Last weekend, I had the wonderful chance to escape the usual bustle and spend some much-needed time with my twin sister and dad. Our destination was Mendocino, California — a coastal gem with rugged cliffs, salty air, and endless wildflower scents. But beyond the stunning views and fresh ocean breeze, what made this trip truly memorable were the little moments and discoveries that unfolded with family. Here are five things I noticed and cherished during our Mendocino getaway.
1. Rediscovering the Simple Delight of Eggs on Pizza
Before heading north, I shared a casual dinner with my uncle Paul’s brother and his wife. We ordered two pizzas to split, and one had a fried egg on top. It had been ages since I’d tried egg on pizza, and wow — I’d forgotten how amazing it is. The rich yolk added a creamy, savory layer that transformed the pizza into something unexpectedly special. It reminded me how sometimes the simplest combinations can be the most delightful. (If you’re curious, I even found a recipe that captures this magic perfectly.)
2. The Wild, Untamed Beauty of Mendocino’s Coast
Once we arrived in Mendocino, we set out on long walks along the coast. The salty wind whipped around us, carrying the fresh scent of wildflowers blooming nearby. The views were breathtaking — sheer cliffs dropping into the restless Pacific Ocean, waves crashing below with a fierce energy that felt both humbling and invigorating.
It’s a place where nature feels alive in every gust of wind and every jagged rock. Walking those paths with my sister and dad, sharing quiet moments and laughter, made me appreciate how much beauty exists just beyond the chaos of everyday life.
3. The Enchanting Charm of the Blair Hotel
Our home for the weekend was the Blair Hotel, a stunning Victorian built in 1888. From the outside, it looked like the cozy, mysterious home you’d expect to see in a classic detective show — think Jessica Fletcher from Murder, She Wrote. But once inside, the details truly stole my heart.
The bedrooms were adorned with layers of intricate patterns — wallpaper upon wallpaper creating a rich tapestry of colors and textures. I couldn’t stop admiring it all, and yes, I even tracked down the wallpaper design afterward for a little inspiration.
My dad’s room was particularly cozy, featuring sea animal-themed wallpaper that felt like a playful nod to our ocean getaway. His bathroom was equally charming with its own unique decor. We peeked into other rooms too, but honestly, we all loved our little corner of the hotel the best.
4. The Joy of Simple Family Moments: Books, Food, and Laughter
The weekend was filled with a patchwork of simple pleasures: cliffside walks, wandering through bookstores, savoring fresh fish tacos, and indulging in some good old-fashioned family gossip. There were plenty of stops along the famous Route 1, especially when I had to pull over due to a sudden bout of carsickness (not my proudest moment but definitely part of the adventure).
In the evenings, we cozied up at the hotel to watch Frasier reruns — a surprisingly perfect way to unwind. Those quiet nights, laughing at the witty banter and familiar characters, were some of my favorite moments. There’s something about revisiting comfort TV with loved ones that makes travel feel like home.
5. The Quiet Power of Goodbye
Perhaps the most touching moment came when we said our goodbyes. My dad’s eyes welled up, and I felt a wave of emotion. Our family has always lived far apart, making these rare visits precious beyond words. That glance said everything — the love, the longing, and the gratitude for the time we shared.
It reminded me to savor these fleeting moments, to hold close the laughter and stories, and to be thankful for the ties that bind us, no matter the miles.
What Have You Been Noticing Lately?
This trip to Mendocino was a beautiful reminder that travel isn’t just about the places we see but the moments we experience with those we love. The food, the scenery, the quirky hotel details, the shared laughter — all of it weaves together into memories that linger.
What about you? What small joys or unexpected discoveries have been filling your days lately? I’d love to hear your stories and the little things you’ve been noticing that make life feel rich and meaningful.
Sometimes, it’s those simple shared moments — a fried egg on pizza, a cozy hotel room, or a tearful goodbye — that shine the brightest. Here’s to noticing them more often.
