We spent a magical early evening taking in the Christmas displays in downtown San Francisco before hunting down a suitable dinner establishment, along with countless other folk milling about the public park. That is one thing about the Americans, when they celebrate, they go all out!
I am still in reminisce mode remember, and these are photographs taken from our 2010/11 trip, but I am excitedly looking forward to the next trip which will happen in early December, when we take off for the USA to spend time and Christmas with our children once again. This time it will be different because we know more or less what to expect, when to go, when to get there, what to pack, what NOT to pack and the places we really, really want to return to.
The Napa Valley Wine Train was a wonderful experience! It was my birthday treat from my wonderful family and the dining a special event not to be missed...ever....
Cruising by the beautiful Napa Valley Vineyards whilst we dined was truly sublime. We even waved at Thomas Keller as we chugged past his legendary restaurant "The French Laundry". I vowed to return there and perhaps this trip I might be able to swing another "birthday surprise". After all, one cannot travel thousands of miles across continents and seas, end up camping in his very neighbourhood and not sample his cuisine, can one?
My list of priorities is a simple one:
(1) Play with my grandchildren
(2) Shop for Organic Food Produce
(3) Take in the sights and sounds of every part of America we visit
(4) Shop for Yarn and Crochet/Knit during every long trip or break
(5) Shop for my grandchildren back at home in Cape Town
(6) Fully explore and experience American cuisine by region (I can always come home and diet)
All of the above can be enjoyed simultaneously. See? I really am easy to please!
