Napa Valley

See that big smile? That's from a week-long vacation :)

Jeff and I spent the week in Napa Valley, California along with a few of his co-workers, compliments of his outstanding year in sales.

 We started the week out with a short tour of San Franscisco before we headed out to the resort. Meadowood was a serene, beautiful resort. Each guest quarter was a classic cottage, complete with a beautiful porch. The weather was hot when we first arrived, but temperatures dropped throughout the week and we ended up with highs in the 80s and lows in the 50s.

Dinner each evening was an event. Our group had our own Master Sommelier- Geille from France. He made it his mission to educate us about wine. We enjoyed lots of yummy food paired with the most delicious wines.

I have always 'liked' wine. But now I have a whole new appreciation for the work that goes into those grapes. It really is an amazing process. We met with a few small family wineries- which were my favorite. It was fun to see people with such passion. Grandparents and small children working together to cultivate the vines. Such pride in farming.

Jeff and I went on a 'Bike and Sip' Tour. The landscapes were breathtaking. I forget how much concrete I am surrounded by in the metroplex. I loved the smell of dirt! (Must be my Idaho roots-ha!)

We also went on a hot air balloon ride. The balloon took us up 1700 feet in the air. It was like looking down on a patch-work quilt. I loved the expereince, but I did get really nervous.

Our adventures in shopping, wine tasting, and extreme heights were off-set by relaxing breakfasts on the patio and time spent reading by the pool. This year we were given a Kindle as one of our gifts- I downloaded "Water for Elephants" and haven't been able to put it down.

Several of the wives from last year's club joined us in Napa. It was fun having some friends to hang out with.

One night we wandered into St. Helena for pizza and drinks. We also found the only bar in the valley- Anna's Cantina. The men played pool while we cheered them on.

The night of the Awards Ceremony we had a five-course dinner at Silver Oak Winery. All of the wines were paired with the perfect food- I even ate a big Kobe steak! Something about a really good cabernet that makes red meat taste so good.

Finally we wrapped up the week with a round of croquet and dinner under twinkly white lights.

I missed our sweet girls. But it was a great chance to experience something new, see beautiful sights and recharge. I am so proud of Jeff and his dedication to our family and his job. Cheers to a great week!