Wine (and a beer) Musings

Would like to introduce you to two of my new favorite wines:  Paso Creek Cab Sauv & Castle Rock Pinot Noir (Mendocino County).  I do judge a wine by it's label and that was the first thing that drew me to both of these wines.  Thankfully, they didn't bite me for my decision.  The Paso Creek was perfect with our (me and the hubby's) New York Strip.  The Castle Rock was enjoyed without accompaniment but I will pair with some very dark chocolate next pour.  Both under $20 (think one was under $15).  And as  you can see, they make lovely and cheap vases!  Oh and I chose the Castle Rock also because it is from grapes grown in Mendocino County.  I recently met two wonderful ladies from the Gallery Bookshop in Mendocino and thought I'd give the region a try. 

Now a beer but it's a beer you can't get here, sorry.  But it will give you a chance to head to Nantucket someday just to have a cold pint.  Cisco Brewers is on the island of Nantucket (ACK) and I was able to enjoy it many a time when I lived there for a very formative nine months just after I graduated from college.  If they ever offer wholesale distribution to Florida, I'll make sure to keep in stock!!

All this talk of wine and I'd like a beautiful glass of red.  But I'll have to wait until the Tales & Talk book club meeting tonight at OLV. 

Clink!

Breaking In a New Book(s)

So this weekend, I gave myself the time to relax and read before starting my wocation (work vacation).  I purchased 2 books on Friday (yes, from B&N).  I love breaking in a new book (yes, I break the spine as oft as I can).  Starting a new adventure, meeting a new friend or foe each time, it's a beautiful gift to have.  The gift of reading!  

Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James - Well, let's just say I didn't do much of anything but finish on Saturday and it was well worth it.  I heard my voice saying the words that Anastasia said to Christian.  Not sure how to recommend other than saying - there's no shame in imagination.

The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh - Flip side of 50 Shades, just as drawing but on other emotions.  Started last night and I struggle today to actually work and not read.  Guess I will give myself an hour in the morning and an hour in the afternoon!  My heart aches for Victoria and I'm praying all will be redeemed by the end.  And I have a sudden urge to give someone flowers!

Counting my Blessings!

Blessing #1 - Roof over my head
Blessing #2 - Someone to miss me/worry about me
Blessing #3 - Awesome family and friends to keep my spirits up after the first bank loan application was denied!!!
Blessing #4 - The ability to read!
Blessing #5 -  Grace and Forgiveness

Have you counted your blessings today?  If not, count a few before falling asleep tonight.

Spring Reading for All Ages

I've been remiss in reviewing some of the wonderful books I've read recently and/or have been read & reviewed for me.  Here's a brief list for your Spring Reading Pleasure:

Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers - Reviewed by Me and Vicky N. - A nun trained as an assassin; velvety dresses; Macgyver style weapons; poison and love combine to form a book with tiny lessons of redemption, finding out who you are and being strong.  (16 and up)

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate - Reviewed by Judy C. and Ellen M. - It's a story about a gorilla.  That's all I know but Judy & Ellen tell me it's absolutely wonderful!!  I'll be starting this tonight and I'm almost guaranteed to enjoy it. (Upper Elementary/Middle School/All ages!)

172 Hours on the Moon by Johan Harstad - Reviewed by Victoria V. - She really liked it!!!  Teenagers go to the moon.  I'll be reading after I'm done with The One and Only Ivan. (Middle & High School)

Iron House by John Hart - Why have I not read his books before and just finding out about him???  Love amongst bullets and a mystery to solve!  Just try to figure out which way Hart's going to turn next!  (Adult)

A Good American by Alex George - Beautiful and will make you believe that our country once had a dream and it's still out there, we just have to find it again.  (High School/Adult)

P.S. Don't forget to read A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash.  See previous review.

An hour w/o a book...

I have a bajillion books at home - young adult, mystery, romance, memoirs, many more genres - piled up on the floor, piano, bookshelf, kitchen counter, bathroom counter.  So please tell me how not a single one made it into my work bag this morning?!!?!?  So for my one hour lunch, I had to search the web for something to read while I ate.  Unfortunately, my internet connection at work can be finicky, so I ate while browsing and then played mah jong.

On a kinda related note:
Very belated Lent give ups - no TV or sweets until Sunday after Sunrise Service.  Very belated Lent take ons - two books read by Sunday evening and calling my girlfriend in Arizona.