Wine and Politics
Times have changed, though we both feel too young to sound so wise. In truth, maturity, strength, and knowledge of oneself becomes one's greatest assets when your peaceful way of life is threatened. Yes, we will try to refrain from dredging all of our readers through our opinions of the recent election, of our rational fear for democracy, and of our discontent with the persistent treatment of minorities in America. Instead, we will tell a story. Of two girls, one summer day, drinking copious amounts of wine in Napa. And as much as this story will distract you, hold on tight to what you know. Do not ever think you need to accept what is given to you, or that you must deal with the situation you are placed in. If you can remember this, you can enjoy this story more.
One of Kathy's favorite quotes from Sex and the City went along the lines of: "When you're tired, you take a Napa. You don't move to Napa!" -Carrie Bradshaw. How perfect that quote became, as we basked in the sunny day in Napa Valley. We felt the warmth of the wine lull our arms and legs and we went from castle to chateau, and walked through the vines, plucking the juicy grapes into our mouths. Castello Di Amorosa was an Italian-stylized castle, with dungeons and courtyards and magnificent breaded sticks that went well with the wine sampling. Domaine Carneros supplied us with a cheese platter to die for, and the rare red Le Reve sparkling wine. At Chateau Montelena, we tasted the barrel aged chardonnay and watched swans dive for food with their butts in the air. Napa was a dream.
It is appropriate that we talk of our time in the vineyards, now in the midst of Trump being our president. It is some people's dream to live in America, to call America their home. Or for women to have their own voice and social standing, or for both of us, as lovers, to have the rights that everyone else has. America is great, and it is beautiful. Because we could never support a person whose ideas coincide with those of Trump's, does not mean we divide ourselves or divide further our nation. Realize this: our nation has always been divided. Accepting races and sexes and not building walls is the only way to stand united. And that has yet to happen. Because Trump opens his manipulative mouth, does not mean we should accept this and move forward. Just remember, the future can be better than the present and you have the power to make it so. You have the power for whatever change you will. And that alone, is encouraging for the future of America. Embrace the beauty of our country, and as needed, embrace a few more bottles of wine.
