The Voice of East Bay Living

Happy Holidays from my home to your home!

~ Kadomatsu ~ This is a homemade kadomatsu ~ a traditional Japanese arrangement placed at the front door entrance. Bamboo and pine symbolizing endurance and flexibility.

                                                       December Delights in the East Bay  - Holiday boat parade in Jack London Square (go to Scott’s Seafood for waterfront views) - Beautifully decorated homes (Wilfred, our neighborhood French chef, created a magical scene at his home) - Christmas lights at the Mormon Temple in Oakland - Holiday watercolor fun…sparking joy through creativity - Festive flower arrangements by Wisteria in Rockridge                                                                                              ...

  Great Escape ~ Carmel Mission Basilica! It’s a 2 hr drive to visit this historic church, founded in 1771 by Father Junipero Sierra. Located near the mouth of the Carmel River and close to the ocean, it originally served the native Ohlone Indian communities and the church museum has many old artifacts and photographs. Today it is an active parish church with regular services. After visiting the museum you can pop over to the beach, just 10 minutes away and have a picnic. A really fun holiday so close to home!

  Pick of the Week - Favorite Lunch Spot! Oliveto’s Cafe offers excellent food and service. It’s like dining at a bistro in Paris or New York. Across the street from Rockridge BART and located in Market Hall, you can’t beat the location. It will come under new ownership at the end of the month. Let’s keep this great place alive!

  Christmas Tree with a Twist! 🎄 This year I decorated the juniper tree in my atrium! Red and gold for the ribbon swirls, polka dot red and green for the ribbon ornaments, and gold glittery pine cones for the final touch! All supplies came from the Oakland Flower Market at 821 Jefferson.

Restaurant Pick of the Week! FAVA In between delivering birthday gifts, thanksgiving flowers, getting gas, buying a scarf for my French sister, and taking photos of a new listing... it was time for lunch! I found myself at the ever popular Walnut Square conclave and since I was in a hurray, I settled on FAVA, located at 2114 Vine. Several Chez Panisse Alums opened this tiny spot and they are punching out the tasty vegetable - centric New American cuisine. I have to say, eating the butternut squash soup from my driver’s seat of my car was a real treat. #grabandgo #bayarealiving #eastbayeats