It seemed like a natural extension of her passion. This mother of two and entrepreneur was already a wine expert (she's a Certified Specialist in Wine by the American Society of Wine Educators) so making the decision was relatively easy. The deal was sealed when she teamed up with friend and now partner Keryl Pesce to produce wine under their own label. We caught her just as the day was winding down in the beautiful Hudson Valley she calls home and uncorked a few questions for this Happy Bitch (hold your nasty comments until you've read the whole story...;-)
What are you doing these days?
That's a loaded question. On the personal side, my daughter is getting ready to graduate high school and I'm getting her ready to head off to college in the fall. Then I'll become an empty nester until both my kids graduate from college and decide to move back home. (I have a son who is a junior in college)
As you can see, I am passionate about wine and educating people on about it. I am so lucky to be following my passion. My days are filled with promoting and marketing Happy Bitch Wines and keeping my blog 'Hudson Valley Wine Goddess' current. My blog is geared to educate people on wine, more specific wine from the Hudson Valley wine region in New York where I live and grew up. My husband Paul will tell you I am always in my 'office' but at 5 o'clock it's Wine Time in my household! When I'm not working, I like to hike (ski in the winter,) cook, travel and go wine tasting.
Debbie Gioquindo with husband Paul and children Michael & Melanie
What did you have for dinner last night?
Last night, we made garlic scape pesto pizza on whole wheat dough with mustard greens and fresh mozzarella. What else can do I do with all these mustard greens I receive from the CSA. (Note: CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. You purchase a share in the farm and are rewarded with the bounty of the land.)
Name three things in your fridge.
Bok Choy, lettuce, Kohlrabi and white wine. Okay 4. The CSA is plentiful this spring, what can I say?
What are three songs you've been listening to on your iPod?
Lately on my iPod, I've been listening to books while I work out. I am currently reading or listening to The Judgment of Paris by George M Taber. Prior to that, I read Getting More by Stuart Diamond and E-Myth Revisited by Michael E Gerber. I know I'm boring. But when I'm not listening to books, it's usually 70s and 80s classic rock. If you find me jogging or walking down my street listening to tunes, please don't comment on my singing!
Where are you traveling to next?
I have a full August ahead. I begin with taking my daughter to St. Maartin as a graduation from high school gift. Afterwards, I'll head to The Finger Lakes to work at the NY Wine & Food Classic (a wine competition) and then it's off to Portland, OR for the Wine Bloggers Conference.
Favorite adult beverage.
Vodka and wine, but not together!
What time do you get up on a work day?
If I could go on less sleep, I would. I rise and shine at the un-Godly hour of 5:15 a.m. so I can fit the gym into my day. I get home around 7 a.m. from the gym, have breakfast, shower and then it's off to the races...I mean office.
What time do you go to bed during the week?
I'm not one to stay up late. I'm usually in bed by 10 p.m. I'm known for falling asleep at parties and even at a concert.
What are you reading now?
Unquenchable by Natalie MacLean
Lowe's or Home Depot.
Lowe's, for some reason, I feel it's more female friendly.
Last show you watched on TV.
Missing. I love the CIA spy shows My favorite was Missing with Ashley Judd (now cancelled). It only had eight episodes, but I really enjoyed them!
Coffee or Tea?
Gosh, this is tough. Got to have my coffee in the morning, but I love tea and ice tea the rest of the day. I like all my beverages, coffee, tea, ice tea unsweetened.
Last movie you saw in a real movie theater.
It's been so long that I can't remember.
What kind of car do you drive?
2008 Saab 9-3.
Last concert you attended.
REO Speedwagon but I'm going to see Ringo Star at Bethel Woods on Saturday. I'm a Beatles fan. I've seen Paul a couple of times and when I saw that Ringo was playing at Bethel Woods, I couldn't pass up the chance. Besides, Bethel Woods is a beautiful place to see a concert and it is the original site of 1969 Woodstock.
Last store you were in.
Mandee's trying to find some clothes for my upcoming trips.
What's the one electronic gadget you could not live without?
My blow dryer. I am one of those people who have naturally curly hair that just goes all over. I need that blow dryer to keep it straight and in line. However, humidity and rain do play a role in the outcome!
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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