Given that my excuse for not posting more frequently prior to July was that I was preparing for the WSET DWS Unit 3 exam and the presentation on Long Island wines that I made at the Society of Wine Educators’ conference, what is my excuse now that both events are behind me?

Well, I’ve actually been busier than expected throughout July and now into August. I am slowly studying for the Unit 6 exam on Fortified wines, so that is keeping me a bit diverted. Also, I am working on the two remaining papers that I have for the Diploma. Both the exam and paper due date are in mid-November. I also hope to take the CWE exam around that time. I think the date is November 9 in Boston. These passive academic pursuits are filling up a lot of time as has a tax audit (but that’s a whole other story).

I am also focused on developing our business (Grand Cru Classes) through the creation of new or improved course materials, expanding to provide staff training and designing promotional materials.  There always seems to be something to do with regard to sheparding GCC or keeping my skills sharp and my knowledge current. To that end, I will participate in the International Bordeaux Educator Program later this month.

All of these activities should keep me quite occupied through the Fall. No wonder I am looking forward to the cruise we booked for January!