The Swirling Dervish

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Stage 21: The Peloton Reaches Paris

Tour de France 2015 concludes today, with Chris Froome, Nairo Quintana, and Alejandro Valverde atop the podium. Check out the video highlights from the past three weeks, courtesy of www.letour.com:

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My #CulmenReserva 2011 from @bodegaslan has been breathing for about an hour, getting ready for a virtual tasting with wine friends far and wide. It’s been a while since I last delved into the dirt of Rioja and I’m really excited to taste and learn more. Also ready to raise a glass with my wine friends during this time of #socialdistancing. Right now, connection is everything. . . . #bodegaslan #rioja #tempranillo #virtualtasting #raiseaglass #stayconnected #onlinefriends #winepeople #wsetdiploma #illdrinktothat #salud

I’m headed to Spain this afternoon. Virtually, that is. Thanks to @bodegaslan I’ll be joining wine amigos from all over the world to taste the 2011 Culmen Reserva. Mostly Tempranillo, with a splash of Graciano, this wine represents the Rioja Alta subregion of Rioja. I’m anticipating lots of red fruit, baking spices, and a few savory notes that will surely please my palate. If I can’t magically transport myself to Spain, this is the next-best thing. I can sip, swirl, and close my eyes. Poof! I’m in Rioja! . . . #bodegaslan #culmen #rioja #tempranillo #winestagram #winesofspain #virtualtasting #SIP #winelover #spanishwine #wsetdiploma #alonetogether #stayhome #socialdistancing #raiseaglass #sponsored

On this day, way back in the 1970s, my family celebrated three things: my brother’s christening, my great-grandmother’s birthday, and my first communion. As you can see from the photo, I was thrilled. But I love this picture: me standing between my mom and my grandmother, both of whom are gone but remain strong influences in my life. These days I find myself thinking about family and friends; the ties that bind, and the memories we make when we’re not even looking. I remember this day so well: I was mad at my mom for making me wear leotards and a stupid bow on my head. We had a huge cake from the bakery. And we were still getting used to having a baby in the house. (I imagine he was trying to get used to us, too!) During this sheltering in place, which may get worse before it gets better, let something as simple and silly as a random photo from years past bring a smile to your face. . . . #family #mothersanddaughters #firstcommunion #memories #matriarchs #70sfashion #waybackmachine #smile #havealaughonme #womensupportingwomen #grandmothers

As we get more accustomed to sheltering in place, I treasure my few moments outside, walking alone on almost-empty streets. It’s a strange feeling: at once liberating and isolating. My spirits have sagged a little more each day and I look for relief wherever I can find it. There are three things, though, that never fail me: good books, exercise, and music. Lately I’ve made a routine of listening to my favorite playlists while I make dinner. There’s the blast from the past, “Valleybrook Days,” which reminds me of childhood summers at our neighborhood pool. And then there’s “Don’t F@$# with Me,” a metal and rap combo that kept me sane during my divorce. And, more often than not I click on “My Favorites,” which has me dancing around the kitchen, singing out loud. And it works. What are you doing to keep your lid on as the world gets smaller and more stressful? If you have an awesome playlist, I’d love some suggestions! Stay safe and sane, my friends. And let’s not forget to be kind and patient with everyone - including ourselves! . . . #shelterinplace #musictherapy #keepyoursanity #playlists #wereinthistogether #bekind #thursdaythoughts #serenitynow #breathe #safetyfirst

Some days you just need Tavel. Am I right? Rosé, it is, but this ain’t no dainty, delicate sipper (not that there’s anything wrong with that.) Tavel comes from the village of the same name, in the Southern Rhône Valley of France. Yep, the same neck of the woods that gives us the powerful wines of Châteauneuf du Pape. The 2018 Château d’Aqueria is a bold choice on a day when you need a boost. Look at that deep coral color! The blend is Grenache (45%), Clairette (20%), Cinsault (15%), Mourvèdre (8%), Syrah (6%), Bourboulenc (4%), and Picpoul (2%). Did you add those up? A full-bodied rosé with more structure than most, this almost drinks like a red and, in fact, we poured it alongside rare steaks and a salad. Flavors are a melange of ripe red cherry, herbes de Provence, and a savory, meaty quality. It’s big, but not too big; ripe, but balanced by acidity, and very, very tasty. Takes me to my happy place! Thanks to @floridawineacademy @aleesteves7 and @305wines for bringing this beauty to my front door. Miami friends, they deliver; to those of you located outside the 305, they might send you some. If you’re nice! #WIYG this Monday evening? . . . #rosé #tavel #305wines #floridawineacademy #winelife #winestagram #chateaudaqueria #kobrand #wineblogger #miamiwine #brickellliving #drinkpink #roseallday #sippin

As a new week begins, I’m practicing gratitude and wishing peace, health, and a calm state of mind for all of us. If you’re shopping, take just what you need; if you have a few minutes, call far-away friends - especially the elderly and health-compromised. Try to have patience with others and most of all with yourselves as we navigate this unfamiliar path. I’m looking for the good in everything, hoping for better news this week than last. Take care and be well, my friends. . . . #mondaymotivation #gratitude #mentalhealth #wellness #newday #patience #loveyourneighbor #communitylove #breathe #progressnotperfection #haveagreatweek

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