Adjusting to Tiny Spaces: Downsizing and Upscaling

Tiny island…tons of people…tiny spaces. What did we really “need”? And, what could we improve to make the best use of the space? We decided that saving money on rent would be worth the upfront investment. We’ve spent quite a bit of money on our space-saving ideas. But, we will make the money back in rent/real estate saving within two years!

Top Spots in Your Region to “Social Distance” Travel in 2020

This week, we’re breaking down our top 5 “Socially Distant” spots you can enjoy this summer. I’m betting that there are plenty of places you’ve never been within a few hundred miles of your home! Check it out and let me know if there are others I’ve missed! I love to learn about new hidden spots!

Midwest Manners, California Idealism and New York Passion

Who, except a couple of crazy people, would sell three cars, liquidate a business, downsize their entire life, and sell a house in the middle of a pandemic and economic collapse? No one. I’ve decided that we are absolutely out of our minds. But, that’s exactly what we’ve done.

Toasting the Moon in Yosemite, CA

I had hoped to find breathtaking scenery, and I did! I had hoped to explore the magical wilderness of one of our best natural parks, and it left me with more than just awe – it left me with a bigger sense of purpose in taking care of our world.

Toasting the Moon in Carmel, California

The part that I love most about Carmel is the charm mixed with playful spirit. The buildings make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. You don’t have a home in Carmel, you have a “cottage.” There are hidden gems found throughout the city, and you could spend a weekend exploring all of the hidden roads, alleyways, and corridors. I felt like a kid again looking for the secret garden, and I found several!

Toasting the Moon in Oakland, CA

Oakland and the East Bay has never really cared what the rest of the Bay (or world) thought. And, Oaklanders are effortlessly cool, artistic, aware, and alternative. And THEY ARE NOT San Francisco.

Toasting the Moon in Monterey, CA

What was once the biggest canning area in the world – particularly for sardines – is now a prime tourist destination. Don’t worry – no smell of anchovies or sardines to be found (anymore)!

Toasting the Moon in Lake Tahoe

Travel for 2 cost breakdown (at the time of writing this post): Edgewood Tahoe Resort: $300 per night  Food/Entertainment/Transportation/Souvenirs: $1000 GRAND TOTAL FOR 2 TRAVELERS – 4 days: $2200 ***At … Continue reading Toasting the Moon in Lake Tahoe

Toasting the Moon in Napa Valley

Do you ever have one of those thoughts so strong in your mind that you find yourself saying it out loud without even realizing it? This first drive through Napa Valley on Highway 29 gave me one of those moments. “This is the Vegas Strip of Wineries,” I blurted out of nowhere.

Toasting the Moon in San Jose, California

Travel for 2 cost breakdown (at the time of writing this post): Hotel De Anza: $250 per night Food/Entertainment/Transportation/Souvenirs: $1000 GRAND TOTAL FOR 2 TRAVELERS – 4 days: $2000 ***At … Continue reading Toasting the Moon in San Jose, California

Toasting the Moon in Santa Barbara

Travel for 2 cost breakdown (at the time of writing this post): The Eagle Inn: $137 per night (A Toast the Moon Favorite!) Food/Entertainment/Transportation/Souvenirs: $1000 GRAND TOTAL FOR 2 TRAVELERS … Continue reading Toasting the Moon in Santa Barbara