So long, 2014!

We have definitely had our share of ups and downs this year. However I will focus on the positive, Ecuador was amazing, we visited new cities such as Albuquerque, Louisville and Portland. We spent a lot of time with family, including celebrating a wedding in San Francisco and welcoming my niece into the world. Before ushering in the new year, let's look back at 2014.

As usual, we traveled as much as possible and enjoyed yummy eats and drinks along the way. We've had great new experiences and revisited old favorites.

LOCAL EATS



Best new eats - David Clawson

They do a few things, and they do them extremely well.



Late to the party - EAT

Those sandwiches are a thing of beauty.



Reliable - Pizza Rock

Meatballs are a must and the Calzone? Yum.



Favorite - Sage

Yet again, Sage is stellar.



Greatest find - Mariscos Playa Escondida

We cannot stay away. Everything. Everything has been fantastic.



Most welcomed - Buddha Belly Deli

Asian Fusion without any fuss.



Biggest surprise - Giada

I didn't think it was possible for this restaurant to live up to the hype, but then I tasted the food. Color me impressed.



Greatest Splurge - Joel Robouchon

We had two fabulous dining experiences here this year. Never dreamed that to be the case, I guess dreams do come true.



RIP - Osteria del Circo

One of my first loves. Circo will be missed.



TRAVELS



Life changing - Hornado

Roadside roasted pig! The tastiest treat in Ecuador.



Best eats - Tasty n Alder; Portland, OR

I'm still thinking about their fish tacos.



Most disappointing - SLS Las Vegas

I wanted to love it, but I didn't.



Most relaxing - Hosteria Mandala; Puerto Lopez, Ecuador

This oasis was a great place to waste away days laying in the hammock and sipping on cervezas.



Biggest regret - Not going with Frank to Denver.

It seems like a fantastic city that I would enjoy.



Hope to do more - Off-roading

I only went off-roading a few times this year. I haven't been in the RZR since May :(



ENTERTAINMENT

Best Album - Sonic Highways, Foo Fighters. Beautifully assembled, loved the history lesson provided by the concurrent TV Series documentary.

Best Song - Thinking Out Loud, Ed Sheeran.

Best TV Show - Fargo

Best Concert - SOJA

Best Movie - St. Vincent

With that, I wish you the best of everything and may the new year bring you the greatest joys.