"Rose Story Farm" in Carpenteria, CA

I had been wanting to visit this Rose mecca for a couple years. I finally made the reservation to take the tour and enjoy the outdoor luncheon, I spent three hours there Thursday and totally enjoyed the time spent.  Dani Hahn is internationally recognized as a Rose expert and grows thousands of roses on her property in Carpenteria. Hahn’s latest award — and most prestigious to date — was winning top honors as Great Rosarian of the World in 2014.

We were lucky enough to have her as our tour guide. Dani told us the story of how the yellow "Julia Child" rose originated at Rose Story Farm.  She is a very generous person. She offered to give me the photo of her and Julia Child with her namesake rose. I didn't want to take her photo but gladly took a photo of it. (see below)

I found several roses I loved and plan a return trip  "Distant Drum" rose (my Fav) has a brownish pink center and lavender pink outer petals.

Danny Hahn with her rescued dog, a Blue tick Heeler

My fav. rose: "Distant Drums"

Dani with Julia Child, showing her yellow rose to be named after her. (vintage photo copied)

Gift Shop and grounds

Our dessert at the luncheon, a rose cake. Delicious!  Very moist.

Fun Saturday at Coldspring Tavern

I love a day off.  We spent a lovely afternoon at Coldspring Tavern Saturday. It's a rural spot, off Hwy 154 on the way to Solvang.  Charming, rustic log cabin with a history of being a Stagecoach stop in the mid 1800's.  It's very casual,  outdoor musicians play all afternoon and early evening. We enjoyed the duo "Oddly Straight", singing 'singer/songwriter' type ballads. (video of their rendition of "Blackbird" and "Wonderful Tonight" on my FB page and the musician's FB page now).

Eric Tambini and Jez Blacker: