Napa (with kids)

Mother's Day my husband surprised me with day trip to Napa. A planned outing which eliminated my tendency to overthink was the best gift ever (Thank you babe).  

Our first stop was to Oxbow Public Market which I recommend (especially if your kids are in tow).  They have a variety of restaurants and shops, and great outdoor seating. As well as a nice walking path along the riverfront. 

We had a relaxing and delicious lunch at the Kitchen Door.  (Tip: Luna's cubebot always garnishes attention, its easy to carry in my tote and it keeps her entertained.  The cubebot can also hold my iPhone perfectly. It is one whole piece so no little pieces at the bottom of my bag.)

On our way to our next stop we ran into Luna Vineyards. This vineyard is not kid-friendly, but they were still welcoming to Luna playing outside while I went in and purchased a bottle of wine.  Come on what mom doesn't want a bottle of wine with their kids name.  

Castillo di Amorosa was our next stop.  It has many memories for us so going back with Luna was extra special.  We did not think it was worth paying for the tour with a toddler, especially because walking around the castle's open areas and petting zoo is exciting enough. 

On our way out of Napa we always stop at V. Sattui for food to take home.  They have great deli and picnic area. We actually just bought our food and took it with us.  Our plan was to stop mid-way and have dinner on the road.  A trunk picnic always makes Luna happy!  

This was a perfect day, and it reminded me of one of my favorite quotes "collect memories, not things."

Tourist in my Town: Hidden Falls

We recently went on a family hike in Hidden Falls Regional Park.  We really had no idea what we were getting ourselves into.  I had not been hiking since my single days, and my husband had never been on a hike.  This was a beautiful, but tough adventure, and I cannot wait to do it again. 

At the end of our hike, 6.2 miles later, we completed our hike! 

Here's a funny clip from the beginning of our hike when Luna thought I was running without her.

Tourist in my Town: Crocker Museum + Tower Bridge

Every Saturday after Luna's ballet class we like to take advantage while we are out and about, and get some exploring in.  On this particular weekend we enjoyed a delicious lunch at Sampino's, and then headed to one of our favorite places the Crocker Museum. 

The featured exhibit was the Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads which was awesome.  I already knew I was in the year of the Horse, and it was great reading up on my husband's year of the Ram and Luna's year of the Snake.  

After the museum, we continued our walk in old town towards the Tower Bridge. 

Tourist in my Town: Rainbow Orchards

We recently planned a trip up to Apple Hill. After going up last year, and dealing with the crowds. This year we decided to stick to one farm.  We chose Rainbow Orchards after reading great reviews, and we had a great time. 

We wandered outside and relaxed on the haystacks.  Then we headed into to the farm store to buy pumpkins, apple cider,and their famous apple cider donuts. 

The photo below is one of my favorites. Luna is holding the skeleton's hand and the look on her face is hilarious. 

Afterwards we sat and listened to live bluegrass music and ate up our goodies. Luna would have eaten up all the donuts, if we would have let her!

I am so happy we spent our whole afternoon at Rainbow Orchards. Its beautiful and we definitely plan on going back to Apple Hill before the end of fall.  

Tourist in my Town: SF Market & Huong Lan Sandwiches

Last weekend I decided it was time to venture off our regular weekend adventures, and step outside the box.  Every weekend I try to make a more elaborate meal for us, but sometimes I get in a slump. I had been craving a mojarra (fried Mexican fish), but I did not want to have it fried. I looked up some inspiration, and voila we are grilling fish on our barbecue and eating outside Mediterranean style.

I had heard about SF Market, but had yet to go there.  For foodies this is a mecca of Asian food, artisan goods, and for us a field trip.

Our first duty was to feed the belly of a hangry toddler (don't let the photo fool you!).  We headed to Huong Lan Sandwiches.  My husband ordered a barbecue pork sandwich (not pictured), Luna had egg rolls and I had shrimp spring rolls and green salad.  All-in-all our lunch was great, and glad to know after the fact they have great reviews on Yelp.

After lunch we walked over to SF Market with our goal in mind which was to buy fresh fish for dinner.  Luna was excited to see all the "sharks," and lucky for us we did not have to explain to her.

After selecting our fish,Luna and I headed to the fun aisles (while my husband dealt with the fish purchase). 

I loved the kitchen aisle.  They had so many great pots,pans, tea sets and utensils. As always though, Luna made out with some goodies.  I could not resist the little Hello Kitty chopsticks. 

If you missed how I prepared our whole fish, here they are below and here. They are stuffed with fresh herbs, garlic, lemons slices, salt and pepper. I let them marinade and then my husband put them on the barbecue on low heat. Our meal was delicious. 

The three of us ended up having a fantastic day, and I was so glad I pushed us to step out of our comfort zone and continue to explore our surrounding areas. 

If you have been inspired to explore your own town, please let me know how its going or send me a message.  I would love to here all about it. 

Tourist in my Town: Gather Nights

Last Thursday we headed to Gather Nights in the Oak Park neighborhood of Sacramento. There website says its a night of community and culinary delight, and they are right. 

As you all may know, I lean towards eating Paleo, and therefore, my family and I ate a light dinner before heading out because I was not sure if they would have any healthy options. Though we did leave room for a light snack/dessert. So if you are on a budget or are not sure if you want to eat there, it is definitely worthwhile. They have a DJ playing great music, cute dogs, lots of people watching and a variety of food options. We are already planning to attend their next gathering on Thursday, August 13th. 

Luna and I were happy girls to be out on the town! 

It was crowded with lots of young families and hipsters. Plus the music was on point!

These two did not waste any time eating up their Daves Pops (ice cream without the cream--Ahmazing!).  We also enjoyed some yummy healthy treats from the Granola Girl food truck. 

We ended the night out with an obligatory family selfie!