Sun Valley

Last week Mike had a busy work week with Jarrett and Paul in town, then a fishing/camping weekend planned, so I decided to head to the mountains with Anna. Sun Valley is so beautiful in the summer, and since my parents are living there full time, they kept us busy all week. This picture was just after our first hike with Anna. My mom and I went to one of her favorite spots, Galena Lodge, and did a hike which was appropriately named, Psycho. There were beers hiding behind us in the picture. And well deserved. Anna was a champ. She slept through the first half, then just purely enjoyed herself for the rest.

Since Idaho received so much snowfall this year, everything was so green. This was another hike we took through the wildflowers. Just beautiful.

Anna loves to be outside. While we were eating dinner, she just played on the grass.

Happy Birthday Mike!!

Every year as Mike's birthday approaches, he begins to ask what we should do for his birthday. I think he is trying to figure out when (one of these years) I'll have a surprise birthday party for him. This wasn't the year. But it was a great day. We took our friends Tom and Angie, Catherine and of course Anna, up to Napa. We had a great lunch at then headed over to Domaine Chandon. We received the v.i.p. treatment which included a thorough tour and a wonderful tasting. Here are a few pictures from the day.

Anna learning about tank fermentation

I love this picture. This dress on Anna was mine as a baby. My mom saved some of her favorite clothes of ours (in duplicate of course).

Rio Viento Vineyard - Year 2

The name Rio Viento, which means river wind, was chosen because it represents the unique micro climate created by the cool delta breezes. This climate along with the rich soil creates an ideal location to grow grapes. Last weekend we took a drive out to the ranch to check the progress of the vineyard. This is the 2nd year and the vines are doing very well. Shortly, the vines will be split and trained to grow across the trellis which will enable them to yield more fruit. Next year will be the first year that fruit will be harvested. It is exciting to watch the progress!

Close up of the chardonnay vine

Rows of vines with 2nd year growth (upper field)

View of the lower vineyard