Good Music, Good Friends, and Good Wine...

The weather has been wonderful this weekend--perfct for our annual nieghborhood block party last night. That's where all the neighbors pull their BBQs out into the street, set up picnic tables and chairs, bring a salad or dessert to share, toss their meat on the grill and settle down for a nice long visit.

We had fewer folks than in years past. Some people were gone, others aren't comfortable with the concept, and it seems like the new people who move in can't quite believe that these types of functions still really happen and just don't come. (But they can been seen peering out of their windows at us. We hold out hope that they'll get brave and join us some other summer--we're truly a nice bunch of people, and pretty accepting of all types.)

Tonght we're heading out with two other couples on our street to the San Michelle Winery for a free concert (Jesse Cook) and wine tasting that they put on each year for members of their wine club. We joined many years ago because we love the winery and their wine. And because we wanted to provide them with ongoing support. We've shared our tickets with these neighbors over the years when we were unable to go, and they all loved the experience so much that they joined also.


It's really a fun time, kind of a magical "end of summer" experience. Everyone spreads out a blanket, and brings a picnic. They have wine tasting and prizes. The music is typically something that most people will enjoy, and it's fun to see everyone enjoying themselves as they typically end up dancing in the grass in the darkening evening. There are beautiful balloons (the kind people take rides in) that drift overhead as the sun sets, and it's a lovely time. Here's hoping that your "end of summer" weekends are just as wonderful...