A relaxing day . . .

When mom is sick, Ben needs to take charge. He ran all over yesterday talking to advertisers about the next issue coming out on Friday. He took time out in one of his favorite places, the French Laundry Gardens, to relax. I don’t think Ben will allow me to stay in bed one more day, so I guess I’ll be out and about as well.

Stretches and meditation; feed and walk Ben and off we go. . .

Sick Day . . .

Ben and I are a little under the weather today, so it’s a sick day! Hope to see you tomorrow.

No stretches but lots of time for meditation; feed Ben but no walk for him, boo-hoo  . . .

Ben is sad since he doesn't get a walk today! Sorry Ben.

What a moon . . .

Have I mentioned that I am a “Moonaholic”? I can never get enough of it, I have to see it every night. Last night’s moon was so superior. It wasn’t full but it had the feeling like it was just hiding. This time of year all the moons are so beautiful as the backdrop to all the Christmas lights. There are certain towns and cities that make a statement with their lights. Yountville, one of my favorite places, is just one of those towns. Here is a glimpse of the “Lights of Yountville” seen in black and white. Mars Lasar, an award-winning photographer captures Yountville and the valley as no one can.

I am putting the final touches on the December/ January issue today and it will hit the streets on Friday. Ben and I have much to do and so little time.

Stretches and meditation; feed and walk Ben and to work we go . . .

I’m exhausted . . .

This is a picture to give me internal energy! Photo by Mars Lasar

I could barely move out of bed today! I think the past week is finally catching up with me. I need some energy big time.

Ben and I have an early morning photo shoot and need to be on the road early so off we go.

We don’t have time for stretches and meditation; but Ben gets fed and off we go . . .

Three County Day for Ben and me . . .

Preparing the pasta

Yesterday was a hurricane day. Ben and I were in Contra Costa, Solano and Napa Counties and didn’t get home until almost midnight! Ben is still sleeping.

Ben had some left over birthday wishes to gather so we were in Danville, Benicia, Vallejo and Yountville once again. Last night though was the treat. We attended the Napa Style weekly cooking class at the VMarketplace in Yountville and learned how to make homemade Pappardelle Pasta with a mushroom ragu. AWESOME! Served with wine and great companions how could we lose? It did not stop, we then headed to the hostess with the mostess, Cindy Crater’s house and were served homemade chicken noodle soup, cheeses and salami and homemade persimmon cake. Could it get any better? Yes, we then were treated to an impromptu concert by Mars Lasar, a Grammy award winning musician and a 14 year old musical prodigy. She literally brought tears to my eyes. Ben lay at their feet and closed his eyes and I could have sworn was smiling.

The finished product!

Let’s get this party started; stretches, meditation, walk and feed and Ben and here we go . . .

What a day . . .

Ben takes time out to smile for the camera while celebrating his birthday

Yesterday Ben and I had a “fabulous” day! We went out for breakfast, had a long walk, saw clients, and went to his favorite town: Yountville. Bouchon Bakery was ready for him and Joel, Laurel, Cindy, Aurelia, Margrit, (that would be Mondavi!) and the rest of the Yountville gang had special Birthday wishes for Ben. He was ecstatic. We actually got a lot of work done as well!

Last night’s “Hurricane Sandy” event at the Empress Theatre in downtown Vallejo was awesome! The musical talent in one room was almost overwhelming. The talent and the excitement was incredible to be a part of. Can I say “FUN”!

Today we will start again and my phone will probably die like yesterday so let’s get going.

Stretches, meditation, walk and feed and Ben and here we go . . .

Happy Birthday Ben. . .

Ben loves the waterfront and is looking forward to being 7!

Today Ben turns 7! Yes, he is officially middle age and catching up with his mom. I’m planning a party for Ben; let me know if you want to attend.

We did not get enough done yesterday so today we are starting early and not stopping until we have accomplished everything on our list. One thing that is on our list is the “Hurricane Sandy” Benefit tonight at the Empress Theatre. We have such a great community of musicians and they are all coming out to help a great cause. Thanks guys!

Stretches, meditation, walk and feed and Ben and here we go . . .