We just got back from touring the most amazing Christmas lights.  We went to two houses in two cities and while both displays were overwhelming in their size and detail they were also completely different.  We started out in Novato and then checked out a house in Rohnert Park.  Both of these cities are along ... (read more →)

Martin Ray Winery is a small winery in the Russian River Valley.  When you see the water tower carrying their name  you know you’ve arrived.  A small garden and fountain lead into a cozy tasting room – the whole thing is delightfully unpretentious and comfortable.
We have consistently enjoyed their wines.  Even their Rose has been ... (read more →)

We had visitors this weekend and they wanted to see the (rightfully) famous Napa Valley.  So, rather than wine tasting at more local places like we usually do, we headed out to tour our neighboring county’s wine offerings. 
One of the biggest differences between Napa and Sonoma County is the number of people.  Sonoma wineries ... (read more →)

This past weekend we headed out to explore some of the Napa Valley wineries.  We stopped in at Duckhorn Vineyards and were lucky they could squeeze us in even though we hadn’t reserved.  Tastings were $15 ($25 for the reserve) and we would definitely recommend calling ahead for a reservation.
The winery itself is beautiful.  ... (read more →)

Quite honestly, when we first saw the restaurant we weren’t too hopeful.  Pho Vietnam is tucked into a corner in a strip mall.  It has a very unassuming exterior and the inside, with its vinyl booths and help-yourself chopsticks is equally low-key.  Luckily, once we tasted the food our hesitancy disappeared!  Their great food ... (read more →)

We recently enjoyed lunch at Thai Issan.  The restaurant is decorated with Thai items (including some mirrors which were for sale).  There is a large, relaxing fountain at one end and soothing spa-type music playing in the background.  Definitely a nice, calm setting for your meal.
Their lunch special comes ... (read more →)

It’s only a few days before Christmas.  The malls are slammed, parking lots overflowing.  We kept being surprised at the line ups at all the stores.  We didn’t remember dealing with this in years past.  That’s when it hit us – we haven’t been home for Christmas in TEN YEARS!
Here’s a look back at where ... (read more →)

We recently had an enjoyable dinner at Everest Restaurant.  The restaurant is nicely decorated with a decorative paint treatment.  It’s located in the Golden Eagle Shopping Center, which makes parking easy.   
We started with the free appetizer they offered us – papadum with a delicious green dipping sauce.  Ian had a mango lassi which ... (read more →)

  There is nothing quite like the pairing of dark chocolate and a really good red wine.  To truly appreciate what a spectacular marriage these two can have, head over to Fritz Winery.  Built right into the side of a hill in Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley this subterranean family-run winery makes some terrific wines.   ... (read more →)

The Distillery District is Victorian Industrial meets modern chic.  Right in the heart of downtown Toronto, this pedestrian-only zone makes for a great afternoon of strolling and shopping.  Wander along car-free cobblestones streets and do your Christmas shopping or just some fun window shopping.  Galleries display works by Canadian artists and trendy boutiques sell ... (read more →)