The Voice of East Bay Living

This wonderful outdoor market serving both the Rockridge and Temescal neighborhoods of Oakland is incredibly popular with all age groups. Located in the parking lot adjacent to the Oakland DMV and next to Frog Park,the market hosts a variety of produce as well as fresh food stands.It is open every Sunday from 9am-1pm.

In 2001, this former vacant lot with overgrown weeds was transformed into a magical playground by over 1,300 volunteers. Here young children can romp about in miniature castles and slide to their hearts content. Frog Park is a wonderful testament to community driven vision.

Upcycle items that you already have to create beautiful holiday decorations. The wreath is made from plastic water bottles and old jewelry and the statue is decorated with sheet music.

Try doing some local volunteer work - there are many opportunities. This Thanksgiving, I helped serve food to the homeless at the  Presbyterian Church on College Avenue . It was a very fulfilling experience.

A great local meat market is Ver Brugge Meat-Fish Poultry locate in the Rockridge neighborhood at 6321 College Ave. in Oakland. The fantastic butcher has been around for decades and reflects a dying breed of independent butchers with knowledge and experience of their craft. The meats are fresh and they carry a wide variety of lamb, beef, pork, chicken, turkey, etc. You will be delighted with what you find there.

Located at 5427 Telegrah in the heart of the Temescal Neighborhood, you will find the Mariposa Baking Company. Open daily from 9am- 6pm. This creative shop offers a huge variety of (gluten-free) pastries, pizzas plus a daytime cafe menu.