New Wine Review: 2009 Purple Moon Merlot

Last night we had the opportunity to open a Merlot we picked up at Trader Joe's awhile back. It was the 2009 Purple Moon Merlot and of course since it was from Trader Joe's - it was a great deal, probably $7 or 8.

I would give this wine a 7 out of 10. Usually I am not a huge fan of Merlot, but this one was great! Upon smelling the wine, I was a bit nervous because it seemed to be pretty heady. To me, Merlot usually has a bit of a BURN when you drink it and reads bitterly. This Merlot is not like that at all upon taste. It has a very exotic flavor and has a warm cherry taste. I would definitely purchase it again. Jeff was not a huge fan, however he LOVES super sweet wines and is more of a white lover. I don't mind though - I will be able to finish this bottle on my own!

We had this with our Sunday dinner of Rotisserie Chicken, Mashed Potato Timbales & Brussel Sprouts with Red Onion and Bacon.

Holidays Here We Come!

The Holidays are VERY important to me. I was raised by a Christmas Junky and am now raising a Junior Christmas Junky. I am literally overwhelmed currently by thoughts of what to do, where to go, what to make and what to buy. And it's not a bad overwhelmed, I would much rather think about what color ribbon is going on my tree than foam mattresses or bedside mats. I JUST LOVE everything about this time of year!

I wanted to share a little information about the Salvation Army, who we proudly ring bells for EVERY YEAR. This year, if you would like to ring along - OR lighten your wallet, we will be at Bay Park Square from 5-7pm on Friday 11/26. Near the children's play area. Every year Cooper gets older, the bell ringing becomes more of an adventure! To me, this is such a simple and fun way to help give back to the community and a great way to introduce the kids to community service at a very young age. Cooper was 13 months old the first time he rang bells! So if you haven't ever considered being a bell ringer - read below and sign-up if you can!

-Donating one hour of bell ringing = enough donations for a family to get a bus pass voucher or to pay 2 adult book fees for a Financial Literacy Class

-Donating two hours of bell ringing = 20 meals for the noon feeding program or 14 children getting after school program access, or 4 bags of groceries.

www.ringbells.org