Que Sera Syrah

No time for a proper post this week (sorry), so here a few recent selections from Napa, California (Migration Winery). The 2019 Santa Rita Hills Syrah, in particular, was fabulous - deep, a tad spicy, with hints of blackberry, boysenberry, and vanilla. Now, if only the finger foods were slightly bigger …. Enjoy.

Saturday Musings 5.7.22

International Food Fair - 5.5.22 Strange week, not only due to the release of Dr. Strange II, which, according to credible sources, was, well, strange. As an MCU fan, I am compelled to see it, at some point. Apparently, according to the same sources, there was a Dr. Strange in the theater audience. Cosplay, alive … Continue reading Saturday Musings 5.7.22

Napa, Rick Steves, and Ukraine

Paraduxx Winery You might wonder how I might be able to tie these three disparate topics into one post. Continue reading. It's been another tumultuous last seven days. In October, I "won" a wine tasting package at a local charity auction. I had been a Board member of San Mateo-Foster City Education Foundation (https://www.smfcedfund.org) and … Continue reading Napa, Rick Steves, and Ukraine

Less is More

The California Poppy, captured during our last hike (Mount Diablo) I have been enamored of this concept for quite some time. Not exactly minimalism or disposing of anything that does not spark joy. Decluttering, yes. Not exactly essentialism or mindfulness, although both can be worthwhile, for different reasons. Not shorter, less strenuous hikes, although next … Continue reading Less is More

Lake Tahoe

Tahoe Donner Resort Hello 2022! Best wishes for a fresh start and a smooth(er) ride, from Truckee, California! December was Snowmageddon, with the most December snowfall since 1970.  Given our drought situation, unsurprisingly more snow is needed.  Fresh powder abounded on December 31st, my first day on the slopes in nearly two years.  Imagine gliding on the snow, frictionless, … Continue reading Lake Tahoe

Pulgas Ridge and Hiking Year in Review

Dusky Woodrat Trail Some stats, notes and observations:  Duration: 2 hours (including a few stops for water, snacks, etc.)Distance: 3.6 miles (per All Trails) loopElevation Gain: 695 feetWeather: 54° F at 11amStarting Location – Pulgas Ridge Parking Lot (167 Edmonds Rd, Redwood City, CA 94062)Hike (URL): https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/dusky-footed-woodrat-and-cordilleras-trailsPulgas Ridge information: https://www.openspace.org/preserves/pulgas-ridgeNotes and Observations:  It looks like this year will … Continue reading Pulgas Ridge and Hiking Year in Review

Point Reyes

Some stats, notes and observations:  Duration: 5 hours (including a few stops for water, snacks, etc.; and driving time from Hike #1 to Hike #2)Distance: 11 miles (10.1 per All Trails)Elevation Gain: 1,361 feet (both trails)Weather: 50° F at 9am; 70° F at 1pmStarting Location – Hike #1: Drakes Head Trail Parking Lot (38.08154, -122.91403)Starting Location – … Continue reading Point Reyes

Sacramento River

Early morning on the river It’s 1:30 p.m.  Perfect, sunny, warm, early October Monday afternoon, following a classically cool morning until the sun emerged over the river.  Thousands of miles, figuratively, from the home office. Cell phone with zero battery power, so no distractions, to be recharged in the car in about an hour.  Light breeze.  Good company.  Competent and … Continue reading Sacramento River