Spiders at the Mall?

Strolling through The Palladio I saw a puzzling statue ahead. It seemed to have too many legs with knobbly bits up and down them. But a spider? In an upscale shopping mall?

As I neared the corner I realized what it was: two horses, stylized with very narrow hooves. I guess I'm watching too many fantasy monster movies.

Southwest Eggrolls?

Different. Spicy. Sweet. Claim jumpers has blended East and Southwest into a tasty appetizer.

Simple but satisfying on a Cold Day

Soup and salad is often a favorite for those with light appetites. At Claim Jumpers even this light choice is a hearty meal.
The Potatoes Cheddar soup is a delightful, creamy blend with just enough vegetables to add depth.
The cornbread and honey butter is moist and satisfying.

My Second Car

I was a teenager. I needed a new car. My Mom had totalled my first car. (Don't even go there.) I took a friend to help me car shop. He saw the beautiful used Chevy Nova, new upholstery, 4-on-the-floor, and it was love at first sight.

HE  didn't have to drive it to college.

After almost two years of being stranded unpredictably, my boyfriend offered to buy it from me. It would be his project car.

It was a project, all right.

But seeing this beautiful classic car today was still very exciting. They just don't make them like they used to.

Do You Have the Time?

This beautiful clock tower graced Copenhagen Square in Solvang, CA. When it strikes the hour you are serenaded with a beautiful Bell chorus.

View From Castle Peak

We'd spent the summer training for this hike. It would be over twelve miles linear and 3,600 feet vertical before we were done. The hike begins at Donner Pass in the Tahoe National Forest. It starts with a gentle rise through beautiful forest and flowers. The slope becomes steep as you emerge onto the volcanic rock-strewn path. The scenery and view changes every half mile. We didn't know if we'd make it. We just kept looking a bit ahead and telling ourselves we could make it that far. Half mile by half mile we climbed Castle Peak. The view from the top? Yep, it was worth it.

Danish Kringle

Try a kringle from Solving Bakery the next time you are in California"s Central Coast area. This traditional Danish pastry may look like a giant pretzel, but bite into a piece for a lovely surprise. The filling is a mix of almond paste and custard. The pastry is lightly sprinkled with sugar an generously covered with sliced almonds. This kringle will easily satisfy 10-12 people.