Wine, wine, wine....

Just a quick update to you 5 readers about how things are going on the adventure out west, as well as some family updates.

First, the family update: My dear, dear grandma passed away on Friday night (turned out she had a staph infection in her bloodstream and at 86, it's nearly impossible to recover). I'm still in a bit of shock at how quickly things went from "good" to "bad", but I'm so thankful I had time with her at the end and even more grateful for my time with her on Friday morning--I was able to have amazingly peaceful closure. Which is why, after lots of encouragement from loved ones around me, I decided to continue with my trip out to CA. One of the biggest reasons to come? My grandma loved CA and had lived her in her 20's...doing hair in/around Hollywood. My aunt Karen told me Friday morning that my g'ma had renewed her CA cosmetology license up until 5 years ago. So, I figured it was the best place to honor her. (However, after I got here, I got word that visitation/funeral is going to happen on Tuesday/Wednesday...and, I will be missing it. I'm very sad about that...this one's a long story, meant for in person.)

So now, on to more uplifting news. The trip is going very well. The flight was near perfect and Julie, Becky & I had lots of time to chat and catch up. So, lots of laughter! We met up with Kelly in San Fran and then drove our rented mini-van (they were out of the car we reserved and in return, they gave us free gas--GOLD!) to Cheryl's place in Berkeley. Such a great place and we enjoyed an awesome Thai dinner, complete with wine and Fat Tire beer...yum! Then it was onto Cheryl's place for margaritas, music, snacks, laughter, fun.

Sunday we ventured to our rented cottage in Sonoma and enjoyed some stops along the way.At night, we sat around enjoying wine, cheese, fruit, and discussions about life. Always good. Our cottage is AWESOME and we all fell in love with it immediately. I can't wait to share photos (as I don't have the camera's USB cord with--opps). I don't think I've slept in such a comfy bed in a long time--it is heavenly!

Today we rented bikes and did a 12 mile bike ride through wine country, complete with stops at a couple of vineyards...yum! It was beautiful and great to ride through the incredibly scenic landscapes (including hills!!!).

I really can't ask for a better group of friends to travel with, and to be with, during this time in my life. They've been so supportive regarding my grandma and we've discussed doing our own ceremony out here. They are truly amazing women!

(And speaking of amazing, ribB is one big moving machine while I'm gone. Many thanks to Angie, JoAnne and ribB's parents who've graciously helped us!!!)

Pictures to come as soon as I'm home (which, is a funny statement--we close on our new house Friday). For pics of my grandma, see the September 2006 blog entries ( I think...or just look around there if I'm wrong.) I love my grandma so much...she taught me a great deal and took such wonderful care of me while I was growing up. I love you, Grandma!No one will ever make better apple pie, corn, 7 layer bars, or "shake and bake" pork chops than you...thank you for being there for me and my family.