Our Anniversary Getaway

We enjoyed Calistoga and the Napa Valley so much last year that we decided to return to celebrate our 17th.  Only this time we're down-scaling the wining and dining and spa treatments and opting instead for just being lazy.  Plus it's very hot, finally, and the pollen level is high.  My usual facial and massage was replaced by a visit to a local acupuncturist who also performs gua sha and cupping with a great neck and shoulder massage.  There is definitely something wrong with this picture and it just may be age related, but you didn't hear me say that!

Good to be here!

Howard, on the other hand, has had his celebratory moments interspersed with periods of being left to read his new Kindle.  Upon arrival and setting up here at the Calistoga RV park, part of the Napa County Fairgrounds complex and a half price Passport America Park, and whilst pulling down all the awnings for much needed shade, there was a loud crash as the awning over the slide-out blew its springs and came crashing down.

Plastic ties to the rescue????

This, my friends, presents a rather serious predicament; i.e., keeping this monstrosity securely furled while subject to wind shear and movement along the highways soon to come.  Plus, to ad insult to injury, the old guy is 11 years old and has suffered rather severe canvas deterioration!  So dear Howard is up at 5:30 a.m., before the temps become unbearable, climbing the ladder, up and down, to the roof of the MH, cutting off the old canvas, and securing the "structure" with the aid of a kazillion plastic ties.  Do those things really work?  I guess we'll find out!  I'm also rather sure we'll be spending some time at Country Coach when we get to Eugene in a couple of weeks!!  Read that $$$$$$.

Culinary Institute in St. Helena

But there is fun on the horizon, or maybe I should say at sunset, as we have reservations tonight at the Greystone Restaurant, located at the Culinary Institute in St. Helena.  We plan to arrive around 5 p.m. for patio seating and good sun exposure on the eastern vineyards and mountains, so there might be a photo op or 5. Thursday night is music in the park.  We'll pick up deli sandwiches and drinks and tote a couple of folding chairs for what surely will be a great, laid-back fun evening and good music.

Our view & dinner were fantastic!

A very happy anniversary!