What Do We Miss Most?

This has been a long post in the making...

Since returning home to Utah last month, we have been overwhelmed with those comforts that now surround us once again: peanut butter, ranch dressing, fruit smoothies, reliable customer service, and coupons. At the same time, we profoundly miss Argentina...its lifestyle...its traditions...its people.

We arrived to Mendoza in Feb 2008 with professional and personal goals. However, we were soon plagued with challenges first underestimated before leaving the United States. Overwhelming at times, such trials were alleviated with the help and support of true friends...who were mere acquaintances to begin with. This is something I admire of the Argentine culture - we're in this together, so let us help one another. While some of our professional goals were not met, we did exceed our expectations regarding those eternal memories soon to be formed with friends and family members.

Now back home, we have been asked several questions regarding our international experience. Yes, it was hard. Yes, we loved it. Yes, it was difficult to leave. Yes, we would recommend it to others!

We have been asked about our furniture in Mendoza - what did you do with it all? Having purchased new appliances, electronics, tables, dishes, and mattresses in 2008, we simply did what we felt was right - we gave it all away to loved ones without thinking twice. The more you give, the more you receive...in order to continue giving.

Tania and I were fortunate to serve in the youth programs of our local LDS congregation. Between the two of us, we hiked the Andean foothills, baked oatmeal cookies, taught football (not soccer), explored the zoo, made scrapbook cards, and taught classes...all among the young men and women of Godoy Cruz, Mendoza. As a counselor in the bishopric, I later continued such efforts while also learning and meeting the needs of older members. No matter the economic differences or challenges among us, we each deserve a chance - or multiple chances - to develop our talents and become self-reliant...often with the assistance and encouragement of others.

As we prepared to depart from Mendoza that warm Tuesday afternoon in May, Tania and I stood in the airport terminal with our 8 oversized suitcases, 1 stroller, 1 kennel, 1 child, 1 dog, and 2 heavy hearts. However, there beside us were several members of our congregation - the same ones who sang "God Be With You Till We Meet Again" just two days prior in our church services. Warm embraces, encouraging smiles, and streaming tears defined those last few moments...and then we were gone.

When times get tough, some of us can pack up our bags and go somewhere else. Others are required to face and overcome such tough times. When new ideas and ambitions enter our hearts, some of us can embark on new adventures. Others are required to dream...and nothing more. This happens worldwide. Throughout our lives, I hope we all can provide opportunities to those that dream...and to those in drastic need.

Above and beyond the mouth-watering steak, I feel the greatest aspect of our trip was time with friends and family. It was an honor to celebrate holidays and birthday dinners together at last...despite the blazing sun on Christmas morning! Tania and I - plus Dallin - share a profound love and respect for those individuals that looked out for us in Argentina. I especially feel a great deal of admiration towards Tania's parents...two humble Chileans that have embraced me since 2002. Gracias a todos ustedes.

So, what other things do we miss about Argentina? To begin, here are a few photos of our arrival at the first hotel in Feb 2008...followed with bits and pieces of our lives abroad:

We miss Sol y Luna: Dallin's pre-school where he attended each morning three blocks from home. Tania took him each morning...I picked him up at noon. His teachers were wonderful and the 2008 graduation show was spectacular!! The theater even had hired paparazzi to take pictures of all the costumes!

We miss Beltrán y Tucumán: The corner address of our new apartment in Bombal Sur of Godoy Cruz. We had everything right within our reach - baker, butcher, barber, etc. We even had our own vegetable stand, pizza parlor, and bootleg video store right next door. We will forever miss the repeated phrase of "la esquina de Beltrán y Tucumán" each time we climbed inside a taxi.

We miss colectivo 8-104: We did not have a car. And when taxis were too expensive, we took the green and yellow bus that stopped right in front of our apartment...the 8-104. The bus took us from home, to the main plaza, to the bus terminal, and back. Several different drivers had this route, and each one decorated the inside of their bus with colors of Boca, colors of River, decals of Jesus, or disco mirrors. We miss the teenagers blasting their cumbia music for all to hear...while the grandmothers held their groceries tight until their stop.

We miss Carrefour: Our local market was just four blocks down the road. We walked there at least three times a week (protests pending) to purchase drinkable yogurt, powdered milk, Nestum (infant cereal), fideos, salsa, and of course...Baggio Pronto (the greatest fruit juice created by man). The manager knew Dallin...the cashiers knew Tania...and the butcher knew us all :)

We miss las plazas: The central squares that united all neighborhoods, towns, and downtown districts. Each plaza carried a unique characteristic: flowing fountains, or towering statues, or soaring palm trees, or elegant lamp posts, or handicraft markets. From up-and-coming breakdancers to jewelry-wielding hippies, each plaza offered unique insight into local culture.

We miss...that last picture: Without a care in the world, couples tossed themselves on the ground...or on benches...or on the sidewalk...just to express their everlasting love...or fulfill a burning desire in the moment. We call this PDA (public display of affection) here in Utah...and it's not as common.

We miss our obispado: Our loving bishopric devoted to the congregation of Godoy Cruz Centro. While smiling and laughing at times...we also knew when to be stern :)

We miss mate: The national steaming drink of hot water and herbs that accompanied each social gathering...even in the boiling summer months. Beyond the drink itself, we miss the moments and memories it created.

We miss el cielo: The blue Argentine sky that often turned into a brilliant horizon of billowing clouds of purples and oranges. We have yet to see such patterns here in the United States...but we were privileged with such views from our apartment's terrace.

Dallin misses las novias: Those wonderful girls that cared for Dallin throughout our trip...especially Mili (his first love).

We miss el invierno: The cool winter months of Mendoza. Dry leaves covered the ground, white snow covered the mountains, and little Dallin was wearing his coat.

We miss el verano: The hot summer months of Mendoza...when clothing was optional...for Dallin.

We miss las protestas: In a way, protests are comforting. They remind you that you're not the only one having a hard time! I admire the courage and resilience that such protesters demonstrated on a weekly basis. However, some protests were just poor excuses to cause chaos...while most protests ended with few results. Aside from the awful traffic jams and bus detours, we applaud those that protested in the name of security, basic rights, and teacher compensation.

We miss road trips: While we do have a car here in Utah, we enjoyed the road trips across Argentina on bus. We reserved our favorite seats - arriba, adelante - and admired the views, the weather, and the fellow passengers. We miss the maleteros asking for spare change. We miss the movie selection...from the mid-1980s. We miss the food...sometimes. We miss jumping off at each stop to explore each bus terminal for 5 minutes. We miss the famous rule of "No Solid Waste in the Restroom". What we don't miss? The passengers who ignored that rule.

We miss the construction workers - not the construction: While the thunderous noises of jackhammers and drills woke us up each morning...and each siesta...we must acknowledge the solid work ethic of the construction workers next door. These men worked long hours for minimal pay...all to return home and care for their wives and children.

We miss los caballos: The sound of horses trotting down our street...as anxious drivers honked their horns from behind. At least three times a day, these kids would gather all the cardboard boxes outside our apartment building...then move along to the next neighborhood.

We miss the greatest steak and ice-cream on earth: Period. From fine restaurants to backyard gatherings...from aged grills to firm box springs...these people know how to barbecue!!! As for the ice-cream...we recommend the White Chocolate and Dulce de Leche Granizado.

We miss the bidet: Enough said.

Our time in Mendoza taught us to place more value on experiences and relationships rather than material items or possessions. We learned that "home" is wherever we are as a family - no matter the neighborhood, the nation, or the continent. We learned to live with little...rather than live in abundance. We love our son. He impressed us. Dallin lived every moment to the fullest - greeting each stranger along the way - without ever realizing he was on an "international" trip. We love our dog. No matter the challenges ahead, she was there to lick your feet - and face - at the end of the day. In 2007, we had some choices to make. We could have purchased a home. We could have pursued a career. Instead, we purchased plane tickets and pursued a dream. We fulfilled a goal that we always had in mind...to return to Argentina once more. We did it. We loved it. And we're sure to to do it again.

Above all else: Gracias a Diego, Gabriela, Carla, Jair, Milagros, Lucho, Betina, Laura, Javier, Cindy, Gabriel, Sara, Ronald, Karen, Leandro, José, Carla, Augustín, Araceli, Aldin, Alondra, y todos los miembros del Barrio Godoy Cruz Centro. Nos enseñaron un montón sobre la vida...y por eso les queremos tanto.

Monday's Music Moment: MJ

For our faithful blog readers, it has been too long since our last MMM (Monday's Music Moment). From Billy Idol to Wham!, we covered some of the most peculiar - yet "inspirational" - music video clips on the web. While this little segment appeared retired for a bit, we feel the need to bring it back in light of last week's events.

I do not recall - in my lifetime - a single figure that infiltrated all aspects of pop culture like Michael Jackson did. Yes, we all knew his moves, his clothes, his voice, his songs, and so on. I used to listen to my father's copy of Thriller until the actual tape inside the cassette became no longer audible. In second grade, my step-brother gave me the BAD album...which soon became the soundtrack to all those afternoons in the basement playroom...hanging out in my green GI JOE tent. I bought Moonwalk - MJ's autobiography - and read it within two weeks in 1988. I was even kicked out of Sunday School once for moonwalking during class. I was 8 years old, and despite my mother's requests, I insisted on wearing black pants, black shoes, and white socks to church...it just made the moonwalk that much easier.

When Tania was little, her father tried to teach her about Elvis Presley - his legacy, his impact, his music, etc. As Tania said late last week, I'm sure we will have similar conversations with Dallin down the road regarding Michael Jackson.

So, here is a favorite music clip from MJ's early career...followed with a brief clip from 1993 - his final visit to Buenos Aires and EZE Airport. I mean, we had to tie this into Argentina somehow :)

Wordless Wednesday: Colors & Shadows of Recoleta Cemetery

Wordless Wednesday: La Boca de Noche

Our Latest U.S. Escapades...

We have now been home for 5 weeks. I think we have gone through more adventures and emotions these past several weeks than any other period in our marriage. Poor little Dallin is still trying to adjust, having spent various nights in different hotels, homes, planes, buses, cities and countries since late April! So, we have decided to wrap all our latest adventures in the United States together into one massive blog post.

As soon as we got home, Wade returned to his local adult soccer league - gearing up for a summer full of games. He recognizes that he brings no new skills to the field despite 15 months in Argentina. In fact, he brings few skills to begin with...but Dallin enjoys watching from the sidelines.

We have visited some dear friends. Brennan - with his mad smoothie skills - introduced us to his new bride.
Sara and Carey - both now blessed with beautiful children and enjoying "happy mommy lives" were able to visit with Tania and reminisce of their mission years in Argentina.

After riding the crowded city bus in Mendoza for 15 months, we finally have a car again! While we do miss the screeching brakes and cumbia music of Bus 8-104, we are happy to now drive again here in Utah. We have further explored our natural surroundings...as Dallin has explored the local flora.

And as for Bella...she found her favorite blanket and made herself at home.

Following a festive Memorial Day weekend, we headed to Virginia to spend two weeks with Wade's father and step-mother (aka Grandpa and Gram). Our vacation was action-packed to say the least! Without much of a break, Dallin was on board another plane and soaring into the clouds...yelling "Plaaane! Plaaane!" 174 times at a high pitch shrill...much to the dismay of fellow passengers.

Grandpa and Gram were more than generous, reading and playing with little Dallin each possible moment. We agree that he had enough toys to keep him occupied...though his driving skills could use improvement.

Due to Dallin's love for planes, we visited the Dulles Air & Space Museum just a few miles from home. As the newest addition to the Smithsonian, this second aviation museum offered plenty of aircrafts to admire...once again encouraging our son to scream "Plaaane! Plaaane!" 136 more times. Jets, shuttles, and bombers packed the hangar on all levels.

We then visited the scenic Baltimore Harbor in Maryland, admiring the numerous shops and diners along the pier. In addition to brick storefronts which resemble Puerto Madero of Buenos Aires, the true highlight was the Baltimore Aquarium...full of big and little "Nemos" according to Dallin. Tania was in awe of the massive sharks that surrounded us as we walked through the tank's pedestrian tunnel.

Amidst all the roadtrips, we were able to visit Wade's sister. Following family portraits with the entire gang of cousins and nephews, Grandma Sue took us to Chuck E Cheese for some quality time with purple dinosaurs and giant rats. Back at the house, Dallin tried on his cousin's sparkling footwear...even striking a pose in those dazzling pink pumps. Afterwards, Aunt Katey had taught us all how to use the neighborhood carpool lane :)

Next stop: Williamsburg. This colonial town is such a peaceful community filled with green forests, fine seafood restaurants, and American history. While dinner at famous Captain George's was a delight, our highlight was the Yankee Candle Village (the second largest candle store in North America). Aside from spectacular deals, rare scents, and make-it-yourself candle stations, the main attraction was Christmas Village...a year-round holiday park bursting with frosted pine trees, delicate ornaments, and real falling snow! Best of all, Santa sits at his desk each evening...singing carols, reviewing toy catalogs, and greeting little kids with lollipops. Hard to say who was more excited - Dallin or Wade?

The following day, after a morning swim in the hotel pool, we arrived to Busch Gardens.

So well behaved, so far from home - we wanted to write Dallin this little poem.

With colorful creatures of red, green, and blue - Dallin could not believe it was true!

From coasters to boats, we sure had some fun - we even got soaked in the summer sun.

Daddy and Dallin sure love their toys - having their fun like two little boys.

But before our long day could truly be over - Dallin found time to hug his friend Grover.

As a final stop, we visited the Reston Petting Zoo and interacted with friendly farm animals. After feeding the lambs and goats, we were able to play with the baby kangaroo! However, on the downside, the Canadian geese were after Dallin...though he learned to defend himself with "Staaay. Staaay."

So, how did Dallin handle all these road trips? Answer: Shrek 2 + DVD Player + Grandpa's SUV = one content child.

It was then time to leave Virginia. What a wonderful trip! Thank you to Grandpa and Gram for doing so much! To better express our gratitude, we decorated their entire driveway with sidewalk chalk the night before...based on Dallin's favorite words.

As we landed in Salt Lake City last week, we realized that Dallin has flown on 17 different planes since he was born in January 2007. We have obviously worn him out...and we're sure there are many more international adventures to come.

Wordless Wednesday: Sidewalk Tango

My New Buddy

This is my new amigo, Isaac. He lives across the street. We eat cookies and Froot Loops together. We love slides and swings. We have fun. The end.

-Dallin

Wordless Wednesday: Buenos Aires Holiday (May 1st)

Happy Memorial Day!

This traditional 3-day weekend was the perfect time to reflect and remember those that have served our nation. While we see such political divisiveness among ourselves, it is important to recognize the great blessings we receive as fellow citizens of the United States. No matter your views, opinions, or beliefs...we all must be grateful for those who have defended our liberties and freedoms in battle - both in the past and now. Here is how we celebrated this all-American holiday:

Since returning to Utah, we have been blessed with the incredible scenery that surrounds us here in Saratoga Springs. From the rippled waters of Utah Lake to the snow-capped peaks of the Wasatch Mountains...we are fortunate to live in such a breathtaking community. As several neighbors were testing out their boats this weekend, we took time to photograph the landscapes. In a way, I feel like we have our own little Patagonia right here at home.

In the afternoon, we hosted a small BBQ outside our home. I forgot how much I hate charcoal. I miss the smell and flavor of proper firewood burning underneath slabs of sirloin and chorizo. Well, at least we had hamburgers and hot dogs :( I finally gave up on the prehistoric charcoal and switched over to the neighbor's propane grill. That was just too easy! There was no waiting time to discuss soccer, politics, and Argentine economics. Like I said, I miss the slow burning embers of quebracho and alamo wood.

New Imagine Argentina Website!

Yes, I know. Imagine Argentina has experienced several "renovations" since 2005. Well, I now present a new, sleeker design with a solid black background (click image).

Please visit our website to read more about:

-Southern Patagonia: El Calafate and Ushuaia
-Northern Argentina: Salta and Jujuy
-And Other Destinations...

With a larger network of expert guides and premium hotels extending from north to south,, we are confident that our handcrafted journeys will exceed your expectations. Please contact us this week!

Now go tell your friends!

Unique Artwork: A Must See!!!

I have been very eager to post these photos ever since our recent trip to Buenos Aires. Having provided translation services for FEN Hoteles since 2008, I have been privileged to stay at various FEN hotel properties at no cost (Esplendor/Dazzler). While in the nation's capital, I made a reservation at the Esplendor Buenos Aires Hotel. Why? Because I knew the artwork inside was exceptional! As custom projects provided by Mondongo Studios in Palermo, these pieces are beyond belief! As lovers of fine art - or peculiar art for that matter - we enjoyed this hotel to the fullest! And as for breakfast, well, you can see that Dallin had a great time in his pajamas!

So, enjoy the pictures...the icons...and above all else, the mediums! We will start with the popular Evita - or as Dallin yelled each time we entered the hotel, "Evaaa!"

Eva Perón - political figure and social icon

Medium: burnt toast, stale bread and resin

Ernesto Che Guevara - revolutionary figure

Medium: 44,000 bullets and resin

Diego Maradona - soccer superstar

Medium: solid gold chains wrapped around nails

Minguito - actor and comedian

Medium: scraps of fabric

Carlos Monson - professional boxer

Medium: broken shards of glass and resin

Atahualpa Yupanqui - singer and songwriter

Medium: colored yard

Carlos Gardel - father of tango

Medium: straight pins

Ernesto Sabato - novel writer

Medium: wood carvings

Maria Elena Walsh - children's author and songwriter

Medium: bits of clay

Jorge Luis Borges - famed author of national literature

Medium: assorted threads

Adrian "Dárgelo" Rodriguez - rock singer of Babasonicos

Medium: colored sequins on black velvet

Isabel "Coca" Sarly - vedette dancer

Medium: assorted cookies and resin

Astor Piazzola - famed tango composer

Medium: straight pins and black ink

Cataratas Iguazú

*click all panoramic images to enlarge*

Prior to departing Argentina, we made one final trip outside Mendoza and ventured into Buenos Aires and the northeastern province of Misiones. A region known for precious jewel mines and Jesuit ruins, the true landmark of Misiones is Iguazú National Park - home to the breathtaking natural wonder of 275 crashing cascades within a 3-mile area. As the largest falls in the world in terms of volume, Iguazú is also distinguished for the infinite butterflies that flutter through the billows of mist surrounding The Devil's Throat.

Iguazú - meaning "big water" in local Guaraní dialect - is shared between the international border of Argentina and Brazil. While the panoramic view from Brazil is spectacular, Argentina at least allows visitors to look into The Devil's Throat and be showered with rising mist. According to guides, "God made the waterfalls on Argentina's side. But he then sat down in Brazil to admire his work."

As the second-most requested destination in Argentina, the tourism industry has seen incredible growth in Puerto Iguazú (population 30,000). Several new hotel properties have been constructed in recent years - including the Amerian Iguazú. This resort-like establishment provided suite accommodations for Imagine Argentina. The view from the breakfast patio was incredible. The pools were magical...especially for an infant like Dallin. And hotel staff was more than helpful and warm throughout our much anticipated visit.

The dense rainforests and humid jungles of Misiones provide an impeccable glimpse of local wildlife roaming in their natural habitat: exotic birds, brilliant toucans, lizards, and the infamous coatie (a member of the racoon family notorious for stealing food from park visitors). Red dirt roads lead to observation decks and winding trails that traverse rivers and cliffs. From train rides to raft excursions, our trip was excellent! And above all else, we must express our gratitude to Vera - our dear friend and local guide.

For more information, please contact Imagine Argentina Travel.

One final note: The coaties are quite friendly towards children - as seen above - but it's just a trick to get closer to your food! As I was squatting down, one climbed onto my backpack, and before I could shake him off, another climbed into the diaper bag and pulled out a brand new bag of Lay's Potato Chips. Within seconds, the bag was destroyed by a dozen squealing little thieves!

Don't Cry For Me Argentina!

Yes, the phrase has been used a million times...but what better title to conclude our time here in Argentina? We are moving back home to Utah next week. The past month has been hard...quite emotional...and international moves never get easier. When we first returned to Argentina in Jan 2008, we knew there were challenges ahead. After all, we had lived here before...under various circumstances. However, we did not foresee the valuable experiences to be endured while back in Argentina. And of course, we overlooked the valuable friendships that would soon be formed.

As we were first preparing to leave Utah in 2008, we received mixed reactions from peers. Half believed we were nuts: "Why the heck are you going to Argentina?" The other half was proud: "I cannot believe you are going to Argentina! That is awesome!" Either way, we look back and see merit in both reactions...ha, ha.

We pursued this international adventure in order to change our environment, our rhythm, and our routine for a bit. This was not vacation - far from it - but it was another chapter of our lives carried out in a foreign place. It was both challenging and rewarding...and we sacrificed much more than we ever imagined. And in the end, we have no regrets!

So, we purchased our airline tickets in March, but decided to not inform our friends until recent weeks that we were leaving. After all, no need to create extensive farewells and goodbyes...it is much better to live and enjoy the moments at hand. So, what are some of our fondest memories so far?

-We relived our missions in a sense. We first met while serving as volunteer missionaries in 2001...in the Argentina Salta Mission of the LDS Church. Now, back in Argentina, we have shared similar moments together here in Mendoza. We have accompanied the local missionaries in sharing gospel lessons in the homes of new converts. We have organized exciting activities for the local youth groups. We have attended baptismal services, church dinners, and service projects. We have participated and contributed in our local congregation...and it has been wonderful. And, just like the mission, it is time to move on...but our prayers and best wishes will always be with the good people of Godoy Cruz Centro (especially the youth).

-We have seen Tania’s family together again. When we first returned, Aunt Karen and Uncle Ronald were soon married (Tania’s brother). We even had all the grandkids together in our home (Tania’s nieces and nephews). Dallin then met Aunt Carla for the first time (Tania’s sister) and even met his abuelos latinos at last (Tania’s beloved parents). In recent months, Dallin met his new cousin, Leandro (Uncle Ronald’s newborn son). Of course, Bella also welcomed Leandro into our home. We all celebrated the holidays together...despite December’s boiling summer sun. We will forever treasure such memories.

-We have made new friends...eternal friends. Together, we have shared numerous asados, trips to the river, bike rides, birthday parties, holiday celebrations, and emotional games of Jenga. These are the sweetest of people, always willing to give to others before themselves. While a mere "thank you" is never enough, we do express our sincere gratitude to those who welcomed us with open arms and helped make Mendoza our new home. Diego and Gabriela became second parents to Dallin, even watching him for an entire week while we took a brief vacation in Patagonia. As for Lucho, he became a second father to Bella, adopting her each time we went on a weekend trip. We are also grateful for Carla, Milagros, Jahir, Betina, Javier, Cindy, Laura, and so many others...including Cleto and Jack :)

We have been traveling the past week on another business trip/family vacation. We have not had access to internet until now. While we are departing Argentina this Tuesday, the blog entries will continue for weeks! We have plenty of stories - and photos - to share from our most recent journey:

-Iguazú Falls (Argentina)
-Iguassu Falls (Brazil)
-Misiones Province
-Puerto Madero
-Recoleta
-Boca at Night
-And so much more!!!

For now, it is time to pack. And then pack some more. And then get nailed with excess baggage fees. From there, it is time to look for work back home. We hear it might be tough, but we are well prepared. As for Imagine Argentina Travel, we are still pushing ahead despite the struggling economy. In fact, we are designing group travel programs for the next year based on our favorite places and people! Be sure to sign up...and tell your friends! You won’t be disappointed!

Gracias. Un abrazo. And don’t cry for me (us) Argentina...the truth is I (we) never left you!

Wordless Wednesday: Powerlifter in Training

Dinner Time in Mendoza

Dinner time is a special time. Here in Argentina, we prefer the traditional barbeque asado over most meals. There's quite a difference between the national asado...and it's North American counterpart: the cookout.

Argentina:
José - what time are we starting the asado?

Get here like three hours in advance. That way, we can drink and talk soccer while the fire burns.

United States:
Joe - when does the cookout start?

Burgers will be ready at 6:00.

Argentina:
Wow, José. What kind of firewood is that - alamo or quebracho?

Alamo. The good stuff - really enhances the flavor of the beef.

United States:
Joe, how much was that 40-lb bag of Kingsford charcoal?

I got it on sale. You wanna pass me the lighter fluid?

Argentina:
Your choice - we've got ribs, t-bone, sausage, and some tenderloin.

United States:
You want cheese on yours?

Of course, I'm having fun, but I will miss the local food as we return home to the United States. This week was highlighted with a special dinner at Azafrán, located along Emilio Civit - Mendoza's main street - overflowing with tourists and locals in the evening. The dinner was a gift from a good friend, and while gift cards do not exist down here, I was given a business card signed by the restaurant's wine manager...with a peso amount written next to his name.

The atmosphere is wonderful - a pleasant, yet rustic, establishment with just a handful of tables inside. Shelves stacked with spice jars line one wall, while dried flowers and garlic braids hang from the ceiling. Among the copper pots and pans are vintage photos of past Vendimia queens - those women voted as the official reinas of wine.

So, let's take a look at the menu...and get to the pictures!

Appetizer:
Empanada Trio - Chorizo and Onion, Morsilla and Parmesan, Veal and Mushroom...with a side of diced cherry tomatoes

Main Dishes:
Almond Crusted Chicken Breast with Buffalo Mozzarella - Garnished with Pumpkin Bites Wrapped in Sautéed Zucchini

14 oz Prime Rib Eye - Served with Roasted Onion stuffed with Truffle Mashed Potatoes

Desserts:
White and Dark Chocolate Parfait - Served over a Brownie with Red Fruit Sauce

Dulce de Leche Creme Brulée - Served with Rice Pudding and a Stroke of Dulce de Leche

It was a wonderful night out on the town. In fact, the last time we ever had dinner reservations was for our sixth wedding anniversary...8 months ago!