#southern california wine tasting

[thenewenglandscholar]

[rabbitcruiser]

Benches/Chairs (No. 13)

Louis M. Martini Winery, CA (three pics)

HALL Wines, CA

Domaine Carneros, CA (two pics)

Bizonnes, F (two pics)

Nîmes, F

Capafonts, E

[lotusbxtch]

SoCal to NorCal: Chapter 2

Series Masterlist Chapter 1: Malibu

Series Pairing: husband!Joel Miller x f!Reader x boyfriend!Frankie Morales Series Summary: Joel is your rock, and Frankie is your ocean. So what happens when you bring the three of you together? - or - you and Frankie roadtrip up from Southern California to Northern California so he can meet Joel. A polyamory fic. This series exists in the Triple Frontier universe and is a Joel Miller AU/Triple Frontier AU. Series Rating: Explicit, 18+ only, MDNI

Chapter 2: Highway 101 & Beyond

Chapter Pairing: Frankie Morales x f!Reader x Joel Miller

Chapter Summary: As you road trip north, you and Frankie struggle to voice your growing feelings for each other. Joel suggests something surprising, and the three of you unexpectedly explore new territory together.

Word Count: 8.7k

Rating: Explicit, 18+ only, MDNI

Chapter Warnings/Tags: polyamory, phone sex, video sex, masturbation (f and m), fingering (f receiving), oral (f receiving), unprotected P in V (wrap it up pls!), multiple orgasms, creampie, cum kink, cum eating, there’s a lot of cum lol i’m sorry in advance if that’s not your thing, squirting, slight size kink, mentions of food, mentions of Frankie’s young daughter named Isabella, mentions of drug addiction and recovery, gratuitous descriptions of male and female anatomy, she/her pussy pronouns, heavy use of Spanish pet names/nicknames, Frankie the PEK, Joel’s filthy mouth is absolutely its own warning, idiots in love, a splash of angst, soft!Joel but also menace!Joel because we love a man with duality, Reader uses she/her pronouns, Reader is able-bodied, has breasts, and has hair that can be pulled, otherwise no description of Reader's skin color, size, body shape, hair color, eye color, or ethnicity, no use of y/n. Everyone is testing negative for STDs and Reader is on birth control.

a/n: The road trip continues! I’m so excited to dive more into Frankie and Reader’s relationship, and I KNOW you all have been waiting for Joel to get into the mix. Well, buckle up buttercups, because he is about to be THE BIGGEST MENACE lmao. A deeply grateful thank you to my darling @for-a-longlongtime, who encourages me every day, helped me massively flesh out some of the more emotional aspects of the chapter, and who I talk to almost every day, in addition to being my beta reader. Thank you @mountainsandmayhem, @alltheirdamn , and @mermaidgirl30 for screaming with me about these three when I shared excerpts with you. And thank you to everyone for being patient with me while I got this written up between huge life events (both good and bad)! Dividers & banners by the amazing @saradika-graphics, thank you. (Please note that the chapter graphic is NOT meant to be accurate to Reader — vibes only!)

If you enjoy my writing, please leave a comment, feedback or reblog! It would mean the world to me. Thank you!

You’re so happy.

After your short but memorable stay with Santiago, you and Frankie have been on the road, spending the last few days leisurely meandering up Highway 1 towards San Francisco. You take turns driving, playing car DJ, and sightseeing as you travel north. Tanned feet on the dash, chaste kisses to the back of hands while driving, a shifting playlist between your differing musical tastes. Nights spent snuggled up in a rental or hotel room, playing 20 Questions or “Would You Rather”, kisses turning into intertwining of limbs, labored breath and fingers gripping bed sheets, the murmuring of each other’s names like prayers. 

In Ojai, you drank a little too much wine at the tasting room and biked back to the hotel with wobbly legs. Hearst Castle landed on your list for the formerly-captive-now-wild zebras (you) and to gawk at “ridiculously rich people shit” (Frankie). Ocean kayaking amongst the sea otters and sea lions in Morro Bay filled both of you with wonder. Frankie let you lead him into every little boutique shop that called your name, contentedly trailing behind you while you browsed.

Wherever you were, Frankie indulged your sweet tooth by sniffing out the best artisan ice cream shops. One time during a playful debate, you bopped your frozen treat to Frankie’s nose, giggling at his surprised expression and kissing the sticky-sweet remnants off of him before he picked you up over his shoulder. Your shrieks of joy ricocheted off the small town street until he tossed you in the backseat of his Jeep and crawled in after you, demanding a taste of something sweeter. Before you knew it, you were moaning and sighing under Frankie’s ministrations in an abandoned parking lot. The sight of his messy curls between your thighs as he lapped at your core propelled you into a stratosphere of pleasure. 

The next morning, you continued your road trip north and stopped in Santa Cruz to experience the boardwalk since Frankie had never been. Sun-drenched wood slats under your feet, the crisp, briny breeze cooling your exposed skin. You and Frankie meander slowly, eating chocolate dipped soft serve cones and curly fries, hopping onto the slightly rickety carnival rides, including the famous wooden (and creaky) Giant Dipper roller coaster. (“This thing can’t be structurally sound if it’s making all that noise,” Frankie muttered, but you still got him to get on.)

Adrenaline trickling through your veins, giddy with endorphins from the coaster, you and Frankie debate who had the best strategy for the carousel’s metal ring toss game. “You can’t just huck it like a ninja star,” he gripes about your approach, shaking his head with a smile. “You have to finesse and time it, and throw it like a frisbee so it floats in.”

“I swear, I was way closer than you were,” you shoot back. “I’ve had my whole life to perfect my technique. One of my rings hit the clown’s mouth! More than I can say about your attempts.” You stick your tongue out at Frankie, and he rolls his eyes playfully. Neither of you had set off the lights and buzzers that indicated a successful throw. He’s about to point this out when his phone trills.

Pulling it out of his pocket, his eyebrows knit together a bit before answering. “Mamá,” Frankie says into the phone, “Que pasa? Is something wrong?” He had dropped off Isabella with her for the duration of the road trip, his mother always eager to have “girl time” with her only grandchild. 

“No, no, mijo,” she responds, “Estámos bien. Isa is napping. I just wanted to call you and see how your vacation is going. You work so hard, you deserve to have this time to yourself!”

Frankie breaths a small sigh of relief. “Oh, okay, good. Well, I’ve gotta keep it short. We’re out here on the pier.”

“ ‘WE?’ ” you suddenly hear screeching out of the phone, her tone ecstatic. “Who are you with? Oh my goodness, are you with that girl?” 

Frankie winces, holding the phone away from his ear as you chuckle. “Yes, mamá,” Frankie responds, “the woman I told you about. You don’t need to yell.” He looks at you, a blush slowly creeping up his face, a sheepish smile on his lips. He mouths “five minutes” while walking towards the side of the walkway. Nodding your head with a smile, you whisper, “take your time,” and kiss his cheek, settling on a bench nearby but out of earshot of the conversation, allowing Frankie his privacy. 

“Oh, mijo, that’s wonderful!” his mother exclaims. “When do I get to meet her?”

Frankie huffs out a laugh. “Mamá, relax. You will get to meet her in time. We’re not quite there yet.”

“What are you waiting for? Haven’t you been together for a few months now?”

“Yes, but…” Frankie trails off, not quite sure his mother can handle a full explanation of your situation. Honestly, as he thinks about it, he isn’t even 100% sure what to call the two of you anymore. “It’s complicated,” he says simply.

The both of you agreed to enjoy what you had with no expectations. But “no expectations” changed over the days, weeks, months to become a desire to be around each other more days than not. Visits in the dead of night became dates during the day, morphing into waking up in each other’s arms, eating breakfast together over the weekends, bedhead and sleepy eyes and warm smiles. He thinks about the way you make him laugh, head thrown back, with his whole chest. He thinks about your playful debates, the way you tease him when he loses to you in Mario Kart. He thinks about the way you writhe under, on top of, beside him as he draws pleasure from your body again and again, your moans and gasps creating the prettiest song he’s ever heard. Frankie thinks about your soul, your heart, your innate goodness, and then he thinks about how he can’t possibly deserve any more than you already give him, despite him realizing more every day that he can’t imagine his life without you.

Frankie’s mother clears her throat on the other end of the line, and he snaps back to the present moment.

“Francisco,” she says softly. “It doesn’t have to be complicated. Just tell her how you feel, and see where it takes you. If she's as special as you say she is, you're going to regret not saying anything.”

Frankie looks down at his boots, and then back at you. You smile at him from the bench, your sundress fluttering slightly in the breeze. “Mamá, I wouldn’t even know where to begin.”

“If you want something, Francisco, go for it. I always told you that you need to be more confident in yourself.” Frankie’s mother sighs affectionately. “You have done so much for your career, for Isabella… you have more than made up for your transgressions, mijito. Do this one thing for yourself. Take the risk.”

He thinks back to the beginning of your relationship, when he said he didn’t want anything serious because he was focusing on his career and his daughter. Not only was he in a stable job with room for upward movement, and becoming the father that Isabella deserved, it was because of you that he was able to achieve his goals. You’ve always supported him, encouraged him, and given him reality checks when he needed it. Not once have you asked for more in the relationship, but he never felt like you had to. He was willing to give you that and so much more. He was nearly certain that you felt the same way about having each other as a more permanent part of your lives, but without ever asking the question directly, he couldn’t be certain that it wasn’t just all in his head.

Frankie swallows thickly. “You’re right,” he acquiesces. “I’ll talk to her soon, when the moment is right. I don’t want to lose her.”

His mother coos sweetly at him. “Now that’s the son I know and love! I’ll let you go have fun with your lady. I love you, Frankie.”

“I love you too, Mamá,” Frankie whispers, and then ends the call. 

You’re people watching at the boardwalk as Frankie approaches you from behind, wrapping his arms around your shoulders. There’s no surprise triggered by his arms around you, just a calm ease and warmth. He presses kisses into your hair and sighs deeply. Tipping your head to the side, you return the kisses up his arm and rub his knuckles with your thumbs.

“How’s your mamá?” you ask. 

“Good,” Frankie responds, “just checking in to make sure I was having fun on my vacation.” A sheepish grin blooms on his face. “Sorry you had to hear her scream about you.”

You snicker as you stand up from the bench. “Nah, it wasn’t my ear she yelled into… But I didn’t mind at all. It’s sweet how she checks up on you.”

He grins, lifting his cap briefly to run his fingers through his hair. “She knows how hard I’ve been working to make things right with my job, and with Isabella, and she’s been pushing me to take some time off.” He sighs, looking off into the distance, and you know him well enough to know he’s doubtful of his progress.

“You deserve it, Frankie,” you murmur to him, lacing your fingers with his. You both start strolling along the boardwalk again, Frankie looking deeply in thought. “You’re always so hard on yourself, and at the very least, you deserve some time off.”

Glancing over at him, your breath catches. Frankie’s already staring at you, curls wild in the sea breeze, brown eyes warm and sparkling. Suddenly your chest feels like it’s cracked open, warm and aching. You feel the spark in your heart, and you realize that your feelings may be more than a simple affection. You search Frankie’s eyes and you can see a steady hidden layer under the warmth of his gaze as he lifts your joined hands to his lips, kissing them softly. It makes your heart do somersaults, the deeper unspoken emotions that flickered across his irises. A deep devotion that tugs at your soul.

He deserves the world.

Frankie huffs a laugh, dropping his gaze. “Everyone seems to tell me that. Guess I should stop being so damn stubborn and start believing them.” You continue walking, Frankie swinging your hands between the two of you as you settle into comfortable silence.

This is more than lust and companionship, you think to yourself. The way he looks at you, touches you with such reverence. It goes deeper than respect and fondness. Only Joel had ever given you butterflies and yet here you are, a fluttering in your gut, foreign but familiar. But what does that mean for you and Joel? 

Can your heart love two people at once?

Whoa…. wait, “love”??

You push the thoughts away with a shake of your head, determined to be present in the moment with Frankie. Bumping gently into his shoulder to get his attention, you flash him a smile.

“Wanna see which one of us can win first at the dime toss game?” you ask Frankie, and his eyes crinkle at the corners the way you love so much when he smiles in return, his competitive streak flaring.

“Sweetness, I thought you’d never ask. Prepare to lose.”

After you absolutely demolish Frankie at the dime toss (he swears they rigged the bowls he was aiming for), you and Frankie hit the road towards the cute cottage you’d booked for the night. Among the draws was its proximity to good food while being simultaneously off the beaten path. You were dying to try the seafood restaurant nearby, which was recommended to Frankie by one of his coworkers.

Per usual for the northern California coast, the fog began to roll in from the beach, casting ghostly tendrils across the road. Fog was one of the things you missed most about home while in SoCal, where it was a rarity. You roll up the windows and flip on your seat heater with a content sigh, then drape your body over the center console to grab your oversized cardigan from the back. The move makes your short dress hike further up your thighs as you reach for the soft knit. Frankie glances in the rearview mirror, spotting a flash of the curve of your ass where it peeks out of your panties. The sight has him already hardening in his pants. A quiet groan rises from his throat involuntarily, and you smirk, knowing exactly what he’s reacting to. 

“God, hermosa, that fucking dress,” Frankie grits. “I’ve been half hard all day seeing you in it.” You say nothing, but look over at him, your smirk growing bigger as you recline the seat a bit more and stretch your body just so, making the light blue eyelet lace material ride higher up your thighs, which you spread lasciviously. 

“Oh?” you tease. “What are you going to do about it?” You see Frankie’s eyes flash with desire for a moment, but he works hard to keep his cool.

His hand inches up your inner thigh while he drives, teasing swirls with his fingertips across your soft skin. You pant quietly, your breasts heaving gently against the low, curved neckline, and bite back a whimper as more arousal pools in your cotton underwear. “Take off your panties,” Frankie gently commands.

Dragging the material down your hips and legs, you let your thighs part for him, inviting his touch. Frankie keeps his eyes on the road, calmly navigating towards a quiet backroad. His focused demeanor is a lie though; his increasingly rapid breathing is a dead giveaway. When his fingers brush against your drenched folds, he groans and grips the wheel tighter with his driving hand.

“Fuck, baby,” Frankie grits out. “You’re so fucking wet for me already.” His nimble fingers explore you, spreading the slick around, swiping a soft circle around the pearl of your clit. He plays with you, and you start to writhe. A smirk blooms on his face as he clocks your movement. Frankie loves teasing you like this, drawing things out until you buckle under the pressure of your mounting desires. But the throbbing of his cock and your soft mewling sounds are making him desperate. 

Frankie pulls the car over to a small lot connected to an overlook, its parking spaces empty since the vista point is shrouded in fog. Trees block the view of your parking spot to traffic on the road. He throws the car in park, ripping his seatbelt off, and pulls your face to his for a passionate kiss. Swallowing your moans with his lips, Frankie tangles his tongue with yours while his fingers grip the base of your skull. 

“You’re killing me with this slutty little sundress,” he pants, sliding his hand down to cup your naked sex. 

You let out a strangled cry. “Frankie, I need you.”

Frankie shushes you gently. “Get in the back, nenita. I’ve got you.” You comply, scrambling over the center console and pushing your back up against the door, legs spreading wide and fingers tracing your glistening folds. He feels like he’s going to lose his mind if he doesn’t get his mouth on you in the next twenty seconds. He gets out of the front seat, yanking open the driver’s side back door and shutting it behind him after he slides in towards you.

“Gonna suck on that sweet little clit of yours ‘til you scream,” Frankie growls as he crawls towards your body, pushing your knees further towards your torso so you’re opened up lewdly for him. He slides his middle and ring fingers into his mouth to wet them, slipping them out and immediately burying them to the second knuckle in your soft cunt. A high-pitched whine is ripped from your throat.

“Frankie!” you whine, eyebrows furrowing together as you lock eyes with him. The mocha richness of his eyes has given way to pits of nearly black desire, and he keeps them on you while he presses his tongue flat to your swollen clit. Your eyes roll back and you nearly scream in pleasure. 

“That’s it, baby, I’m gonna make you come so hard,” he murmurs into your drenched folds, and then buries his face into you. You weave your fingers into his fluffy curls, opening your eyes to watch him at work.

Frankie’s eyes slip closed as he rhythmically pumps his thick fingers in and out of your pussy, curving them slightly up to hit that magical spot you can never quite reach the same way as he does. He sucks your hardened clit into his mouth, nestling it between the cleft of his lower lip and an almost imperceptible divot in the center of his tongue. That sweet, talented tongue swirls in precise tiny circles with the perfect pressure, while continuing to suckle exactly how you like it. Joel may go down on you like nobody’s business, but Frankie has cunnilingus nearly down to a science. At this point, he knows the exact series of moves to bring you to orgasm, and how long it takes really just depends on how long he feels like eating pussy that day. Sometimes, he’ll lay with his face between your legs for hours.

And right now? Frankie seems to want to break his own record for how fast he can get you to come.

Within seconds, you feel your orgasm gathering in your muscles. The tight shimmer of pleasure reverberates across your skin, in your bones, through every cell in your body, suspended in time, just waiting for a release. Frankie feels you tightening on his fingers, and you swear you feel him smirk against your slick folds. He keeps going, never faltering his movements, as the feeling inside you builds.

“Frankie,” you whine again, your body starting to shake. It shouldn't be physically possible for him to get you there so fast, and yet you feel that bowstring drawing impossibly tense in your body. “Frankie, I’m gonna… I’m so….” you keen, high-pitched, your chest heaving fast. Frankie moans against your folds, pressing just a bit harder with his fingers, crooking them just right, and sucks your clit hard.

You’re lucky that the area is truly secluded, because the scream tearing out of your throat as you shatter in ecstasy is loud. Your thighs lock around Frankie’s head as he moans deeply into your pussy, drawing out your orgasm expertly. Slick weeps from your cunt, soaking his lips and chin, and he slurps down every drop. He slows and gentles his ministrations on your core until he feels your thighs relax. Pulling back, he gives your folds one last kiss before he moves up your body to hover over your face, admiring the flush lighting up your features. Frankie kisses you gently, and you cup his face with both hands.

“Sweetest cunt I’ve ever tasted,” Frankie slurs, pussydrunk on you.

“God, you’re incredible,” you murmur against his lips, kissing him deeper, the taste of your own essence making you clench involuntarily. You can feel the thick, hard line of him against your thigh. Moaning, you press yourself into him. “Let me ride you, Francisco.” 

Frankie lets out a groan as he pulls you up. You rest your knees on the backseat, littering kisses over his face as he unbuttons and shoves his jeans and boxers down. His cock smacks his belly, precum smearing on his skin. Leaning over, you lick it off, his salty taste invading your senses. Frankie groans again when you suck him into your mouth. You gently lick his foreskin and pull it down to reveal his ruddy head, the tip leaking. Slurping and suckling, you sneak a hand between your thighs to rub your clit, the action not going unnoticed by Frankie. It seems to snap him out of his trance.

“I need to be inside you so badly,” he grits out, pulling you onto his lap. The skirt of your sundress flares over the both of you. Reaching down, he brushes his tip against your folds, making you both whine. Swirling it through your combined slick and spit, Frankie presses his head into you slowly. You take over, grabbing his hand to place it over your hip, and grind down on him, letting his length slip further and further into you. Your breath hitches as he spreads your walls, always a stretch no matter how many times you’ve taken him.

Frankie drops his head back against the headrest, his hands gripping you tightly. “You’re always so fucking tight for me, querida,” he pants, his eyes glazing over with lust. His words prompt another wave of slick to leak out of you, aiding your descent down his shaft as you swirl your cunt around him. Both of you moan, and soon enough you’re fully seated on him. You lean down, kissing him passionately, and he responds in kind, slipping his tongue into your mouth to massage against yours. Your hips begin to roll and Frankie breaks the kiss, a deep rumble of satisfaction vibrating through his chest.

“Fuck, baby, your pussy’s like hot velvet,” he grits out, grabbing your hips to buck up into you. He trails kisses down your jaw and leaves little love bites as he goes. The car is filled with the slap of flesh, the squelch of your cunt as you fuck yourself on his cock, your shared gasps and panted breaths. Frankie slips the straps of your dress down, pulling down the cups with it, your breasts spilling out of their confines. He ducks his head down and sucks a nipple into his mouth. You whimper.

“God, Francisco,” you whine, riding him harder, spurred on by the way he laves his tongue over your pebbled nipple, gently catching and pulling it between his teeth. He switches to your other breast, his other hand anchored to your hip to guide your motions. His cock kisses that spot deep in you that only Frankie and Joel have ever found, and the feeling rips another moan from you. 

“That’s it, fucking ride my cock,” Frankie pants. You lean forward, changing the angle a bit until your clit catches on his belly, which triggers your pussy to clench in pleasure. 

“Oh god, you feel so fucking good in me,” you moan, grinding down harder onto him, massaging your walls with his thick shaft and your clit with the friction of his course hairs. “You fill me up so well.”

“Softest, wettest pussy I’ve ever fucked, I swear,” Frankie slurs, losing himself in the feeling of you wrapped around his length. “You feel like silk on me, nenita.”

Your clit swells with the stimulation of every roll of your hips, making your cunt clench around Frankie. He lets out a whine. Your brows furrow in concentration as you seat his length in you as far as it will go, and he nearly chokes when he feels his tip kiss your cervix.

“You’re so deep in me,” you moan, working yourself on his shaft. “Tell me how good this pussy feels.” You’re desperate to hear him lose it.

“You feel amazing,” he whines, his dick hardening and swelling even more as he approaches his high. It feels like he’s lighting up every nerve ending inside of you. At this point, Frankie’s lap is dripping with your arousal, slick squelching and slapping sounds as thick in the air as the smell of sex. Both of you are covered in a sheen of sweat. You can tell he’s getting closer, so you start fucking him harder, driving his cock deeply into you, to the point where you feel like you’re beginning to meld together, a writhing, wet, hot mess of pleasure.

“Yeah?” you ask rhetorically, riding him harder and harder. “Are you going to come for me, Francisco?” You continue to use his full name, knowing how much it turns him on when you say it. “I want you to fuck me so full of your cum; I wanna be dripping for days. I want you to fill me up so bad.”

“Oh fuck, nenita,” Frankie whines as he loses himself in your heat. “I’m gonna fuck you so full. Gonna give you all of my cum. Gonna put it right where it belongs, deep in this cunt.” You roll your hips harder, your tits bouncing with the effort, and Frankie fucking whimpers. Your pussy tightens at the sound. It always turns you on so much when he loses control.

“Do it, Francisco. Fill me up,” you pant, your own orgasm barrelling towards you. Frankie’s thighs begin to quiver under you, and you know he’s almost there, too. You grip the base of his skull with one hand while the other steadies yourself on his shoulder, and then you lean down, nipping his earlobe. He whimpers again, completely fucked out.

“Come for me, now,” you beg in a whisper.

Frankie shouts as his grip on you turns to steel, and at the first hot spurt of his cum inside of you, your orgasm rips through you. Your cunt clenches, prolonging his pleasure, as your release soaks Frankie’s lap and his cum paints your insides. You both cry out at the feeling, foreheads pressed together. Frankie leans in and latches his lips to yours in a sloppy kiss.

As you both come down from your highs, you lean into Frankie, and he rubs his hands along your back soothingly. The softest kisses pepper your face, your sweat cooling down your skin while you both heave breaths, trying to recover. You weave your fingers into Frankie’s damp curls and scratch his scalp.

“Couldn’t wait ‘til we got to the rental, huh?” you quip.

Frankie huffs a laugh and hums in pleasure at your ministrations on his scalp. “Not when you tempt me with those dresses, baby. You know what flashing me a peek under your skirt does to me.”

“Oh, so now it’s my fault?” you tease, nipping his ear.

He jerks away at the ticklish sensation, then gently bites your shoulder in retribution. “Such a tease, hermosa,” he tuts. You both begin to untangle your sweat-slick limbs, and you slip yourself off of Frankie’s cock, groaning quietly in contentment as you stem the flow of his spend from your pussy with your fingers, shuffling around, seeking your panties. Finding them in the front seat, you slip them on, pressing the fabric into your cunt to keep yourself full of Frankie. Both of you get back into the front seats.

You fix your hair as you settle back in but pause, looking up to see your boyfriend staring at you, an achingly soft expression painting his whole face. Amber eyes, golden flecked irises, striking deep to your soul.

Breath catching in your throat, vulnerability rolling through your nerves. That flutter in your heart once again.

Before you can process anything, Frankie shakes his head slightly, as if emerging from a daze. “Well I’ve certainly worked up an appetite,” he quips, squeezing your knee gently. “Let’s get some of that clam chowder.” You nod, breathing deeply and shoot him a crooked little smile. He intertwines his fingers with yours, and then puts the Jeep into gear.

A couple hours later, you arrive at the rental, Frankie bringing both of your bags in. You close the door behind the two of you, kicking off your shoes, and survey the place. A small kitchenette to the left, cute velour loveseat to the right, and through adorable French doors, the king size bed, dressed in the fluffiest looking bedding. A dresser and full-length gilded mirror complete the decor in the bedroom, everything fitting perfectly into a cottagecore dream aesthetic. The last of the natural lighting filters through the windows.

Frankie drops a quick kiss to your forehead. “I need to scrub off the road,” he says in passing while stripping off his clothes. “Why don’t you relax a bit before we decide what we’re doing for the rest of the night?”

You snort out a laugh. “Frankie, it’s not like we’re on the Oregon Trail in a covered wagon. We’ve been driving in an air-conditioned car, Mr. Drama Queen.” He laughs and tosses his hat at you, disappearing into the en suite bathroom and closing the door behind him.

Settling into the plush bed, you set Frankie’s hat on the dresser and grab your phone to catch up on messages missed during the drive, when suddenly your phone starts buzzing. Joel’s name flashes onto the screen, and you hit the green button to accept the video call.

“Hey, baby,” you coo, grinning widely as Joel’s handsome tan face appears on your screen. His umber & silver hair is damp and slicked back, likely fresh out of the shower just like Frankie will be in a few minutes. The headboard of the bed you share with Joel sits behind him. “To what do I owe the pleasure of seeing you?”

Joel chuckles. “What, can’t a man call his pretty wife just to see her face and tell her that he loves her?”

You giggle. “I suppose that’s a good enough reason.” His eyes soften, and then flick down the screen.

“I see you’re wearing that sundress I like so much,” Joel muses. 

You smile, extending the arm holding your phone so he can see more of your body. “Oh, this little number?” You shift onto your knees, spreading them wide and running your other hand teasingly slow from your collarbone, down the slope of your breast, across your waist, and then down your thigh, retracing your path slightly to lift the hem of the skirt. “Frankie hadn’t seen it before, and he likes it just as much as you do.” Your cheeks flush at the memory of Frankie taking you in the car, and Joel hums lowly when you break eye contact with him.

“Did you and Frankie get up to some fun earlier, baby?” You pause, unsure of where this is going, and then nod your head.

“Words, sweetheart,” Joel reminds you.

“Yes, Joel,” you whisper breathlessly. 

He nods approvingly, a small smirk gracing his plush lips. “I could tell, you got that faraway look in your eyes like you do when you’re thinking about me fucking you.” Joel shifts his seat on the bed, and you recognize the movement as a sign that he’s getting turned on. This is a new development, you think to yourself. He’s rarely asked about sex with Frankie before. 

“Did Frankie treat your pussy right? Did he fill you up?” You nod again, your core beginning to pulse as you affirm with your words, and Joel groans.

“Let me see it.”

You choke on your breath. “What?”

This was not something Joel had ever asked before.

“You heard me, darlin’,” Joel asserts, his eyes darkening. “Let me see that pretty pussy full of Frankie’s cum.”

A full-body shiver ripples through you. “Yes, Joel,” you murmur obediently, sliding off the bed to retrieve the phone stand you use often when you’re away from Joel. You set it up on the dresser near the bed, the front-facing camera angled advantageously for him while allowing you to see him as well. Coming back into frame, you slowly unzip your dress, letting it fall to the floor. You slide your damp panties down, the heady scent of Frankie’s cum wafting up from your heated core. Joel leans back and lets out a low groan. 

You climb back onto the bed once naked, noticing Joel’s espresso brown eyes have deepened to the color of a moonless night, his pupils dilated in desire. Putting your back to the camera, you get onto your hands and knees, canting your hips forward and ass back. You rest your forearms on the bed, looking back at the camera, and snake one hand between your legs to spread your pussy open with your fingers. Joel moans unabashedly at the view, your glazed pussy glinting in the light, Frankie’s milky spend coating it and gathering at your opening. He watches as your cunt clenches at the sound.

“Fuuuuuck, darlin’, that little pussy always looks so fuckin’ good when it’s covered in cum, don’t it?” Joel asks rhetorically, running one hand down his chin through his greying scruff. You whimper in response, the movement of your contracting walls pushing a thin stream of Frankie’s cum out from deep in you, dripping onto the bed sheets. This feels so debauched, filthy, and you are incredibly turned on by Joel’s response to the sight of another man’s cum decorating your most intimate parts. 

“God, if I was there I would be rubbin’ that cream all over your swollen little clit,” Joel drawls. “Can see her peekin’ out at me. Can you flip over? Wanna see you touch her for me.” You oblige, gathering the pillows to prop yourself up, and lean back against them as you butterfly your thighs open for your husband. Holding his gaze, you slowly trace your outer lips with your fingers, feeling the slide of Frankie’s spend lubricate your movements. You swirl your fingertips through the mess of slick and cum at your entrance, then glide them up to the pearl of your clit, throbbing in anticipation. At the first touch, your breath catches on the edge of a jagged little moan. 

“So sensitive already?” Joel teases, and you see him shift in his seat at the same time that the rustle of his pants tells you he’s pulling them down. The thought of him needing to touch himself at the sight of your messy cunt makes a pang of need course through your core. 

“Let me see it, baby,” you whisper hoarsely towards the phone, desperate to see the physical proof of his desire for you, for the sight of Frankie’s desire for you. The frame jostles a bit as Joel sets his phone up on the phone stand you have in your bedroom for times like these. It’s not the first time you have had video sex while apart and it certainly won’t be the last. 

And as Joel walks backwards toward the bed again and into frame, you barely stifle a gasp.

His cock is an absolute marvel, still is after a decade of being together. Thick, long, and uncut, the sight of him always makes your mouth water and your pussy slick. Joel sits on the edge of the bed, stroking his length languidly, the gleaming cockhead a flushed pink, disappearing and reappearing from under his foreskin. His gray, worn sweatpants are pulled just under his ass. Heavy, sizable balls drape over the waistband. You’ll never get tired of the sight.

“See somethin’ y’like, angel?”’Joel teases, his Texas twang always thicker when he’s aroused. His thick thighs are spread wide as he sits on the bed.

“Yes… everything,” you breathe, starting to rub your pussy again. 

“Nuh-uh,” Joel tuts, and your fingers immediately stop. “I didn’t tell you that you could touch yourself. Let’s wait until Frankie can join us to have fun.” Your body flushes with more arousal; Joel’s never asked to include Frankie before. But then again, you’d never asked if he wanted to.

As if on cue, the bathroom door squeaks open and Frankie appears, freshly showered, dark curls dripping a bit onto his broad, golden shoulders. A white towel is wrapped around his narrow waist, and he takes a moment to assess what he’s walked into.

“Babygirl, are you getting started without me?” Frankie purrs as he strides towards you, then pauses when he realizes your phone is on the stand and positioned right at your dripping cunt.

“Hey, Frankie,” Joel’s voice floats warmly into the room. “I figured you’d want to watch our girl play with herself, so I made her wait.”

Our girl.

You shiver in arousal — and something else — at the moniker. Your eyes flick to Frankie, a smirk beginning to grace his lips but a bit of hesitation in his eyes. This was all new to him, too.

Frankie moves towards the armchair situated in the corner of the room, behind where you had your phone set up. He was already adjusting himself, clearly aroused, which you took as a good sign.

“Frankie, are you okay with this?” you inquire, trying to gauge his consent to what was unfolding. “If not, I can —“

“Yes,” Frankie grits out hoarsely. “I want to watch you with Joel.” His tone sets off another wave of pleasure through your nerves.

Joel chuckles, his voice smooth and deep as whiskey. “Well, darlin’, give us a show. Go on ‘n pet that pretty lil’ pussy for us.” Planting your heels on the bed, you use your fingers to spread yourself open as another trickle of Frankie’s previous release leaks its way out of you. Both men groan at the sight. Scooping it up, you glide your way up to your throbbing clit, starting to circle it just the way you like. A moan leaves your parted lips; you tilt your head back while you work yourself. Your other hand moves to pinch and thumb a nipple, drawing it into a tight bud.

“Mmm, good girl,” Joel praises you. His hand starts pumping his cock once again at the same time Frankie palms himself through the fluffy towel. Frankie’s eyes flick from you to the phone, still trying to feel out the dynamics of the three of you. But both men can’t keep their eyes away from your soft pussy and swollen clit, glazed in your arousal and Frankie’s cum. Holding both of them in rapture while seeking your own pleasure is a heady power trip that wraps its silken claws into your brain. 

You feel like a goddess.

“Joel,” you moan, writhing in pleasure on the bed, but not quite where you want to be. “I need more.”

“Tell me what you want, darlin’,” Joel croons through the phone, the soft fapping sound of him working his cock audible. 

“I want… more,” you whine, mind so hazy with pleasure that you can’t even articulate your desires. “Please.”

“Hmmm,” Joel responds, slowing down to consider his options. You look up in impatience just as a wicked smirk crosses his face.

That look always means trouble. 

“Y’told me how good Frankie is at goin’ down on you,” Joel continues, “so why don’t you let him show me?” You hear Frankie’s breath choke in his throat in surprise as a whimper escapes your lips at Joel’s words. Frankie’s eyes dart from yours to the phone and back. 

“Frankie?” you hear Joel say while your eyes remain on your boyfriend. “Would you be okay with that? Would you show me how hard you make our girl come with that tongue’a yours?” You let out a little moan at Joel’s filthy words, and Frankie groans involuntarily at the sight of another dribble of his cum escaping your pussy.

“Oh, baby, you’re still drippin’?” Joel coos at you. “Frankie must’a stuffed you so full’a his cum. Do you like eating yourself outta her sweet cunt, Frankie?”

In a flash, Frankie enters the frame as he spreads your legs further apart and wedges his shoulders between them, leaving enough space for Joel to watch the action behind him. “I fucking love it,” Frankie growls in response, immediately running his tongue in a broad stripe from the bottom of your slit to your clit, tasting himself and you as he swallows every drop of cum and slick you released. You throw your head back, keening.

“Damn,” you hear Joel choke out, his hand moving faster on his cock at the sight of Frankie diving headfirst into your cunt. Eager to prove his skills, Frankie works you up rapidly to your orgasm, your moans pitching higher and higher within a minute. He swirls his tongue over your clit, then slides two of his fingers inside to the last knuckle, aided by your copious slick and the remnants of his cum. Your back arches off the bed from the sensation as you cry out his name.

“Oh fuck, angel,” Joel grits out, his breath coming faster. “He eatin’ you good?”

“Yessss, Joel,” you whimper, your hand holding Frankie’s head firmly to your center. “I’m gonna fucking cum!”

Frankie moans encouragingly, reverberating across your cunt, and the tether inside your core snaps. You stutter out a groan, punctuated each time your pussy spasms with your release on Frankie’s fingers. The man between your thighs laps it all up, moaning in delight. He pulls back, kissing the inside of each thigh, and wipes the back of his hand across his mouth.

“Good fucking girl,” Joel purrs at you as you catch your breath. You hear a slightly pained groan, and look at the screen to see Joel gripping the base of his cock to stave off his orgasm. Hmm, that’s odd, you think. Joel usually comes when he’s decided he’s done making me come.

The realization hits you a split second before Joel’s deep, commanding voice spits out, “Again, Morales.”

Ohhhh, fuck.

You whip your head around when you hear Frankie suck in a breath as he stares at the phone, his chest heaving. Looking down, you see his cock achingly hard under his towel, his neck flushed with arousal. Frankie turns to you, his onyx eyes shimmering ferally. You know following orders gets him going, but you’re surprised that Joel clocked that about him instinctively.

In a split second, Frankie’s spread both of your legs again, pinning you open obscenely wide by your thighs. His tongue immediately begins to fuck into your pussy, the strong muscle prodding and curling just right. Your head slams into the soft mattress, a squeal leaving your lips at the sudden pleasure. With every thrust of his tongue, you feel Frankie grinding desperately into the bed, trying to stem the intense arousal building below his waist.

“Talk to me, darlin’,” Joel’s voice floats in your ear, pulling you out of the cloud of intense pleasure momentarily. “Tell me how good Frankie feels.”

“He’s so good,” you moan, alternating playing with your nipples and curling your fingers in the bedding. “His tongue feels so good in my pussy.”

“Is he as good as me?” Joel asks, his voice dropping an octave. There’s not a hint of jealousy, just charged curiosity.

“Yes, baby,” you coo, gasping as Frankie moves his tongue back to your clit and slides his fingers back into you, reaching that spot deep in you that makes your eyes roll back. “So good. Just… different.”

Joel lets out a quiet growl, his voice dripping with sex. “Good. Your pussy deserves the best.”

“Frankie,” Joel commands. Frankie lifts his head from your center, moving his thumb to replace his tongue on your clit, making your back arch again. “Have you made her squirt before?”

“Yeah,” Frankie breathes, looking back at you. “She’s so beautiful when she does it.”

“Good,” Joel rumbles. “Make her squirt for us.”

Frankie nods once, then pulls his fingers out slightly until he hits the spongy spot near the entrance of your pussy. He starts swirling the tips of his fingers against it, pressing his other hand down gently but firmly on your lower belly above your pubic bone, and then lowers his head to suck your clit back into his mouth. You keen, your body folding in on itself from the intense pleasure. Frankie moans into you, but you hear a growl rip from Joel’s throat.

“Don’t you dare hide that beautiful body,” Joel demands. “Lay back and spread your legs for us.”

You comply, barely able to shift yourself open again before Frankie starts intensifying his ministrations. You hear Joel’s slick fist jerking his cock again while he coos at you and praises you, telling you how good you’re being for him and Frankie, how pretty and strong you are.

“You can take it, angel,” Joel moans with the squelching of his cock in his hand acting as an obscene background track for your pleasure. “You’re close, aren’t ya?”

“Yes, Joel,” you whimper, your cunt making equally debauched sounds with every thrust of Frankie’s fingers. “I’m so close. Feels so fucking good.”

Frankie presses harder on your belly and sucks your clit more fervently, and your cries pitch higher. “Oh god, Frankie, you’re gonna make me come,” you whine, toes curling and thighs beginning to shake. A desperate moan from Frankie’s mouth is muffled by your cunt, making you cry out again.

“Let go for us, darlin’,” Joel grits out, his hand a blur on the screen as he approaches his orgasm as well. 

Frankie peels himself away from your drenched folds just long enough to command, “Come for us, now,” and then latches back onto your clit, sucking hard, and that’s the moment you break, nearly screaming. Frankie works you through the first wave of your orgasm with his mouth, then pulls back, slipping his fingers out of you as your release gushes out, spraying your belly, thighs, and Frankie’s torso. With every pump and slide out of your pussy, Frankie brings forth another spray of release, drenching your body and his. 

You’re barely aware of Joel’s groans of pleasure in the throes of your own, but when you come back down moments later, you can hear the edge of desperation in his sounds. You look over to the phone to see him with his teeth bared, the head of his cock an angry red, his fist slick with precum and spit. More pearly liquid slowly oozes from the slit at the top.

Joel is barely keeping it together.

“Joel, honey,” you moan, “I wanna see you come.”

Joel growls. “Francisco,” he grits out. Frankie, who’s looking at you in amazement and pride, snaps his head to the phone at the sound of his full name. You see his cock twitch under the towel.

“Get our girl messy, Francisco.”

A whimper worms its way out of your throat as Frankie whines. Unashamed and blind with arousal, he whips the towel off his waist and his cock bobs, hard and thick. You hear Joel’s breath hitch. I’ll tuck that reaction away for later, you think. 

Frankie kneels between the damp sheets under your thighs, spitting into his hand and fisting his cock hard and fast. His muscles flex with the intensity of feeling, breathing rapid. His grunts get louder and longer as he swiftly approaches his peak. You hear a long, low moan from the phone, Joel nearly delirious with how worked up he is over the scene playing out.

“Where?” Frankie moans, desperately trying to follow orders before he blows his load. Precum drips onto the sheets.

“Her tits,” Joel pants, “and her pussy. Paint her like a fucking picture, Frankie.”

“Oh fffuuuu—“ Frankie grits out just before he explodes, his release shooting out onto your nipples, the curves of your breasts, and then he’s aiming lower, coating your mound and pussy lips with his seed.

You’re dripping with yourself and Frankie, an absolutely debauched sight.

Suddenly you hear a shout from the phone, and turn just in time to see Joel shoot his load all over his chest, belly, and even some on his neck with how hard he’s coming. Every spurt paired with a moan; one of the prettiest sights you’ve ever seen in your life. 

For a moment all you hear is the shared heavy breathing of yourself, your boyfriend, and your husband, and then Frankie is kissing your forehead, your lips, and then working his way down your body. When he goes to lick off his cum from your tits to clean you up, you groan in protest.

“Too sensitive, baby,” you plead, and Frankie acquiesces, cooing at you. 

“You did so well for us, nenita,” he soothes, stroking your face and planting kisses across your eyelids. “You’re so beautiful. Let me rinse off and get you cleaned up, okay?” With your mind pleasantly fuzzy from what just transpired, you simply nod, and Frankie goes into the bathroom for supplies. You let your head roll to the side, and smile tiredly at Joel, who’s watching you with pride and love while he towels off his release from his body and hands.

“I would have licked up all that cum off you to save you from having to add another towel to the laundry,” you giggle, feeling your own juices and Frankie’s cum cooling on your torso. You run your fingers through the slick release Frankie left on your pussy, teasing your clit with the silky fluid. Your body shudders a bit with overstimulation, and Joel shakes his head.

“You just like makin’ a mess and then cleanin’ it up, you dirty girl,” he chuckles, watching you enjoy the tactile sensations.

“Stop pretending that you don’t like me like that, Joel,” you fire back with a smirk. “What is it you said exactly? Oh, right. ‘Get our girl messy, Francisco.’” You imitate Joel’s baritone, making him bark out a laugh. 

“Fine, I do love seeing you drippin’, darlin’,” Joel admits. “Whether it’s my cum or Frankie’s.” You bite your lip and giggle, basking in the glow of this new era of your relationship with Joel. You didn’t expect he’d be so enthusiastic to see you with Frankie.

The door pops open, Frankie emerging with a warm, damp washcloth for you. Although you reach for it, he tuts and gently pushes your hand away, insisting on wiping you down himself. He gently strokes the cloth across your skin, softly smiling and pressing kisses to your face and body as he does. Joel’s heart warms at the sight before him, seeing how well Frankie takes care of you.

Tossing the cloth back into the bathroom, Frankie gets up from the bed. “I’m going to get some water for us. Do you want cold water to help you cool down, or your usual water cocktail?” Frankie asks, always remembering your quirky penchant for filling your insulated water bottle first with hot water until halfway, and the rest with cold. 

“Water cocktail, please,” you giggle, snuggling further into the bedding.

Frankie grins, then lightly kisses your forehead, grabbing your water bottle off the bedside table in the process. He walks out, and you sigh contentedly.

“Wow, Frankie automatically includes Water Cocktail on his drink menu now, huh?” Joel chuckles.

You nod happily, grinning ear to ear. Laying your head on the pillow, you respond, “Yeah, he caught on fast. I think it was after the third week of seeing each other that he started asking if I wanted it instead of bringing me a glass of cold water. I didn’t even tell him explicitly, he just noticed me doing it.” You pause, brain pleasantly fuzzy in your post-orgasmic state. 

“I… I really like him, Joel,” you whisper, slowly fading as sleep creeps to you. You blink your eyes gently at Joel, who looks at you with the softest smile on his face, like you are the linchpin of his universe. 

“I know, darlin’,” Joel murmurs, his heart flipping in response. “I know.”

When Frankie re-enters the room with a glass of water and your water bottle, he notices how quiet it is. You lay burrowed under the covers, gently snoring, but he notices your phone is the only one on the video call anymore. His nerves zap a bit in concern, but then he replays the recent events back in his head. Joel seemed totally tolerant - nay, enthusiastic, to include Frankie into sex earlier. He doubts Joel left because he was upset; you probably fell asleep and he needed to go. Nonetheless, Frankie pics up your phone and exits the call, tapping around until he finds your message app.

Hey, that was really fun, he types out to Joel, a tiny flutter of nerves alight in his stomach. Excited to meet you tomorrow. Have a good rest of your night. – Frankie 

Staring at the words for a moment, he hits send before he can back out or second guess himself. Frankie then climbs into bed, wrapping himself around you before sleep claims him wholly.

a/n part 2: I hope you all enjoyed this chapter, and thank you for your patience! I had so much fun writing it and I’m proud to be able to share it with you. For those of you not familiar with Southern/Central CA, you can view photo references here: the Santa Cruz carousel, Hearst Castle, info on Ojai, and kayaking in Morro Bay.

Have thoughts/thots, feelings, SCREAMS, asks? My inbox is open! 💌

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[standingonmyjuicebox]

It all started with a Cab.

No, not a taxi. That's the wrong kind of cab. I'm talking about Cabernet Sauvignon. A Bordeaux grape that made it's way to America and is found to grow beautifully in California. Cab Sauv is the baby of Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc (both Bordeaux grapes). It's a big, bold, rich, fruity grape that offers high alcohol, high tannin and a full body. It pairs well with steak and also works as a cocktail wine. It's a great way to get into wine for beginners, and for more experience wine nerds it's a great varietal to collect and age. But I'm a little deep in the weeds. Let me slow it down...

Here's the quick story. I have been bartending since the day I turned 21. I had wanted to be a bartender since I was a kid and watched "Cocktail"...who didn't want to be Tom Cruise in that movie? Spinning bottles and making the girls smile and making a ton of money in the process. Who didn't want to move down to the islands and open a place called "Cocktails and Dreams"?

I worked at every bar I could. Dive bars, theater bars, restaurant bars, wine bars. I worked private events and catering events. Never did weddings. The opportunity just never arose. I also worked in a ton of restaurants and a server and a cook. I was a professional actor, which meant I was also a service industry professional. But it wouldn't become my career until around the year 2020. Some big cataclysmic event happened that sent my destiny in another direction. WINE!

But I think we need to start from the beginning.... Wine wasn't a big deal in my family. My aunt would drink Kendal Jackson, Turning Leaf, Franzia. And when I stole some I hated it. At the college parties when Boone's Farm and 2 Buck Chuck went around I understood it was swill and was only going to lead me to a severe hangover or upchucking and ruining the vibes.

When I started bartending, I was in this little dive bar in South Bend. My boss was an older woman who owned the place and I would pour her this awful white wine from a 1 liter bottle. That's all I really thought wine was. Just bitter grape juice with high ABV that I poured for people who had pour taste.

But there just had to be more to it! They wouldn't make movies like "Sideways" if wine wasn't a bigger deal. I had to keep exploring. I would go to the stores and try to find wine that I liked, but it felt like I reading another language. I mean...I was...but even the english words in wine culture seemed foreign and scary. I found a sweeter red wine that I managed to drink a couple bottles of, until I chugged one at a house party and turned the toilet bright purple. That was the end of that. I stuck with mixed drinks and beer for years after.

But then I moved to California and met a girl who would later become my wife. She grew up in a much different way than I did. She grew up in a well to do family, in California with a father who loved the wine world. My wife introduced me to wine by taking me to Temecula and Santa Barbara. I would go visit her parents with her and her dad would bring out bottles of California Cabs that were easy to drink. He wasn't looking to pair the bottle with food, it was a cocktail wine...and that's exactly what I was looking for.

I learned that I just needed to keep exploring the wine world. I still had no idea that I was going to dedicate my life to becoming a Somm. That wouldn't happen for another twelve to thirteen years. At this time I was just enjoying the fact that I was in California chasing my dreams and enjoying what I considered a sophisticated adult beverage. I was growing up and I was very proud to be around people who had more sophisticated pallets than I had.

As a budding sommelier, I don't drink as much California Cab as I used to. Southern Australia, Chile, Bordeaux, Washington state also offer some absolutely stunning expressions of Cab Sauv. But I still get together with my father-in-law and we pop open our favorite Paso Robles Cabs and share in the sense of nostalgia and comfort that these wines offer. He was truly the person who sent me on the path to love wine. He would deny this if you asked him, but it's true.

We went to Paso Robles and Santa Barbara multiple times. Each time I'd learn a little more. I'd watch some documentary, take James Suckling's Masterclass, read an issue of Wine Enthusiast. I was trying to understand this world. It would be a decade before I really got my sea legs and felt like I understood what the wine world was all about. (More on that later.)

I remember going to restaurants watching Bob pour over the wine book. I remember thinking, "Thank God he's doing this. I don't know what any of that means!" He was always trying to learn more about wine as well. The beauty of being a "professional wine guy" is that I am able to take us further down the rabbit hole than we thought we could go. The further down we go, the more fun it is. Having someone on the journey with you makes it all the more fun. My wife and mother-in-law enjoy the finer wines that come from it, though they seem to not be as excited about learning about malolactic fermentation and botrytis.

So, in closing, one question remains unanswered. What was the bottle that made me fall in love? What was that California Cab? It wasn't just one bottle. It was Soul Of A Lion from Dauo. I remember being up on Daou mountain, a light breeze blowing and the sun shining. A glass of the most beautiful Cabernet I had ever tasting resting in my hand standing with my future wife and father-in-law looking over the vines. "This feels like heaven."

Daniel Daou, founder of Daou, aimed to make the best Cabernet Sauvignon possible. He knew that he needed to find a place with the Calcareous Clay soils like Bordeaux. He found them in Paso Robles, CA where he became one of the first wine makers to bring and Cabernet Sauvignon clones. The result speaks for itself. If you ever get a chance to get a bottle, I recommend it. The feeling of that first sip is something I continue to chase. That chase used to be a hobby, but now it's my profession.

[brookston]

Holidays 8.22

Holidays

America’s Cup Day

Baltic Unity Day (Latvia)

Be An Angel Day

Chuck Brown Day

Dia do Folclore (Folklore Day; Brazil)

Exercise Day

Feast of the Queenship of Mary

Flag Day (Russia)

Folklore Day (Brazil)

Fortuna Asteroid Day

International Apostasy Day

International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief (UN)

International Museum Meme Day

International Tongue Twister Day

Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance Day (Ukraine)

Liquid Soap Day

Loch Ness Monster Day

Madras Day (India)

Miriam Asteroid Day

National Firefighters Day (Mexico)

National Pamela Day

National Punctuation Day

National Rainbow Baby Day

National Surgical Oncologist Day

National Tooth Fairy Day (also 2.28)

Never Bean Better Day

Pocketphone Day

Rumpleskunkskin’s Wedding (Goblin celebration)

Salmon Day (French Republic)

Southern Hemisphere Hoodie-Hoo Day

Take Your Cat to the Vet Day

Timothy Herb Day

Tunamint (Natural Chimneys, Virginia)

World Folklore Day

World Rainbow Baby Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Burgers to Beat MS Day (Canada)

Eat a Peach Day

National Bao Day

National Pecan Torte Day

World Jollof Rice Day

World Plant Milk Day

Independence & Related Days

Arstotzkan Union (Declared, 2019) [unrecognized]

Korea (Annexed by Japan; 1910)

New Mexico (Annexed by US; 1846)

Sierra Leone (Founded as Slave Asylum; UK; 1788)

Wakamawabla (Declared, 2016) [unrecognized]

4th Thursday in August

California Public Radio Day (California) [4th Thursday]

National Bra Fitting Day [4th Thursday]

National Burger Day (a.k.a. Mr. Hyde National Burger Day; UK) [Thursday before August bank holiday]

Thinking Thursday [4th Thursday of Each Month]

Thirsty Thursday [Every Thursday]

Three for Thursday [Every Thursday]

Thrift Store Thursday [Every Thursday]

Throwback Thursday [Every Thursday]

Thuringer Thursday [4th Thursday of Each Month]

Festivals Beginning August 22, 2024

Acton Fair (Acton, Maine) [thru 8.25]

Brewed In Minnesota Exhibit (Minnesota State Fair, Minnesota) [thru 9.2]

Buttermilk Days Festival (Bardstown, Kentucky) [thru 8.24]

Evergreen State Fair (Monroe, Washington) [thru 9.2]

Fan Expo Canada (Toronto, Ontario) [thru 8.25]

Gillespie County Fair (Fredericksburg, Texas) [thru 8.25]

Gueydan Duck Festival (Gueydan, Louisiana) [thru 8.25]

Loyal CornFest (Loyal, Wisconsin) [thru 8.25]

Maryland State Fair (Timonium, Maryland) [thru 9.8]

Minnesota State Fair (Falcon Heights, Minnesota) [thru 9.2]

Piscataquis Valley Fair (Dover-Foxcroft, Maine) [thru 8.25]

Swiss Wine Festival (Vevay, Indiana) [thru 8.25]

A Taste of New England (Stowe, Vermont) [thru 8.25]

Taste of Tennis (New York, New York)

Winterville Watermelon Festival (Winterville, North Carolina) [thru 8.25]

Feast Days

Andrew of Fiesole (Christian; Saint)

Annie Proulx (Writerism)

Archibald Willard (Artology)

Dorothy Parker (Writerism)

Fabrizio (Christian; Saint)

Feast of Hathor and Min (Ancient Egypt)

Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Roman Catholic)

Feast of the Queenship of Mary

George Herriman (Artology)

Guinefort (Christian; Saint)

Harrison (Positivist; Saint)

Hippolytus (Christian; Saint)

Ignatius Reilly Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Jacques Lipchitz (Artology)

Janmashtami (Festival celebrating birth of Krishna; India)

Kelly Freas (Artology)

Muin (Blackberry; Celtic Book of Days)

Nu Kea Day (Chinese Healing Goddess; Everyday Wicca)

Order of the Rosy Cross Foundation Day

Philibert (Christian; Saint)

Queenship of Mary (Christian; Saint)

Ray Bradbury (Writerism)

Roberto Aizenberg (Artology)

Rumpleskunkskin’s Wedding (Goblin Celebration; Shamanism)

Sigfrid (Christian; Saint)

Symphorian (Christian; Saint)

Tarantula Teasing Day (Pastafarian)

Timotheus (Christian; Saint)

Timothy, Hippolytus & Symphorian (Christian; Martyrs)

Virgo zodiac sign begins (Pagan)

The Weatherberries (Muppetism)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Premieres

Alice in the Big League (Disney Cartoon; 1927)

And Now For Something Completely Different (Film; 1972)

Another One Bites the Dust, by Queen (Song; 1980)

Bimbo’s Express (Betty Boop Cartoon; 1931)

Blitz Wolf (Tex Avery MGM Cartoon; 1942)

Bojack Horseman (Animated TV Series; 2014)

Bootle Beetle (Disney Cartoon; 1947)

Clown on the Farm (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1957)

The Cocktail Party, by T.S. Eliot (Play; 1949)

Dancing in the Streets, recorded by Martha and the Vandellas (Song; 1966)

Ghosts, by Henrik Ibsen (Play; 1883)

G.I. Jane (Film; 1997)

Hamlet 2 (Film; 2008)

High Plains Drifter (Film; 1973)

The House Bunny (Film; 2008)

The Ice Carnival (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1941)

If I Stay (Film; 2014)

Joy in the Morning, by P.G. Wodehouse (Novel; 1947) [Jeeves #8]

Jumpin’ at the Woodside, recorded by Count Basie (Song; 1938)

The Mild West (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1947)

Top-pop-a-da, Two Bass Hit and Ow!, recorded by Dizzy Gillespie (Song; 1947)

Plop Goes the Weasel (WB LT Cartoon; 1953)

Porky’s Poultry Plant (WB LT Cartoon; 1936)

The Saint, by Burt Barer (Film Novelization; 1997) [Saint #51]

Sin City: A Dame to Kill For (Film; 2014)

The Skeleton Dance (Silly Symphonies Disney Cartoon; 1929)

Stand By Me (Film; 1986)

Stormy Seas (Ub Iwerks MGM Cartoon; 1932)

Toby Tortoise Returns (Silly Symphonies Disney Cartoon; 1936)

Travelaffs (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1958)

Today’s Name Days

Regina, Siegfried (Austria)

Marija, Regina, Vladislava (Croatia)

Bohuslav (Czech Republic)

Symphorian (Denmark)

Iivo, Ivalo, Ivar, Ivari, Ivo (Estonia)

Iivari, Iivo (Finland)

Fabrice (France)

Maria Regina, Regina, Sigfried (Germany)

Menyhért, Mirjam (Hungary)

Fabrizio, Maria, Regina (Italy)

Nadīna, Rudīte (Latvia)

Ipolitas, Karijotas, Rimantė, Sigitas, Zygfridas (Lithuania)

Harriet, Harry (Norway)

Cezary, Dalegor, Fabrycjan, Fabrycy, Hipolit, Hipolita, Maria, Namysław, Oswald, Oswalda, Tymoteusz, Zygfryd (Poland)

Tichomír (Slovakia)

María, Timoteo (Spain)

Henrietta, Henrika (Sweden)

Florence, Florent (Ukraine)

Hayden, Hazel, Heath, Heather, Hector (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 235 of 2024; 131 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 4 of Week 34 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Coll (Hazel) [Day 20 of 28]

Chinese: Month 7 (Ren-Shen), Day 19 (Wu-Wu)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 18 Av 5784

Islamic: 16 Safar 1446

J Cal: 25 Purple; Foursday [25 of 30]

Julian: 9 August 2024

Moon: 88%: Waning Gibbous

Positivist: 10 Gutenberg (9th Month) [Harrison]

Runic Half Month: As (Gods) [Day 15 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 64 of 94)

Week: 3rd Full Week of August

Zodiac: Virgo (Day 1 of 32)

Calendar Changes

Virgo (The Virgin) begins [Zodiac Sign 6; thru 9.22]

[les-pompiers118]

Sleep, and call it dreaming

Buddie | 6x11 coda | 1000-ish words | not rated

content warning: PTSD and injury recovery

Companion piece to Weep, and call it singing. Title from "Call It Dreaming" by Iron & Wine.

Now posted to AO3 here.

On his first night home from the hospital, at approximately 2:00 AM, Buck is jolted from another attempt at falling asleep by the rumble of a truck below his windows.

It sounded like thunder.

He feels around in the dark for his phone, then squints against the brightness of the screen when he unlocks it. No storms anywhere in Southern California, according to his weather app. Frustrated, Buck kicks off the duvet and gets out of bed.

 Get ahold of yourself, Buckley. Everything’s fine. You’re fine.

It’s weird. He didn’t have trouble sleeping at the hospital after he came out of his coma. The hushed voices of the nurses in the hallway at night and the faint beeping noises from nearby rooms were kind of soothing. As eager as he was to be discharged and get the hell out of there, the hospital felt… safe.

Maybe it was a mistake not to let his parents stay here with him. Sure, it was nice—if a little surreal—to be fussed over at first. After a while, though, their presence felt overwhelming, much like the cloying scent of the half dozen floral arrangements on his dining table.

So Buck told everyone he’d be okay alone. He walked his parents and Maddie to the door and promised to text if he needed anything; he put all the flowers out on the balcony. Then he sat at his table to relish the silence, read the get well cards people had sent him, and soak up the familiarity of home without someone asking how he was feeling every five minutes. It was peaceful. Nice.

Until he tried to go to sleep.

Buck has to wonder: Is this how it’s going to be? Long days of no strenuous activity, followed by endless nights of jumping at every loud noise and worrying about his lungs seizing up again or slipping back into that strange, purgatory-like version of his life if he falls asleep? He’d already been lying in bed for hours when that damn truck hit a bump outside, and now here he is, shoving things around in his refrigerator trying to find some water.

There’s so much food in there, more than Buck can possibly eat by himself. Who’s been cooking for him, anyway? When his 118 family wasn’t camped out in the ICU waiting room, they must have been working and taking care of their own families. Their lives didn’t stop just because he got hurt.

At long last, Buck locates the pitcher behind a tall container of what looks like Bobby’s chili and pours himself a glass. It tastes stale, like it was sitting in the fridge the entire time he was in the hospital. With a weary grunt, Buck gets off the stool and goes to the sink to refill the pitcher with fresh water. It’s then that the watering can on the windowsill catches his eye.

Shit. His houseplants. It’s been almost two weeks.

A quick poke at the calathea above the sink surprises Buck. The soil is cool and damp around his finger. Walking through the dim apartment, he finds the other plants in the same condition, which means someone was watering them while he was in the hospital.

Maddie is the first person who comes to mind, since she brought all the flowers and cards over from the firehouse. But Buck knows for a fact that every plant in her house is fake. He teases her about it regularly—how can someone so good at taking care of people not trust herself with houseplants? If she wasn’t the one keeping Buck’s plants alive, it can only be one other person.

Eddie. Eddie looked after his apartment for him.

Buck sets the watering can on his coffee table and drops into the armchair. It’s just the kind of thing Eddie would do (and not mention doing), so Buck shouldn’t be surprised. His throat tightens anyway as he thinks about Eddie letting himself in, tending to the plants, taking out the garbage, maybe tidying up a bit. He was here, in Buck’s space, which is unbearably quiet and dark now.

Grimacing, Buck reaches up to turn on the floor lamp. His left shoulder is still a bit sore, reminding him (along with the tightness of the newly-healed skin on his palms) that he still has some recovering to do. The light doesn’t help. If anything, it makes the place feel emptier.

He wants to call Eddie, but it’s two in the morning. He wants to hear Eddie’s voice, even if it’s only for a few minutes. With all the visitors in his hospital room, they haven’t had a real conversation since the accident. Buck could ask to talk for a little while—about normal things, everyday boring stuff, like what’s been going on at work since he’s been gone, or anything that happened with Chris lately.

But it’s two in the morning.

Buck turns off the lamp. He wanders back to the kitchen, picks out an apple from one of the fruit baskets, then lets it slip from his fingers again. God, he’s so tired. Everything’s starting to blur around the edges of his vision, and his body feels like it’s full of sand. The only thing to do is haul himself back upstairs and try again.

Gripping the edge of the duvet, Buck pulls it over himself as he lies back on the pillows. Outside, a siren wails in the distance—a lone police car, off to some emergency while most of the city sleeps. Tries to sleep. Should be asleep, dammit.

2:57 AM. Before he can think about it, Buck finds himself unlocking the phone and opening his contacts. He curls onto his side as it rings, then rings again. Two tugs on a lifeline, asking to be pulled to safety.

“Buck?” Eddie says groggily. “Is something wrong? Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. Hey, did you water my plants for me?”

[lake-cuyamaca-hotel]

Romantic Getaways and Wellness Retreats in San Diego: Yoga, Spa, and Mountain View Hotels at Lake Cuyamaca

San Diego, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant city life, also offers serene escapes that are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. If you're looking for a romantic getaway or wellness retreat that combines yoga, spa treatments, and breathtaking mountain views, look no further than the tranquil settings of Lake Cuyamaca Lodge San Diego. Whether you're looking for a San Diego spiritual retreat center, a wellness hotel with mountain views in California, or a romantic couples getaway in San Diego, this destination promises to provide everything you need for the ultimate retreat experience.

Why Choose San Diego for Your Romantic or Wellness Retreat?

Spa Retreats in Southern California Escape to a peaceful oasis with the best spa retreats in Southern California. Our Lake Cuyamaca Lodge San Diego offers luxurious spa services designed to soothe and revitalize. Treat yourself to massages, facials, and body treatments that leave you feeling refreshed, balanced, and restored. Whether you’re seeking stress relief or relaxation, our wellness services are tailored to meet your needs.

Yoga Retreats in San Diego Looking for a Yoga retreat San Diego that rejuvenates your mind and body? San Diego's tranquil environments provide the perfect setting for yoga retreats, whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi. Practice yoga by the lake, surrounded by the stunning mountain views of the wellness hotels with mountain views in California. Let the calmness of nature enhance your practice, and feel the benefits of reconnecting with yourself.

Lake View Romantic Hotel California The Lake View Romantic Hotel California experience at Lake Cuyamaca Lodge San Diego offers an unforgettable setting for couples. Enjoy the stunning view of the lake and mountains from your private room, and let the serene surroundings set the tone for a memorable getaway. From intimate dinners by the water to private walks through the nature trails, this location provides the perfect romantic escape for you and your partner.

Wellness Spas in Southern California Experience the best of wellness spas in Southern California, with a focus on holistic healing and relaxation. Whether you're looking for a detoxifying treatment or a soothing massage, the spa services at Lake Cuyamaca Lodge are designed to help you feel rejuvenated. Indulge in wellness rituals that promote relaxation, vitality, and mental clarity, leaving you with a sense of inner peace.

San Diego Romantic Resorts For those seeking a romantic stay with luxury and tranquility, the San Diego romantic resorts around Lake Cuyamaca offer the perfect balance of privacy, comfort, and romance. Set amidst lush greenery and scenic mountain views, these resorts cater to couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Our San Diego romantic getaway packages are thoughtfully crafted to enhance your experience with activities such as wine tasting, candlelit dinners, and guided hikes through breathtaking landscapes.

Ideal Setting for Couples: Lake Cuyamaca Lodge San Diego

romantic couples getaway in San Diego Make your romantic couples getaway San Diego truly unforgettable with a stay at Lake Cuyamaca Lodge. From cozy cabins with panoramic lake views to couples' massages and intimate dinners, the lodge offers a romantic atmosphere perfect for making lasting memories with your partner. Explore the surrounding mountains together, or simply unwind in your private retreat.

San Diego Spiritual Retreat Center For those seeking a deeper connection with themselves or their partner, San Diego spiritual retreat centers like Lake Cuyamaca Lodge offer the perfect opportunity for spiritual healing and growth. Engage in guided meditations, reflection, and yoga classes designed to promote emotional and mental clarity. Let the natural beauty of the area help you rediscover balance and tranquility.

Wellness Hotels with Mountain Views California Stay in one of the wellness hotels with mountain views in California for an immersive retreat experience. Enjoy serene mountain landscapes, peaceful lakefront views, and fresh air while you participate in wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. Whether you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, the stunning environment will rejuvenate your body and mind.

Why Choose a Wellness Retreat at Lake Cuyamaca Lodge San Diego?

Peaceful Setting: Nestled by Lake Cuyamaca, this romantic retreat is far enough from the city to offer peace and privacy, yet close enough to enjoy San Diego's many attractions.

Tailored Getaway Packages: Whether you’re here for a spiritual retreat, romantic escape, or wellness journey, our San Diego romantic getaway packages can be customized to suit your preferences.

Health and Wellness Focus: From spa treatments to yoga classes and holistic healing, our focus on wellness ensures you leave feeling revitalized, balanced, and at peace.

Conclusion

Lake Cuyamaca Lodge San Diego offers the perfect blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and romance. Whether you're seeking spa retreats in Southern California, a romantic couples getaway in San Diego, or a wellness retreat with yoga and mountain views, this destination is the ideal place to unwind and reconnect. Enjoy our luxury accommodations, spa treatments, and serene natural beauty for an unforgettable experience. Book your stay today and embark on a journey of peace, relaxation, and romance in one of California's most tranquil settings.

[noah-blake-journey]

“Thinkin’ Bout Forever” By Noah Blake

A Reflection on Love, Loss, and the Eternal Echoes of the Heart

By Noah Blake

A soft breeze stirred the curtains. It felt like a whisper, or maybe a memory. Some nights were like this—a stillness so deafening, you could hear your own heartbeat, feel the quiet pulse of what could’ve been. That night, Noah sat by the window, staring at the city lights that seemed to flicker in rhythm with the storm brewing inside him. The world outside moved on, indifferent to his thoughts, his losses, his joys.

But Noah was stuck in the in-between—between the past and the present, between what he had and what he’d lost. Between what he said and what he left unsaid.

Part I: The Rain

A tornado flew around his room before it all fell apart. Not literally, of course. But the whirlwind of emotions, the endless what-ifs, the heavy silence of words never spoken—it was all there. It was in the photos still framed on the mantle, the scent of cologne still lingering on the sweater he couldn’t bear to throw away, the echoes of laughter that filled spaces now emptied of sound.

He remembered their first kiss. A kiss that tasted of nervous laughter, of wine that lingered on their lips, of promises that they weren’t yet brave enough to speak aloud. A kiss that said, I see you, even if the rest of the world doesn’t. A kiss that burned, not like fire but like the slow warmth of sunlight breaking through clouds on a cold morning.

But like rain in Southern California, love that strong isn’t supposed to last. Wasn’t supposed to come at all, some might say. Yet here it was, flooding his life before receding into the corners of his mind, leaving behind the debris of what used to be.

His family never understood that kind of love—the love that defied convention, that lingered on the edges of their understanding. The whispers, the doubts, the cautious glances—it was as if the love was too fragile to hold up against the weight of their expectations.

Part II: The Storm

But Noah held on. He held on to the moments that others forgot. The stolen glances across a crowded room. The late-night drives through the city, music pouring out of the car speakers as they both sang like no one could hear them. The nights spent wrapped in each other’s arms, talking about the future like it was something they could touch.

But futures don’t always come easy. Sometimes they come with storms.

He thought about the fights—small at first, like pebbles tossed into a still pond. A snide comment here, a misunderstanding there. Then bigger—boulders thrown with force, shattering the surface, leaving ripples that turned into waves.

“I can’t keep doing this,” they said one night.

And neither could Noah, though he couldn’t bring himself to say it. Because admitting that it was over felt like cutting a part of himself away. They walked out that night, leaving behind nothing but the sound of the door closing and the silence that followed.

Part III: The Light

Months passed. Seasons changed. And Noah, like the ocean, began to heal. Slowly. Painfully. He thought about love—not just their love, but all the love he’d known in his life. His grandmother’s love, steady and unyielding. The love of friends who became family, who saw him at his lowest and still stayed. The love of moments that asked nothing of him—sunsets, morning coffee, the way the world seemed to exhale in the rain.

He realized that love, in all its forms, was never meant to stay the same. It shifts. It grows. Sometimes it fades, but it leaves something behind. Even in the cracks of what’s broken, there’s a kind of beauty.

Noah smiled, not because he was over it, but because he’d learned to carry it. To carry the pain, the joy, the memories—not as a burden, but as part of who he was.

And in that moment, he knew: love isn’t about holding on forever. It’s about letting it shape you. It’s about letting it teach you what it means to feel. To hurt. To grow.

He picked up a pen and began to write, not about what he’d lost, but about what he’d gained.

Because even as love ends, it leaves behind something eternal.

“Thinkin Bout You” by Frank Ocean serves as a companion to this reflection. Ocean’s haunting melody, written with unmatched depth, carries the ebb and flow of longing, just as this piece attempts to capture the rhythm of love’s complexities. Homage to Frank Ocean, a storyteller of the soul.

#BlackVoices #ReflectionsByNoahBlake #SoulJourney

[zoeyrushed27]

Unwind in Style: Palm Springs Rentals with Hot Tubs and Fire Pits

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, Palm Springs is renowned for its desert beauty, mid-century modern architecture, and luxurious lifestyle. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a romantic escape, or a family retreat, Palm Springs offers an oasis of relaxation and adventure. One of the best ways to elevate your stay is by choosing a Palm Springs vacation rentals equipped with hot tubs and fire pits. These amenities transform an ordinary trip into an extraordinary experience, blending comfort, luxury, and the mesmerizing allure of the desert.

The Allure of Hot Tubs in the Desert

After a day spent exploring Palm Springs' natural wonders, such as Joshua Tree National Park or the Indian Canyons, nothing feels better than sinking into a bubbling hot tub under the desert sky. The warm water soothes tired muscles and provides a peaceful retreat, whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends.

What makes hot tubs in Palm Springs rentals particularly special is the setting. Imagine unwinding with panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. As the day transitions into a crisp desert evening, the hot tub becomes the perfect place to relax, sip a glass of wine, and gaze at the stars.

Cozy Evenings Around the FirePit

Fire pits are the ultimate gathering spots, adding a cozy and communal element to your Palm Springs escape. As temperatures drop in the evening, a fire pit provides warmth and ambiance, creating the ideal setting for intimate conversations or fun storytelling sessions.

Whether you're roasting marshmallows with family, catching up with friends, or simply savoring the quiet crackle of the fire, the experience is pure magic. Many Palm Springs rentals feature stylishly designed fire pit areas that blend modern elegance with natural elements, ensuring your outdoor experience is both comfortable and chic.

Rentals Designed for Relaxation and Style

Palm Springs rentals often go above and beyond when it comes to design and amenities. Many homes feature a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, allowing you to enjoy the desert's natural beauty without sacrificing luxury. Poolside patios, lush gardens, and spacious decks are common features, making these rentals perfect for lounging and entertaining.

Opting for a property with both a hot tub and a fire pit ensures that every moment of your stay is infused with relaxation and delight. Start your morning with a refreshing soak in the hot tub, spend the day exploring the city's iconic shops and restaurants, and wind down in the evening with cocktails around the fire.

Why Choose a Palm Springs Rental?

Hotels have their perks, but vacation rentals offer unmatched privacy, space, and personalization. With your own hot tub and fire pit, you don’t have to share these amenities with other guests, and you can enjoy them on your schedule. Plus, many rentals are pet-friendly, family-friendly, or tailored for couples seeking a romantic retreat.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Rental

When searching for your ideal Palm Springs rental, consider the following:

Location: Choose a home with views of the mountains or proximity to downtown Palm Springs for easy access to restaurants and attractions.

Amenities: In addition to hot tubs and fire pits, look for features like private pools, fully equipped kitchens, and outdoor dining areas.

Style: Palm Springs is famous for its mid-century modern design, but you’ll also find properties with bohemian, contemporary, or rustic vibes to suit your taste.

A trip to Palm Springs is all about indulging in the art of relaxation, and nothing enhances that experience quite like a rental with hot tubs and fire pits. These features combine luxury and comfort with the natural beauty of the desert, ensuring your stay is unforgettable. Whether you're soaking under the stars or sharing stories by the fire, Palm Springs provides the perfect backdrop for creating memories that will last a lifetime.

[quiet-mindretreat]

"Memorable Romantic Couples Getaway in Beautiful San Diego" Escape to paradise with our romantic couples getaway in San Diego. Indulge in luxurious accommodations, breathtaking ocean views, and intimate dining experiences. Explore the city's vibrant culture, from its stunning beaches to charming neighborhoods. Create lasting memories as you stroll through Balboa Park or enjoy a sunset cruise on the bay. Our curated getaway packages include spa treatments, wine tasting tours, and adventure activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience tailored to your desires. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, honeymoon, or just looking to reconnect, San Diego provides the perfect backdrop for romance. Experience love in the heart of Southern California with a getaway that speaks to your soul.

[rabbitcruiser]

Freemark Abbey Winery, St. Helena (No. 2)

In 1939, three businessmen from Southern California, Albert "Abbey" Ahern, Charles Freeman and Markquand Foster purchased Lombarda Cellars. Together they reopened the winery and renamed it Freemark Abbey (a combination which includes a portion of each partner's name). During the 1940s and 1950s the partners sold the majority of their wines to retail outlets in San Francisco. The winery went through several hands in the early 1960s before being purchased by a group of seven partners in 1966. After the purchase, the new owners made major improvements to the facility.[2] This core group owned the winery until 2001 when they sold it to The Legacy Estate Group. In March 2005 the Legacy Estate Group overreached and tried to consolidate Arrowood and Byron into one group. Eight months later, in November 2005, the Legacy Estate group went bankrupt and sold its assets in an auction. Freemark Abbey is now a part of Jackson Family Wines, which is owned by the family of the late Jess Jackson.

The winery won the New York Wine Tasting of 1973, a wine competition of 23 California, New York, and French Chardonnays. The blind tasting brought together 14 wine experts, including France's Alexis Lichine. Freemark Abbey Winery achieved international recognition when it achieved sixth place in the historic Judgment of Paris, placing ahead of two French and two other California wines.

Source: Wikipedia

[lakeedgerentals]

Exploring the Great Outdoors by Renting an RV in Winchester, CA

In the beautiful Riverside County, Winchester, CA is a great place to visit with its amazing scenery and lots of outdoor activities. If you want to explore this wonderful area, renting an RV in Winchester, CA is a fantastic way to travel. Whether you're going on a family trip, a short break, or an adventure on your own, renting an RV gives you the freedom to have incredible experiences.

The Benefits of RV Rental

Comfort and Convenience

One great thing about renting an RV is how comfy it is. It's like having a little home on wheels with a kitchen, bathroom, and cozy beds. It makes long trips much nicer because you can stop whenever you want and relax in your own space.

Cost-Effective Travel

Traveling in an RV can save you money compared to staying in hotels and eating out. You can cook your meals and share the costs with friends or family to make it even more affordable.

Explore Nature

Winchester is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with parks, lakes, and hiking trails waiting to be explored. Having an RV makes it convenient to access these outdoor attractions. You can enjoy a day of fishing at Lake Skinner or take a scenic hike through the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, both just a short drive from your RV campsite.

Choosing the Right RV Rental in Winchester

Rental Duration

Consider how long you’ll need the RV. Many rental companies offer discounts for longer stays, making extended trips more affordable.

Mileage Policies

Check the mileage policies of your chosen rental. Some companies offer unlimited mileage, while others may have restrictions, so it’s crucial to understand any potential additional costs.

Additional Fees

Always inquire about extra fees, such as cleaning costs or insurance. Being informed upfront helps you budget effectively for your trip.

Local Attractions to Explore

Once you’ve secured your RV rental in Winchester, the adventure awaits! Here are some local attractions worth visiting:

Lake Skinner Recreation Area

This picturesque lake is perfect for a day of fishing, hiking, or picnicking. Enjoy scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families and friends.

Temecula Wine Country

Just a short drive from Winchester, Temecula is famous for its wineries and beautiful vineyards. Enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and delicious dining options in a picturesque setting.

Old Town Temecula

Experience the charm of Old Town Temecula with its unique shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. Stroll through the historic streets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Tips for a Memorable RV Adventure

Plan Your Route: Use RV-friendly navigation tools to find the best routes and avoid low bridges or narrow roads.

Pack Smart: Bring essentials but keep it light. Outdoor gear, food supplies, and personal items should be prioritized

Familiarize Yourself with the RV: Take time to practice driving and handling your RV before embarking on your journey.

Stay Flexible: Embrace spontaneity! Some of the best experiences happen when you go off the beaten path.

Conclusion

Renting an RV in Winchester, CA opens up a world of adventure and exploration. With the freedom to travel at your own pace and the comfort of a home on wheels, you can discover the natural beauty of Southern California. Lake Edge Rentals is your top choice for RV rental in Winchester, CA. With our wide range of vehicles, competitive rates, and commitment to exceptional service, you are set for an unforgettable journey.

[winchesterhills]

Welcoming Atmosphere

Are you searching for pet-friendly studio apartments in Temecula Valley? Solana Winchester Hills has you covered with its welcoming atmosphere for both residents and their furry friends. This community offers a dedicated pet spa, perfect for pampering pets after a day of play. For outdoor adventures, the on-site dog park provides a safe space for pets to run and socialize with others. Families will also appreciate the tot lot, designed for children to enjoy safe and fun playtime. With studio, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom homes available, Solana Winchester Hills is ideal for those who want a comfortable living environment that accommodates pets and promotes a vibrant community lifestyle.

The Geography of Temecula, California

Temecula, California, is located in Southern California, between Los Angeles and San Diego. It sits in a valley surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, giving the area scenic views. The city is known for its rolling vineyards and wide-open spaces, especially in the Temecula Valley Wine Country. The Santa Ana Mountains are to the west, and the Palomar Mountain Range is to the southeast. Temecula is also close to the Pacific Ocean, so it enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate. The Temecula Creek and Murrieta Creek run through the area, which sometimes flow into the Santa Margarita River. This unique geography makes Temecula a great spot for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and wine tasting.

Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula, CA

Wilson Creek Winery is one of the most popular wineries in Temecula Valley, known for its beautiful setting and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a family-owned winery that offers a wide range of wines, including its famous almond champagne, which many visitors love. The winery has a large tasting room where guests can try different wines, and the outdoor area is perfect for picnics and relaxing with friends and family. There’s also a restaurant on-site that serves delicious food to pair with their wines. Wilson Creek is a favorite spot for weddings, events, and live music. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, Wilson Creek Winery offers a warm and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Chaparral Dominates Temecula Valley, Keeping Perfect Football Season Alive

High school football is popular because it brings communities together, gives students a chance to showcase their skills, and creates a sense of pride and excitement. People love cheering for their local teams, and Friday night games are often big events where families and friends gather. In Temecula, Chaparral High School’s football team is said to be dominating this season, keeping their perfect record alive. The team is playing well, working hard, and staying undefeated, which has made them a top contender in the area. Their success not only makes their school proud but also boosts school spirit and excitement throughout the community. High school football is more than just a game; it’s about teamwork, dedication, and local pride.

Link to maps

Wilson Creek Winery 35960 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591, United States Continue to Rancho California Rd 21 sec (289 ft) Continue on Rancho California Rd to Temecula 17 min (9.1 mi) Continue on Ynez Rd. Drive to Temecula Center Dr 4 min (1.4 mi) Solana Winchester Hills 41100 Temecula Center Dr, Temecula, CA 92591, United States

[trinitydigest]

Temecula Wine Tours Offers Custom Wine Tasting Experiences in Southern California

http://dlvr.it/TDP2GG

[thealphareporter]

Temecula Wine Tours Offers Custom Wine Tasting Experiences in Southern California

http://dlvr.it/TDNktX

[conversationpoint]

Temecula Wine Tours Offers Custom Wine Tasting Experiences in Southern California

http://dlvr.it/TDNkhf