurant was in Half Moon Bay. Since the weather has been so nice and we are always looking for new things to do with Landon, I made a reservation at Sam's Chowder House and set the plans for our Sunday.

Words of Advice: ALWAYS make a reservation if you can, especially if you have a busy two year old. We were seated right away, while I overheard other guests having a 30-40 minute wait time. Although we didn't get the "best waterfront dining" that they are known for, I won't complain. 

First things first...beer. And oysters. You can't go to an Oyster Bar and not have oysters. If you know me, you know I looooove them. Oh! Clam Chowder. After all, we are at Sam's Chowder House. We went with The New England. 

Okay, so the menu is a little pricey, and I wanted to try a little bit of everything so me and the husband decided we would share their famous Lobster Roll. I know, I know, I already had one but I wanted him to try it and I wanted to have it again! It was still just as good as I remember. 

This place has received a bunch of awards for their food and dining experience, so I really don't have to say much more. It met my expectations and then some. I definitely want to go back in the summer time, sit outside, eat as many oysters as I can afford and take in the gorgeous views. 

Landon was dying to see the water, so after we finished up we took a short walk down to the shore. We walked around and let Landon explore. He's so observant and pointed out everything he saw, birds, doggies, fishies (seaweed) and of course, the water. The last time we took him to the beach, he wasn't a fan. At all. Probably because he got to keep his shoes on and run up and down the shore made it more exciting. 

So just for a few short hours, we were able to escape to this pleasant beach town, eat great food and let the little man run wild. it's funny how once you become a parent, your idea of "fun" might change but it's so much better! Watching Landon experience new things and have a good time is what it's all about.

It was a Sunday well spent, indeed. 

Spotlight: Glitz and Glory Photography

Apart from telling you about the great places to see and the fun things to do, I want to dedicate some time and also share with you some of my favorite people and businesses who's product and services I favor.

My first 'Spotlight' post is dedicated to the talented Jessica and her very own Glitz and Glory Photography. Through mutual friends on Facebook, I came across Jessica's photos and was immediately in awe. Her main focus is child and family photography, so I knew that I wanted her to take our family photos. She's a Bay Area local so getting to her is not an issue. She's knows all the great spots for shoots and she will put together a Pinterest inspiration board specifically for your shoot. That aspect alone I appreciated it!

In December 2013, Jessica took my son and nephew's holiday photos. This was my first time meeting her and I immediately felt comfortable. Having two children of her own, she knew just the right approach to use. Working with kids is not for everyone and she made it look like a piece of cake.

Jessica was personable, professional and came totally prepared! What makes her unique is her props. They make for adorable backdrops.

Every once in awhile, Jessica will have promotions where you can purchase a mini session at a discounted rate. Last year, she had a deal for Mother's Day that I immediately hopped on. This time around, I was a bit nervous since my son was a bit older and definitely more active and stubborn. Landon is very shy around new people. So I expressed my concern's with Jessica and she was totally understanding.

The shoot went so smoothly! Jessica went above and beyond to get the best shots and really worked with Landon to make him feel comfortable. The shoot was so fun and the pictures turned out AMAZING. These are pictures that I will cherish forever.

I'm so grateful that I have these photos that capture this time in my life. If you are a parent, you know how fast time flies. My baby has grown so much since then and it's nice to have these photos to look back on.

My favorite photo.

I will always turn to Jessica for my photography needs! Taking family photos can be awkward and unpredictable but Jessica is a pro and will not disappoint!

My Happy Place: Lake Chabot Regional Park

Lake Chabot is easily one of my favorite places. My family and I make a point to come here every weekend, whether it's for a quick run or a leisurely stroll, we load up our Bob Stroller and hit the trails. This park is practically in my backyard and a short 5 min from my home. We always park on Lake Chabot Road to avoid a parking fee, which is $5 and $2 for dog entry.

We usually take advantage of the trails by running or hiking. After we are done we hang out for a few and let me son run wild. The park is always busy, so I particularly like to people watch. One of these days, I'd like to host a BBQ as they have a ton of pits and picnic tables. There is plenty of shade but make sure to pack sunscreen because it get's hot!

Of course there is a lake, which I have to admit I have not gone near. I see folks with their fishing and paddle boats, but recently there has been a "presence of blue-green algae" that's killing dogs so it's best that we just stay away. Plus, swimming is not allowed, so there's no fun in that!

Lake Chabot is beautiful and I consider it quite a gem of the Bay Area. It's just another reason why I'm so lucky to live here. 

Treasure Island Flea Market

If you haven't checked out the Treasure Island Flea Market yet, it's a must see. For only $3 you get access to tons of local vendors showcasing their art and products. Before I even started scouting out the goodies ahead of me, I stopped at the beverage station and got myself a First Amendment IPA. Drinking and shopping are such a good combo! 

I really enjoy the Treasure Island Flea Market because it's all local vendors and I'm always down to support the local businesses. 

I scored two soy wax candles from Penelope and a beautiful summer dress from "Jasy B Truck." Jasy B Truck is one of my favorite vendors. For me, it's hard to just walk away with one thing. I could easily buy everything she showcases and she's such a doll so it makes the whole experience worthwhile. 

Along with the array of eclectic and unique sellers, you can also find a variety of food trucks. If you're anything like me and enjoy food then deciding what to eat is a challenge. After I scoped out the competition, I decided on Sam's Chowder Mobile and got a lobster roll with a nice, cold Coca Cola glass bottle. I was too excited to eat my lobster roll that I forgot to take a picture. Just trust me when I say...it was amazing.

To make the day that much better, I got to enjoy my lunch with a view. Treasure Island has the best views of the City, The Golden Gate and the Bay Bridge.

Treasure Island Flea Market only happens the last weekend of each month, so make sure to check it out this summer. If flea market's are not your thing, at least go for the views and the food. You can't beat the price and you never know what you may stumble upon.

Introduction

The thought of starting a blog has always been appealing and I toyed with the idea two years ago while I was on maternity leave but I never found the time, or really the motivation to start one. So among the many things I lost during the first stages of motherhood like my sanity and sleep, that idea to start a blog was also one of them.

Like many of us, I juggle a lot of things. I'm a wife, I work full time and attend school part time, but most importantly, I'm a mother to an active (but seriously adorable) two year old. While all that keeps me busy, I still make the time to take to take full advantage of where I live! I may not be a fashionista, or super fit, or a good cook (although I try), I do have one thing to offer and that's my experience in this beautiful state of California.

If you are lucky enough to live  in  this state, you know first hand that Californians are spoiled. Weather, culture, food and scenery really make this place worth the expensive price tag to live here. The Bay Area especially offers so much and it's hard to stay inside when there is so much around me.

So join me on my journey as I document my experiences and adventures and share with you my favorite places, businesses and people in this place I call home.