I live in a state people visit from around the world. California is vast and geologically diverse end to end: deserts, mountains, marshes, volcanoes, ocean–we have it all. Many of our family vacations are CA vacations–there’s just SO MUCH to see.

Santa Cruz is no exception. And Santa Cruz has a dog beach. Our puppy, on his longlead, for safety, was stunned by all the gamboling of leash-free dogs.

We stayed in Santa Cruz with good friends, glamping in their airstream parked in their driveway. I would like an airstream now, please. I believe it might be the ultimate She-Shed.

Santa Cruz is not only a beach city, but infused with trees, enough forestry to house Big Foot. That’s right. BF. The forested landscape here, prevalent ocean, beaches always ignite my imagination whenever we visit.

Yours in vital mini-getaways, even if your teen doesn’t want to go,

PB