Self Happiness

It is easy to get caught up in what others think of you. No matter who you are, people will always judge how you look, the choices you make, the friends you keep, and the way you live your life.

Judgement is not limited to race, social class, or even gender. You know the old saying...

You can please some people sometimes...
but you can't please all the people all the time.

And you know what I've learned? That is Okay.

I'll admit, I've lived a good portion of my life worried of what others think of me. 

Wisdom (or perhaps just age) has taught me...

There are different ways to view this quote and while interpretation falls to the reader, it reminds me that my happiness does not depend of the acceptance of others. Of course, this is often easier said than done, but it is something to strive for. 

It does not mean that I will not be concerned for you. As my friends and family know, I have a huge heart and will go to any length for those I love.

But, I will exert less of my energy fretting over what others think of me. 

At the very least, I will be concerned, but not too concerned.

A Time for Wine

"Wine is the most civilized thing in the world"

-Ernest Hemingway

Celebrating a late Valentine's Day, J and I ventured out to the local wine area - Fairplay. The sky was blue, the air crisp, and the wines all red in their brilliance. 

Winery Road

Often alone of the winery roads, we were free to take in nature's beauty. One of our first stops was to a newer winery, Saluti Cellars. Although they are off the beaten path, they're well worth a visit. They offer some of the most beautiful grounds in the area. In addition to an exquisite tasting room and wine cave, Saluti has a bed and breakfast cottage that is breathtaking. We plan to go back in the summer to enjoy live music and perhaps play some bocce ball.

Saluti grounds

Saluti Pond

After Saluti, we stopped at one of our favorite local wineries; MV. In our opinion, MV has by far the best reds in the area. Our favorite of the day was the 2008 Syrah Reserve. 

Simply Divine!

 The deep ruby red color is enhanced by the aromatic flavors of licorice, vanilla, and berries. It finishes with a warm carmel and cherry taste. 

While MV's tasting room is understated and small, you will not be disappointed with their vast array of bold reds.

One of our last stops of the day was to a new winery, Skinner Vineyards. Skinner is located on gorgeous property and their tasting room is reminiscent of a winter lodge. We had our picnic lunch overlooking the valley. Their patio will be a popular spot in warmer months.

View from Skinner 

We had a wonderful day and look forward to our next wine tasting outing. 

We are fortunate to live close to such phenomenal wine areas.

Old Vine Zin

Until next time... And remember...

Life's too short, to drink bad wine.

Good in Every Day

Today has not been a particularly good day. Not a bad day, just enough little wrinkles to darken my mood. The guy installing our new blinds is two hours late; I dumped a bottle of pepper (little cap fell off) into dinner...just little things.

And this happens to all of us. Not every day is a good one. In fact, some days are just down right bad. 

I came across this saying this afternoon and wanted to share it. 

There has to be at least one good thing in every day. So, instead of focusing on the negative, I will look for the positive in each day. And most days, I bet I find more than one.

I hope you remember this too.

All of us are going to have bad days. But if you look hard enough, I guarantee the little piece of good you find, will be enough to brighten your mood. 

And who knows, it may even be enough to make it a ...Good Day.