Welcome to Paradise

Question: What happens when you combine Tori Hornstein, Brian Spendley, A 75-degree day without a cloud in the sky, and a Chardonnay featuring a "long, smooth finish of warm butter and toast marshmallow" ??

Answer: PARADISE! Or maybe just Paradise Springs Winery in Clifton, VA.

Brian had the great idea to purchase a deal from the website Living Social this summer. For just a few bucks, the deal invited a couple to a local winery to sample wine, tour the grounds, and picnic with free cheese and crackers anywhere we'd like.

The land was exquisite- rolling fields surrounded by forest, just hinting the colors of autumn. The wine cellar, where we did the sampling, was located in a log cabin built BEFORE the revolutionary war! The "American Girl" in me was ecstatic. The staff was friendly and explained about the winery's history, the types of grapes, and distilling techniques. Virginia is now #3 in the nation for producing fine wine, coming in behind CA and NY.

After trying all the wines, we picked a bottle to open and take on the grounds with our picnic, and I was so impressed with the flavor of the Chardonnay that I bought a bottle to bring home as well. The wine won the "Governors' Cup" in VA, competing against hundreds of white wines from all over the state. I don't know anything about fine wine, but this was delicious. And that's good enough for me!

I feel so lucky that I had such a great friend with whom to share such a perfect day. I really do understand why Fall is everyone's favorite season!

Peace and Love.

I Spy...

We finally did it! We finally made it to the Spy museum! It only took us a year and a half, but the roomies and I ventured out on a weeknight (I know, crazy) to take advantage of Teacher night at the Spy Museum in downtown DC.

Teacher night included free food, a cash bar, raffles and free resources for local teachers. At first, it seemed a little lame (although I did eat a rice krispies treat, except it was made out of fruit loops, so that was awesome.) That was until we entered "Operation Spy"- the big feature of the Spy Museum. All I knew about it was that it was an hour long simulation mimicking the life of a Spy, and that it has been sold out every weekend I've tried to go. Now I understand why!

The experience was terrifying! Suddenly, a large metal door closes behind you. You are thrown into a very convincing set of a market in the middle east, along with a group of strangers. You have to make your way through the maze, following clues, solving problems, and achieving the mission. Dark elevators, motion simulators, computers and cameras make the experience more realistic. Some points I found myself screaming out loud (there is no way I could be a real spy!) It was Disney World, but for grown-ups. I would recommend the experience to anyone- and you know, it wouldn't make for a bad date either!

The week is finished for me tomorrow. I have a half day and then parent conferences. This weekend promises to be lovely with a trip to local vineyards! Pictures and updates soon.

Peace and Love.

Band 101!

Mom was here this weekend!

She arrived Thursday night. Friday, she came in and enjoyed celebrity status at school and watched me teach for the day. The kids were really entertained by her presence and the best moment was when one of them decided we should use the "usted" form with her because "she's a senior." Saturday, we went to the football game and watched the band perform. It was the highlight of my weekend. I love seeing the kids at their best. You've got to check it out below!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QTAPWSH63Q

Saturday night we went and saw "Waiting For Superman," which is a must-see documentary. I mean that literally. You must see it! For me, it's a lot of facts I already knew. But for America, it's going to be a shock. No matter who you are, you will cry. GO SEE IT!

Today we wrapped up the weekend watching a painful Steelers loss at the Pour House. But mom treated and even as a Pats fan, I have to admit that sitting in a comfy couch at a bar with roommates, family, a plate of perrogies and a pitcher of beer isn't a bad way to end a weekend!

Peace and love.

T