2011 November Archive at Laptop Television Mom

Monthly Archive for November, 2011

So much thanks to give…

Thanksgiving 2011

Thanksgiving could be my favorite holiday. It’s the day we pause our hectic lives, focus on family and friends, and most importantly, give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. This has been a wonderful year for me and my family. This year, I am thankful for…

Family = I’m not sure how I deserve such a wonderful husband and daughter, but I am beyond thankful.
Sisters = I am one of three sisters. I am thankful they are also my best friends.
Mom = She is a kind, loving and giving mother. I am thankful and blessed.
Friends = When I think about my friends from childhood, high school, college, California, and my new friends in Texas… I get misty-eyed, and thankfulness fills my heart.
Co-workers = I seriously get to work with some of the smartest, brightest, and most talented people in the business. Oh, and my colleagues are insanely funny and sarcastic. And for that, I am beyond thankful.
New community = We moved to Austin a year ago, and I am so thankful to have been welcomed into a wonderful community.
Re-discovered family = I have really smart, funny and wine-loving cousins across the country. We met as kids, and then grew apart as we grew up. I am so thankful to rediscover family members who fill my heart with love.
My pets = Sometimes I have empty days, and an unexpected lick on the cheek can make my day. I know it sounds cliché, but I am thankful for the unconditional love from my adorable puppy and nasty (but beautiful) cat give me every day.
Housekeeper = It was hard for me to hire a housekeeper; I felt bad having someone else clean my mess. Our housekeeper more than cleans my house, she eases my mind. I appreciate her and am so thankful for her time and energy.
Laptop Television = Ah yes, I love my TV and the escapism it allows. I love Modern Family and Parenthood, Grey’s Anatomy and Private Practice, Top Chef and Chopped, and the incomparable Ellen. I am a busy working mama, and I am thankful for the laughs, tears, and “oh no you didn’t” moments only a TV can provide.

What inspires you to give thanks this year?

-LTV Mom

Published

Stacy Libby

on November 27, 2011

in Family

. 0 Comments

WINOS Pick of the Week: Franciscan Cabernet

Franciscan Cab = great Laptop TV

It’s ironic that I would have to leave leave California and move to Austin, Texas to discover this legendary Napa Valley Cab. After living in Silicon Valley for 15 years — and making numerous trips to wine country — I am happy this newly minted Texan can recommend Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon.

I actually discovered this wine at my local grocery store, which employs a sommelier who has never lead me astray. When he suggested this wine, he was shocked that this proud (albeit former) Californian had never sipped it before. Embarrassed, I quickly grabbed a few bottles, headed home, and uncorked the goodness.

I didn’t allow time for the wine to breathe (go figure!), and liked it immediately. I particularly enjoyed soft berry flavors, with a hint of plum and chocolate, and the velvety smooth texture. While this wine is good with meals, I actually prefer a glass of Franciscan Cab with a hunk of Gruyere or Manchego cheese as I partake in some laptop television. It’s a no-fuss wine that tastes more expensive than it costs.

Wine details = Franciscan Estate, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2007

Winemaker’s notes = The fruit-laden 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers a luscious bouquet of dark fruit including blackcurrant, black cherry, and blackberry layered over aromas of sweet vanilla and baking spices. Approachable cherry and cocoa notes lead to a wine of intense concentration, with flavors of dried plums and cola laced with hints of tobacco. Generous weight and mouth-filling velvet tannins frame a finish that lingers with flavors of dark cherry and cassis.

For more information, visit the winery web site HERE; purchase the wine HERE, and schedule a tasting HERE.

-LTV Mom

Photo Credit: Franciscan Winery

Published

Stacy Libby

on November 22, 2011

in Food, Laptop Television and WINOS Pick of the Week

. 0 Comments