Ojai, California is nestled below the Topa Topa mountains an hour away from Santa Barbara and an hour and a half away from Los Angeles. Ojai is picturesque, peaceful and rejuvenating. For you grammar snobs, yes I am using a verb as an adjective because using only adjectives won't do Ojai justice. As soon as you drive into the Ojai region the energy you feel is incomparable to any other place in California. If you don't believe me, the historical presence of Ojai backs up my claims. Yogi's have experienced spiritual enlightenment in Ojai and the Chumash American Indian tribe lived in this region and were considered healers and spiritual leaders and geologists say there is a spiritual vortex that is sourced from Ojai. Whatever the claim, experience it for yourself. My heart beats slower in Ojai and that effect alone is why I will trek here every year for my birthday with my family (including dogs as it should be).

I can't claim the only reason I go to Ojai is for the spiritual and rejuvenating effects. We have stayed at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa for the past two years and that in itself is a life changing experience. This five star resort seems like a ridiculous splurge but save up for it all year like we did and the experience alone is priceless. Let me start with the service. I couldn't tell if the staff at Ojai are hosting guests at the resort or working there. Every single staff member was a old friend or host. The bellman took our luggage and quickly told us to beware of Mr. Racoon hiding behind the bushes in case Olive and Greyson would be caught of guard. Ash was caught off guard the most, declaring how large this resort animal was! Every time we went to a different restaurant or got room service, they would greet me with a happy birthday and send over some extra treats! From mimosas to pound cake, I felt the entire resort was celebrating with me. Between the self indulgences, walking through the resort is like a spiritual experience in itself. Even if you don't partake in the amenities enjoy of the scenery. Walking to the spa was a treatment in itself, looking back I should have just walked around the entire time! 

You don't have to listen to my enjoyment, Olive and Greyson loved it as well. Take a look at their Instagram to see videos of them playing in the open fields they have for dogs to run around. They also have poop bags located around the resort to pick up your dogs number two. Many owners walk with no leash and everyone greets the dogs with care and kindness, staff, guests, and golfers! Greyson was spotted by a hollywood actor and enjoyed his limelight eating the chicken they gave him. I feel as though Ojai Valley Inn & Spa gives you a glimpse of the communities we hope to live in. Wisteria Lane and the Real Housewives shows are intriguing and reality but it doesn't represent our hopes but rather our fears. Experiencing the reality of a community that provides these amenities allows you return home with hope for the future for you and your dog (hashtag equal rights).