odds and ends

Went to Napa for a surprise birthday for Jeff, whom we first met in Tokyo way back when, along the Dan and Gena, whom we haven't seen in 20 years! 

Hall Winery was the site of a tasting - very nice selection of wines paired with food flavors in mid-afternoon. Our first visit to Napa, the weather was beautiful and the food didn't disappoint!  Not as old a tradition as in Beaune, FR, the experience - given the commercializing tendency of American culture - went straight from wine to commercial experience, not quite becoming a way of life.Mostly folks from their church, we ate and ate and returned to this rental nearby in Saint Helena for cake and presents.We gave a Japanese chef's knife (some LA chefs shop at Anzen's Hardware for their imported blade of choice.and binchotan, a special wood briquet from Japanese white oaks - emitting no ash and high heat.

Our
first meal off the church-made picnic tables!  Works great in the courtyard.

Beacon ended the year transitioning Denny as Head of School, as Jack received a math award and Michael for enthusiasm, baking these snickerdoodle cupcakes for the last day of class.

Carolyn had the class make illuminated letters, which she turned into a mosaic parting gift for Elle, who is making her way back East on Sat.

Some quality time before the big parting, we spent a weekend at Ojai, bicycling and playing Settlers of Catan.

also taking in a concert by ex-Peppedine friends at Fox & Hound in Studio city, where Elle joined with banjo.Some questionable behavior by plastered patrons made for an interesting lesson for the boys (and us!).

Michael got some great sunset shots recently.and a great Father's day!