The Gift of Growing Together: A Mother/Daughter Escape to Temecula
This season of life feels different. Slower, calmer…like I’m finally letting go of always being ‘on’—the work, the routines, the beauty pressure, the parenting.
So when my daughter surprised me with an overnight getaway to Temecula for Mother’s Day, it wasn’t just a break from our schedules. It was a moment to pause, reconnect, and step fully into this chapter I’ve been writing for myself…one with less pressure, less maintenance, and more presence.
Traveling lighter…in luggage and life
We arrived at South Coast Winery two hours before our massage. Since our room wasn’t quite ready yet, we dropped our bags at the front desk and slipped into the spa mindset. Poolside chats, a soak in the jacuzzi, time in the sauna… the kind of simple luxury that just felt…easy. No show, no rush—just soaking it all in.
We had booked a package that included two signature spa services and two tastings, which made the whole experience feel thoughtful and easy. After our massages, we toasted with a glass of wine before heading to our villa. (Pro tip: If you’re staying overnight, the queen villa has a cozy fireplace, spacious layout, and a patio perfect for morning coffee.)
From charcuterie to connection
We dressed for wine tasting and met the warmest staff…including the marketing team who welcomed us like old friends. After sampling five wines (yes, five!), we joined the wine club and were invited to enjoy the members-only lounge terrace. Bottle in hand, charcuterie plate between us, and a view of the vines… We just sat there, sipping and talking, feeling like this is what midlife joy looks like.
It’s funny…there were no distractions. No worrying about how my roots looked. No fussing over the weather and what that would mean for my hair. That mental clutter I used to carry on trips? It didn’t come with me this time.
Gray hair, sunset views, and a quiet unwind
Dinner at the restaurant was relaxed and delicious. Afterward, we took our time getting settled in the room, shared a final glass of wine, and soaked in the stillness of the evening from our patio—watching the sunset.
The next morning, I brewed a cup of coffee, lit the fireplace, and watched the sunrise in silence. Before checking out, we took a final stroll through the vineyard paths. It was short, but somehow, this trip didn’t feel rushed.
It wasn’t about squeezing in every sight or plan. It was about slowing down and actually being there
If you’re looking for a quick reset or a special way to celebrate someone you love, this kind of overnight escape might be just the thing. Nothing complicated—just meaningful time, great wine, and space to breathe.
And the more I lean into this life…this natural, dye-free, midlife version of myself…the more I realize how good it feels to be fully in it.
We joined the club. But the real membership? It’s in moments like these.
Every step we take is a step toward our true selves.
Thanks for walking part of this path with me.
🩶 Meesh
