The Voice of East Bay Living

At Berkeley Rotary today, the guest speaker was from The Greater Good Science Center located at the University of California. The topic was Gratitude and the important role it plays in all of our lives. People crave positive emotions. Gratitude in the workplace makes people feel that their work is valuable. When was the last time you expressed gratitude to your friends, family or co-workers? Try it.. it just might improve the quality of your life and those around you as well.

Another wonderful restaurant on the Oakland scene is Cosecha , Spanish for harvest, a total gem nestled in the old Swan's Market in Uptown Oakland at  9th and Washington.  Owner and chef, Dominica Rice is a gifted and creative chef with a rich background of experience including Eccolo and Chez Panisse.  She prides herself in preparing authentic Mexican food from honorable local food  sources. The dishes are simple yet elegant, served with a lot of love - a must  try, thumbs up for this one. 

It may be the year of the horse but don't forget about those Elephants. It's time for  the 55th annual Oakland Museum White Elephant Sale presented by the Oakland Museum Women's Board. This is a wonderful huge flea market, located in the Jingletown district of Oakland at 333 Lancaster, with thousands of objects including furniture, clothes, jewelry - 17 different departments.  All proceeds go to help support the Oakland Museum. The sale for the public is March 1st and March 2nd (10am-4pm). There are many treasures to be found.  

After a gondola ride or leisurely walk around Lake Merritt, you might enjoy one of the many restaurants located in the Bellevue Staten neighborhood. Boot and Shoe Service Penrose Side Bar Kitchen 388 Room 389 True Burger Lake Chalet Pican Ozumo Plum Mua Lukas Taproom Prepared by: Sheila Sabine 510.326.5055 ssabine@grubbco.com

Lunar New Year - Year of the wooden horse - a time of renewal and hope.  Referred to as the Lunar New year, it begins on January 31st and ends on  February 14th, Valentine's Day. During the year of the horse, one is expected to have fast victories, unexpected travels, and surprising romance. Check out the main celebrations going on in the Bay Area during this festive time:  13th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration and Other Asian Traditions Oakland Museum Sunday, February 9 (12-4:30pm) OACC Lunar New Year Celebration Oakland Asian Cultural Center Saturday, February 8  Public Program (11am-4pm), Benefit Concert (7pm)

The market for 2014 is starting off with a bang. This lovely home located in Upper Lincoln Heights just closed escrow-sold significantly over the asking price with multiple offers--on to the next.