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 Welcome back to Toolin’ Around With J!!! Is it me or is the time just flying by? The holidays are almost here!! So, I was thinking….what can we do this month that will give our home an inexpensive facelift and be ready for that holiday company? Then it came to me. What is the simplest and least expensive way to give a fresh look to an old room? How about removing that old wallpaper? You can either give the walls a new coat of paint or hang some fabulous new paper!There are two ways for you to get rid of that old paper. You can gather up the tools which I will list here or you can rent a wallpaper steamer. (Which, omg, I happen to have here at my shop!!!!!) A wallpaper steamer is one of the simpler tools you can use. It is all inclusive and you don’t need any chemicals. It just works with steam from tap water. It also comes with a video so you will make no mistakes and are ensured a great wallpaper removing experience!!! Make your decision and either way, let’s roll up those sleeves and get to work!
Some newer vinyl wallpaper may be just peeled off by hand. I hope this is the case for you (although I won’t get the opportunity to meet you if you don’t need that wallpaper steamer!). The older non-peelable wallpaper may require the use of remover solutions or steam. These are designed to penetrate the paper and will also help to soften the old adhesive. If you decide to use a solution of this kind, just remember to be patient. It takes some time to work.
Wallpaper solution contains wetting agents which dissolve the adhesive while the paper is still on the wall. This will also be helpful in removing any adhesive left on the wall after the paper has been removed. If your wallpaper was hung over unsealed drywall, it may be almost impossible to remove it without damaging the wall. If this is the case, you can hang your new paper over the old. Just be sure the surface is smooth with no bubbling or lifting edges.
Tools:
One wallpaper steamer or:
Bucket
Perforation tool (any hardware store should carry this item)
Wallboard knives (3” & 6” preferably)
Pump sprayer
Sponge
Paint roller
Drop cloth
Step ladder (10’ or 12’)
Rubber gloves
Goggles
Materials:
Water
Wallpaper solution
Safety tips:
Be sure your ladders are always level
The perforation tool is very sharp (roll it away from your body whenever possible)
Always keep chemical solutions away from eyes and skin
Step 1:
Find a loose edge and slowly pull the paper. You will know right away if it is a peelable vinyl or if you will need to work a little harder. Using the smaller wallboard knife to assist in the removal will make your job easier.
Step 2:
If you were not able to strip the wallpaper by hand, you will need the wallpaper removing solution. Be sure to cover your flooring with the drop cloth. Add the remover to the bucket of hot water according to the manufacturers’ direction.
Step 3:
You will now use the perforation tool, rolling it over the wallpaper surface evenly. This tool will pierce the surface of the wallpaper and allow the solution (or steam if you are using the kit) to penetrate through to the adhesive.
Step 4:
Pour the removal solution into a sprayer, or use the sponge or paint roller. Apply the solution to the wall. Give it time to soften the adhesive. Work according to the manufacturers’ directions.
Step 5:
Once the solution has had time to work, peel it away with a 6” knife. Keep your strokes light and even with the wall. The knife has a sharp edge and can cause damage if
you dig it into the drywall.
Step 6:
Rinse the wall with clear water and a sponge. This will remove any residue from the adhesive or the removal solution. Let the walls dry completely.
Now, you have successfully removed that tired looking wallpaper and you are ready to give your room a facelift! Have fun with it! Be creative! Take a trip to your hardware store and check out all the new wall applications.
If you have decided to use that wallpaper steamer, come on by the shop or call me at 530-832-5462. We will give you all the quality customer service you deserve. And of course a smile and friendly conversation!!!!! We can’t wait to meet you. There’s always something going on when you are Toolin Around With J!!
Creating a festive wreath is a simple and affordable way to spruce up your home for the holidays. It is also an easy craft young and old can enjoy. Wreaths are a timeless decoration and as versatile as your imagination. There are no rules. Anything you love can be incorporated into this special decoration. Below are a few of our favorite ideas.
Happy Holidays from the staff of Mountain Valley Living. Please share your wreath making ideas with us at mountainvalleyliving.com Christmas Tea Basket *Tea for Two!*  Christmas Tea Basket
To Create The Basket Above You Will Need: Large to medium sized Christmas basket or container Smaller basket or container- should fit easily into larger container Wreath (matching the size of your container width) 6- 10 sheets of tissue paper (green or white) 3 small red tree ornament balls (plastic-so they won’t break) Christmas dish towel (rolled up) Loose leaf tea 2 Tea diffusers 2 mugs or tea cups Christmas themed small goodie bag Cookies or chocolate Instructions: Take larger basket and stuff tissue paper at the bottom until 2/3 full. Place wreath loosely around top rim of large basket, and push wreath down into basket where you plan the front to be. This will make the wreath in the back hold contents in upright position. Take smaller basket and place towards back of basket. Fill small basket with tissue paper until 2/3 full. Place loose leaf tea container, rolled up dish towel, and tea diffusers into smaller container. They should sit tall to create dimension. Next, Place mugs side by side in front of small basket. Bag cookies or chocolate in small goodie bag, tie, and place in front of cups. Lastly, place tree ornament balls around basket securely, glue if needed. Add detail with a Santa or snowman ornament. In the basket above, a Santa decorative plant stake was used, to insert easily into a tight place. Remember, you don’t have to use these exact items, personalize it with desserts or items you know the receiver will love. Potpourri Christmas Tree Center Piece *Center your holiday table with three of these trees or use as a single focal point on a shelf *  Potpourri Christmas Tree You Will Need: (for a single tree) 1 dowel rod 1 bag of potpourri (Christmas colors: greens, reds, white…) 1 foam cone (size is up to you) 1 bag hot glue gun and glue sticks 1 small glass votive (shaped like a flower pot) 1 can glitter spray Brown acrylic paint Small paint brush Instructions: Heat hot glue gun. Break small dowel rod in half. Stick rod, broken end first, into bottom of foam cone and push until centered and sturdy. Bottom of rod should be sticking out about 5 inches from cone, with a flat end. Lightly brush some brown acrylic paint onto visible dowel rod to create the look of a tree trunk. Let dry. Hot glue a large amount of glue into the bottom of the glass votive. While hot, press rod firmly into center of glue and hold until dry. To make more secure, fill up the rest of the votive with a small amount of potpourri and layers of hot glue. Carefully begin to glue individual pieces of potpourri to foam cone, pressing pieces gently for a few seconds to dry. The more obscure the pieces the better. This may take some time. Create dimension by gluing a single layer of potpourri, and then filling in spaces and holes with pieces on top of pieces. Finally, in a well ventilated and protected area (best if outside) spray tree with gold glitter spray until desired. Let dry completely before displaying. Keeping Kitchen Memories *This is a wonderful gift idea, and a special touch for your own kitchen *  Keeping Kitchen Memories You Will Need: A handwritten recipe that’s been passed down or a recipe card of your family’s favorite meal, or a recipe with special meaning- your wedding cake recipe for example. A frame- design and color to your preference. Just make sure the recipe card will fit-the average card is 5X3 inches. Frame recipe cards or written notes. Look for recipe cards that have classic or old fashion designs to add character. You may overlap to put multiple recipe cards in one frame, or showcase a specific card by itself. The possibilities are endless; enjoy the flashbacks as you create a framed piece of family history to keep for yourself or share with others. CHRISTMAS BOOK HOW TO: To make a mini book that will hang on the tree, YOU WILL NEED: 1/2 SHEET CONSTRUCTION PAPER • GLUE STICK • THIN RIBBON 4″ LONG • STAPLER • CLOTH TAPE OR DUCT TAPE HANG THIS MINIATURE BOOK AS AN ORNAMENT ON THE CHRISTMAS TREE TO READ EACH YEAR. Looking at it tall so it is taller than wide, cut and use the top half of construction paper, now wider than tall. Fold the page down in half, to make two equal rows. Now, looking at the folded paper wide and short, fold the left side to the right side, folding it in half. Cut it in two where you just folded it in half. Now open up both folded pages and cut each on the folded lines, leaving four cut rectangles. Looking at them short and wide, all in a stack, fold them in half all at once from left to right. Open to center and staple twice for book binding with sharp side of the staples to face inside on book binding. Now cut a ribbon about three times the height of the book. Loop the ribbon in half, leaving loop above book, tape the cut ends into the center of the book using a thin piece of tape the same height as the book binding. This strip of tape ribbon onto the inside center binding so it will cover the sharp staples. If it still feels sharp, place another strip of tape over the first one. Now cut between the pages on the white lines leaving page 2&3 as one cut out. Now paste the pages onto your book, starting with the first page as the cover. Enjoy! Merry Christmas From Mountain Valley Living Magazine. Free WEB book  Mountain Valley Living MagazineStory Of The Very First Christmas Fold-and-Make Book
Locals of Lake Almanor have long planned dinner out around Sushi night at Gamboni’s Peninsula Grill. Not surprising since they make the best sushi for miles. As a matter of fact it is so popular that owner and Chef John Gamboni has added his famous Crystal Shrimp Roll and Sashimi of Ahi Tuna to the regular menu as well as other daily sushi specials. Sushi lovers rejoice! I am a big fan of Gamboni’s Peninsula Grill and was thrilled to be invited to dinner by John Gamboni and his lovely wife Molly. Our candlelit table was glass topped and draped with a spotless white tablecloth, tastefully accented with a simple blossom in a cobalt blue bottle. There was a soft romantic tune playing in the background and the wine bottle, bistro decor was warm and welcoming. The mouth watering aromas drifting from the kitchen were sweet and spicy making our taste buds instantly curious. Our bubbly server Sarah Puhl offered an impressive wine list and wide variety of daily specials including a full pound of Alaskan King Crab Legs ($39), Steamed Clams in a Garlic White Wine Sauce ($14) and a very tempting Hamachi Roll with Crunchy Wontons ($12) along with the regular dinner menu. In the end we chose the Crystal Shrimp Roll ($11) as our appetizer. This amazing sushi roll is wonderfully light sticky rice filled with crispy deep fried shrimp in a creamy yet tangy secret sauce. Served with fresh ginger, wasabi and soy sauce it has so much flavor and texture it’s like throwing a party for your mouth. Speaking of parties, Gamboni’s Peninsula Grille has a full service bar and throws a kickin’ New Year’s Eve Party complete with dancing, a D.J. and several drink and dining specials. We’ll be there for sure, sampling the Kosmo Kramer ($8). Dustin the bartender will be mixing up Mandarin Vodka, Triple Sec, cranberry and a splash of Chambord that completes the house martini. I can’t wait. All entrees at Peninsula Grill are served with soft, warm fresh baked bread and your choice of a fresh garden salad or the homemade soup of the day. We followed our Crystal Shrimp with a delicious Broccoli Smoked Cheddar Soup perfect for dipping the buttery bread. Mmmmm. I struggled between the Grilled Salmon ($26) over garlic mashed potatoes with caramelized vegetables and bell pepper and chive beurre blanc, and the evening special of Penko Macadamia Encrusted Halibut ($29) drizzled with an irresistible Pineapple Rum Sauce over a tender rice pilaf with fresh al dente’ asparagus. The halibut is Molly’s favorite and after trying it myself I am convinced this dish must be the reason she married him. It was garnished with a stunning dainty orchid and every succulent bite melted in my mouth. My companions 14 oz. Grilled Rib-eye Steak ($26) was remarkably tender and the Blue Cheese Herb Butter gave it a rich and flavorful kick. I can’t believe he ate the whole thing, leaving just a few garlic mashed potatoes and one lonely grilled zucchini. Ben’s not a fellow of large appetite so his clean plate was a huge compliment to chefs Jim Stevenson, Shane Mayes, Mary Benson and of course John Gamboni. This group presents an unforgettable dining experience. Drop in on them for Happy Hour from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. daily Tues-Sat for select half price appetizers or make a dinner reservation, (530- 596-3538) and enjoy the whole fabulous fare at 401 Peninsula Drive, Lake Almanor. Bon Appetit! Nov. 4–Sloat, CA: Sloat Towne Hall. Community Luncheon. 12pm. 530-837-1762 Nov. 4–Reno, NV: Holiday Ice Spectacular. 7:30pm. Eldorado Showroom. A thrilling combination of skillful ice skating and theatre. Tickets start at $19.95. 800-879-8879. www.eldoradoreno.com Nov. 6–Quincy, CA: Quincy Art Walk. Downtown Quincy. 530-283-0188 Nov. 6-8–Crescent Mills/Greenville, CA: Christmas Boutiques. 530-284-6633 Nov. 7-Susanville, CA: Marine Corps League Breakfast. 7-11am. Veterans Memorial Bldg. $5 for adults. Under 5 free. 530-257-2680 or 530-257-8006 Nov. 7-Susanville, CA: Diamond Mountain Cowboy Poetry Dinner. 5:30pm. Show 6:30pm. 900 Skyline Dr. Willow Room. Tickets $15. 530-252-1100 www.diamondmountaincasino.com Nov. 7-Chico, CA: Saosin w/Innerpartysystem, POS, and Eye Alaska. Senator Theatre. Doors 6:00pm. Show 6:45pm. Advanced tickets $15. Nov. 11–Greenville, CA: Annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony. 11am. 530-284-6633 Nov. 12–Quincy, CA: Words and Music. 530-283-3402 Nov. 13- Indian Valley, CA: Community Member Nomination form deadline. Return to Chamber. Nov. 13-14-Susanville, CA: Susanville Repertoire Company Presents ” Dirty Deeds at The Depot Also Known As Professor Mack’s Miracle Elixir” By Gary McCarver. Full length Melodrama. 6pm. No Host Bar. 7pm Performance. Nov. 14 2pm. Matinee. Susanville Elks Lodge. $10 General Admission $8 Children and Seniors. Tickets sold at Margie’s Book Nook & The UPS Store. Jon France 530-310-3417 Nov. 14–Meadow Valley, CA: Holiday Craft Faire. Meadow Valley Schoolhouse. 9am-3pm. 530-283-3612 Nov. 14–Vinton, CA: Craft and Home Faire. Grange Hall. 530-993-4692 Nov. 14-Taylorsville, CA: 7th Annual Hope for Kids: Taylorsville. Presale only. 530-284-7007 or 530-592-9276 Nov. 14–Quincy, CA: Merchants Holiday Preview. Downtown. 8am-6pm. 530-283-0188 Nov. 14–Reno, NV: B.B. King. Silver Legacy Resort Casino. 8pm. His reign as King of the Blues has been as long as that of any monarch on earth. Tickets: $65, $70, $80 and $85. 800- 687-8733. www.silverlegacyreno.com Nov. 19–Chester, CA: Words and Music. Coffee Station. 530-283-3402 Nov. 19–Susanville, Ca: Lassen County Chamber of Commerce Mixer hosted by Every Bloomin Thing & FatBoys Deli. 705-670 Hwy 395 E. 5:30-7:30pm. 530-257-4323 Nov. 20–Portola, CA: Words and Music. Featuring Penny and Dude Berry. 530-283-3402 Nov. 20-21-Twain, CA: Christmas Boutique. 100 Twain Store Road. 10am-4pm. 530-283-0528 Nov. 21–Susanville, CA: Honey Lake Hospice “Light Up A Life” 6:30pm. 1850 Paul Bunyan Rd. 530-257-3137 Nov. 21-Corning, CA: Home Town Christmas Celebration. Pancake Breakfast, Parade (5:30 p.m.) craft booths, etc. 5:30pm. 530- 824-5550 Nov. 21-Sloat, CA: Towne Hall Community Music Night. 7pm. 530-836-1762 Nov. 23-25–Red Bluff, CA: Fall Fest For Kids. Community Center. 7:30am-5:30pm. 530- 527-8177 Nov. 27-Chester, CA: Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Merchants Open House & Light Parade. 5pm. 530-258-2426 Nov. 27-28-Graeagle, CA: Mohawk Artists’ Guild Christmas Faire. Graeagle Fire Hall. Large variety of art and craft vendors. Free to public. Free refreshments. Raffle for prizes. Proceeds go toward the Guild’s art projects in community and schools Nov. 28-Taylorsville, CA: Annual Light Parade. 6pm. Prizes for 1rst and 2nd place. 530-284-7622 Nov.28- Taylorsville, CA: Taylorsville Holiday Crafts & Food – “Think Green this Christmas Recycle” 11am-4pm. Taylorsville Tavern. 4-until gone. Chili dinner. 284-7622 Nov. 28-Red Bluff, CA: Christmas Parade. Downtown. 5:30pm. 530-527-6220 Nov. 30-Greenville, CA: Community Dinner. Greenville Methodist Church Social Hall. 530-284-1560 Dec. 2–Graeagle, CA: Holiday Home Tour. Refreshments, door prizes and raffle. Tickets available in Portola at High Sierra Books and in Graeagle at the Millworks, the Outpost, Graeagle Mercantile & Florist, and Eastern Plumas Chamber of Commerce. 530-836-6811 Dec. 3-Susanville, CA: Lassen County Chamber of Commerce Mixer hosted by Milwood Florist. 2020 Main St. 5:30-7:30pm. 530-257-4323 Dec. 4-Quincy, CA: Main Street Sparkle Light Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting. 5pm. 530-283-0188 Dec. 4-Quincy, CA: Plumas Art Gallery Opening Reception. 530-283-3402 Dec. 4-Portola, CA: Holiday Tree Lighting. 5-8pm. 530-832-0589 Dec. 4-5–Susanville, CA: Lassen County Craft Fair. 195 Russell Ave. 530-251-8900 www.lassencountyfair.org Dec. 4-6–Chester, CA: Chester Community Chorus. Methodist Church. Fri/Sat:7pm. Sun:3pm. 530-258-2426 Dec. 5-Portola, CA: Santa Train. Western Pacific Railroad Museum. 530-832-4131 Dec. 5-Graeagle, CA: Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting. Downtown. 530-836-1234 Dec. 5-Crescent Mills, CA: Christmas In Crescent Mills. Fire Hall. 6pm. 530-284-7454 Dec .5-Graeagle, CA: Christmas Faire. Fire Hall. 10am-4pm. 530-836-6811 Dec. 5-Quincy, CA: Eta Alpha Holiday Fair. Plumas-Sierra County Fairgrounds. 8:30am-4pm. 530-283-6272 Dec. 5-Susanville, CA: Marine Corps League Breakfast. 7-11am. Veterans Memorial Bldg. $5 for adults. Under 5 free. 530-257-2680 or 530-257-8006 Dec. 5-Susanville, CA: Lassen County Chamber of Commerce “5th Annual Magical Country Christmas”, Historic Uptown. Lighted Christmas Parade 5:30pm.Tree Lighting 6pm.530-257-4323 www.lassencountychamber.org Dec. 6-Greenville, CA: Annual Native Community Network Dinner. Town Hall. 530-284-6866 Dec. 10-Quincy, CA: Words and Music. 530-283-3402 Dec. 10-Susanville, CA: Lassen County Chamber of Commerce Mixer hosted by Plumas Bank. 3000 Riverside Dr. 5:30-7:30pm. 530-257-4323 Dec. 11- Indian Valley, CA: Annual Year-end Chamber Mixer (Community Member Award) 284-6633 Dec. 11–Susanville, CA: The Susanville Symphony Society “Twelve Days of Christmas”, Fri 7pm. Susanville Assembly of God Church. For more info/tickets call Marlene 530-310-9211 or visit www.susanvillesymphony.com Dec. 11-13-Chico, CA: Sleeping Beauty Ballet. Fri/Sat, Dec 11 & 12 @ 7:30pm. Sat/Sun, Dec. 12 & 13 @2:00pm. Laxson Auditorium –CSU, Chico. Debbie Jorritsma at 893-4087 www.chicoperformances.com Dec. 11-13–Reno, NV: 15th Annual A.V.A. Ballet Theatre’s Nutcracker. Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. Dec. 11th- 8pm. Dec. 12th- 8pm. Dec. 13th- 2pm. Tickets: adults $26-$51. Children 12 and under and seniors 65 and older $21 -$41. 775-686-6600. www.avaballet.com Dec. 12-Portola, CA: Santa Train. Western Pacific Railroad Museum. 530-832-4131 Dec. 12- Greenville, CA: Greenville Christmas Celebration-Tree lighting & Santa. 6pm. Crafters, open houses, music and lots more. 3-8pm. 284-6633 or 284-1560 Dec. 17-Chester, CA: Words and Music. 530-283-3402 Dec. 18–Portola, CA: Words and Music. Feather Arts Center at 216 Commercial St. Monthly series of acoustic music and the spoken word featuring the Annual Holiday Celebration.530-832-4518 or 283-3402 at www.featherarts.org Dec. 22-26–Sparks, NV: A Classic Christmas Celebration. John Ascuaga’s Nugget. A Classic Christmas Celebration will captivate your entire family. Call for tickets. 800- 648-1177. www.janugget.com Dec. 28–Greenville, CA: Community Dinner. Greenville Methodist Church Social Hall. 530-284-1560 2010: Jan. 1-Portola, CA: Calpine Elks New Year’s Day Brunch.9am-12pm. Highway 70-3.5 miles out of Portola. Tickets 530-832-5785 Jan. 9- Greenville, CA: Fireman’s Ball Dinner/Dance. Tickets @ Greenville Townhall. 284-7714 Sources: http://plumascounty.org/Events/events.htm#September http://www.lassencountychamber.com/calendar/novembercalendar.html http://www.lassencountychamber.com/calendar/decembercalendar.html http://www.chamberorganizer.com/easternplumaschamber/V_Calendar.php http://www.senatortheatrechico.com/ http://www.reno.com/SECTION/calendar&ParentProfile=1017 What happens to our dream of aging in place when our health begins to fail? What if one of a couple has a debilitating illness? Are there alternatives to nursing home care here in our beautiful remote mountain valleys? Naturally, if you have long-term-care insurance, this is the time to access it. These policies vary greatly in their usefulness and application. If you encounter problems, call the California Insurance Dept. (1-800-927-4357), or consult an elder-care lawyer. Meanwhile, here are some immediate suggestions: contact the Senior Lunch and Transportation programs in your area. (283-3546 in Plumas County, 257-6670 in Lassen County) The lunch program is a real life-saver for many frail elders. No shopping, cooking or washing up! Plus, a well-balanced meal in the company of your peers can make a difference for both the caregiver and the ailing spouse. No longer driving? Transportation to the lunch program is available. Home-delivered meals are the ticket for both spouses when one is house-bound. Persons aged 60 and over are eligible for meals and transportation. There are suggested donations for these services: $2.50 for lunch, $1.50 for round-trip to the Nutrition Site. Plumas, Lassen and Modoc counties are currently investigating means of providing transportation for medical appointments. At this time, there is very limited transportation to medical appointments (Call 283-3546 in Plumas County, 257-2113 in Lassen County). The Veteran’s Offices offer some transportation for medical appointments (283-6275 in Plumas county, 251-8912 in Lassen county). While in touch with the VA, you may look into another program they administer—“Aid and Attendance.” This is a program to provide war-time veterans and surviving spouses with help toward expenses. Next, I want to emphasize how important it is to work with your physician to access services that exist but that he or she may not suggest. For instance, you may ask if physical therapy (invaluable in restoring and/or maintaining mobility) is appropriate. Ask also about “Home Care,” a Medicare covered service which can only be accessed on order by your physician. Under Home Care, a specialist will come to the home and evaluate what is needed. Do you need a walker and a chair for the bath/shower? Will a commode that sits over the toilet provide you with the hand-holds you need? Does the bed need to be raised so it is easier to get in and out? Some of this is paid for by Medicare and some is not. Under home care, there are a limited number of visits by a nurse to monitor your “vitals”, take blood for lab testing, and help with bathing. This can be essential while you explore other resources. Respite care can make the difference between being overwhelmed with stress and fatigue or your ability to function! Respite care is designed to give the care-giving spouse a regular break so he/she can take a nap, go shopping, or go for a walk. (In Plumas County call 898-6637, in Lassen call 229-0878) Plumas Rural Services (283-3611) has two programs which can be helpful: Respite Care and Community Connections. The respite program has a list of providers and operates on a sliding scale based on your ability to pay. Community Connections is a network of volunteers who do a variety of household tasks in exchange for “credit” later, when they may need it IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) is a federal, state program that provides non-medical services (house-keeping) for low-income seniors. (283-6350 in Plumas County, 251-8128 in Lassen County). Unfortunately, because of California’s budget woes, eligibility for IHSS is projected to be severely cut this year. Finding reliable housekeeping workers is not easy, but they are out there. Run an ad in the local paper and don’t overlook the possibility that your neighbors, your church or people in your social club may know of someone who is looking for work and whom they can recommend. Most of us are proud of our independence and are reluctant to ask for help. We may even feel that in some way we are at fault—that we should be able to cope. Let me assure you; you are not alone. The first step is to ask! There are many caring people around; people who — like you — want to stay in this beautiful, peaceful area. Just ask! You will be surprised! Nancy Lund is the Chair of the Plumas County Commission on Aging. She is a former California State Senior Senator and served on the AARP State Legislative Committee. nedlund5@frontiernet.net • Stay home when you are sick. Source: USDA Center for Disease Control. Oatmeal Herbal Bath Soak *This recipe will make enough for multiple sachets. Thank the host with a gift they can use to relax after a busy holiday feast* 1 1/2 cup dry milk 1/2 cup Epsom salts 2 Tbs baking soda 6 tsp cornstarch 1/2 cup lavender tea 1 cup plain instant oatmeal 1/4 cup chamomile tea 1/2 cup dried rosemary Combine all ingredients. Stir well. Store in container or divide into individual small drawstring bags. Make sure to attach a tag or card to each bag explaining to let bag soak in hot bath water before and while enjoying the bath. Stamped With Love Cards *When in need of a family holiday card, thank you note, or just to say hello, these cards are kid friendly and fun* You Will Need: Card Stock Paper- cut into 4X6 squares Acrylic paint- color of your choice. The more the better. Paper towels Optional Food Ideas: Pears (unripe and cut in half) Peas (rolled around makes a marbled effect) Broccoli (tops of the “tree’s” make a fun design) Potatoes (can cut into any shape desired) Oranges (halved) Strawberries (halved) Spaghetti (cooked and dragged around paper) Prepare chosen food–halve or slice. Gently pat juicy foods, such as a pear or orange, with a paper towel to dry off surface. Lightly press food into paint of desired color, careful not to get paint on sides. Transfer food, paint side down, onto paper. Experiment with pressure, angles, number of stamps to create different effects. Let paint dry completely before handling. Depending on card’s purpose, you may write a personal message or salutation, or you may leave it blank and write on the opposite side.
Tamera Jewell of Auburn, Ca rescued this adorable Ringtail after she was knocked from her nest by dogs. Our little areas’ impact on the California and Nevada economies at Christmas time may not be record breaking, but that same impact on the local economy if all the dollars were spent here would be amazing. As you ponder over what to buy this season, be sure to pop your head inside those local businesses and see what they have to offer. Often they have the best products for the area we live in and very often the best prices too! We looked around and found a few things our staff really liked that you might not even know about: by Jan Cox Each year, as winter sets in, our days and evenings are brightened by the many festivities that take place between Thanksgiving and New Years. This year is no exception. Beginning in late November there are many venues that bring holiday cheer, no matter where you live. Here are just a few to pick from. Christmas Faires In Eastern Plumas County, The Mohawk Artist’s Guild Christmas Faire will be held on Friday Nov. 27 and Saturday, Nov. 28, beginning at 10 am. The purpose of this guild is to raise funds to support art and music in the schools. A large variety of vendors will be selling their arts and crafts at the Community Resource Center at the corner of Hwys 70 and 89 by Graeagle. Refreshments will be served. There will be a raffle with prizes. Proceeds from this juried show and from the spring show go to Quincy and Portola High Schools, Carmichael Elementary and the pre-schools in Graeagle and Portola as well as Plumas Charter School for their art and music programs. The guild and its members also support Plumas Arts. For more information call Marian Haid at 530-836-1399. In Susanville, the public is invited to the Lassen County Fair, Christmas Craft Fair on Friday, December 4 from 5-9 PM and Saturday, December 5 from 10-3. Last year this craft fair attracted over 2,000 people and was held in three separate buildings on the fairgrounds. Visitors were shuttled up and down the midway to the different buildings. A local group will be running a food concession stand for visitors and crafters to enjoy. For those who would like to participate in the craft fair, applications may be downloaded at www.lassencountyfair.org/CRAFTFAIR.asp and returned to them by Nov. 20th, 2009. Or call 530-251-8900 for more information. In Chester, The Bailey Creek Boutiquers will be holding their annual craft
fair at the Elks Lodge on Main Street in Chester on Saturday, November 28. This was my favorite fair last year for several reasons. Twelve women from Bailey Creek, who love to make crafts, decided that they wanted a project that was fun for themselves and that would also benefit the community. As a result, they have kept prices low and included many articles that children can buy for their parents for Christmas, starting at 50 cents. They also give a percentage of the profits to the Angel Tree Program which collects money and provides baskets of food, clothing, and toys for those in need. Articles for sale include holiday gifts, cards, delicious homemade baked goods and candy with samples available, jewelry, hand knitted scarves and hats and artwork. Suzanne Newman will also have a makeup and skin care booth with demonstrations. Musical Celebrations Susanville, CA is the site of the “Magical Country Christmas Parade” in Historic Uptown Susanville. On December 5, local musical talent will begin the evening followed by the lighted Christmas parade ending at the Elks Lodge at the top of Main Street. Here Santa will light the town Christmas Tree followed by a fireworks display. The parade begins at 5:30 sharp with tree lighting at 6 p.m. For more information you may call the Chamber of Commerce at 530-257-4323 or log onto www.lassencountychamber.org The Susanville Symphony will bring the Christmas spirit alive with this year’s world premier of Maestro Benjamin Wade’s original arrangement of the “Twelve Days of Christmas”. Other traditional favorites include Winter Wonderland, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Overture to the Miracle on 34th Street and other seasonal favorites. Tickets may be purchased for performances on either Friday, Dec. 11, at 7 PM or Sunday, Dec. 13 at 2:30 PM at Susanville Assembly of God Church. Information on all performances by the symphony can be found at www.susanvillesymphony.com. In Chester, CA, the Chester Community Chorus will be performing their annual Christmas concert on Dec. 4, 5 and 6 entitled “We Wish You a Merry Madrigal”. The repertoire for this concert will include a mixture of light madrigal music, traditional music with a new touch, and some new pieces. Some of the music will be sung in other languages including Pasko Na Naman, a Filipino song from Director Elsie Wesley’s native country that reflects a holiday spirit filled with excitement and anticipation . The performing groups include the Chorus, Chorale, Kindred Spirits, NEWGEN, Handbell Ensemble, and special performances of solo flute with piano, a vocal solo and interpretive dance. The Friday and Saturday concerts begin at 7 PM and Sunday matinee begins at 3 PM. There is no charge for the concerts but donations are always appreciated. Come early for a good seat. Santa Claus is Coming to Town Chester, CA will celebrate Santa’s return on November 27 with their annual Merchants Night and Light Parade. This is holiday fun for friends and families. Merchants stay open with holiday goodies and sales. There will be bonfires, caroling, Christmas tree lighting and a light parade. Festivities take place between 5 and 9 pm. The whole family will enjoy coming out to welcome in the holiday season. Call Chester/Lake Almanor Chamber of Commerce for further info at (530) 258-2426. Westwood, CA will see Santa on December 5 at the Community Center on Ash Street. After the tree lighting, visitors will have a chance to welcome Santa, have some hot chocolate and cookies while the Westwood Family Resource Center gifts each child with a new children’s book. To find out more, call Westwood Chamber of Commerce at (530) 256-2456. If you visit downtown Graegle, CA between 1 and 5 PM on December 5, you will have a chance to visit the little red houses, have your picture taken with Santa and also ride through town in the horse-drawn trolley. For more information call (530) 836-2712. Portola, CA will have a festive tree lighting ceremony and bonfire on Commercial Street on December 4 and on December 5 you can visit with Santa at the Portola Railroad Museum and have some hot chocolate and other refreshments. If you miss Santa on December 5, he will return here on December 12! For more information on the Santa Train, call (530) 832-4141. Be sure and check out the Calendar of Events in the back of this magazine for further information on all the festivities in this area including Chico, Redding, and Reno. Happy Holidays! Holiday Ham Glaze INGREDIENTS:
DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 275. Combine brown sugar, preserves, honey, and mustard. Stir until blended. Roll out piece of foil long enough to encase entire ham. Place ham cut side down on foil. Brush glaze onto ham until coated well. Keep remaining glaze. Enclose foil around ham. Set on a baking sheet and roast for 2 hours. If ham is not 10 pounds, roast for 14 minutes per pound. Coat ham with remaining glaze 20 minutes prior to being done.
Well, we are having a good winter. Let’s hope the snowfall is enough to fill the lake. It has a long way to go. Last year was a good fishing year. An early run on salmon started the season followed by rainbows and browns all the way up until the end of my guide season – the last of November. Now what do I do in December, January and February? In December I hunt turkey, ducks and geese. But January and February, with conditions just right and a lot of cold weather, the lake freezes in some areas and then I can ice fish. Try ice fishing for something different. Talk about fun and different, this is it!! There are a few things you need to know however. If you are fainthearted at all —- don’t read this. You have to really like fishing and be a little bit nuts— I guess that covers me. But, I’m careful, really careful, knowing the ice is crucial. I prefer 3″ or more rock hard slick ice. The thing to watch for is pressure cracks. You can hear the ice move and crack all the way across the lake. That usually indicates good ice. As long as the weather stays cold, the ice will keep freezing. Always take a long rope with you and tie off to the log boom or dock or anything else that is solid. This is your lifeline in case of an ice failure. Use an ice auger to cut a hole no bigger than 8″. Keep your rope next to you or tied to you for safety. You don’t need to go out very far, only about as far as you can cast or just a bit further. Use a short 4 ft. rod with six# line and a spinning reel. A variety of bait worms, mealworms, red & white eggs, roe and yellow and white small 1/16 oz jigs. Fish about 2-3 ft. off the bottom. Note: Fish bite short in the cold water, so the best thing to do is let them have the bait well before you set the hook. Fish bite all day long as schools pass by. Along the East Shore the wind blows and doesn’t let the ice freeze solidly. Be careful of snow on the ice, for this covers up the thin ice. The best thing to do is use you head. I’ve been fishing the ice for more than 40 years and as much as I know, I just fish offshore sometimes and don’t venture out on the ice at all. You know you just get that feeling: it’s called “good common sense.” Never attempt to walk clear across the lake anytime. And when ice shifts and goes up on top of another layer it can be very dangerous. Just the other day, the ice shifted and took down a buoy — that is a sign of becoming bad ice. Places to ice fish are along the west shore and down by the dam. For the rest of the years’ fishing, I would say it’s going to be good. More fresh water and a good population of bait fish (smelt) are in the lake. Good fish plants were made in 2007. For more guiding information, give me a call at (530) 259-2051. This is my 45th year of guiding on Lake Almanor. Hope to see you soon. Good Fishing. Doug D’Angelo
Step-by-Step Turkey and Stuffing
 Trukey and Stuffing *Serve with our Scrumptious Cranberry Sauce recipe- a homemade alternative to canned cranberries* INGREDIENTS:
DIRECTIONS: After thawing turkey, remove package of giblets and neck from body and/or neck cavity and rinse outside and body cavity very well with cold water only. Dry with paper towels as best as you can- inside and out. It does not need to be completely dry. Refrigerate. To Make Stuffing: In a sauce pan, heat butter or margarine and sauté onion and celery until tender. Add leeks and cook for approximately 10 minutes, or until tender. Combine cooked onion, celery, and leeks to dry stuffing mix. Lightly season with poultry seasoning , salt, and pepper, to your liking. Slowly pour white wine into mixture until moistened, should not take very much. Do not make stuffing too wet. To Stuff Turkey: Preheat oven to 350′. Remove turkey from refrigerator. Carefully stuff body and neck cavity, but do not pack tightly. (Do not stuff the turkey until you are ready to cook it as doing so could cause food poisoning.) Close body cavity with wire fastener. This will hold the legs and tail. Close and secure neck with a skewer through flap of skin. Create rolled ring of coiled foil for bottom of large throw away pan. This will keep the turkey from resting directly on the bottom of the pan. Place turkey, breast side up, onto foil ring. If wings touch side of pan, pin to body with skewers. Rub outside of turkey with a little butter to form a thin layer. Sprinkle turkey with salt and pepper. Cook turkey until it starts to drip. Reduce heat to 325 and cook for 4-4 ½ hours or until done- or 20 minutes per pound- depending on weight. Cut and serve hot with gravy and sides. by Jan Cox In Chester, Quincy and Susanville, you will find the most amazing volunteer organization called Hospice. It is the mission of this group to give end-of-life aid and support to terminal patients and their families. Like me, you may have wondered how this name came about? In Europe, during medieval times, hospices were way stations where those traveling could receive care and shelter when needed. Today, this concept has been extended to those who are close to the end of their lives. We now celebrate Hospice month each November. These trained volunteer groups offer unique health care in the form of coordinating practical, psychological, social, and spiritual support for individuals and families. In this way, patients can live out the rest of their lives in the environment of their choice. I was pleased to be able to speak to Doreene Wood, the administrative Coordinator of Plumas Community Hospice in Quincy who gave me a little deeper insight into what volunteering for Hospice means. All the local Hospices train those who wish to help in any way. After the training, volunteers who choose to work with patients are matched to specific patients and families. They journey with the patient in whatever way is needed. You might call them, “trained friends”. They can run errands, drive the patient to the doctor, offer respite care for the family caregivers, act as a sounding board for concerns of the patient and family, coordinate health care from the patient’s doctors and caretakers, and support the patient and family through the dying process. Hospice is not a religious organization and volunteers serve everyone, no matter what their belief system. They are very special, caring people. Those volunteers, who choose not to work with patients, help support the organization in many other ways. Right now, for example, the Plumas Community Hospice is looking for people with computer skills. Other ways to help include being on the board of directors, being a patient care coordinator, helping at the thrift store or at fundraising events. In Quincy, Dr. Jeff Kapple, from North Fork Family Medical supports Hospice with concerts in the Town Hall Theater where he plays guitar and promotes the talent of local youth including his three daughters who sing with him. This year’s concert will take place on November 8 with all proceeds going to Plumas Community Hospice. This Hospice serves the Quincy, Crescent Mills, Greenville, Bucks Lake, Greenhorn Creek area and Feather River Canyon. You can reach them at 394-7228. Sierra Hospice serves the Chester, Westwood, Clear Creek and Lake Almanor Basin and surrounding areas. This group offers many other services besides patient care. The Forget-Me-Not Thrift Store not only serves the community with high quality used goods, but also supports Hospice financially. Other services include Camp Hug, a free bereavement camp for ages 8-18, and Camp Big Hug for those 18 and older which is held at Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake. They also offer a 6 week free cancer support group led by volunteers who are either cancer survivors or in the health services. Karron White, the director of Sierra Hospice can be contacted at the office at 150 Brentwood Dr. in Chester or by calling 258-3412. Or you can view information on their great website at www.sierrahospice.com. Honey Lake Hospice in Susanville offers many of the same services as Sierra Hospice. Historically they have trained with Sierra Hospice beginning in 2004. Training will again take place in the spring of 2010 and will be announced in the newspapers. Their coordinator, Andria Cuypers noted that they work closely with the patient’s physicians and with Quincy Home Medical Services in caring for patients. This Hospice serves Susanville, Janesville, Milford, Herlong, Doyle and the Eaagle Lake area. Honey Lake Hospice is located at 2930 Riverside Dr. Susanville or call 257-3137. Special Fundraisers All of these Hospices have fundraisers to help support their program. One of Sierra Hospice’s projects is a special dinner and auction event. This year thanks to very generous contributors from both the art community, who donated art, and from those who gave generously to purchase the same, Art From the Heart netted over $10,000 to help Sierra Hospice continue their most important service to the community. Each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, a tree lighting ceremony is held at Wildwood in Chester which commemorates loved ones who have died. Lights may be bought at Plumas Bank in honor of these people and cost $10 per light or 3 lights for 3 different people at $25. This year’s ceremony begins at 6 pm and includes the reading of names which are also printed in a book, a candle-lighting ceremony in their memory, beautiful music including a special solo, and homemade refreshments. Honey Lake Hospice also has two main fundraisers. They have an afternoon tea in the spring and a tree lighting ceremony the weekend before Thanksgiving. At Eagle Lake Village, an assisted living community on Paul Bunyan Road, Honey Lake Hospice has planted a tree which is decorated with dye cut doves in memory of loved ones who have died. These doves sell for $10 each while a perpetual acrylic dove is available for $100. These doves may be purchased at either Margie’s Booknook or Plumas Bank in Susanville. All three Hospices offer a tremendous service to their respective communities. Part of hospice care includes bereavement services. These Hospices have libraries of books and videos about specific diseases or death and dying issues, brochures and handouts. Hospice volunteers are available for bereavement and grief counseling, either one-on-one or through workshops, and are also available for sudden death intervention. To be eligible for Hospice, a patient must be in the final stages of a terminal illness, be a patient of a primary physician, have a caretaker available for ongoing care in the home, and live in the service area of the Hospice. All three Hospices are listed in the Yellow Pages of your phone book under Hospices. Just before the lower gate to the Lake Almanor Peninsula you will find a one-of-a-kind Mountain Valley restaurant. Nancy’s Restaurant was opened July 7 by Nancy Eberle. She has been in the food service industry for the past 27 years, mainly working in resorts in St. Louis, Beaver Creek, CA and Lake Tahoe. But this restaurant is her dream child. I was first introduced to Nancy’s when a group I belonged to came for a meeting in a curtained-off side room of the restaurant. Here we munched on fruit kabobs, vegetables and dips, muffins, coffee and tea as we talked together. One of the owner’s dreams for this business has been to open it to groups of all sorts including art associations, AA groups, book clubs, church meetings, Round Table discussions, open mike talent shows, music jams and more. Watch the local newspapers for information on upcoming events. Or you can give her a call with your ideas or plans. I must say that the food here is high quality and delicious. Each day, Nancy plans a special of the day along with the other menu items. When our book club met for breakfast this summer we were delighted with the choices and the very reasonable prices. Menu items include the regular stand-bys of biscuits and gravy, assorted cereals, yogurts, muffins and sweet breads. Add to that the homemade Breakfast Sandwiches ($4.95), Breakfast Burritos ($5.50), Quiche of the Day ($4.95) and Bagels, alone or with cream cheese and lox, and this menu is sure to suit the tastes of everyone in the family. For lunch Nancy serves the Special of the Day al0ng with Deli Sandwiches ($5.95), Tuna Salad as a side or sandwich, fruit, pasta and tossed salads, chips and dip, pita with hummus and Hot Clam Pie. She also makes the best vegetable lasagna I have ever eaten which can also be made to go—as can any of her dishes. Call ahead to order large quantities to go. Nancy uses all natural ingredients in both cooking and beverages. Nancy’s idea of space is to encompass everything from art, casual but delicious food, comfort, relaxation, internet access and music. She has asked Feather River Fine Arts Association to exhibit at the restaurant and members’ work now adorns the walls. Each month a different artist’s paintings or photos can be seen hanging in the restaurant. Because there is a large yard adjacent to the building, customers may sit outside on beautiful days at several picnic tables with umbrellas while the children stretch their legs in the fenced in picnic area. Dogs are also welcome in this area. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch every day but Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8 am to 4 pm. Although the restaurant is not open for dinner at this time, Nancy will remain open for special groups and parties in the evenings by appointment. Nancy’s is located at 449 Peninsula Drive, Lake Almanor, CA. For group reservations or food to go, call 530-596-3690. Harvest Centerpiece *Gourds galore and falling leaves, a beautiful centerpiece you will achieve!*
You Will Need: (for one) 1 glass vase Small gourds (enough to fill your vase) 1 fall themed garland (4 ft) 10 branches of wheat 3 thick branches 5 branches of filler branches( your choice) Instructions: Fill vase with gourds. Randomly begin to stick wheat branches into gourds. Make sure they are placed evenly around the vase and not sticking straight up. Take 1 thick branch and stick in the middle of the vase. This branch should be higher than the wheat branches and angle slightly back. Now take the remaining two thick branches and stick one out the left at an angle, and one out to the right at an angle. These will help hold up the garland. Now take your filler branches and stick them where any holes or spaces are that need to be filled. Very carefully take the garland and twist in and around the existing branches for support. The end of the garland should be supported or attached to the center thick branch so that piece has height. Refer to the picture for help.
Hand Etched Candles *A fun craft and gift from the little artist in your family *
 Hand Etched Candles You Will Need: Candles (height does not matter- make sure your colors aren’t too dark) Acrylic paint (colors are your choice) Small paint brush Dull pencil or a pen Instructions: Decide what design you would like to create on your candle. Using your pencil or pen, lightly create a rough draft. If you draw lightly at first and mess up, you’ll be able to cover it easily. Do not paint the top of the candle where the wick is. When happy with the results, go back and trace the design firmly so that it is etched into the candle. Do not press too hard or you may chip or break the candle. Brush off any excess wax. Then paint the lines of your design. Make sure the color of paint will show up against the color of the candle. Let the candles dry completely. Festive Button Card Pins *Collect old buttons and display your holiday cards or pictures in a unique way*  Festive Button Card Pins You Will Need: Buttons Wooden clothespins Hot glue gun and glue 1 can gold glitter spray Raffia or Ribbon Acrylic Paint- color your choice (optional) Magnets (optional) Instructions: Spray clothespins with gold glitter in a well ventilated and protected area. Let them dry completely before handling. Heat glue and glue individual buttons onto clothespins. You may do multiple buttons, or a single one. You may also glue raffia bows or ribbon too. If you would like a color of a button that you do not have, simply paint it and let dry. When you’re finished decorating your pins, hang delivered holiday cards or pictures along a garland or thick piece of yarn. Or, glue magnets on the backs of each clothespin to display on your refrigerator. Mike’s Bread Bowl From The Kitchen of Mike Baston Bring this appetizer to any gathering and get the party started! *After the guests are gone, broil the bread bowl until the cheese melts for a tasty leftover* INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients in large bowl, excluding bread. Mix thoroughly until texture is creamy. Refrigerate. In the meantime, carve out insides of bread bowl, leaving only a shell. Keep pulled out bread and cut into bite sized pieces. Remove dip from refrigerator and pour into bread bowl. Serve with bread pieces for dipping. Can also be served with vegetables, chips, or crackers.
by Jeanne Brovelli, Interior Re-designer Do you have guests coming this holiday season? It’s that time of year when many of us will be having family or friends stay in our homes. If you are not set up for this, your initial response might be YIKES! Take a breath; help is at hand. Maybe you have a room that a grown child has moved out of and is still sitting there looking exactly the same with posters on the wall and other favored teenage décor throughout. While you and your child might be tempted to keep this room “as is” for your adult child to return to, creating a comfortable guest room might be even better (as long as there’s no confusion about their doing the dishes when staying with you!) There are a couple of ways to set up a guest room. The first, if you have the space, is to devote a spare bedroom as a guest room. You will need to set it up as a bedroom, but from a more minimalist approach as your guests won’t have all of their possessions with them (hopefully). If you have limited space and need to use this room as another room, such as an office or sewing room, it is still possible to set up for guests as well. Ok- the first approach- “guest only” room. You’ll need a bed, obviously. A full or queen size is best, as you can then accommodate a single person or a couple. A small chest of drawers is nice to have. I don’t know about you, but I’m one of those persons who always puts my clothes in the drawers in a hotel room. I much prefer this to digging through a suitcase for a pair of socks or a belt. You will also be able to use the bottom drawer or two for linens, extra blankets etc. Then, a chair, a night stand and a reading lamp should do it for the basics. If you have a large room, you might want to add a fun lounge chair, chair and a half, or a small desk to sit at as well. Ok- the second option- “sometimes a guest- room”. Here you can use an actual bed, but you might want to consider a futon, daybed or sofa sleeper so that you have more room during the vacant times (which will hopefully be the majority of the time). The advantage of an actual bed is that you can leave it made up, whereas with the other, you will have to make it up when guests are expected. You will also need a night stand, a chair or a small bench–a place to put a lamp, set reading glasses, or a book–next to the bed. You might even want to include extra pillows, an extra comforter or blanket, a mirror on the wall or a small standing mirror. There, you have it! Now a couple of things to remember when setting up the guest room: Don’t put anything in the room that you will need to access while your guests are there such as a computer or resource materials of any kind. Do consider choosing a room that has convenient access to a bathroom and will not be disturbing to your family, if at all possible. Ok, now for decorating. I would suggest going for a neutral, casual look–not overly masculine or feminine. This might be a good place to hang those art pieces or accessories that you just love but don’t have the right space for in the rest of the house. Choose carefully, however, so that this room doesn’t become and look like a catch-all room. In choosing bedding, opt for something simple and attractive that you can freshen with new pillows from time to time, but is fairly timeless in style with little ongoing expense. Whichever way you decide to go in creating your guest room, a little effort will ensure that your guests are comfortable and welcome. You might find that you have created such a nice inviting space that you want to be guest in your own home and retreat there from time to time!
On-sight property managers Rick and Jody Schlobohm led me into the jaw dropping Great Room and I knew this was the place I had been searching for. Fine leather chairs and deep soft sofas sprawled before the towering stone fireplace on bright area rugs that frosted the gleaming hickory floor. The entire back wall of windows and French doors that open to the flagstone patio offered a view of Lake Almanor and Mount Lassen that took my breath away. The fireplace mantle was lavishly decorated and in the middle of it all was that twinkling tree draped with ribbons. Off to one side of the Great Room’s full size wet bar is the dining room that seats 18 and shares the unrivaled view. Finally a place in which our large family could share an intimate holiday feast. A huge game room on the other side boasts a full size pool table, shuffle board, private double powder room and it’s own fireplace. The fully stocked library and extensive collection of movies and board games on display in the open upstairs loft offer built in insurance that tots and teens alike will be entertained throughout any length stay at Benton’s on Lake Almanor. The bedroom decor in each of the five guest suites was inspired by one of five famous artists; Mark Twain, Lilly Langtree, Lotta Crabtree, Marion D. Morgan and Thomas Hill. I’ve no doubt they would be flattered to share their names with these plush carpeted rooms with their private balconies overlooking the glassy water and the majestic Mount Lassen. Special attention has been paid to every detail right down to the tile mosaics around each suite’s gas fireplace, repeated in each suite’s walk in shower. Jacuzzi tubs and hammered copper sinks also grace every bath including the ADA approved suite closest to the elevator. Our every need seemed to be anticipated and provided for in every room, especially the gourmet chef’s kitchen. My daughters and I could easily prepare a meal of royal proportion with 2 Wolfe ranges, 4 convection ovens, 2 warming drawers, 2 microwaves, 2 sub-zero refrigerators and a massive maple butcher block. Clean-up is a breeze with 2 Bosch built in dishwashers. I became more impressed at every step I took touring this extravagant year round vacation rental. October through April at Benton’s on Lake Almanor are bargain months since the off season rates are in place. The price is $1000 a night with a 4 night minimum stay. That means that during these months, five couples could rent this for just $200 per couple per night. And if your group is 16 large like ours, that brings it down to $62.50 per person per night. There are also two Holiday Specials. The 5 night Thanksgiving Special is a steal at $4500, that’s less than $100 per night per person for a party of 10. The 10 night Christmas-New Years Special is even better at $8250, a mere $82.50 per night per person if your group is only 10 and Benton’s on Lake Almanor comfortably sleeps 16. You would easily spend that at a common chain motel. I wait with anticipation for the day my family will arrive and we curl up in front of the fire in the Great Room and catch up on the last year in luxurious comfort. For more information about Benton’s on Lake Almanor or to make a holiday reservation call Rick and Jody at 530-284-6167 or visit online at www.vrbo.com listing #235233. You will soon be celebrating like the stars.
This holiday season finds many of us tightening our purse strings, but a heartwarming gift doesn’t have to break the bank. A simple photo album or scrapbook can be a very affordable and touching gift. A few years ago I bought a small photo album and made a book of You and Me for my sister. On the first page I put a picture of myself holding her on the day my parents brought her home from the hospital. I filled many pages with pictures of us together throughout the last thirty years. I left several empty pages at the end to be filled with memories yet to come. The whole project cost under $2o and she was genuinely touched as she flipped through the pages. I know it is a gift she will treasure always. It makes me happy to know that she will think of me each time she adds a picture to our special book of You and Me. Stickers, pressed flowers, lace and ribbon are just a few things you can add to personalize your own special book. Another great gift album is pictures of holidays past. It is very inexpensive to make copies of photos, so everyone on your gift list could have one. Remember to leave those empty pages at the end. Filling them up is half the fun.  Eileen | Mountain Valley Living MagazineAlmanor Energy Plus 530-596-3128 |
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