Sacramentoandbeyond

In Search of Treasure

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 23:20:00 +0000

I went to visit my folks last weekend, in Pine Grove and we spent Saturday in search of treasure – in other words, looking for garage sales, church bazaars and anything else that might hold unsuspected riches.

So, we hit a “barn sale”, which was really in a former workshop for making headstones, barely held together with weathered old boards, and festooned with rusty chains and pulleys. It was quite a place to look for buried treasure – pun intended.

We took away a couple of items – my cherished piece was a 1980’s embroidered jacket that will become a pillow.

Driving around the hill country, we hit a church bazaar where my Pop picked up a gingerbread cake and I found a bag of ceramic tiles for a mosaic project I’ve wanted to do.

Mom and I both went a bit nuts when her diligence in digging through the PennySaver and figuring out how to get through netted us the “Treasure Trove.” This was technically a garage sale, but really much more the ladies who put together the event, had created little vignettes and packaged recycled items into gift packages that were different and very reasonably priced.

I found several items, including a piece of folk art that now hangs on my RV’s bedroom wall. (You realize the word bedroom is stretching it a bit?)

MY FOLK ART FIND
We spent about four hours traversing the great Gold Country in search of our brand of bullion. I highly recommend this type of activity for relaxation, and even financial reward. You never know when you might stumble about the next great find, that’s been buried beneath the accumulations of others for years. The real fun is in the search anyway!

A Trip Back in Time - Midway Antique Mall

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 19:42:00 +0000

Last weekend, I visited the Midway Antique Mall at 5130 Madison Avenue for the fourth time. My folks have a booth and a couple of glass cases at this truly fabulous establishment.

MY DAD CHECKING OUT MY MOTHER'S BOOTH

Over the years, I have been inside plenty of these antique super stores, where dealers take small spaces and fill them with every kind of oldie-but-goodie imaginable. Normally, this means wandering through cramped quarters, and being somewhat overwhelmed by the clutter. Where Midway takes a step away from the others I've been to, is the way the owners have managed to lay out the place, giving it a spacious feel.

The location is an old Ethan Allen store, so it automatically has a retail feel, rather than the usual barn-like quality, and several areas for small vignettes. Additionally, it's got a terrific entry area and red-vested attendants throughout the store. The Red Vests are dealers in the shop, who take turns manning the place, so there are always experts on hand and plenty of assistance getting into the various cases to oogle the goods.

WELCOME TO MIDWAY

My favorite thing about this stroll back in time is the "Fabulous 50's" area. There you will find rooms fully decorated to reflect this glitzy era. When I was there last, there was THE most amazing Parisian orange and yellow dining set, in incredible condition. If only I had a place to put it!

WIDE VARIETY OF THINGS EVERYWHERE YOU TURN

The 50'S area is in the very back, a more open air area, so be sure to head all the way the rear of the store before you go.

Their website www.midwayantiguemall.net says they are open everyday from 10 a.m to 6 p.m. and lists their phone number - (916) 779-6252. But if you're looking to see what all they have, hop in your car and head towards the 80 and Madison exit - you won't regret the drive.

Davis Daytrip

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 20:05:00 +0000

Last weekend, I ventured to Davis, something I'd been planning to do for several weeks. I finally made it and I was thrilled with the result. Davis has lots to offer and I plan on going back soon.

I started at the Farmer's Market, which is really much more than a market for farmers. It's more of a bazaar, with offerings from exquisite pastries to handmade products of all kinds - clothing, jewelry, handbags, soaps and more. Under the permanent canopy, is mostly the farm products, with a few stalls to stave off urgent hunger pains, which I suffered until I gave into a magnificent cinnamon crisp and a perfect cup of coffee. The booth, which I neglected to record the name of, cannot be missed - it's large and the smells wafting your way will give it away. And if you have any question as to whether you're at the correct booth, the spinach and feta scones will reassure you. I plan on trying one of those next time.

A YOUNG CUSTOMER AT SALLY'S BOOTH

As I wandered down the promenade in the center, eventually it gave way to uncovered booths, where most of the handmade products were being offered as well as causes. I'm always thrilled to happen upon artists' goods and that's what I found at Sally Parker's booth in her "Tiny Worlds Jewelry." It was fanciful and I delighted in her pieces, where the fact that she's also a storyteller was evident. I could not resist a charm that reminded me of a character I'm currently writing about and a pair of fun earrings.

Further down, I happened upon a gentleman named Tom, manning a custom t-shirt booth, with sayings I loved, being a grandmother now. My favorite "I eat my vegetables" will be a Christmas present for my grandson, when I venture back to Davis again. To view their "green" products, visit their website at ninaandtom.com.

TOM OF THE TSHIRTS

If you have little ones, allot some time for the old-fashioned merry-go-round and two playgrounds nearby.

After the Farmer's Market, I headed to the U.C. Davis Arboretum, which you'll find if you take the U.C. Davis loop. On weekends parking is free, and it's open 24 hours a day. I was genuinely thrilled to find the Redwood Grove, as I absolutely love the smell and feeling of shelter in a forest. Next time to Davis, I will pack a picnic lunch and spend a few hours pondering - one of my favorite activities.

There much more in Davis to keep you occupied for the day. Walking around the downtown area nets you quirky shops, a red double-decker bus and fabulous dining choices. The day I was there was also filled with music and gatherings at the fraternity and sorority houses and a couple of cause-driven happenings.

Happily, my drive to Davis took less time that my daily commute home. Visit Davis on a day when you think you've played out the Sacramento area for things to do. You'll take home memories and the desire to drive the 30 odd miles again - soon.

A Little Chalk, A Lot of Fun

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:49:00 +0000

Last Saturday, I was killing some time in midtown Sacramento, waiting for a lunch appointment with my family members. So, I drove around a bit and happened upon Fremont Park, in the midst of a "Chalk It Up" event. The block-sized park, with trees hanging over the sidewalks that surround its edges and cuts through its center, was beginning to fill with kids and adults trying their hands at art on the pavement.

Those that weren't actively expressing themselves with chalk were walking around inspecting the progress of the others and enjoying the free music, vendors and beautiful weather. I didn't stay long, but I did buy a couple of things and take a few pictures.

I also talked to some of those drawing everything from dragons to a reproduction of Van Gogh's "Starry Starry Night." They were all very into what they were doing, concentrating heavily, even the kids, but having a wonderful time.

I think I might try it myself next year. What a great way to spend a day!

Comedy On A Budget

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:00:00 +0000

I love comedy clubs. Nothing makes me happier than an hour or two of belly laughs. That’s why I was thrilled to find a comedy spot – literally – that I could easily afford at eight dollars for admission.

Last Friday night, I ventured down to 17th and Broadway to find a little place called Sacramento Comedy Spot. I’m easily confused when I don’t know an area, so it took the help of a kind man and his Blackberry, because I forgot to bring the actual address me. It’s 1716 Broadway, by the way.

I got there at about 10:15 p.m. The show, called Comedy on a Couch, was due to start in fifteen minutes. I settled in and watched the crowd develop, mostly thirty-somethings.

Once inside, I was amazed at how much the producers had managed to cram into a tiny space. The stage was professionally done and there was seating for about 50. Two strategically-placed televisions were loaded and ready for what later turned out to be visual gags. In the back was a tiny snack bar with a friendly guy attending it. I grabbed a Diet Coke, a small tub of popcorn and a seat up front.

It turned out the seat was an unfortunate choice, for the club, not me. A video cam was rolling right behind my head and I’ve discovered since viewing the videos online that my head and clapping hands are woven throughout their onsite production. Sorry, guys! I had no idea.

Anyway, the show lasted an hour and a half and featured three young male comics, sitting together on a couch, hence the name, and alternating sets at the mike. If any of three were over thirty I would be surprised. They were young, very eclectic and often hilarious. They were also very obviously trying out their material on this audience, so their delivery was sometimes hesitant and searching. But that was actually part of the fun of the experience. I felt like I was in the role of encouraging a tentative talent.

Tall and thin with wild black hair, Brenden Lynch, was given to wry smiles and sudden punch lines that bowled you over. I have no idea whether Kellen Erskine was even married, but he had the look of a perplexed dad and gave up jokes as if he had to – just had to. The local comic, Ray Molino, with his taxi-cab cap and slow dry wit, literally twinkled when he pulled one over on the crowd. These three have a lot of talent and I would be looking forward to seeing them on late night someday, if only I owned a TV.

The master of ceremonies for the evening, John Ross, was no slouch himself. He moved easily from his own jokes to introducing each performer and gave cohesiveness to the whole show. Well done.

All in all, I couldn’t have spent a measly eight bucks in any better way. I’ll be back for the Improv Show one weekend in the future. I urge you to get out a support our local comedians.

For more information, log on to their website -

Farmer’s Market at Sunrise Mall – Who Knew?

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:41:00 +0000

Well, apparently a lot of people. Last Saturday was the second one in two weeks that I visited the surprisingly robust Farmer’s Market at Sunrise Mall, along with several hundred other people – just in the time frame I was there, about 20 minutes.

Both times, I treated myself to some garlic and cheese bread sticks from the Sacramento Baking Company, but last Saturday I added a loaf of the garlic-cheese bread so I’d have some throughout the week; really good stuff and at $3.75 for a very fresh loaf, a bargain and half.

Toss in a half dozen tomatoes, six or seven beautiful mottled plums I didn’t catch the name of, three white peaches, cucumbers (three for a dollar), red onions, yellow squash and red potatoes and I walked away with two paper bags of fresh groceries for under $20 and a great feeling about the area in which I live.

I haven’t incorporated this much wholesome food into my diet since I had a garden years ago.

The market is much more than fruits and vegetables though, with offerings from olive oils to entertainment to cheeses. Both weeks there were musicians playing, and this time I especially enjoyed a wonderful rendition of the Peter, Paul and Mary song “Where Have All The Flowers Gone?” You can stop and smell the roses – or should I say the flowers? There are a couple of vendors with a wide array of blossoms. Peruse the petals with a cup of java in one hand, if you want, because the coffee lady at one end offers Americano to lattes.

You can’t miss the marketplace. It’s located on the southeast side of the mall and from 8 a.m. to noon is intensely populated with white tent tops. There’s plenty of parking nearby, but it’s busy with children running around, so drive slowly and carefully. Be sure to bring your own bags to carry all your goodies.

See you Saturday!

The Valley of Awe – Yosemite

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:43:00 +0000

YOSEMITE FALLS

SAM AND TOM AT GLACIER POINT

Until last weekend, I hadn’t been to Yosemite since I was about 12, even though I’m a native Californian. At twelve, it’s all very pretty and grand, but - come on - at that age there was much more on my mind, like a cute redheaded boy.

This time I found myself in complete awe, turning around at every curve in the roads that wind through this magnificent park and emitting noises of joy or being stunned into silence. I took my two nephews, Tom and Samuel, with me and they seemed to appreciate their surroundings almost as much as I did. Perhaps they're more mature than I was at their age.

Yosemite National Park doesn’t require a lot of selling. Most people know it is a wondrous place. But there are a few tips travelers might appreciate.

1. The admission fee of $20 per car is good for seven days. The park is far too vast to take in during the course of one day, so plan for at least two, three if you can spare the time. I went for one day and barely scratched the surface.

2. Get there early. We arrived at 8 a.m. and were only 4 cars back from the front of the line. By about 10 a.m. the park began to fill up and cars lined many of the roadways.

3. Take time to ride the shuttle bus in Yosemite Valley. It’s about 45 minutes to go round to all the stops, but you’ll get a sense of where everything is and can hop off at any stop. A new shuttle will show up in about ten minutes.

4. I know nothing about the Tuolumne Meadows area, because we didn’t make it that far, but I do know you must not miss Glacier Point. It’s a long drive to the top – 32 miles – but well worth it. All along the way there are viewpoints, each more more spectacular than the next. However, once you look out over the insanely beautiful, almost surreal grandeur of Yosemite Valley, across at Half Dome and beyond, you’ll think the other views that went before so much smaller in scale.

5. Bring lots of water. Drinks are expensive at the stores and you’ll find yourself gulping down bottles at an alarming rate, between the walking and summer heat.

Every thing else you need to know is available online at the park’s website: http://www.nps.gov/yose/

Go, enjoy, take pictures and remember.

Way, Way Beyond Sacramento – Prescott, AZ

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:35:00 +0000

I know this is really stretching it, but I couldn’t resist doing a piece on my vacation destination of Prescott, Arizona.

Over the week following Memorial Day, my daughter and I ventured north from Phoenix to one of my favorite little towns, Prescott, about an hour and a half from Phoenix, depending on what part of town you start from and how fast you drive!

You start up Interstate 17 towards Sedona and Flagstaff, then head west on Highway 69, winding around through thoroughly desert terrain, until suddenly you head out of Prescott Valley and begin to enter a more alpine area.

Prescott was the first capital of Arizona, so it is rich in history, but what I find most intriguing is it’s curious mixture of old and new, alpine and desert with a touch of “red rock” thrown in. Within a five-mile radius, you can travel to several small lakes, stroll along quaint old town streets, visit a handful of museums and go to the mall.

The Sharlot Hall Museum, named after and founded by the territory’s very influential woman, is a nice diversion, and explores the pioneer area of Arizona. There are other choices, such as the Smoki Museum, but we didn’t have time for all that was available.

Several of the town’s streets are tree-lined and hold little architectural treasures of their own, with both tiny and palatial homes that step right out of the past.

The downtown is built around a square, with the county courthouse at its center, a relic itself, and provides a wonderful variety of dining choices and enough shops to keep a shopaholic busy for most of the day.

My very favorite spot, which I will return to whenever I visit in the future, is Lake Watson, an idyllic laying down of water amongst gorgeous, awe-inspiring juts and valleys of red rock. Just sitting on a bench and staring at the lake brought my blood pressure down a few notches, I’m sure.

So, if you pass that way, take a trip to Prescott. You’ll find yourself slowing down and relaxing, in spite of yourself.

Ironstone Vineyard In Delightful Murphys

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:38:00 +0000

Looking for a place to simply wander with your thoughts? Well, you can’t go wrong by taking a side trip to the Ironstone Vineyards, just outside the main section of the charming little burg of Murphys.

Ironstone offers beautifully landscaped grounds, with walkways to wander with lots of places to sit and contemplate. There are ponds and picnic areas, gardens and of course, vines to look out on.

The amphitheatre area is a lush green and hosts many top-flight entertainment acts. This summer Michael McDonald and Boz Scaggs, the Moody Blues, Alan Jackson, Dianna Krall, Chris Issak and Brian Setzer, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Crosby, Still & Nash will all take the stage on various weekends.

There’s also a restaurant, the Pit, just inside the beautifully appointed tasting room, which offers special Thursday dinners. Additionally, there are many events throughout the year at the vineyards, from car shows to barbeques, which you can check out on their website at www.IronstoneVineyards.com.

If you travel to the vineyard, be sure to stop in at the Heritage Museum to view the gold rush era artifacts and a huge nugget about the size of a dining room chair back. It’s actually a “crystalline gold specimen” that weighs 44 pounds and is the largest of it’s kind in the world. It’s rightfully called “The Crown Jewel.”

Ironstone Vineyards is located at 1894 Six Mile Road, Murphys, CA. For more information, you can visit the website or cal 209-728-1251.

I'm Back!

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:38:00 +0000

There have been a couple of inquiries lately as to when I planned on getting back to my blogs. Well, today’s the day! Although, I won’t post this until Monday, I’m sitting in Wanda, my RV, enjoying an absolutely beautiful Sunday. It can’t be more than 85 degrees, if that, at least here under the trees.

Having returned from vacation in Arizona three weeks ago, I’ve really appreciated the climate here. It was already 105 degrees in Phoenix on Memorial Day, but my daughter, whom I was visiting, and I did get away to Prescott where the temperatures were 25 degrees cooler, day and night.

I think it was the temperature changes that brought on the Mother-of-All-Colds. Yow! I was really miserable for two weeks solid.

That, however, has no relationship to why I’ve been away and frankly, I’m not really sure what the whole story is, because I truly love writing my blogs. Two things coincided – I finished the novel I’d been working on for three years and I started therapy. Did my brain just decide I was finished on one hand and occupy itself with figuring out the complex workings the Kathy-being on the other? Don’t really know, but I do know just typing this is relieving a certain stress and giving back to me what it always does – a sense of expression.

So, now it’s onward, as they say! Glad to be back and don’t be too surprised if you see a lot more action on my two-blog sites. A good friend suggested I market them a little more and I plan to do just that. So, hang on for what I hope will be a wild and happy ride!

Thanks for hanging in there with me, all you faithful and regular readers, who number over one hundred by the way!

In These Recessionary Times

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 15:32:00 +0000

This past weekend I had planned to go to an event at the Folsom Library. A former correctional officer has written a book about Folsom Prison and was there to promote his book, joined by a Johnny Cash tribute artist. It sounded interesting and best of all it was free.

Unfortunately, a family situation arose and I couldn’t attend, however I realized that it’s a natural reaction when we are low on cash (I’m saving up for a long awaited vacation) to feel deprived because we can’t do what we normally would – like take in a movie or go out to dinner.

Along comes the Free Stuff Genie. Seriously though, if you are struggling because of a job loss or reduction of circumstances of any kind, it is time to look around a bit for all of the things that can be enjoyed with little or no cost. The alternative is to sit in your house and watch endless hours of television and ultimately end up depressed. Come on, get up and explore.

Here are a few ideas:

• Libraries – have lots of free activities, like lectures, slide shows, and travel presentations. Stop in a pick up one of the numerous fliers at almost any library. For the kids there are always the storytelling hours.
• The American and Sacramento Rivers are accessible and free to those who would enjoy wiling away a few hours watching kayakers paddle by or perhaps, doing some fishing.
• For the kids, most malls have a separate play area – unless going to the mall without purchasing anything makes you feel deprived, in which case you should avoid this suggestion at all costs.
• The parks in the Sacramento area are amazing. Got some stale bread? Why not feed the ducks at McKinley Park?
• The walking trails in the Folsom area are very beautiful and created for everyone to enjoy. Come, park your car and stroll among the trees.
• Have a picnic anywhere. You have to eat don’t you? Well, pack it up and visit Capitol Mall, any park, Old Town – wherever there’s a picnic table or a patch of picnic-friendly grass.

When in doubt, Google “Things to Do in Sacramento.” You’ll probably find a list of things you’ve never, ever done.

Remember, just because it’s free doesn’t mean it’s boring. It can be the best time you’ve had in years.

Broadway Adventures

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 01:09:00 +0000

When the sun peeked out on Saturday, I couldn’t resist. I abandoned my computer and headed out for a drive. I really had no agenda, but I will admit to having an idea swirling around in my brain.

I listen to National Public Radio and a few days before they had a feature piece on an Ethiopian restaurant on Broadway – Queen Sheba. I’ve always wanted to try Ethiopian fare, but never had the opportunity at the right time. So, I headed for Broadway and 16th Street, knowing the restaurant was nearby.

I found Queen Sheba, one block down, at 1704 Broadway, easily located from its brightly painted exterior. It looked welcoming. As I was turning around to head back I spotted another ornate exterior - R5 Records - right on the SE corner of 16th and Broadway. I quickly pulled into the parking lot and took this picture.

MURAL by Shaun Turner

The easily identifiable musical greats like Jimi Hendrix and Nina Simone were wonderful. Finding it on a driveby - incredible. The other side of the building features a portrait of Billie Holliday. Worth stopping to look at and while you're there, check out the store. R5 has a great selection. I found myself stuck in the Jazz section where I found John Coltrane and Thelonius Monk CDs for great prices.

After wandering the aisles for a few minutes I headed back out to the parking lot and realized that one of my favorite destinations, a bookstore, was just across the asphalt. I stepped into The Avid Reader and found it to be a quiet, roomy place, in spite of being a fraction of the size of a Barnes and Noble. There weren't any trendy types there at the time, including myself, and I found that relaxing. There was a good selection for the real estate they occupied and they were right on the money with a display for Black History Month. It covered an interesting number of angles.

Back to my dining experience though. I expected the food to be a bit more exotic, but it really wasn't that different from what I would fix myself - if I had the time and/or inclination. I ordered the Chicken Tibbs, which were cubes of chicken breast cooked with mushrooms, cauliflower, broccoli and bell peppers in wonderfully tasty spices, including turmeric, which gave it a lovely bright yellow color. Along with the dish, I ordered the Ethiopian hot spiced tea. I believe I enjoyed this as much or perhaps even more than the food. It was really fragrant and lovely.

SARA in Queen Sheba

I spoke a bit with Sara - pronounced SAR-uh - who was pleased at the recognition the restaurant had received from NPR. She and my server, a pleasant young man whose name I forgot to get (unusual for me), were both solicitous a pleased that I enjoyed myself.

For more information, visit the restaurant's website - www.queenshebas.com. I highly recommend the experience.

Remember an adventure is always just around the corner.

Looking for Adventure? Try a Windstorm in an RV

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 15:49:00 +0000

It’s 3:45 a.m. on Sunday morning and for several hours I’ve been trying to ignore and sleep through a windstorm in Wanda, my RV.

Each time the wind whips through there is massive shaking accompanied by the rattle and flapping of her awning. If a gust is strong enough, it swoops under the cab-over portion as well and tries to lift it off the chassis.

Yes, it’s noisy, but even more impressive is the sense of doom you must live through until you finally understand that the whole kit and caboodle isn’t going flip over with you inside. Because, believe me, it feels like it.

I slept through some minor windy nights when I first moved back to California and was camping at Folsom Lake. It was my first time and then too I felt as if we would simply fall over. But during those nights, it didn’t take long for the winds to die down. Tonight, this has been going on since about 10 p.m.

I don’t hear the neighbor’s awning flapping so loudly and have gotten up, in part, to spy on hers through my kitchen window and see if it’s also threatening to rise with the next blow.

Here comes another one. No - her patio cover is actually more stable, perhaps because hers has poles that are anchored to the ground. Mine hangs from the top with supporters that angle back to Wanda’s base. Oh, well, makes for more drama our way.

Now that I’ve recorded the windiest night in Wanda’s and my history, I may be able to drift off again.

Sweet dreams. May you survive this night and go on to other adventures. I suspect I’m making this blessing for myself and not those of you who will safely read this in the morning.

The Village of the Chickens

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 21:22:00 +0000

Little Fair Oaks Village may not have intended it to be so, but the roosters and their hens rule the roost in the quaint little community oddly just east of Sunrise Boulevard and south of Winding Way in the midst of Sacramento suburbia. The roosters crow and strut, making a pleasant background and creating the illusion of stepping into a time long gone.

Saturday morning found me exploring this dreamy little hamlet and happy as a middle-level adventurer could be. Middle-level you ask? Yes, I find myself truly enjoying discoveries rather than exertions. I doubt I’ll ever be found on a rock face climbing to its peaks, but I do find escapades into unfamiliar territories exciting.

So, on instructions from my sister, who lives in Fair Oaks but not in the village area, I wandered around until I happened on the two-block Main Street, which is actually Fair Oaks Blvd. On my way out, I found an easy route; take California Avenue off of Sunrise just south of Winding Way. Just up and down a tiny hill, and you’ll find yourself smack in the middle of old Fair Oaks.

There are several places to eat, but I chose the Fair Oaks Coffee House & Deli, pictured here, and had an inexpensive breakfast sandwich and small coffee. I soaked up the atmosphere while I sipped my coffee and noted that interior chotchkes add interest and color. The service was extremely friendly – Michelle Sanford, who was working the counter, shared lots of information with me - and I enjoyed watching the locals wander in for what was obviously their regular fare. It was a bit too chilly to enjoy a table outside, but they are umbrella-ed for when the weather is more cooperative.

I wandered the sidewalks peering into windows and admiring the charm, when I stumbled upon what can only be called an “accessory shop” – The HART Collection. Inside, I found Carla Martin, who runs the place with her family that produces about half the jewelry to be found inside – and that’s no small amount.

An entire wall is dedicated to their creations and other pieces, from earrings to necklaces and even hair ornaments. There is another section devoted to the ladies of the Red Hat Society, larger and more diverse than I’ve ever run into before.

This little shop is a treasure; reasonable prices, a glorious selection of items ranging from hats to party purses to any kind of fun jewelry you can imagine.

If you are an antique aficionado or perhaps enjoy artistic quilts, you’re also in luck in Fair Oaks. Additionally, when it warms up, you may want to experience one of the performances at the Veterans Memorial Amphitheater, home of the Fair Oaks Theater Festival.

Old Fair Oaks is a walk back in time, but unlike some of the little town in the Gold Country, this feels more like the 1940s or 50s. I highly recommend setting aside a couple of hours to explore this tiny burg. I’ll be returning myself, as soon as I can, to further uncover the riches I missed this weekend.

City of Trees

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 15:29:00 +0000

One of Sacramento’s nicknames is City of Trees. During the spring and summer there is an overwhelming profusion of greenery, especially in the form of leafy trees. There are also pines, palms, cedars and the like. If you have been starved for trees, as I had when I arrived in Sacramento, it is a welcome and lovely sight.

It is easy, however, to become so used to seeing multiple trees in every yard, stands of them in all the parks and their treasured presence at the Capitol, that as a Sacramento resident one forgets how special this attribute can be.

A trip to downtown Sacramento in springtime may renew appreciation. In the fall a trip to the outer limits of this Capitol city can inspire one by offering a view of the turning of the leaves. It’s a shorter season here in California than some other places, but none the less colorful.

In the dead of winter still, I was urged by my inner artist to capture the beauty of a lone oak tree in the midst of a walk in my local park, the tiny Edgar H. Ahren Park on Manzanita.

There, among the scampering youngsters and basketball players, yet off to one side, stood this marvelous, craggy old oak tree. The park planners had established a ring of sidewalk around the thing, as if to say, “Look what we preserved!” And a good job they did.

My favorite sound in the world is the sound of wind rustling the trees, all types from oaks to pines. In Sacramento, there are many places to enjoy that sound, and in the winter there are still treasures to be found, like this grand aged oak tree.

Sacramento’s Home-Grown Art Museum – The Crocker

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 20:47:00 +0000

The biggest bargain in Sacramento may be the free Sunday outings offered by The Crocker Art Museum, every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The architecture is an amazing experience, both in and outside the Victorian Italianate gallery designed by Seth Babson and completed in 1872. This is only one of the many ornate and gracious staircases throughout the museum.

PORTRAIT OF MARY BLANCHE HUBBARD, 1889, BY MARY CURTIS RICHARDSON

From the luscious landscapes that fill the museum to the portraits, both old school and modern, there is much to look at in the Crocker. One of the best features, in my opinion, is the many varied types of seating available. I really like to simply sit and soak in the surroundings in an art museum.

PORTRAIT OF MY FATHER BY STEPHEN KALTENBACH

The permanent collection at the Crocker includes European, American and Asian art as well as California contemporary pieces. There is also a collection of Meissen porcelain.

Special exhibitions occur and change regularly. When I visited recently, “The Art of Warner Bros. Cartoons” was on display and a very popular exhibit.

If Sundays don’t work for you, there is a small admission price Monday-Saturday, of $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and $3 for students. The museum is located at Third and O Streets downtown. For more information, log on to www.crockerartmuseum.org.

A Change in Christmas Attitude

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:56:00 +0000

If I wasn’t already happy to be back in California, the holidays would have put me there.

First of all, I just have to take a short ride up to visit my folks to get a little of the snow show that’s not unusual in the Sacramento area. See the picture of Bebe, my Toyota Yaris, loving the clumps of snow leftover from the previous weekend in Pine Grove.

Then there’s the brisk feel of wintry air all around, something I had missed terribly during my encampment in Arizona. There is a stillness about things when the air gets cold. I really enjoy that sense of waiting for spring, but enjoying the moment. I’ve found myself sitting in my outdoor lounge chair with my feet propped up on the “visitor’s” chair watching the leaves fall and the squirrels chasing each other across the nearly bare branches of the oak tree across the street.

Tonight, I’m off to Oakdale (near Modesto) to spend Christmas Eve with my youngest sister and her family. My parents will be there, too. I haven’t been around for Christmas in years, so it will be very enjoyable for me, reconnecting with my family and memories of my youth.

I’m apart this year from my daughter, Vanessa and my son, Erik and his family. That’s very difficult for me, but we’ve made special arrangements so that we’ll spend some quality phone time together tomorrow.

I almost forgot! The Universe brought me a nice little Christmas present – winning $600 at Jackson Rancheria, the casino that’s between my folks and home.

To all of you, wherever your Christmas will be, I’m wishing you sweet moments with the ones you love.

Baby, It's Cold Outside...and Wet!

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:16:00 +0000

The past few weeks I’ve been caught up in a thousand Christmas chores (okay, maybe simply a hundred or so, but it has felt like a thousand) and the rewriting of the novel I hope will push me into the ranks of heralded and financially comfortable authors.

So, I have missed the pleasures of exploring the Sacramento area. There is so much more to see, experience and write about, so I plan to renew my forays into myriad adventures awaiting me in earnest after the New Year comes skipping over the horizon. In the meantime, I took a look around myself today and realized there is so much to enjoy in my own front yard.

It was raining today as I read in my cozy little nest of a bed in my RV, Wanda. I stopped for a few minutes as I heard the wind pick up a bit and glanced out the window. I found myself smiling as I watched a cascade of leaves being persuaded to leave a tree by the gusts. They came tumbling over each other by the tens, creating such a lovely sight of yellowed migration.

I marveled at those that remained on the stark branches, still clinging to their usefulness and life. It made me think of the human struggle to remain and survive, but I was also able to see the drifting beauty of those golden leaves that couldn’t hold on any longer, that simply let go and created a new carpet of intricate patterns on the earth below. There is an analogy here greater than any observer or writer’s ability to convey it.

The chill in the air hovers in the mid-forties most days lately. I love the brace of walking from a warm building into that biting cold and the instant alertness that goes with it; the realization that everything around me is a bit crisper than in the spring and summer. This feeling is something I sorely missed while I lived in Arizona.

Even the comfort of the indoors is amplified and distinctly more appreciable in this lovely climate.

The tinkling of rain on tin roofs is a sound I’ve always loved and here I get to experience that every time it so much as sprinkles when I’m in Wanda. The sound is slightly different but just as enjoyable.

In retrospect, perhaps my adventures have been more introspective of late, but in Sacramento all it takes is a cold, rainy day to feel as if you’re somewhere special.

Sophistication Hidden In A Grocery Center

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:58:00 +0000

THE COZY LITTLE BAR AT THE RAVINE

You wouldn’t normally find this kind of sophistication in culinary fare and atmosphere in a shopping center anchored by a grocery store, but welcome to The Ravine.

The bistro leans towards an updated version of décor you might have found in a restaurant/lounge frequented by Frank Sinatra. It has that “swingers” feel, with a dance floor and piano player who happily tinkled the ivories with tunes from the forties and fifties, like Blue Moon and Sentimental Journey, but accommodated younger patrons with more recent tunes as well.

The food choices were limited but varied with prices for entrees hovering in the $25 to $30 range. I had the pork tenderloin and added a salad. The flavors added to the pork, which was served in beautiful stuffed rounds, were both engaging and different. I was one of a party of fourteen and all seemed quite satisfied with their meal.

This isn’t a hurry-up-and-eat sort of place, so if you don’t have time for a leisurely dining experience, wait until you do.

The owners, Jonathan and Gita Rolls, have done a wonderful job of making the patrons feel important. Gita visited our table more than once, as it was my parents’ anniversary and she was determined to make it special.

The bar is very retro and hip, a great place to meet and sip martinis.

I would highly recommend The Ravine, especially to a couple looking for a quiet and elegant dining experience.

The Ravine is located at 25005 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 140, in Folsom. You can visit their website at www.theravinefolsom.com or call 916-983-5070 for reservations.

Artfully Yours - Sutter Creek

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 21:12:00 +0000

THE WINDOW BETWEEN GALLERY 10 AND SUSAN'S

A recent outing with family members took me to Sutter Creek, a community in the thick of history, smack in the middle of Gold Country. The wonderfully intact Main Street attracts tourists all year long for a trip back in time and also for its antique shops.

It had been years since I'd been to Sutter Creek and didn't realize the there's a thriving art scene there too. We stopped into a gallery and what I would call an "art shop."

Gallery 10 is located just off Main at 15 Eureka Street. Tucked into a two story ancient storefront, with a popular bistro "Susan's" next door, the works of art welcome you right through the plate glass windows, which on the side of the building give customers a cozy view into the patio courtyard of Susan's. Between the two hang strands of three-inch round glass balls, blown into being with diverse swirling colors.

The space is cut up into alcoves which feature different types of art, from paintings to sculpture to jewelry to pottery, ad infinitum. Turn a corner and you will walk into a new experience. However, the gallery is smallish, so don't move too quickly. You'll get through all of it and feel you've just experienced your own small renaissance.

Painting by Margaret Soegaard

Gallery 10 is open Thursday through Monday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you'd like to call ahead, here's their number 209-267-0203.

The Fine Eye Gallery at 71 Main Street feels more like a shop, but its art is no less spectacular, however in most cases more contemporary with enough practical and crafty objects to attract those that enjoy wearable or usable art.

The Fine Eye Gallery

This gallery is a delight to the senses and you may well find yourself turning around and gasping with surprise one minute then examining with deep concentration the next.

Fine Eye is open daily from 10:30 a.m to 5 p.m.

So, if you haven't already, think of Sutter Creek next time you're hankering for a little art pleasure.

Sunday Blues for Lunch and Dinner

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 23:55:00 +0000

SAUL KAYE

This weekend the Sacramento Blues Society hosted a competition for the band and solo/duo act that would represent Sacramento in Memphis. The event was held at the former Clarion Hotel at Auburn Boulevard and Fulton Avenue from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Although the old-timers didn’t just give it up, in my opinion the show was stolen by two young in differing categories.

Saul Kaye, whose latest “record” is entitled “Jewish Blues”, played two of his original songs, one detailing the struggles of the Jewish slaves in the time of Moses and the other relating the story of his grandfather being cured of the Black Water Plague through the unusual three day administration of Zulu Beer in Africa. Not only were the subjects different from what most associate with the blues, but the delivery was unique. Kaye has a very watchable habit of cocking his fedora forward on his head every so often, as well as slapping his guitar for emphasis. This musician was a delight visually as well as to the ears.

STEVENSON PROFFITT

In the band category, The Stevenson Proffitt Band is aptly named after a 30-year-old phenom guitar-player. Profitt is endowed with magic fingers and a musically maturity beyond his years. The music he produces on his guitars played as much across his face and out into the room full of blues aficionados. After flitting his fingers, without the benefit of picks, across the strings at indeterminable speed, he sat for one number and made the guitar pop as it lay on his lap; it seemed as if it was speaking in tongues.

There were some especially interesting moments from others that appeared. Allie of the duo “Allie Marcel & Dave Baldwin”, sang his self-penned song called “Psychic Vampire Blues” describing painful love affairs in a bizarre and humorous way. Not to be missed was the saxophonist from “Cold Truth” who played two saxes at once. Then another of the younger crowd, Matty Tayton, from the band named after him, “Matty T”, also demonstrated flying fingers – but the thing about Matty that I found myself thinking was, “Some guys just know how to look cool.”

The event was well planned and well attended. The Sacramento Blues Society does a good job of supporting and presenting the Blues in Sacramento. You can join the group for $25 and get reduced admissions, a newsletter and frequent emails letting you know what’s happening locally. If you love the blues, you’ll never be bored in SAC if you’ve got a membership to this group.

JUDGING
The judges were (from left) Bo Ely, a former promoter, and long-time blues aficionado, Brenda Taylor from Po’ Boyz Restaurant, Charles Washington an active member of the Sacramento Blues Society since the 70s and Marina Texiera, the manager of the famous landmark night spot “The Torch Club.”

Since I wasn’t able to stay through the whole competition I missed out on hearing the winning band, “The Aces", as well as the announcements as to the winners. Lew Fratis and Jimmy Pailer won the solo/duo competition as well. While, I personally dug Saul Kaye’s style, Fratis and Pailer were great to watch and listen to as well. Best wishes to the winners in the upcoming 2009 International Blues Challenge in Memphis this February. I’m sure they’ll do Sacramento proud.

For Those With The Speed Gene

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:07:00 +0000

Last week, the company I work for had a team building event at an indoor go-cart racing track called Race Place Motorsports (RPM) just off Hwy 50 on Bradshaw Rd. I discovered on the track, I no longer have the "speed gene." I used to own it and had a lead foot, but as the cars raced past me I found I was too cautious and desperately desiring a rear-view mirror. I was firmly convinced my inner child still resided in me, but now I know, it's only the tyke, not the teenager. Oh, well, suiting up and the anticipation was a blast.

So, here I am in all my glory, waiting for the green flag. We made fifteen laps...I think. It could have been 10, because I definitely lost track. Some people were slower than me (I got stuck behind one of them) but most were way faster and a lot more gutsy. I was concerned about flipping over and didn't want to hit anyone. That particular worry wasn't part of the package for several of our group. I flinched as they whizzed by, casually clipping my tires.

Afterwards, we took to the upstairs lounge, reserved exclusively for our company, with about 35 participants. We chatted, gave out goofy awards and partook of a pasta buffet and all-you-could-drink-softdrinks. We were treated incredibly well and photographed from every angle by their on-staff photographer.

A good time was had by all and I would recommend RPM as a group event, especially for a group closer to the teenage years - say in the 20 to 40 year-old range. A couple of us older chicks would have opted for a rousing bowling tournament instead. Again, it was a matter of no longer owning the speed gene.

RPM is located at 3130 Bradshaw Road and you can reach their offices at(916) 368-7223.

RPM Website

Down By The River

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:24:00 +0000

On Saturday night, a couple of weeks ago, I left my favorite karaoke spot, Marie Callendar's (closed the joint) and then went down to the river along the Garden Hwy, to a place called Crawdad's, a restaurant and lounge floating on a big barge on the Sacramento River. Getting to it involved crossing an elevated pier bridge and then travelling down to water level by elevator.

(Crawdads - 1375 Garden Highway. Call(916)929-2268 for more information or click here)

It was a tad slow that night, at least at 11:30 (maybe the crowd had come and gone already), but the band played on - Paradox - formed in 1988 by Arden Elicker, lead vocalist. Other band members include Perry Clark (Vocals/Guitar/Keyboard), Greg Atkins (Vocals/Guitar), Christian Wise (Vocals/Drums)and Paul Hawley (Bass). They are regulars at Crawdads and you can see by the picture they inspire the crowd to join them on stage now and then, as these two ladies, not members of the band, demonstrated that night.

What was really fun was discovering that there's a whole nightlife scene right down by the river. The Riverbank Marina, of which Crawdad's is a part, also hosts Chevys and the Blue Gecko. The Gecko had heavy sounds drifting down to the water, too.

The riverside experience is better enjoyed while the weather's still mild, so consider squeezing in a trip before the heavy rains come. Wear your party gear, because that's the mood at Crawdads.

Lake Tahoe Is A Project

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:01:00 +0000

My daughter came to visit this past weekend so I took her to Lake Tahoe - for the day. Wow, the day is not nearly enough.

We took the winding Hwy. 50 route, which is stunning in itself, with the twists and turns through pines, tiny outposts of towns and cliff-side views of the lake once you get there.

Once we arrived we headed straight for Pope Beach. Tall pines stand like sentinels along the large-grained sandy beach. Ducks and geese clamored for the attention of the very few people populating the stretch of shoreline.

It was rather cool, but I ventured into the water, while Vanessa, my daughter who lives in Arizona, bundled up and read. We spent about two and half hours just relaxing by the immense basin of water that has three bands of color; a brownish-green near the shore, deep turquoise a ways out and in the middle a deep navy blue. The striations were fascinating to me, as they increased with the amount of sunshine that made it out from behind the clouds.

Van read the stats of the lake to me; 1642 feet deep, 12 miles wide by 22 miles long. It is enormous and very, very beautiful.

Once we left the water, we drove around to the Nevada side, and gambled for two hours on $20 each. Of course, I'm a gambling wimp and won't lose more than $20 (I also play the penny machines!).

Then our time for the day was up! We didn't get to explore other beaches or Emerald Bay, or the historical sites. I'm planning a much longer trip next summer. A whole weekend might be enough.

We'll see.

Sophistication offered at Horseshoe Bar Grill in Loomis

writinggroove@yahoo.com (And Beyond) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 03:26:00 +0000

Loomis, a tiny town north of Sacramento off I-80, is home to one terrific restaurant, Horseshoe Bar Grill, located on the main street of Loomis,at 3645 Taylor Road. The restaurant, an oasis of sophistication in a decidely country village, reopened in June with new management. The general manager, Richard Bruce, was present and visiting customer tables the Saturday my sister Laura and I chose to have a late lunch.

While the hour the restaurant opens on Saturday, 3 p.m., was a little past the time our stomachs began to protest. It worked out fine, because the atmosphere and food was definitely worth the wait.

Laura and I were going to be treated to a homemade meal when we got back to her home (my brother-in-law John loves to cook!), so we kept to the light choices, both of us ordered the mushroom soup and we shared an artisan cheese tray. My raspberry iced tea came in a water goblet, with mint sprigs draped over the lip

If I had it to do over, I would order two bowls of the mushroom soup, which was a broth-based concoction with a several varieties of mushrooms and a taste that sent us both over the top. Dainty diners we were not. The delectable soup tempted both of us to consider lifting our bowls and draining the last of drops or follow Laura's best plan of sucking up the last of it through a pair of straws. But our manners prevailed and we satisfied ourselves with moaning with pleasure.

The cheeses arrived accompanied by proscuitto, salami, pancetta, an olive selection and bits of fruit. Coming from a family of cheese lovers, our appreciation of the blues, cheddars and creams was warm. We were checked on by Mr. Bruce and our waiter enough to make us both feel important as we enjoyed our treats and our conversation, in the nearly empty restaurant. Of course, we had arrived as the bistro was just barely opening.

The menu had a several choices of both cuisine and price range. There was also a lovely wine list.

I highly recommend taking a trip out to Loomis for the food alone, but don't drive too fast. You may miss the short but picturesque little main street and country roads leading into it.

Reservations are a good idea. Call(916) 652-4100 for hours and to make sure they'll save a seat for you!

Remember adventure always lies just beyond your everyday life, especially in Sacramento!