Grape Harvest At Eden Hill Vineyard

Pardon my silence for a bit. 

We've been busy at the farm

preparing for harvest.

We began by picking the Temperanillo yesterday

and tried to stay true to Carpe Diem - 

which actually means "pluck the day."

:: Images by wendy dooldeniya, more here ::

Texas Sky

There is something to be said about a Texas sky.

It is akin to "things are bigger and better in Texas," but a wee bit less pompous.

The skies in Texas are breath-taking with spotted clouds

and kaleidoscope colors saluting the sun.

I've seen Japanese artists gaze at them with wonder.

"We don't have wide open spaces like this in Kyoto."

I've seen children lay on the ground

and be awed silent by the vibrant airborne landscape.

If you've been to Arizona or New Mexico, or Montana

you know the power of a big sky.

Yet, each is so different with the altitude and dust,

the smell of the air.

For now, I'll share a little sky with you

and imagine you are here enjoying it with me.

see more here

or here

and here

Let it Snow!

Last night it snowed and I could hardly sleep. You see, here in central Texas it NEVER SNOWS, especially before April. I was jumping about like an excited puppy!

In honor of this amazing wintery gift, I'd like to share some great items from the final Modish giveaway. Each would make excellent gifts for your special ones.

Top (from left): Jewelry from Starving Artist Bazaar! , print from Irena Sophia

Bottom (from left): Mudpuppy's ceramic vases, print from Alina Jolie

And you might even win one of my prints too!

Hill Country Wine Tour

Wine is an essential part of my family holidays. Especially since my parents started their own winery a few years ago. This Thanksgiving was blessed with a great Austin area wine country tour. Beautiful views, a fun drive and fabulous wine. If you're in the Austin area, you've got to check these out!

Driftwood Vineyards

A down home spot with a great Hillcountry view. The wines are quite tempting here (And blew our budget!) I suggest the SuperTexan, the Syrah and the Cuve Blanc. Just $5 for a tasting of six wines. (photo from chris_cogs2's flickr)

Mondola Winery

For Lunch and Wine Tasting, head on over to Mandola Winery. A gorgeous spot with a Bocce court, room for running and strolling, big shade trees and INCREDIBLE Italian food. Really. This place was made by a man long in the restaurant business in Texas and the USA - Damian Mandola. He is associated with D'Amico's in Houston, Damian's Cucina Italiana and then Carraba's. What a legacy! This is what you'd expect a Texas Vineyard to look like! (photo from their website)

After a grand lunch here, head on into Wimberly for some shopping and to avoid the pasta-coma. This town is a gem and offers art, art, art and antiques. I promise there is something for everyone!

On your way back to Austin make sure you have a good bottle of wine and some cash left and eat at the famous Salt Lick Bar-b-que. Y.U.M.

Now that s a good day!