100th Blog Post...back to Napa

My first ever blog post was a write-up of a quick getaway to Napa, Ca. back in March 2008. My reason for starting a blog was to keep our family updated on "what was up" with their kids in Sacramento. I never thought it would mean so much to me.

The reason I continue blogging:

It gives me a chance to reflect on what we (Rick and I) have accomplished...even if it is finishing a book, making a new recipe, or traveling...these days we have been given are meant to be cherished.

It continues to give our family updates on our lives. I am sure they will be happier when the updates include a child...but for now they will have to endure "just us."

Surprisingly, I have connected with many women through the "blog world." These women live near and far, but have inspired me through their own blog posts. Their personal comments on my posts and sweet e-mails have also encouraged me.

It gives me a chance to celebrate, brag about, or request prayers for the special people in my life. This was especially important in January of this year when my Mother and Grandfather were in an accident. With family all around the country, it was a spot everyone could go to to get updates. Thank you all who kept them in your thoughts and prayers and left such sweet comments. Both are recovering wonderfully!
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This past weekend, Rick and I traveled back to Napa, Ca. to celebrate Valentine's Day...how fitting that my first and 100th blog post would include one of my favorite spots on this earth! While driving through the beautiful town, I commented to Rick how relaxed we are every time we visit. Maybe it's the beautiful scenery...maybe the food...to be honest, it's most likely the wine (who am I kidding). But really, we always come home so relaxed!

This trip we visited our favorite burger joint Taylor's Refresher.

The burgers here are so good! And the fries...oh my! In the past, when I wasn't eating meat I preferred the veggie burger, which is very good...but now that I am including meat into my diet, I went for the good stuff...Beef. Check out the goods!

Rick had the ahi tuna burger with sweet potato fries...amazing! I had the blue cheese burger with original fries...yummy!

After lunch we visited a few of our favorite wineries as well as a new one that Rick has been dying to take me to. Our first stop was Raymond Vineyards where we tasted wonderful wines and purchased a few bottles of Sauvignon Blanc, Rose, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Syrah.

After Raymond, we visited St. Supery. We have been wine club members for the past two years, and have really enjoyed the experience. Our favorite is the Dollarhide Cabernet Sauvignon.

After St. Supery, we traveled to Hess Winery located in Napa. Rick visited the winery along with some work colleagues a couple months ago and brought home a fantastic cuvee. He also spoke about the beautiful grounds, architecture, and art museum located inside. When we arrived, I was very impressed! It was amazing!

We had a wonderful time in Napa and already are talking about our next visit. Napa Valley features over 700 wineries, so there is always something new to experience there!

Thanks again for all you readers (family and friends) who read our blog!