No, this is not our new home but it was a pretty wonderful stop on our way to Healdsburg. Tired of driving, we pulled in a long driveway to Chateau St. Jean Winery just outside of Sonoma, a perfect stop.
We sat under the trees and listened to a guitar and singer, such fun.
The rustic gardens are set amid a country villa right out of Italy or France. The main garden has formal shrubs, fountains and a rose garden. You step outside the main garden area to a wide span of lawn full of picnic tables to enjoy. Next time we'll bring a picnic and spend an afternoon.
We walked all over the beautiful property and found these beautiful hydrangeas blooming everywhere.
We got to Charlie and Mary's late Saturday afternoon and spent the evening outside with a BBQ and fire pit time. But first, I got a tour of the veggie garden, the new chickens and helped Mary harvest some of her tomatoes.
Sunday Paul and I went into Healdsburg for a coffee but since Pks favorite coffee house was closed we walked into a nearby tea shop and spent a lovely 1/2 hour with Lavelle, who was minding the store for a friend. She gave us several tea tastings of black, green and even white teas. As we visited I asked about her colorful headdress and she told us it is a traditional covering from the Congo called a Lapa. A beautiful woman and a wonderful afternoon.
Back at the ranch, it was time for Mary's fabulous blue margaritas and another BBQ. Such a relaxing time together with Chas, Mary and the kids.
After several visits to Charlie's we've finally been accepted by Maddy the Rottweiler. She's an awesome guard dog and such a sweetie. We have yet to introduce Foster to Maddy...don't think that's ever going to happen.
The bros were checking out the night shades...
While the girls tried on the electric blues!
Always a wonderful stay with plenty of talking time round this pit. And, it always goes by too quickly!
1 comment:
You two Gypsies are welcome any old time !
Chase and Mary
Post a Comment