Behind The Butter

A Night Out in Sonoma

Last night was just one of those nights where everything was perfect and, at points, I just kept thinking to myself wow I am SO happy and content.

Almanzo and I met his visiting Texan friends again for dinner in Sonoma (the city in the county!) and we just had the best time eating, laughing and walking the square, which I adore. For dinner, we ended up at my friend Sondra’s restaurant, The Estate, and happily dinned on house cured charcuterie, fritto misto and the biggest, juiciest heirloom tomatoes topped with fresh mozzarella and balsamic. And then, later, at El Dorado kitchen, we shared plates of s’mores tarts while watching tourists laugh and sip wine at the bar.

After that, his friends called it a night (had been wine tasting allllll day), but the two of us ended up listening to jazz in a swanky hotel bar, requesting old songs on cocktail napkins and dancing up a storm. We were obviously the youngest in the bar by at least fifteen years but we’re rather old souls anyway. I fell into bed around midnight with a fully, happy tummy and a smile on my face.

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Those are the feet of the sweetest old couple, on their weekly date from the retirement home. He was requesting her songs and twirling her around like crazy on the dance floor. He said he didn’t want his photo taken because he “didn’t want to end up on LIFE magazine” (on ELR?)

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  • Jasmine @ Eat Move Write
    August 14, 2010 at 8:16 am

    I’m so glad you’re happy! I think you went through a rough time after moving here to California, but I’m glad you feel good again. I moved here three years ago after my divorce. Threw my clothes and shoes in the car and just drove the 2200 miles, but I’ve built a life here and I’m so glad I did. Rarely can you move to Cali and not fall in love with it. Have a great Saturday Jenna!

  • Chelsey
    August 14, 2010 at 8:24 am

    You are such a classy lady – honestly. What a fun night. That sounds like it’s right up my alley. If you ever decide to move to Chicago, please let me know. 🙂

  • Katherine
    August 14, 2010 at 8:24 am

    That drink with the blackberry in it looks delicious. You and Almanzo are too cute! Glad your happy. 🙂

  • Jessica @ How Sweet It Is
    August 14, 2010 at 8:26 am

    Those are the best nights. I relish in the moments where I just sit there and think how happy and blessed I am!

  • Cynthia (It All Changes)
    August 14, 2010 at 8:27 am

    Jenna,

    I love your stories and how you describe the food.

    I watch Top Chef just to learn some of the terms you use so I can get the full picture of it’s fabulosity. Sounds divine!

    • Susan
      August 14, 2010 at 2:11 pm

      I agree, Jenna does a fabulous job of describing the dish in detail – taste, flavor, spices, texture – aroma, etc.
      ” I had the XXX and it and was delicious, epic, off the hook, awesome – etc.” – is simply to generic…
      I need MORE!! haha – I am such a foodie..

      • ms
        August 14, 2010 at 2:31 pm

        i agree – or how about “it rocked my face”

  • Crunchy Granola Gal
    August 14, 2010 at 8:32 am

    Beautiful pictures, Jenna! Sounds like a wonderful night. And I love old folk that still show their love like that – i wanna spend nights dancing and listening to jazz with my future husband when im that old 😉 I am officially ridiculous.

  • Annie@stronghealthyfit
    August 14, 2010 at 8:33 am

    That’s so sweet, and I’m glad you are so happy!

  • alicia
    August 14, 2010 at 8:37 am

    What a great evening! Ah, elderly couples….they give us all something to dream about.

  • Zaineb
    August 14, 2010 at 8:37 am

    Hi Jenna, I’m a longtime reader and I wuz just wondering why you aren’t attending the Healthy Living Summit this year since Paris plans didn’t work out?

    • jenna
      August 14, 2010 at 8:38 am

      I’m just kind of doing my own thing this summer!

      • Krista
        August 14, 2010 at 10:24 am

        If I were one of the ladies that organized HLS I’d be pretty offended at the way you have allowed your readers to bash them and their blogs over the past few days. Everything from accepting sponsors to posting their oatmeal breakfasts has been picked apart and their integrity has been questioned. Its not right.

        • jenna
          August 14, 2010 at 10:28 am

          I’m sorry you feel that way but that’s simply not the case. Those girls are some of my best friends and I have in no way called anyone out in the least bit. I love them and their blogs very much. I’m simply living my life and moving forward with what works for me. It has to do with no one but myself and my own goals.

        • Krista
          August 14, 2010 at 10:43 am

          I didn’t say that you called them out, I said that your readers have and that you’ve allowed it.

        • Kate
          August 14, 2010 at 11:39 am

          Give Jenna a break…her explanation is clearly heartfelt.

        • Kim
          August 14, 2010 at 11:53 am

          I read all the blogs you are referring too and Jenna’s as well as read all of the comments on her blog. (I like finding new blogs this way)

          I try not to get involved in blog comment disputes, but I think you are the one in the wrong here. Jenna has handled herself with a lot of class. The comments you are referring to never called any blog out by name and quiet frankly could be one of hundreds of food/healthy living blogs. Jenna decided to stop accepting sponsors, she did not say they were evil or that other blogs who do are and neither did her readers. And oatmeal, seriously? do you realize how. many. bloggers eat oatmeal almost everyday. I like oatmeal, but I must admit I am amazed that anyone can eat that much and still enjoy it.

          So no, I don’t believe Jenna and her loyal readers are in the wrong and that anyone involved with the HLS should be the least bit offended. When you are honest with others and yourself you should never have a reason to apologize. And Jenna has been honest with the growth of her blog.

          By the way you are the one who assumes that the comments are about the HLS bloggers, not Jenna.

          Jenna, keep up the great work!

        • Krista
          August 14, 2010 at 12:12 pm

          Kate and Kim,
          I’m really not trying to give Jenna a hard time or be mean. I really enjoy ELR and I am excited for her new direction with the blog. That said, I think its wrong that amidst the praise Jenna is receiving there is an undertone of condemnation towards other bloggers who have chosen to go in different directions. Let me say, again, that this is not from Jenna but from her readers. Why is it okay to tell Jenna that she is awesome for being real and going her own way, but then make comments about other blogs who have chosen to do the same thing? That is not fair. So what if people eat oatmeal… if you don’t want to read their blog, don’t read it. There is no point in being rude about it.

          Even if the comments were not about the HLS bloggers specifically, their blogs clearly have some of the same aspects that were being criticized (OpenSky, daily exercise/food reports, oatmeal, sponsors, etc.). Its not a leap to assume some of the comments were talking about them.

          I just want to point out again that I did not say JENNA was bashing the blogs, I said her readers were. Yes, Jenna explained herself very well in her response to me, but I never said she was the one that was calling out the bloggers.

          Either way, I enjoy both Jenna’s blog and the HLS blogs.

        • eatmovelove
          August 14, 2010 at 9:30 pm

          I don’t think there is a right or wrong here. I think Jenna said it very best when she said she’s doing what’s right for her! And still respecting the other blogs. You can’t hide or cover up your own feelings though so as not to “hurt” others…
          With that said though, there may not be any ad endorsements on here – but there are obviously plenty of restaurant/wine reviews, travel, etc. One would assume that she is (lucky) to get something out of that! And, heck she deserves it! Let’s face it – who wouldn’t jump at that chance? And, hasn’t she said before she wished to be a reviewer/critic? Correct me if I ‘m wrong 🙂

  • Janna (janna's keeping it real)
    August 14, 2010 at 8:44 am

    Omg. That last picture. I absolutely adore the elderly (ok, I’m obsessed) so this picture and description for sure tugged at my heart strings a bit. Love it!

  • Tina
    August 14, 2010 at 8:57 am

    I love seeing old couples still so dedicated to each other. It displays the true beauty of love and commitment.

    Sounds like a fabulous night.

  • kelsey@snackingsquirrel.com
    August 14, 2010 at 9:15 am

    SO BEAUITFUL!
    omg and i love old people <3 haha this is so adorable 🙂
    Sonoma rocks!!

  • Clearly Composed
    August 14, 2010 at 9:16 am

    I grew up in Santa Rosa and many years later I am still struck by the charm and wonder of Sonoma…the city. *lol* Such a quaint, charming way of life there.

  • Viviane
    August 14, 2010 at 9:27 am

    Awww! Love the picture of the old couple, they seem so sweet. I actually feel like crying now! Haha, am I normal?

    Your pictures are amazing and your meal, well, mouth watering to say the least 🙂

  • kellyO
    August 14, 2010 at 9:33 am

    Looks like a lovely evening!

  • Nancy @ The Wife of a Dairyman
    August 14, 2010 at 9:35 am

    So sweet about the older couple enjoying themselves on their date night! I hope I still do that {or am able to} at their age! What a pleasant evening:) Cheers!

  • Chelsea (Chelsea's Chew and Run Fun)
    August 14, 2010 at 9:35 am

    What a beautiful evening! It’s so refreshing to see someone take charge of their passions and follow it completely. You live your life so fully, and embrace adventures constantly. From scribbling old classics on cocktail napkins to hiking along the California coast, you’ve really got it going on!

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin
    August 14, 2010 at 9:38 am

    Your blog makes me want to move to California more and more everyday! It sounds like you had such a perfect evening! 🙂

  • alison
    August 14, 2010 at 9:43 am

    Your photos are just lovely!

  • tasha - the clean eating mama
    August 14, 2010 at 9:52 am

    I must say that your photos are beautiful enough without any words or explanations. Have a wonderful weekend!

  • Pristine
    August 14, 2010 at 9:52 am

    I couldn’t help but recognize that in the photo showing someone writing on a slip of paper that the hand featured is wearing a Texas A&M Aggie Ring (a Texas A&M alum ring)!! Do you know if it is (since your friends are from Texas afterall)? I’m a student at Texas A&M University right now and if so, that photo just made my day!

    • Almanzo
      August 14, 2010 at 10:09 am

      Pristine, Gig ‘Em Ags! That was my hand in the photo; I was writing request for the musician to play.

      I am class of 2005 (attended Mays Business School and was active in Fish Camp, Townhall, and a few other organizations). Last night most of my friends in town were also Aggies. Jenna and I plan to make the A&M football game on Labor Day weekend, so let us know if you are around.
      -Adam

      • jen
        August 14, 2010 at 11:24 am

        i was wondering if anyone else would recognize that ring 🙂 i grad in dec of ’04 and have only been to 1 game since. hoping to make it sometime this fall.

      • jen
        August 14, 2010 at 11:26 am

        i was wondering if anyone else would recognize that ring 🙂 i grad in dec of ’04 and have only been to 1 game since. hoping to make it sometime this fall. i also did the fish camp thing in 03 and 04. oh a&m..oh i miss it!

      • Kim
        August 14, 2010 at 11:59 am

        Are you and Jenna going to Midnight Yell?

        I’m a Buff, but I have heard great things about your team and the town on game day.

      • Pristine
        August 15, 2010 at 6:51 pm

        Whoop! I will definitely be in town since it’s the first weekend after classes start so if yall do decide to come down then I’d love to come say hi/howdy.
        -Pristine

        • KatieTX
          August 16, 2010 at 4:03 pm

          ’05! Whoop!

  • Sheri
    August 14, 2010 at 9:55 am

    Jenna- I rarely comment on any blogs- but I read every day. I just have to say that I love the changes you have made to your blog- it’s so enjoyable to read and I always look forward to it. You’re photos are awesome, and you look amazing! I cannot wait to get my hands on your book!

  • Jil @ Peace, Love & Munchies
    August 14, 2010 at 10:03 am

    Aww – I love little old couples…too cute! Your night looks amazing!!

  • Staceyhttp://stacey-healthylife.blogspot.com/
    August 14, 2010 at 10:21 am

    Wow great pictures.

  • theemptynutjar
    August 14, 2010 at 10:22 am

    Your hair is so long – its nice, I keep seeing it as the chin-length version (also nice).
    I am trying to be more content also. Its quite hard right now because life has gone severely southward for me, but gotta appreciate what you have right? (a short walk, a book, anything).
    In the meantime, I need to get me a big group of friends – I think that kind of thing would be a good life-recharger.

  • Megan
    August 14, 2010 at 10:24 am

    Last time I was in Sonoma I ate there too. Their carrot soup is to die for!

  • Maria @ Oh Healthy Day
    August 14, 2010 at 10:26 am

    Beautiful photography! Yesterday evening was just one of those great to be alive evenings. I felt it and I’m glad you did too. Ever thought of becoming a photographer on the side? 🙂

  • Mike
    August 14, 2010 at 10:41 am

    Had a blast last night with you and “Almanzo” and love that we now have an official blog entry to remember the night by.

    Thanks for showing us around. Hope we can meet up when y’all come to Texas in a few weeks.

    -Texas friends

  • Chris
    August 14, 2010 at 10:46 am

    Totally cracking up at the “LIFE” comment. As part of my work, I take (or manage professional photographers who take) a lot of photos involving healthcare and the elderly (with a signed HIPAA consent, of course). Nine times out of ten, someone will say, “Is this going to be the cover of the ‘New York Times’ tomorrow?!” or “Am I going to be on with Willard Scott?!” So, so funny.

  • Suzanne de Cornelia
    August 14, 2010 at 10:57 am

    Love the square! (The trench color looks great w/your hair). What a beautiful night! I love to dance, too. It is so sweet to see older couples out laughing and enjoying life. Two of my ‘most unforgettables’ were my Nana and her French friend. Both classy, very intelligent, witty, and gracious to the end.

    (PS: Certaines personnes ont à trouver quelque chose de négatif en tout! Pouah!)

  • Christie {Honoring Health}
    August 14, 2010 at 11:07 am

    The photos are gorgeous!

  • Heather
    August 14, 2010 at 11:13 am

    What a fun night! And that’s so sweet about the elderly couple on their weekly date, awwww!

  • Liz
    August 14, 2010 at 11:19 am

    Jenna, you are so gorgeous; Almanzo is a lucky guy 🙂
    Your night sounds perfect, and the exact kind of thing my boyfriend and I adore. We had the most amazing wood-fired pizza and chicken liver crostini dinner at our favorite restaurant last night… And then I said, “I wish we knew of an amazing jazz bar to go to like the one in Paris on our last night” (we were there 3 weeks ago…) We’ve always meant to come to Napa and Sonoma, so if it happens anytime soon, perhaps a dancing double date is in order!

  • Laura
    August 14, 2010 at 11:22 am

    Jenna, I just adore your blog. I love the complexity of the posts and the way you write.
    Keep it up!

  • Kate
    August 14, 2010 at 11:33 am

    This is one of the lovliest posts ever, Jenna! So sweet…made my Saturday.

  • eatmovelove
    August 14, 2010 at 11:42 am

    Nights out are what the makings of life are!

  • Jackie (Peaces of Earth)
    August 14, 2010 at 11:50 am

    There is nothing that makes me smile more than seeing someone truly happy and content in life. I can feel that in your writing.

    I love that old couple! Old couples that are still madly in love just warm my heart. Please, let that be me! 🙂

  • sarah
    August 14, 2010 at 11:53 am

    That charcuterie plate looks amazing. I agree that your photos are worth a thousand words!!

  • Kim
    August 14, 2010 at 12:00 pm

    That older couple reminds me of my grandparents, I miss them.

  • Jae
    August 14, 2010 at 12:39 pm

    Jenna, you’re so pretty! and I love how you chose to capture a timeless moment– two old people with young souls dancing 🙂

  • Jessica
    August 14, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    Jenna, I just got caught up on your blog and wanted to let you know that I love your turkey sandwiches!!! I enjoy the food journal set up and would be said to see it more geared towards recipes. I don’t care that you use butter LOL.

  • April @ Crazy Fabulous Life
    August 14, 2010 at 12:51 pm

    I love this post! And your pictures are gorgeous. You can literally feel the happiness and good times when you look at them.

  • Holly
    August 14, 2010 at 1:05 pm

    I used to be the RD at Sonoma Healthcare. 🙂 And I still work at Sonoma Acres. Could have been my patients!

  • Krystina
    August 14, 2010 at 1:25 pm

    Your life is beautiful.

  • Diana @ frontyardfoodie
    August 14, 2010 at 2:22 pm

    Those last pictures (of hands and feet) are SOOO adorable! I love seeing older couples dance. Before my Grandad died he and my Mor mor danced to jazz all the time. They’d host swanky parties in their condo and hire crazy good jazz bands.

  • Kasey
    August 14, 2010 at 2:35 pm

    What a lovely night. Hearing about that sweet elderly couple puts a smile on my face. Have a great weekend!

  • Brianne DeCesare http://beautythroughbalance.wordpress.com/
    August 14, 2010 at 2:38 pm

    Jeez! You did such an amazing job giving the details of your night. The pictures that accompanied the story were really great too. Nights like that are definitely the ones you want to remember for a long time to come!

  • liz o
    August 14, 2010 at 3:17 pm

    When I read this I thought — “your mom must be so happy!” you are really coming into your own and your life is unfolding so nicely before you. I enjoy the more artistic route your blog is taking…you’re unique, your writing is incredible, and you have a real gift for this type of work. All the best to you!

  • Hillary [Nutrition Nut on the Run]
    August 14, 2010 at 3:49 pm

    Those photos are worth 1 million words. I don’t even have to read the post to know it was a wonderful evening.

  • Camille
    August 14, 2010 at 4:06 pm

    Aww, I love old couples. They are too cute!

  • Rachael
    August 14, 2010 at 4:36 pm

    I’m a fan of the picture of the older couple -I love seeing the staying power some relationships have.
    Looks like a fun night – old souls know how to have a good time!

  • Errign
    August 14, 2010 at 5:40 pm

    Best post 🙂

    Last picture = cute!

  • Jessica @ The Process of Healing
    August 14, 2010 at 5:41 pm

    Awwwww so sweet about the old couple!!! Bless 🙂

  • Laura (Starloz)
    August 14, 2010 at 6:08 pm

    If this is the way your posts are going to be, they are perfect.

    OMG, LOVE IT!

  • Sarah
    August 14, 2010 at 6:34 pm

    Oh no, Jenna…I think you’re in trouble! This sounds like the post of someone in love!!!

    So happy for you! xoxo

  • Nora@LifeLifeEatRight
    August 14, 2010 at 7:10 pm

    This sounds so lovely! I’m glad you had such an amazing time! I love when I see old people in love and dancing…it gives me hope. I

    n other news I saw Kevin in Food & Wine today and had a mini FREAK OUT moment because I know you two are friends! It was a great issue and fun to learn his red beard has a facebook page! Lots of “healthified” southern comfort dishes in it! I can’t wait to try the chicken and andouille etouffee. Reminded me of the gumbo you made a while back!

    Have a great weekend!

    Best,
    Nora

  • sarah
    August 14, 2010 at 7:24 pm

    lately your posts have made me smile…like reading a good book does! it kind of enforces the idea that a smile is contagious! 🙂

  • Nora@LifeLifeEatRight
    August 14, 2010 at 7:29 pm

    This sounds so lovely! I’m glad you had such an amazing time! I love when I see old people in love and dancing…it gives me hope. I

    n other news I saw Kevin in Food & Wine today and had a mini FREAK OUT moment because I know you two are friends! It was a great issue and fun to learn his red beard has a facebook page! Lots of “healthified” southern comfort dishes in it! I can’t wait to try the chicken and andouille etouffee. Reminded me of the gumbo you made a while back!

    Have a great weekend!

    Best,
    Nora

  • amy
    August 14, 2010 at 7:32 pm

    so fun! i was one of the tourists @ el dorado several years ago, stayed there on a west coast trip for a few nights – love it and the sonoma square, great time!

  • Heather (Heather's Dish)
    August 14, 2010 at 8:12 pm

    i just had a perfect night tonight. it’s amazing what living in an incredible area like colorado (or, you know, northern california) can do to you! and i love that you’re an old soul too…i was starting to think i was the only one 😉

  • Kelli
    August 14, 2010 at 8:14 pm

    Jenna,

    Your dinner looks divine. Your pictures are honestly amazing. And you are one of the most inspiring people I have found in the blog world. I am so happy you decided to stop posting “this is what I ate” type of posts. By doing this I do not think you are turning your back on the blog world but I believe you are helping it evolve into a happier and more celebratory place. You seem to make it a point to celebrate everyday through food and passion. I am truly jealous that you have the courage to follow your passions do what truly makes you happy everyday of your life. You do not seem to compromise for anyone and I really admire that.

    Thank you for being such an amazing inspiration!!!

  • Showty
    August 14, 2010 at 8:32 pm

    First of all, you just reminded me of the vacation my Hubby and I took two years ago for our 10 year anniversary! I fell in love with both Sonoma and Sausalito. We spent the majority of the time in SanFran, but I wish we would have just stayed in Sonoma the entire time! We toured Madonna Estates (for the organic vino) and Viansa(had some awesome pizza there!).

    Second, I love your new food philosophy. I lost 17 pounds 2.5 years ago and everyone asks how I keep it off. Besides being active (I run 3 times a week, do strength training and spin class), I eat moderatly. I eat real food. I eat what I like. I eat lots of fresh produce (because it tastes good). The end. Thats all. Like you said, its not rocket science.

  • eatmovelove
    August 14, 2010 at 9:27 pm

    You look like a model in the second picture of you. Do you straighten your hair?!

  • Penny (VEGGIEtarian)
    August 14, 2010 at 10:02 pm

    Sometimes when you write you sound like such a ……NOVELIST. You are a great writer. 🙂

  • Ella
    August 14, 2010 at 10:10 pm

    Ah Jenna, you are such a wonderful writer – I feel like the occasional times I post a comment here it’s always about how much I enjoy your writing. But it’s true!! Keep it up!

  • Lola
    August 14, 2010 at 10:11 pm

    Hi Jenna!
    I might be joining the discussion a bit too late, but I had to give my own two pennies hehe. Your blog was the first I ever read and you were always my inpiration for fitness and healthy eating. I know your blog style has changed but I think it’s great!!!! I love all your posts because they show so clearly you are passionate about life!!! Maybe I wont look at your blog for fitness inspiration, but ill read it for the joie de vivre!
    I dont think you were bashing other bloggers in anyway, you were just expressing yourself after all the controversy your change of style has caused.

  • Coco
    August 15, 2010 at 4:12 am

    That place looks adorable! And I love old couples who are still in love.

    Also wanted to say I love your post about eating REAL FOOD–in moderation. If only more people would stick to that mantra!

  • leslie
    August 15, 2010 at 6:48 am

    i’m just in love with your zest for life, because i feel so similarly in my life right now. is there anything more beautiful than being out with people you love, enjoying good food, drinks, and atmosphere? your evening looks like perfection.

  • Liss
    August 15, 2010 at 6:49 am

    Jenna,
    Your skin looks gorgeous. I know you mentioned in a previous post that you had problems with your skin at one point. Would you share your skin care routine, or anything you feel contributed to your clear complexion? It would be greatly appreciated 🙂

  • Sarah (Running to Slow Things Down)
    August 15, 2010 at 7:02 am

    That is the sweetest picture of the hands and feet of the elderly couple dancing. It completely made me smile. 😀

    What a gorgeous restaurant. A gorgeous night. So glad you’ve been feeling so content and happy with life, Jenna! It really shines through in your blog. 😀

  • Chicago Cuisine Critique
    August 15, 2010 at 7:11 am

    Sounds like a fun night..and the food yum! 🙂

  • diana@mymarblerye
    August 15, 2010 at 7:42 am

    my bf and i biked from san fran to that city when we visited last year. gorgeous. I wanted to live there as well!! The question though is this: why do I own the same shoes as the old couple? Glad you are so in L-O-V-* Jenna 🙂

  • andi (livelaughbefit)
    August 15, 2010 at 8:00 am

    i really, really, really enjoyed this post (it exudes the happiness you reference!) and i love the new direction you’re taking your blog. 🙂

  • Darcy
    August 15, 2010 at 8:09 am

    Oh my…I took a swing dance class once that took field trips to a ballroom where snazzily-dressed elderly folks danced to old songs all night and were more than happy to dance with the young ladies when we showed up. This post reminds me of that and I love it! Cheers to being an old soul 🙂

  • Katie
    August 15, 2010 at 10:07 am

    Hi Jenna,
    I hope you don’t take this the wrong way. I have been a long time blog reader of yours for over a year. I am rather sad about the changes you are making on your blog. I understand where you are coming from, but I have now just lost a lot of interest in reading, sadly. I looked forward to seeing your work outs and eats!!!! I don’t find myself checking your block nearly as much as I used to. If you can reconsider, that’d be awesome, but I totally understand if you have your mind made up!

  • Ingrid
    August 15, 2010 at 10:23 am

    you are so pretty jenna. glad you are having so much fun… california looks fabulous.

  • Brooke
    August 15, 2010 at 11:09 am

    Uhh, I need to visit California. STAT. All we have in NOLA is fried… well, everything. haha.

  • Kristin (Cook, Bake and Nibble)
    August 15, 2010 at 1:27 pm

    I LOVE nights like that. Just feeling happy, full and content. It’s the best. And that old couple? So sweet. I hope I can go on weekly dates from the nursing home with my hubby one day 😀

    xo
    Kris

  • Julia @ www.britbride.com
    August 15, 2010 at 2:18 pm

    Looks fab! What a lovely evening. I disagree with the poster above – I LOVE the new format (and I loved the old too, but this is better). Just keep the posts coming.

    Julia

  • Sharon
    August 15, 2010 at 2:58 pm

    Sounds like a great night. I love Sonoma too. And you got to see some great local jazz musicians-I met that gentleman playing trumpet last month at my boyfriend’s dad’s 80th birthday party-they’ve known each other for years and are both fixtures in the local jazz scene. He’s an amazing trumpet player. I had a pretty perfect day/night yesterday too-my boyfriend and I went for an 8 mile hike at Pt Reyes (thanks for the inspiration!) followed by shopping and dinner at Corte Madera! we didn’t make it to Stellina yet though…next time!

  • Michelle @ Turning Over a New Leaf
    August 15, 2010 at 4:35 pm

    That place looks p.e.r.f.e.c.t.

  • Monique@She's Going The Distance
    August 15, 2010 at 4:40 pm

    Wow, these are beautiful pictures…. esp the ones of you. And that couple at the end?!?! Made my heart melt 🙂

  • Amy
    August 15, 2010 at 7:19 pm

    It looks like you had an awesome night! I love the story about the older couple. I long for that kind of love. 🙂

  • jenna
    August 16, 2010 at 6:26 am

    what a beautiful night! the food and drink look amazing! 🙂 I need to make a trip to CA soon. very soon. jazz music is so much fun what a great way to end the night.

  • R @ Learning As I Chop
    August 16, 2010 at 11:36 am

    Aww, I love the picture of the couple!!!

  • Liv
    August 16, 2010 at 6:07 pm

    I went to the El Dorado Kitchen for my birthday last year, and it was unreal! The shortribs are otherworldly.