Playing while the sun shines

It only takes that first ray of sunshine and everyone comes out to play.

Me too.

Winter in California means playtime is never far away -- though the occasional rain and brisk wind might drive us indoors. Once the sun is out, the coats are stripped off and we're basking once again.

So long, 2014!

Soaking it up

Rain or drought, there's always someone frowning. But the recent deluge in California brought the best out in the Cosumnes River Preserve.

Midtown's Shady Lady

It’s a cool cloudy morning as we step through the red, orange and yellow leaves on the sidewalk to the Shady Lady. Inside, soft jazz tunes welcome us as we admire the large horseshoe-shaped bar that dominates the room. Red walls, stamped tin-tiled ceiling and sassy paintings round out the décor.

There is only one thing to do – for one of us, at least. The Bloody Mary arrives moments later. I sneak a sip and am filled with a day’s worth of regrets. My lips burn -- then throat and stomach in turn. Who needs coffee? I’m awake now. I’m filled with horrified admiration as I watch my husband finish it off.

Breakfast is equally dramatic, in a fiercely good way. The walnut and currant French toast is sided by fresh raspberries, blackberries and blueberries. I feel so healthful as I pour on the syrup and devour. A side of applewood-smoked bacon tops it off.

We return the next Sunday and repeat it all over again. Who knows? This one might be worth a three-peat.