The California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco Last week I took advantage of my cousin’s visit to take in the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park for the first time. …

The unassuming exterior of Wilson Winery, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma CountyJust outside of Healdsburg, Dry Creek Road runs like a ribbon through the heart of Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley.  Dotted along its length are several award-winning wineries.  Wilson Winery is perche

Recently we had guests come to visit from out of town.  Eager to show them the best of Sonoma County we suggested we go wine tasting.  They quickly agreed and we set out for one of our favorite spots to toast the beauty of Wine Country – Korbel Champagne Cellars.…

We just got back from touring the most amazing Christmas lights.  We went to two houses in two cities and while both displays were overwhelming in their size and detail they were also completely different. …

Water tower marking Martin Ray Winery, Sonoma CountyMartin Ray Winery is a small winery in the Russian River Valley.  When you see the water tower carrying their name  you know you’ve arrived. …

We had visitors this weekend and they wanted to see the (rightfully) famous Napa Valley.  So, rather than wine tasting at more local places like we usually do, we headed out to tour our neighboring county’s wine offerings.  Lots of visitors eager for some wine tasting in N

Beautiful Duckhorn Vineyard, Napa Valley, California This past weekend we headed out to explore some of the Napa Valley wineries.  We stopped in at Duckhorn Vineyards and were lucky they could squeeze us in even though we hadn’t reserved.  Tastings were $15 ($25 for the rese

Unassuming interior of Pho Vietnam, Santa Rosa, California Quite honestly, when we first saw the restaurant we weren’t too hopeful.  Pho Vietnam is tucked into a corner in a strip mall.  It has a very unassuming exterior and the inside, with its vinyl booths and help-y

Thai Issan, delicious Thai food in downtown Petaluma, California We recently enjoyed lunch at Thai Issan.  The restaurant is decorated with Thai items (including some mirrors which were for sale).  There is a large, relaxing fountain at one end and soothing spa-type music pl

Nicely decorated interior at Everest Restaurant. We recently had an enjoyable dinner at Everest Restaurant.  The restaurant is nicely decorated with a decorative paint treatment.  It’s located in the Golden Eagle Shopping Center, which makes parking easy.