We arrived as guests; we left as friends. Granted, that doesn't often happen, but Ellen and her husband, Ken, made our stay so completely wonderful in every imaginable way. To begin, Ellen was waiting for us at the entrance to the suite when we arrived. She is friendly and communicative -- she showed us around, explained everything, and asked if we had any questions. She made herself available to us so we never once went lacking for information, amenities, or company! The suite itself is cozy and comfortable. Ellen provides extras, such as a laptop computer pillow/table; a space for writing; a large screen, HDTV and a library of DVDs that would make a movie mogul scream with delight. The little kitchenette is set up so you can eat meals in if you want; and the indoor-outdoor feature, which includes a whole beautiful patio with barbeque, fountain, and fenced, private garden, allows you to sit outside and enjoy Altadena's unique scenery and weather. We brought along our little Chihuahua, Lusso, and Ellen and Ken immediately made friends with him. They have two little doggies of their own, Osso and Bucco, and they all made friends as well! Ellen's Altadena neighborhood is perfect for walking; and there are many trails nearby if you like to hike.

We took full advantage of Ellen's add-ons as well, and I highly recommend trying any or all of them for yourself! I took a short, 3-week "writer's workout" with Ellen and several other writers while I was there; and now I have the inspiration to write my first book! In addition, Ken, the "Tech Daddy" renovated our Apple Powerbooks, and they run better than new now! I also signed up for and received a fun, two-hour art lesson on how to do mosaics with local artist Leigh Adams, and ended up with a colorful mosaic picture frame!

I could go on and on; but trust me, our stay at Ellen's Retreat to Romantic Pasadena Adjacent is likely to be one of the best and most valuable experiences you could have!