Spring finally sprung in the Hudson Valley today. It was gorgeous and we were outside all day. Put our new patio furniture together while the chimney sweep did his thing inside...also walked the trail, scrubbed the bird bath, got the boiler tuned up, put in the newly repaired window screens, had a BBQ lunch, cleaned out the garage, etc. Amazing, productive day in the sun!

Gorgeous outside in the Hudson Valley today but we need an insect solution stat. The horse flies are already killing us! What's the solution fellow country folks? Industrial size fans? Please comment and school us.

Delicious food and top notch service in the tap room. Highly recommended.

Not only did we receive our wine shipment from Bennett Lane today but they included an extra bottle on them because of a shipping delay. Now that's a class act! We've visited them a couple times in the Napa Valley and now they will become a permanent staple. Thanks guys! Keep making those amazing wines!

My niece's birthday is coming up and I heard there may be a pizza party in the works.  The thought inspired me to conceptualize what I might do if I were organizing the party (and had free time, cash to burn, etc.).  To wit, some ideas:

• Buy a bunch of plain pies and encourage the kids to top them with pre-cut and beautifully arranged onions, green peppers, pepperoni, sliced olives, etc.
• Decorate with traditional red and white checked table cloths, napkins, balloons, etc.
• Stick candles in the pizza for the birthday boy or girl to blow out...hey, why not?
• Serve cookies that look like little pizzas with a slice missing!

Tulips opening up making me think of spring in New York. Fingers crossed!