So Much Wine 9.3.2016

For kicks, I went back through all the photos from EVERY wine dinner and pulled all of the pics that have someone holding wine in their hand (or wine glasses front and center.)  Judging by the photo evidence, we've had a good time.

Birthday Break 8.13.2016

We interrupt this regularly scheduled wine blog for some unexpected and most exciting birthday news.  I turned 40, and since I write this baby, I can write about anything I want, right?

Besides, it involves the same cast of characters- our wine group gathered for a mystery birthday weekend to celebrate my birthday.  Cody arranged it all, and I loved every minute of it!

We started at the Kimball museum in Fort Worth where we received a private tour from our very own docent.  She was incredible.  I loved hearing all the interesting facts and details about the art she showed us.

We checked into the historic Ashton hotel then headed for dinner at Ellerbe Fine Foods.  Oh. MY.  The entire menu was delicious and we had so much fun together.  We even brought along some Domaine Serene for the occasion. 

The next morning, I was totally shocked to discover Cody had planned a segway tour.  I was nervous at first, but it wasn't too hard to get the hang of it.  It was a blast!  I want to do it again sometime!

The best part of the weekend was that I was surrounded by friends who love me.  I felt incredibly spoiled and tremendously loved.  Thank you everyone for making it a birthday I will never forget!

At Vestals 5.6.2016

We gathered at J and E's catering hub for the royal treatment, and it did not disappoint.  We enjoyed a many course meal surrounded by the peaceful ambience of candles and a beautifully set table.

Because I am writing this 4 months after it happened, the details are a little fuzzy.  I mostly remember some very good wine, excellent food, top notch service, and the warm feeling I experience when I think of time spent surrounded by friends who love and care for each other so deeply.

Life (like wine) is best experienced in the company of true friends.

Is It Chile In Here? 2.27.2016

The theme: Chile.  The food: better than typical Chilean food, thanks to Paul and Jackie.  The wine: running the gamut from bold Cab Savs to Carmenere blends.  The table conversation: Quotable.
The laughter: Unstoppable.

All Hands On Deck 11.2.2015

The deck was finally finished so Cody and Becky did the best possible thing to christen it.  They hosted a wine dinner outdoors.  It was dark.  It was winter.  It wasn't too cold, though.  In fact, I know the guys weren't feeling any chill around the fire pit, especially thanks to the hard liquor.

Thanks for helping us break in the new deck everyone!

Sushi Sake 4.6.2015

Jed and Greta graciously treated our group to a private table at Sushi Sake for an evening of great food and wine.  We were relieved to find the table had an underground opening for legs and that we would not be spending the next 3 hours on knees or criss cross applesauce.

Paul and Jackie came in costume (of course…overachievers!)

A beautiful evening was enjoyed by all.

Argentine Wine (&Tango) 2.27.2015

We risked our lives driving in snow and ice to arrive at Jordan and Emily's to partake in amazing wine, food, and fellowship.  We were all prepared to spend the night if necessary.

The Argentinian food Jordan prepared was delicious- and his empanadas were almost as good as the ones Becky made. (see first wine dinner 10.1.2011)

The evening was going "swimmingly" well when suddenly a bit of unexpected craziness stepped into our lives.

It was later determined that the "craziness" was actually a tango instructor and her dance partner cleverly employed by Jordan to give the group tango lessons.

I probably need to let that sink in a bit.  Those of you who were tipsy that night- it was NOT a dream.  We actually did tango lessons in the living room, and I have quite a lot of photographic evidence to prove it.

It just goes to show one never knows what to expect at these wine dinners we share…