American Dream

Napa

After getting a little lost and thrown a little off course, it was almost fate that the time I'd wasted meant I'd see an awesome sunset as I crossed a bridge over Vallejo.

I'd known my Californian friend Lisa for nearly 2 years and though she wasn't in town, I got to meet and stay with her family. I couldn't have wished for any more from my time with them. After first meeting Erica and Teena, we went to pick Gina up from her youth group where I was recieved like a celebrity; it's been a while since anyone has found it rare to meet an Englishman!
With a whole bunch of friends, we headed off to 'In n Out Burger' - a pretty big phenomenon in California - the alternative to the obvious offers good value and good quality food - much fresher and bespoke than yer average McWhopper.

My full day in Napa began in leisurely fashion; breakfast with Carl & Teena at a nice Al Fresco place near to their home. At midday, we headed to the wineries that the area is famed for. It was quite a different experience to the Australian ones, since the vineyards are much more commercialised and also charge for the tastings. The afternoon took us to Beringer, Beaulieu Vineyards and a brief visit to Francis (Godfather) Coppolas place.

Today was though, memorable mainly for the cuisine. We stopped at Rutherfords for lunch where I was recommended the French Dip which was gorgeous, the best thing I've eaten stateside.

The evening was pure apple pie it was so American; friends over, home baked cookies, basketball (at least 10years since I last played basketball, it was so much fun I hadn't expected!) on the drive way and then some star gazing to end the evening.

With Friday dawning, I was back on the road again, but not before a visit to Ginas school; "Vintage High School". She gave me a guided tour of the huge campus and a special intro at her choir clas. A little on the spot, I was asked to say something to show off my accent. So I asked "Who would like to join me for a cup of tea?" in my best Hugh Grant English possible. I don't think I ever made so many people in one room laugh before, so red cheeked I took my seat...