Napa Wrap-up!

Terrific views while hiking in Hermosa!

OK, OK, I'll be honest...this post wraps up more than just Napa Valley. It also wraps up my time in LA- but, Napa Wrap-up sounds much cooler than Cali wrap-up, so Napa it is! In any case...

loving my time in LA with these gals!

While in LA, I was able to spend a terrific two days with one of my good friends from college. We relaxed, hiked, lounged on the beach, and overall just caught up on the last year we had spent apart- and now, I'm already counting down the days until our next reunion! After my time in LA, it was time to jet up to Napa Valley for a terrifically memorable wine tasting trip!

entrance to Silver Oak in Napa Valley!

Because I knew that I had a short 48 hours in Napa, I wanted to make the most of my time! I started the day off with an exquisite trip to Silver Oak. Silver Oak is an iconic vineyard, and I've actually got a special story about Nick and I's first date that surrounds Silver Oak- stay tuned for that when I review the vineyard! I purposefully scheduled wine tastings several hours apart so that I would be able to fully relax and enjoy the full experience that each vineyard had to offer.

Tasting wines at Trefethen!

After visiting Silver Oak, it was off for a delicious lunch before heading to Trefethen Vineyards for a family-driven experience. The property at Trefethen was just stunning. I can only picture how much more cozy it will become as they finish the reparations and restructuring after the damage caused by the May 2014 earthquake.

After visiting Trefethen, I headed back towards Oak Knoll to check into my Airbnb location and relax for a few hours before dinner. I had received very high recommendations to Bistro Don Giovani, so had reservations to check it out for the night! My first night in Napa Valley was a quick one, as I knew that I had a busy day of wine tastings and exploration ahead of me.

Which Chandon wine would you prefer?

On Saturday, I was able to visit two more terrific vineyards. I started the day out with a spectacular trip to Chandon. The atmosphere at Chandon was truly unique, warm, and welcoming, inviting you to really stay and enjoy the experience with your friends, family, and others visiting the vineyard. Beyond the atmosphere, the beautiful grounds and gardening make you want to stay for hours! After enjoying our experience at Chandon, it was time for a quick stop for a delicious meal- taco truck, here we come!

The stunning property at Nickel & Nickel!

The wine tasting experience of the weekend concluded with a stop at Nickel & Nickel. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Nickel & Nickel, they feature spectacular single-vineyard wines. On top of that, the property is stunning and soaked in history.

the sun has set on my time in California for now- but I will be back!!

Beyond visiting Silver Oak, Trefethen, Chandon, and Nickel & Nickel, Nick and I were able to stop at several different wineries and tasting rooms to truly get a full Napa Valley experience. Each of the vineyards that I visited were so unique, and offered such a different and fabulous experience. If I learned anything beyond wine knowledge in Napa Valley, it is that Napa really has something for everyone! Whether you are looking for luxury, relaxation, a family experience, or a chance to meet new friends, there will be a vineyard and tasting experience for you. This post is just a quick overview of my time in California- stay tuned for plenty of more posts and information on Napa Valley and California in general! I'll be posting about each of these fabulous vineyards, where to stay and eat in Napa, hiking in California, and how to have a great time while still saving a bit of money. For those who have been to Napa before, where is your favorite vineyard and why? If you haven't been to Napa, which of these vineyards would you most like to visit?!

Travel Personality // A Mish Mash

Lately, the post going around blog land is all about travel personalities. As much as I'd love to say that I have one, let's be honest... I don't. I'm a complete mish mash of every personality out there. I'm a little bit adventurous, romantic, intellectual, touristy, wanderer, the list of different types goes on. If I had to sum it all up, I'd say I'm a pretty easygoing traveler. So for today, let's take a deeper look at each of the different personalities and how they make me into a pretty easygoing traveler!

Adventurous

Taking Nick scuba diving for his first time this past spring while in Punta Cana!

I love exploring new places, and ones that are slightly off the beaten path. Even in those places, I like to do interesting things. A great example I can think of is with Nick and I- he loves Cancun (because Cancun really does have everything, and you know what you are getting into every time) while I love exploring new places. As such, on our most recent trip I got to choose the destination- Dominican Republic- while he chose an activity, which was supposed to be snorkeling. After a few brief minutes with the awesome staff of Passion Paradise Adventures, he was quickly convinced to try scuba diving, loved it, and now has joined me on my desire to go shark diving in South Africa or Australia!

Organized

When it comes to traveling, I'm 1000% organized. Prior to leaving the house, I will have made a checklist, made a checklist to remind myself to do everything on that checklist, and made about six revised copies of both said checklists....and this is just when it comes to packing and leaving the house. Throw in trying to plan a trip, and I can be a little bit...

Indecisive

The first time I traveled to Oktoberfest 2 years ago was my brothers choice....but we both loved it
so much we decided to go back with more of our family this past year!

I can never pick a destination. Give me a few options, and I will sort through the pros and cons for several days, to perhaps either add a few more options to the list or finally make a selection. When traveling, I actually prefer if Nick selects the destination (and the hotel!) while I decide on the activities once we are there.

Budget Conscious

We selected Thailand for our honeymoon because
of how cheap the country (overall) is!

I'll be the first to admit, I'm pretty budget conscious when it comes to traveling. I would rather have multiple budget-friendly trips a year than one grand trip per year. As of yet, time has not really been my constraint while traveling- so I've tended to pick countries that have a cheaper daily cost of living (such as my honeymoon in Thailand!) in order to extend my stay. At the same time, I'm certainly willing to splurge on the things that I deem truly necessary...

Classical Dreamer

visited a vineyard in Des Moines prior to heading to Napa Valley!

If you ask Nick, I've been dying to go to Napa Valley, and reminded him of that every chance I have had over the last few years. As such, we will finally be doing that this coming week! The only thing that has really thrown a wrench in our Napa plans over the last several years has been my cheapness. When it comes to more pricey things (like trips to Napa, purchasing new cars, and other expensive things!) I would almost not know how much they cost. For my trip next week though, I'm willing to dole out the dough to have this experience crossed off my bucket list!

I love relaxing...

Taking advantage of the swim-up bar while at the all-inclusive Chic Punta Cana this spring!

Vacations are my off days, and the primary days of the year in which I get to relax with Nick (or my friends and family) without having to worry about nine million things that need to be accomplished. For this type of traveler, all inclusive resorts can be ideal- you get to sit back with unlimited cocktails in your hand, waiting for somebody to cater to your every need. Living my entire life in cooler climates - think Minnesota (-20C) or Sweden (0C) in the winters, the beach is always something that seems to be calling my name for vacations. However, I can never seem to relax, because...

But I hate "sitting still"

Spending an entire day (or more!) laying on the beach is just not me. If I am laying on the beach, I need a book in my hand, music in my ears, somebody to talk to, and a cocktail in my other hand...if not more things to do. While relaxing on vacation is great, I want to explore the new places I am seeing, meet some of the people, and overall just enjoy the new place! After all, if I'm just going to lounge around and not get out, what is the point in even leaving the house? And I'll be honest, writing a travel blog has certainly influenced this travel characteristic of mine. I don't think anyone here is reading my blog to see daily bikini pictures of me while on vacation- I know that's not what I look for when reading blogs- so let's get out and have some great adventures!

Greece, just one of the many places on my list (hint, hint, hubby!)

Overall, if I had to sum all of this up...I'd say that I'm a pretty easygoing traveler. I don't mind handing the reins over and letting somebody else plan the trip, but I also like to participate in the planning at times. I like the old, the new, the relaxing, the adventurous, the cheap, and the expensive. The best quote I can think of for myself when it comes to traveling is "I haven't been everywhere, but it is on my list!" What type of traveler are you?

DIY Drink Coasters For a Travel Lover!

Our memories from the last two years, preserved in drink coasters!

When Nick and I moved down to Des Moines a few weeks ago, I was excited to get started on some cute DIY projects. For the first project, I knew that I wanted to include some memories from our last years in Sweden and traveling around the world. As soon as I saw this project for DIY coasters on Pinterest, I knew that it was the perfect project to personalize our home and utilize some of the great travel photos that we have!

all of the supplies for this awesome travel DIY project!

Supplies that you will need for this project include:
-6-8 4X4 inch white tiles
-6-8 4x4 pictures
-modge podge
-paint brush
-polyurethane spray
-circular felt pads
-scissors

To begin this project, you'll have to gather the above supplies. Take some time picking out the perfect pictures- I selected a variety of pictures, from landscapes to photos of Nick and I. I quickly discovered that the landscape pictures looked the best versus photos of people- which means this DIY project was even more perfect for our travel memories! Tips for this are to select brightly colored pictures, so that the colors pop even more. These DIY travel-themed drink coasters are the perfect conversation starter for your home, or gift for a travel lover!

The perfect gift for a travel-lover!

Begin by covering your work space in newspaper or cardboard. Using a scissors, round the edges of the pictures. Once this is completed, use the brush and paint a thin layer of modge podge directly onto a tile. Quickly place and center a photograph onto the tile. Repeat this process for each tile, and then allow 20-30 minutes for the modge podge to dry and secure the picture onto the tile.

Thin layers of modge podge work best because they dry more quickly!

Once the tiles have dried, paint another thin layer of modge podge on top of the picture. Repeat this process on each tile, and then allow the tiles to dry for 20-30 minutes. Use several layers of modge podge, taking time to smooth it over the pictures and ensure the pictures are fully covered. Once thick enough (3-4 layers), allow the tiles to dry overnight.

A helpful tip: if you use too much modge podge and it doesn't dry overnight, this can be remedied! Place the tiles on a baking sheet in a warm oven for 2-3 minutes. The modge podge will melt together and be smooth once again! Don't overdo this step though- make sure to check on the tiles every 30 seconds, as the process goes quickly!

The next day, step into the sunlight and spray two layers polyurethane on top of the tiles. Allow this to dry overnight as well.

The DIY travel-themed coasters I made for my Mom after our European trip this last year!

The last step is to put circular felt pads on the bottom of the coasters so they don't scratch your furniture, and then you are all done! With just a bit of creativity and time, these coasters are the perfect way to reflect on terrific travel memories. For a DIY travel project, look no further!

For Nick and I's pictures, I used several pictures from our last year in Västerås- the city is so picture-perfect! As well, we used pictures from Germany, Norway, and Thailand. Since making this set of coasters, I've used this idea several time as gifts for both my parents and Nick's parents. These really are the perfect gift for anybody! A set of 8 coasters will only cost about $5 to make (assuming you have the modge podge, brushes, and polyurethane). The perfect gift at the perfect price- what more could you ask for?!

Currently: June Edition

I can't believe how quickly the past few weeks- and really, this summer- has flown by! I've been trying to blog as much as possible, but between new jobs, a new city here in Des Moines, vacation planning, and going back and forth between Iowa and Minnesota every weekend- life has gotten in the way, and I'm totally fine with that! So, a quick "currently" post for today!

Throwback to last week at Jasper Winery in Des Moines!

Anticipating: an amazing trip to Los Angeles and Napa Valley in 3 short weeks! I'll be visiting a friend in LA for a few days before meeting up with Nick in Napa. While in Napa, we already have plans to visit several stunning vineyards, including Trefethen, Silver Oak, and Nickel & Nickel! This is truly going to be the trip of a lifetime, and I am so excited about all of the vineyards we will be visiting. The days can't go by fast enough!

Expanding: on my wine knowledge! Although I currently know a fair amount about wine- I've run a weekly feature on it previously!- there is always more to learn! I am trying to learn as much as possible, and pinpoint what areas I am most and least knowledgeable on before heading to Napa. I can't wait to ask the experts some questions, and really learn from them!

Lily cooling down with a popsicle at Pride 2015!

Loving: that the U.S. Supreme Court has finally legalized same-sex marriage! This past weekend was Pride in Minneapolis. Nick and I had already planned on attending, but with the recent news we knew it was going to be an even bigger weekend. Lily tried to tag along for the day, but our girl can't quite keep up- she got a little too hot on the walk to the parade, so Nick cooled her down with a popsicle and then carried her the rest of the way home.

Nick carrying the girl home!

Feeling: a new sense of appreciation for all of the people I know with full-time, 9-5 type jobs! After the last few weeks of work, plus my MBA classes, blogging, and every other thing that has to get completed- I have a new sense of appreciation for the hard work and dedication it takes to get everything done. Most days, I feel like I am on the go from the time my alarm goes off at 6:30 until my head finally connects with my pillow at 10:30 at night!

Celebrating: the end of another MBA course! I just completed my accounting course tonight- so right now, I'm almost halfway done with my MBA and have a 4.0 (straight A's)! Now, I have a week off until a new finance course starts. The end of a semester is always nice, because so far it has marked another A+ in a course. At the same time, it means that a new course is upon me and it is time to buckle back down!

Appreciating: that hard work pays off. I've been working hard in what feels like every aspect of my life- professionally with my job and this blog, personally on my relationships with Nick, family, and friends, and physically on getting into a routine for this new life. Slowly, I'm starting to adjust to things and it is all becoming easier, bit by bit!

Eating: A couple of Cheetos on the couch. Shopping for 4th of July weekend turned into a bit of a treat for tonight!

celebrating weddings & love in Duluth!

Wondering: how it can possibly already be almost 2 years ago that Nick and I got married! We attended a friend's wedding this past weekend in Duluth, and for both of us it was the first wedding we had attended since our own. I can't believe how quickly the time has flown, yet at the same time how it feels like we have been married forever!

Watching: the weather report for the upcoming 4th of July weekend! The 4th is always a great holiday, and Nick and I will be headed up to the cabin to celebrate with friends. Unfortunately, that means we have a 6 hour drive - each way - ahead of us. At the same time, it will be well worth it!

Throwing it back to our wedding in September 2013!

And the last verb for today.... dreaming of sleep! Like I mentioned previously, life has been pretty go go go lately. As such, I'm ready to hit the hay before taking on another day. Hope everyone is having a terrific week so far! What do you have planned for the long weekend over Fourth of July?

Tourist in My Own Town: Jasper Winery in Des Moines, Iowa

Since moving to Des Moines two weeks ago, tons of exciting things have happened. Both Nick and I started new jobs, and we booked a little summer getaway to Napa Valley in July. Combine the recent move, new jobs, and the fact that I'd never been to a vineyard before, and we decided it was high time that we took on the day as tourists in our new town and head to Jasper Winery!

Jasper Winery is located just a few miles from downtown Des Moines, and is super easy to get to. The actual wine tasting property has a ton of cool features, and several vines to give you the feel of being a vineyard- despite the actual vineyard being located about 30 miles from downtown Des Moines.

Upon walking up to the tasting room, we noticed that it was very busy- and for good cause. About once or twice a month Jasper Winery hosts a wine & painting event, and there were certainly tons of people present for the event! Unfortunately for Nick and I- regular old guests- this meant that we were asked to take a seat and they'd get to us as soon as possible for a tasting. While the 20 minute wait wasn't exactly what we had in mind, it was fortunately the only negative aspect of our visit to Jasper Winery.

Once we stepped up to the tasting counter, you are instructed to choose between two different tasting sets: the "Best of Des Moines" flight or the "Sweet & Feisty" flight. Because this vineyard is located in Iowa- and hence, not the ideal growing season for many different grapes- a lot of the wines can be fairly sweet. This is exactly why an entire flight is dedicated to sweeter wines, or more interesting wines- such as one made with hops from Jasper's sister brewery! Nevertheless, both Nick and I chose to taste the Best of Des Moines flight.

The best news about the tasting flights at Jasper? They are completely complementary for guests to enjoy! The Best of Des Moines flight features a Seyval Blanc, an unoaked Seyval Blanc, a JW Rosé, the 'Behind the Shed Red', the Marquette, and a Noiret. Upon speaking with Kylie, our helper for the day, she informed us that the Noiret was one of the most popular favorites among guests, and her personal favorite.

The Seyval Blanc was dry, fruity, and it was quite easy to taste that it had been aged in oak barrels. I would most recommend this to chardonnay lovers because of the oak barrel aging- while it was a good selection, it was not my personal favorite. However, the unbaked Seyval Blanc was quite delicious, with the same fruity flavors, and aging it in stainless steel made it almost reminiscent towards a Pinot Grigio. Ultimately, Nick and I decided to purchase and enjoy a bottle of this.

Each of the red wines was fairly dry and fruity. As Kylie mentioned, the Noiret was definitely the best selection. If Nick and I had been visiting the vineyard on a different day, and would be drinking inside instead of enjoying the sunny & 90 degree day, we would have selected the Noiret to enjoy. After purchasing a bottle of wine and ordering a meat and cheese platter, we headed out to the patio to enjoy the beautiful day!

The property at Jasper Winery is beautiful, and had a lot of great touches. Tucked away from the major highways and roadways, you really felt you were out in the country at a vineyard- versus being right in the city, like we essentially were! There are tons of picturesque spots at the winery, from the vines outdoors and the other gorgeous landscaping to inside the tasting room with the wine barrels behind you.

Overall, I would highly recommend Jasper Winery to anybody from the Des Moines area or swinging by and visiting! The wines were delicious, and definitely had a bottle for everyone's palette. Customer service overall was very good, and each of the workers were very knowledgeable. For a picturesque Sunday (or any day of the week, really!) afternoon, consider a trip out to Jasper Winery!