Weekend trip advice

[three]

I guess it depends on what sort of activities and ambiance you would prefer to partake in during said 'me' time. Being an avid proponent of 'me' time, I think you should have options.

WA State: Preferably, the San Juan Islands. You can treat yourself to time in a naturally beautiful environment that's all quaint and cozy. A plethora of shops, massage therapists, retreats, outdoor activities, places to walk/hike/kayak/bike, and other places to just mosey around and unwind. When it gets too much for you and you long for the busy night life...hop on the ferry and shuttle in to Seattle where you can quench any desires for lively bars, dancing, spoken word, etc. Or...you could skip seattle and just lollygaggle on the gorgeous islands the whole time. There could be worse things than spending a few days on an island that's surrounded by an ocean and amazing whales...and super cute shops/bed&b's/cafes, etc.

If you want a mostly urban getaway - I guess I'd second the vote for SanFran. But, I'd encourage you to consider a quick venture over to Muir Woods if you do....pretty, pretty trees.

Not being a huge San Fran fan, if I wanted some me time and wanted it to have a balance of outdoorsy goods and urban treats...here's what I'd pick: 1) San Juan Islands and a ferry ride over to Seattle when I needed a city-fix...or just a fun jaunt over the waters, 2) San Luis Obispo...get a nice spot near the beach and you're set. Great 'me' time when I was last there, beaches were mostly empty all the time and I enjoyed the solitude and opportunities to journal on the beach with no interruptions other than the sounds of crashing waves. And, home to cute cafes and shops...a bit of an artsy place. http://visitslo.com/ 3) Maybe not filled with a ton of shops to walk to or cafes to test out, but insanely beautiful and undeniably magical - that is, if you're a nature-granola-girl who loves trees and impeccably clean woodsy air: Big Sur...also along HWY 1.

Those are my ideas and they come from someone stuck in cold Minnesota and equally needing 'me' time. Have fun shopping around for a place and happy travels!! Keep us posted on your final choice, maybe someone will have a recommendation for a great breakfast spot...or cozy bookstore, or whatever.