Finally. A winery.

We crossed another state border today into Minnesota. Just under 300 miles, which will be the longest distance we'll do in a single day.

I wouldn't say it flew by.

But there was no pressure. No work today or tomorrow.

Because TOMORROW IS MY BIRTHDAY!!

Oh yes.

It's pregame time.

I would normally be having a weekend-long party at my house to celebrate.

But I wouldn't change today and what we're doing.

About that.

We arrived this afternoon at the most picturesque winery. It sits on a hill above the surrounding vineyards and Lake Minnewaska, in Glenwood, Minnesota.

Check it out: Rolling Fork Vineyards

This place is so beautiful, we were snapping pictures as soon as we turned off the main road onto the half-mile-long lane.

We noticed something else as soon as we pulled in:

We weren't making any dust.

The lane is made of some sandy-textured material. Like beach sand mixed with gravel. The parking lot where we're sitting is the same stuff.

It sounds weird.

It looks beautiful.

After we parked and got settled, we did a wine tasting.

I wasn't expecting good wine.

I make wine as a hobby. I know enough to be a wine snob. I can't necessarily tell you what's wrong when I taste something "off."

I just know it's off.

My point:

I'm a fan of what's happening here in Minnesota.

The reds taste mature and complex. The rosé was, as they say, "rosé all day." The dry whites are comparable to what I get from California.

I don't feel like going into how the La Crescent was floral on the nose and all.

This isn't a wine blog.

I'm just saying, the wine was good.

Really.

And I realize this is a picture of beer rather than wine. Just look at the background.

I finally sat in my garage and listened to music today.

I'm doing it now while I type.

It's something that's been missing from the trip so far. I haven't sat by a campfire, played my jams, had my frosty beverage, and just chilled.

This isn't camping.

(Yet?)

This is something else.

In other news, Jason would like me to clarify that he is not a Verizon customer. He's an Xfinity customer; he's just using Verizon towers.

For any of you who were taking notes.

His service is still subpar to mine.

Did I mention TOMORROW IS MY BIRTHDAY!!!???!!??

Peace, love, and a big thanks to all of you who have called, texted, messaged, and checked in with us.

Hugs.