I went to the gym with a friend today, and the first thing he said when he saw me was , “Wow, you look so refreshed!” Mind you, this was with zero makeup on, and after a weekend of wine and not-so-itsybitsy-indulgences. I was stunned. After reflecting on our family weekend getaway to Santa Ynez, though, I recognize that the reason I looked and felt so refreshed was because, for the first time in the past several months, I genuinely disconnected. There was a specific moment, sitting outside at the picnic table at Saarloos & Sons, that I sat back in the patio chair and actually stated, “Wow, I’m relaxed.”  I think this disconnection is not only nice, but also really important. It’s rejuvenating to get away from life’s responsibilities and be completely carefree, even just for a few days. It brings a sense of invigoration and contentment, which is vital to keeping us going! So tell us, how do you disconnect??

{First Stop: Gainey Vineyards…always our favorite place to start the day!}

{Next: Picnic lunches courtesy of the Los Olivos Country Market, and Paninios Cafe}

{We couldn’t let lunch go by without a little tasting too…}

{Some casual Saturday afternoon browsing…}

{Last stop: Wandering Dog Wine Bar for some beer tasting…just to switch it up!}

{A few pizzas for dinner from a favorite-Avant Wines}

{End of the night silliness…who doesn’t love old college tanks?}

{Buellton: Home of Ostrich Land…do you need any more reason to visit?!}

{Sunday Funday at Malibu Family Wines…Captain was pooped from all the fun!}

{Shannon and TJ kept the fun going as they moved on to Santa Barbara, and enjoyed rooftop lounging/drinks at The Canary Hotel}

{Pictured above: Bathing suit top | Sunglasses | Hat}

Happy Monday, friends!