Quick Trip to California

So, April 25th was my mother-in-law's birthday, my husband and I flew to CA for the weekend, well Saturday night, to Tuesday AM. We met his brother there from DC and we had a great weekend. My in-law's live in Santa Rosa, CA...right in the heart of wine country. Sadly my husband is on a alcohol free journey until June 15th...due to some bloodwork. Anyway, I felt guilty that we chose Chateau Montelana to visit...for those of you unfamiliar, this is the winery in Napa Valley that put CA on the map of the world for wines. Have you seen Bottle Shock? if you haven't it is a Hollywood version of the events...very good! Anyway. I was pleased with the wine I tasted there and for the first time in my life considered paying more than 20 for a bottle of wine...145 to be exact, it was THAT good! We also paid a visit to the original CIA for a cooking demonstration...the menu was gluten free and since this is the life my husband and I now lead...well, it was appropriate. So interesting and YUMMY! I can't wait to try it at home. We ate some REALLY good food. If you are ever in the Oakland, Ca area...try http://www.soizicbistro.com/

it is soooo yummy! And we ate at Bouchon Bistro http://www.bouchonbistro.com/ while in wine country...also good. And, spring had definitely sprung! It was soooo beautiful and green. It was a shock to come back to Spokane to its 40 degrees and rain and sleet...UGH! Happy Birthday Ellen, we had a great time!!