I’m taking off this afternoon for a three-day camping trip near Paso Robles, my first time off since launching Bargain Babe! A few friends are racing in the Wildflower Triathlon, a hilly, hot, and grueling race. (I competed last year and pompously declared myself a rockstar afterwards.) Okay, maybe I did kick some butt. But still…
I’m not racing this year but am planning on being a super fan on the course while taking in the beautiful scenery and getting away from my computer. Phone service is spotty up there so I’ll be digitally disconnected. Withdrawal symptons – manically checking for bars of signal, sweating when I can’t find them, and then panic attacks when I realize news will be made without me knowing – should set in about 2 p.m. Friday. If comments take awhile to show up, it’s because I’m having convulsions.
I plan to kick the habit by staying busy. I’ve got a trashy magazine to read, a lake to swim in, a winery to check out, star gazing planned, beer to drink, a run with a friend scheduled, and friends to cheer on. Hubby says I’ve planned 80 hours of activities for the 48 hours I’ll be gone, and, well, he’s right. But I’m certainly not going to tell him that. Off to the great outdoors!
Enjoy your weekend!
Julia
aka Bargain Babe
Welcome to Bargain Babe! I’m Mara, and I’m so glad you’re here. I am an obsessive bargain hunter and penny pincher, and I am determined to live a full life without EVER paying full price. 
Let us know about any great deals or places to visit up in Paso Robles — I’m out there with the fam next weekend. Thanks! Sydnie
Sydnie, unfortunately I do not have any deals from Paso Robles to share. We went straight to the campsite and watched two days of triathlon races without leaving the park. During the day I left my wallet and cash at the campsite so I wouldn’t spend any money on vendors down at the race start. I was very tempted by some garlic fries, but made it through without buying anything extra!
What a terrific cake!
Any idea where I might find one?
Great for Boy Scouts, campers, etc.
Enjoy your trip, and check out the Farmers Market in town on Saturday morn.
No ideas where you could find one, dogsmum, but looks like reader Meital gave everyone plenty of ideas for customizing a cake.
Have Fun Julia! I’ve been to Paso Robles a few years ago and it was beautiful! Have fun!
dogzmum: I think Baskin Robins might sell a cake like the one in the picture. But since we all love our bargains, try making a brownie cake with the kids. Rather than spending $25 on a cake, buy brownie cake mix, brown/ chocolate frosting (very simple and cheap -$.99 store) and then add on some of the cute little log cabins, mini trees etc – you can get from Micheal’s or Joann’s. You can even try using licorice for the chairs -use frosting to connect it and then stick it in freezer so it sticks. you can use candy and play around with it- A great activity the kids would love!
I made chocolate covered licorice with sprinkles last week, and it was delicious!
Meital, thanks for these ideas! You’re got my sweet tooth going. 🙂
Paso was great I just got back as well.
To Syd: Eberle and J. Lohr wineries were highlights. Good wine, knowledgeable staff.
Buona Tavola, an Italian restaurant, was one of the best meals I’ve had in recent memory.
There’s a great farmers’ market in the town square Saturday mornings.