Last Sunday’s day-trip had terrific, clear weather and the theme of the day was organic and sustainable, even though we had to drive in a car to get there. We were off to have some fun. First needing to eat, the choice this time was Barndiva Restaurant. The space of this restaurant is very intriguing because of the care with craftsmanship and the sparks of art. We have only been here early in the day, but it seems like light must have been part of the architect’s plan. Do architects know what the light is actually going to do before they build the building, or is it a surprise for them, too?
From the outside:
it seems very plain, but then you start looking at the details
This is one of my favorite rock walls of all time, with thyme and native grasses
Gottta admit, white roses at the base of the entrance sign are a nice touch:
Light is really a feature in this room, along with art and the sense that a craftsman has been there before you. Handmade vases with toyan and wild roses on each table
Glass to look through and reflections to see
the strange shapes are on window sills behind my head. They are being reflected in frosted glass panels in front of me. Behind the glass panels is faintly seen wine storage. A cool visual feast.
Glass sculptures which are light fixtures on window sills
The logo of the restaurant inlaid in wood on each corner of the table.
Wire sculpture
and food:The Reuben omelette bit the dust, but my heart was palpitating because of the handmade plates.
Then we walked up to the plaza of Healdsburg in order to stop in the fabric store (definitely not a version of Joann’s) and the bookstore (best selection of magazines ever.) The planners of this town were so smart to put a center park in the middle of it (and then to preserve it for more than 100 years). Then drove toward Geyserville to Quivira which has developed a garden to supply restaurants around Healdsburg with organic produce..
We had to check up on their chickens, raised beds, water features, and garden art.
Some people may look at this chicken as a dinner or an egg producer, I want to make it into a fabric design, hmmm…
Some are required to work when they go on day trips. Don’t cha know the jacket would definitely not be touched. This lovely pet did a regal job of protection. Terry picked up some Steelhead Red, a zin, from this winery. It is named for the restoration of their creek. So a toast to the fishes!
Then on to the best winery ever, Preston of Dry Creek. Organic wine, farm stand, olive oil, fresh-bakesd bread, olives, and nice people;
Sundays you can pick up some Guadagni jug wine.
Some who work, must rest during the day, since their organic rodent abatement lasts all night.An image, through the olive trees out to the grape vines at Preston. And it was a lovely day…one last picture inside the restaurant: