Sonoma Patch's Guide to Kickstart Your Day: Dec. 24

You've wrapped the last gift, the house is decorated and Christmas anticipation is building. What to do next? Here are some tension-easing suggestions.

--With a break in the weather, take the family to Quarryhill Botanical Gardens. Explore their 25  acres of  Asian woodland, rare plants, and spectacular Sonoma vistas. Even in the winter, the gardens offer beauty. No reservations needed for a self-directed tour. Hours are 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., entrance closes at 3 p.m. Admission is $10; no charge for children under 18.  Download a map at http://www.quarryhillbg.org/visitor.html

--Go to the (across from the Depot Hotel) to pick up greens for salad, get knives sharpened, and wish your favorite vendors a happy holiday! 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

-- Become a by purchasing one or more children's books at Reader's bookstore, then donating it back for a child. "Stars" are eligible for the January's gift-certificate drawing.  Reader's closes at 6 p.m. this Christmas Eve.

--Attend a Christmas Eve church service. To see a service with live nativity scenes,  visit (16290 Arnold Drive.) Live nativity services  will be conducted at 4 and at 5:30 p.m.  www.andrewpres.org.

--If you plan to eat out on Christmas Eve be sure to make reservations to assure a relaxed meal at  the the restaurant of your choice.

* On Christmas Eve, the (241 First Street West) celebrates Tuscan style with a traditional fish dish. Reserve by calling: 938-2980.

* Christmas Eve dinner at , 4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., 29 East MacArthur St. 707-933-3191

* Caneros Bistro & Wine Bar,  1325 Broadway, , 931-2042

* 405 First Street West, 996-3030

*, regular menu plus Chef Carlo's "Christmas Eve Special," 165 West Napa St., 938-9430

* Big 3, , 100 Boyes Blvd., 938-9000

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