John Lennon said it best -"I get by with a little help from my friends."

For the past two weekends, I was lucky to have two of my dearest friends from Minnesota visit and I did not realize what I missed most about leaving Minnesota. Don't get me wrong, I am really happy to be in Paso Robles and challenging ourselves with the wine and B&B business. What is missing is girlfriends.

Two weeks ago, Mary came as a belated birthday gift. We had a ball. The highlight was spending the day on the coast visiting Hearst Castle, watching the elephant seals (hundreds of them) wallow on the beach and sharing a beer at Taco Temple in Morro Bay. We both agreed it was just what we needed in our busy lives full of other distractions. She got to see a glimpse of my life here and I think better understands why we are here.

Last weekend, Kris came with some of her girlfriends and we crammed in all there is to do in Paso. This was my first time to host 8 people at the B&B. I think all agreed it went very well. Celebrating Fondue Friday, wine tasting with the handsome Frenchman, barrel tasting at Cass, cooking class in my kitchen with Nanette, a full day at the coast and a memorable dinner in Cayucos, exploring Judy's vineyard, winemaking 101 with Bob - I really don't think we could have added one more activity into the weekend. The best part, I now have 7 new friends! Granted, they are in Minnesota, but I did get invited to the girls ski trip this winter!

I know it takes time to make friends and for now, most of my "new" friends are just passing through while wine tasting and staying for the weekend at Creekside B&B. I will start my strategy of joining and volunteering in local groups that has worked well in past moves. So for all of you reading this, treasure your time with girlfriends.