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Welcome to Donnell’s Music Land, your one stop shop for all your musical needs and more. Donnell’s offers new and used instruments, guitar strings, drum sticks,woodwind reeds and sheet music. Owner Ken Donnell is an experienced luthier and is available for all of your repair and custom built guitar needs. He even repairs antique furnishings. Donnell’s Music Land is also the only place in the world to purchase the miniflex microphone invented by Mr. Donnell. Open jam nights on Wednesdays are an awesome chance to check out this amazing shop. The only music store in the Lassen and Plumas Counties area. Come feel the rhythm.
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There is nothing like a relaxing vacation in the Sierra. A stay in the Hide Away Motel in easy going Greenville is an excellent choice to be right in the thick of things but still hidden away in the woods. These spotless accommodations are in the heart of breathtaking Indian Valley and at the gateway to many nearby attractions. Whether you are coming to hunt, fish, bike, hike or just wander the mountains Hide Away Motel is an excellent home base for your Sierra adventures. The beautiful lawn is great for kicking back to watch the birds and just soaking in the clean mountain air and sunshine. Bink and Josh are always on hand to see that your stay is comfortable and cozy. Give them a call at 530-284-7915 to reserve your mountain hide away.
Click this pic to visit their website
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By Melissa Wynn
One of my favorite parts of a Plumas County summer is watching the butterflies. Over eighty species call this neck of the woods home so step outdoors and have a look around to see who is fluttering by. Here are a few of our favorite neighbors; who’s in your backyard?
The Melissa Blues lay their eggs on the beautiful Lupine plant and have a symbiotic relationship with ants. The ants protect the newly hatched caterpillar which in turn secretes a sugary substance to feed the ants for their trouble.
The Tiger Swallowtails are a treat to watch in yellow and black as they dance through the air. Look for their caterpillars resting on a mat of silk hidden in curled leaves. This species is a hardy breed and their chrysalis hibernate.
The Cabbage White is likely to be the first butterfly to catch your eye each year. These small white and black beauties are usually the first to emerge each spring. Their chrysalis also hibernates.
Those catching a glimpse of the Callippe Fritillary are the luckiest viewers of all. This butterfly has The Nature Conservancy rank of T1 – Critically imperiled because of extreme rarity (5 or fewer occurrences, or very few remaining individuals), or because of some factor of its biology making it especially vulnerable to extinction.
Monarchs are probably the most familiar butterfly but they are far from common. These seemingly delicate insects make massive migrations from August-October, flying thousands of miles south to hibernate along the California coast and in central Mexico. At the Mexico wintering sites, Monarchs roost in trees by the millions.
They all look so similar but each species is very different, who knew?
Facts and photos courtesy of
abirdshome.com and digitalmedia.fws.gov
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By Melissa Wynn
When we go outside to play in our neighborhood we don’t play like sissys, we go wide open! These days anyone visiting the Reno area can play Mountain Valley Living style. All you need to do is contact Kirk Dodge and the gang at Wide Open Baja to join the adventure. Wide Open Baja offers an off-road driving experience from the Reno-Tahoe Motorplex, with a chuck wagon style lunch among the pristine pines and conifers. An exhilarating run back down hill to the finish line with a celebration party and a traditional Wide Open cold cervesa, and that is just one of the packages available. These are no sissy dune buggy rides, you drive and the staff guides. Check out a few samples of their awesome menu of extreme dessert fun.
The Ultimate Taste of Reno! 3 hours-24 miles
Single Driver $395
Driver and Co- Driver $525
This experience is designed to give you a feel of what high performance off-raoding driving in Nevada has to offer!
• 2 Laps on the Wide Open 8 Mile Off-Road Course
• Snack Break and Driving Technique Review
• A “Victory” Lap on the 8 Mile Course
• Traditional Wide Open Cold Cerveza
Reno Challenge! 5 hours-48 miles
Single Driver $595
Driver and Co- Driver $795
Step up from the Taste of Reno and double your seat time with
this adrenaline filled half-day off-road driving adventure.
• 4 Laps on the Wide Open 8 Mile Off-Road Course
• Snack Break and Driving Technique Review
• 2 Laps on the Wide Open 8 Mile Off-Road Course or
4 Laps on the 5 mile Off-Road Course (Your Choice)
• Lunch and a Traditional Wide Open Cold Cervesa
Sierra Nevada! 9 hours-160 miles
Single Driver $1050
Driver and Co- Driver $1595
One day off-road driving experience from the Reno-Tahoe
Motorplex with a chuck wagon style lunch among the pristine
pines and conifers. An exhilarating run back down hill to the
finish line with a celebration party and a traditional Wide Open
cold cervesa.
• Private Off-Road Trails and Back Roads Along
the Unbeaten Path.
• Stops Along the Way to View the Vistas and the
Sierra Nevada Mountains.
• Select Wide Open Chuck Wagon Style Lunch in the Pines.
• Photo Stop for the View of the Race Course below
from 6,000 Feet.
• Victory Celebration at the Finish Line with cold
Cervezas and a Team Photo
Virginia City Lunch Run! 9 hours-160 miles
Single Driver $1050
Driver and Co- Driver $1595
• Private Off-Road Trails and Back Roads Along the Unbeaten Path.
• Stops Along the Way to View the Vistas and the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
• Select Wide Open Chuck Wagon Style Lunch in the Pines.
• Photo Stop for the View of the Race Course below
from 6,000 Feet.
• Victory Celebration at the Finish Line with cold
Cervezas and a Team Photo
3 Day Run N Gun (For The Extreme Race and Gun Enthusiast)
- 2 days of driving hundreds of miles
- Outstanding Eats
- Fire powerful military machine guns at the range
- Fire arm safety training
- Stay at the Silver Land Motel in Virginia City
- Much Much More
- Call for prices
All Packages Include
• Driving a $100K Baja Challenge Race Car
• Transportation to and from off-road course
• Orientation & Professional Saftey Equipment
• Professional Guides & Support Crew
Come to Reno and forget letting your hair down. Visit Wide Open Baja while your here and let them show you how to blow your hair back. What could be more thrilling? Wide Open Baja has several locations including Las Vegas and Cabo San Lucas Mexico. For a full list of locations and packages visit their website at www.wideopenbaja.com. For reservations in Reno April through October (weather permitting) visit the website or call the office,949-382-7790 ask for Kirk Dodge. Tell them Melissa from Mountain Valley Living sent you and go play with the big boys ,Wide Open!!
Wide Open Baja
949-382-7790
http://youtu.be/Uuinbi8N19U
www.wideopenbaja.com
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By Melissa Wynn
June and July are the time of year that the Sierra offers its best to the serious fly fisherman. The weather is warm and the hex hatch is in full swing inspiring an annual trout feeding frenzy. Sportsman and naturalists from all over the world come to our neck of the woods to share in this marvel of nature. Its an amazing sight to see. Thousands of duns float to the waters surface and hatch en mass, flying away as a single massive cloud. As the hatch begins the trout shift into feeding over drive, trying to catch as many from the fly buffet as they can eat. Come on up with your pole and add your favorite fly to the hatch. You are sure to catch your limit in no time, fish on!
Several lakes and waterways in our area offer a wide variety of places to go for the hatch. Those that prefer lake fishing can catch their fill from Lake Almanor, Butt Lake, Eagle Lake,Frenchman Lake or Lake Davis just to name a few. River anglers are chomping at the bit to fish the world famous hatch along the Feather and Pit Rivers. Hat Creek and Burney Creek are just two of the countless creeks and streams in Mountain Valley Living country that also host the hatch. For a bit of sight seeing and wandering you could fish several of these locations in a single weekend.
Although these areas offer world class trout fishing year round, nothing comes close to the adrenaline pumping rush you get speed fishing the frenzy of the hex hatch.
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How often do you drive through Vinton on Highway 70 and pass the white building with the words Cowboy Poetry in large blue letters and the Sierra Valley Grange in smaller letters? The next time you pass by, take a deep breath and pause the busy thoughts going through your mind. You’re passing a bit of living history.
Historically, the Grange in California was started in July 1873. Less than two years later in 1875, the Sierra Valley Grange was started. It was a place the local community could come together to meet and discuss issues that would improve their lives. The Grange exerted a powerful influence, promoting better farming, cattle raising, constructing local highways, and
in 1938 was instrumental in bringing the power lines to Sierra Valley. Four years after its founding, the local community Grange, had the largest membership in California. The large comfortable building which stands today was built in 1931. Ted Ramelli whose ancestors settled in the valley, states that the Grange was essential as a meeting place for residents to deal with the issues of grazing, water, land boundaries and many more. Today the Ag Commission has workshops to continue education and communication. According to long time resident Betty Dellera,
the Grange was not all “work and no play”. It was also a place to bring friends and families together for fun, dances, box socials and potluck dinners.
For the Grange to keep its doors open, a small group of members sits around old wooden tables
the first Wednesday of every month. Like the Grange members many years before us, we plan
fundraisers not to “raise the barn” but to keep it standing. The words Cowboy Poetry describe
our main fundraiser, done in the spirit of our ancestors and brings to Vinton talented artists to keep the wonderful stories and songs alive. Each year the event draws lots of folks from Reno and other areas afar.
The group would really like to invit their local friends and families to this venue, to see friends,
enjoy great homemade food and a quality performance that will take you back to the way things used to be.
They are busy planning other fundraising events too. Dinner/dances, with a live band, will be held once a month. Sunday pancake breakfasts are planned and will be put on by the men of the Grange. You can also support the Grange by becoming a member. The white and blue building needs your support.
Website: www.sierravalleygrangecowboypoetry.weebly.com
Rich Moore (Grange Master/Event Organizer) (831) 801-3719
Pam Olivieri (Event Organizer) (831) 345-9840 email: svgcbpoetry@yahoo.com
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 15, Vinton, CA 96135
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By Melissa Wynn
What could be more relaxing on a hot day in Chico than a leisurely float on an inner tube. Rafting and “tubing” along the Sacramento River is a favorite pastime for the locals. Inner-tube rentals are available at a variety of locations in town, especially along Nord Ave, or you can purchase your own at Walgreens at 1042 Nord Ave or Star Liquors at 959 Nord Ave. Star Liquors boasts the best price in town. Tubers can park and launch at the Irvine Finch Access Site on Highway 32, just East of Hamilton City,and enjoy a leisurely float. Many floaters like to rest at Beer Can Beach and then get out at Scotty’s Boat Landing. This float averages two hours.
Tubing and kayaking along Butte Creek is also a popular area pastime. Public access to the creek is available at the Steel Bridge, and most paddle or bob along down to the historic Honey Run Covered Bridge and get out there. The scenery is breathtaking in this area and plenty of wide open spaces for picnicking can be found along the way. Get an extra tube and float your supplies with you. The day is sure to be blast. To get to Steel Bridge, take the Skyway exit off of Hwy 99 in Chico. Travel up the Skyway, making a left onto Honey Run Road. Follow Honey Run approximately five miles to the Covered Bridge, and make a left on Centerville Road. Go approximately four miles up to the Steel Bridge. This float can take anywhere from three to five hours, depending on river currents.
Beat the heat this summer summer tubin’ the waterways of Chico.
As with any water sport, tubers, rafters and kayakers should use extreme caution when floating. Be aware of hidden “snags” or tree branches, as well as strong undercurrents.
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By Melissa Wynn
On a recent road trip to Shingletown we found ourselves famished after a long hike to Grace Lake. It was a beautiful day and the sign announcing a 9-2 brunch in front of Ponderosa Pines Bar & Grill was a welcome sight.
We walked in to the sweet and salty aromas of bacon and maple syrup. Spunky owner Marie Church was bringing out fresh servings of green chili smothered burritos and invited us to make ourselves at home. We settled into a booth and watched through the kitchen doorway where owner, retired Army First Sargent Gary Church and six year old grand daughter Leila were whipping up even more tempting treats for the buffet style brunch. Daughter Candace Jones was out during our visit so Leila was holding down the fort.
Mountain decor, Marie’s eclectic collection of M&M figurines and the piano in the corner give the feel of visiting the home of great aunt Bess. Everyone at Ponderosa Pines is family and they quickly welcome their patrons into the fold.
Marie’s two brothers, David and Charlie Surridge brought an endless supply of steaming rich coffee and iced tea throughout our wonderful meal of good home cookin. The bacon was crisp, the syrup was warm and the french toast was fluffy. Sooo good after our busy morning. Sausage, pancakes and a truck load of scrambled eggs were also standing by to feed the neighborhood. I couldn’t resist just a few bites of the smothered burritos and enchiladas that were the lunch side of brunch. Too delicious.
The full bar in the corner is a hodge podge of interesting trinkets. If only they could share the adventures they have seen, I can only imagine the tales they would weave.
Ponderosa Pines is closed on Tuesdays so Monday nights are special. Marie and the crew pick a theme and just go with it. Dinner is a surprise. Will it be Mexican, German, Surf and Turf or Southern Fried? Grab a friend and go on a Monday night and see what you find. The rest of the week offers a full menu including thick juicy burgers ($6.95), a wide variety of sandwiches, and Marie’s award winning chili. This pot of deliciousness took 2nd place in 1999 and 1st place in 2000 in the Western Kentucky Chili Cookoff. Dinner fare includes a mouth watering Rib Eye ($18.95), Marie’s famous Chicken Fried Steak and tender Prime Rib on Friday and Saturday nights. Whenever you visit your experience is sure to leave you with a full tummy and few laughs. Load up the family and head to Shingletown, local waitress September Brown will be there with the gang waiting to serve with a smile.
Ponderosa Pines Bar & Grill
29208 State Highway 44
Shingletown, CA, 96088
(530) 474-1468
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Plumas County has an abundance of recreational opportunities, as well as unique scenery, rustic lodging, and personalities that will leave a life long memory. Perhaps one forgotten activity that would interest your family or group is prospecting. With the price of gold sky-rocketing. it certainly is an inviting idea. There are many places left to hunt for the precious metal in the northern motherlode gold fields. There are also many prospecting clubs that hold the rights to many claim sights that offer the novice access to THE GOLD. Remember we are talking about gold, so be careful; make sure you are in an area that
is open to the public or you have specific permission from the claim holder.
Geologists agree that there is more gold left in Plumas County than
was ever taken. The chance of finding a few souvenirs, a large nugget or a pocket of gold is certainly a real possibility.
For those more seriouss individuals the county land records can lead
you to open ground as well as the chance to obtain a claim of your
own. I know from my own experience that going to our family’s claim
has been a highlight of my summer year after year.
To try to explain how to pan or operate a small sluice box is far too
complicated to explain in a few words. I have looked on the Internet
and there are a number of videos that allow you to see the process.
It is doesn’t have to be hard work or a major undertaking to find a
little gold. Come to the creek with your shovel, pick and pan and try your luck. One thing for sure you can’t go wrong visiting the historic and majestic gold country known as Plumas County.
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By Melissa Wynn
On the outskirts of Shingletown Ca at 31853 Hwy 44, Shingletown, CA lies an exquisite little gem known as Grace Lake Resort. I learned of this hidden treasure from a Shingletown friend and decided to go check it out. Another friend and I packed an overnight bag, called for a reservation and declared “road trip”. Sunshine poured through the towering pines, as we wound our way down Hwy 44, casting bumpy shadows on the pavement. What a beautiful drive!
We arrived around noon to find owners Ray and Teresa Flores hard at work remodeling the last of six single cabins on their lovely forested property. Ray is the general contractor of Flores Construction in Redding Ca and his passion for building is obvious. The three bedroom cottage and studio cabins are an ongoing labor of love, remodled by Ray and tastefully decorated by Teresa with lovely antiques . Each cabin is unique with themes like the Fishermans cabin swimming with trout, Native American cabin rich in Indian art, and of course the French Countryside cabin with touches of Paris, our cozy home for the night. Creeping grape vines curl around the fence that surrounds the outdoor pool.
After a quick visit with our gracious hosts we were off for a one mile hike along the creek to Grace Lake. Mallard Ducks and Canada Geese drifted across the glassy water ducking in and out of the cattails. Josh and Nathan of Anderson were enjoying some guy time and had several nice trout on their stringer. Hat Creek is also near by offering more world class trout fishing.
Forgetting the fishing poles meant no fish for dinner so a quick trip to the market and it was time to grill some steaks. Single cabins ($95-$110) like ours are equipped with a small refrigerator, coffee maker and microwave along with a charcoal BBQ grill. The large cottage ($175-$225) offers a lovely full kitchen. Ray and Teresa were grilling steaks as well and invited us to join them at the cottage for dinner. The company and the menu couldn’t have been better.
Back at the cabin, with no phone or television to keep us awake, we drifted off to dreamland beneath a puffy comforter on a cloud soft bed. What a great relaxing trip! Ray and Teresa Flores have created an awesome and serene getaway and they are a barrel of fun. Where else can you come as a guest but leave as a friend?
Grace Lake Resort
31853 Hwy 44, Shingletown, CA
707-499-3604
gracelakeresort.com
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By Melissa Wynn
Anyone can drive in to Susanville but those with an adventurous spirit tend to arrive by bike or on foot having hiked or biked out of the wilderness and into this community where the mountains and the Great basin meet. Susanville Ranch Park tends to be the arrival point for our many outdoor enthusiasts. This scenic park offers 25 miles of non-motorized, multi use trails perfect for everyone from the casual, strolling dog walker to the extreme mountain biking fanatic.
Trail users will find gentle grades around the meadows and up Paiute Creek Canyon, with more challenging climbs on Coyote Bluff and on the Horse Trail in the southern portion of the park. Miles of narrow, challenging single track trails join the Canyon Trail and Coyote Bluff Trail. Hikers will find easy climbing and dramatic views, while more advanced mountain bikers will delight in the undulating and meandering loops. The southern trails are very popular with dog walkers with two creeks and wide open areas.
The 14 miles of trails in the northern portion of the park offer a thrilling experience for hard core trail users with challenging climbs, banked turns, several loop options, and stunning views. There are no creeks or streams in this area, so be prepared if you bring your dog or horse. Please respect the neighbors and stay on or near the trails.
Once you’ve arrived, relax and enjoy the pace of small town living. Susanville may not be a big city but there is plenty to do and see. Diamond Mountain Casino is an excellent stop to try your luck and win a bundle. Not a gambler? No problem. A new hotel and two full service restaurants over flowing with tempting dining choices are reason enough to drop by. Bring the kids and catch a movie at Sierra Theater and Uptown Cinemas. Friendly small town shops and boutiques line the upper end of Main Street offering delights for all. In a single block you find hunting supplies and fine collectibles at Elegant Iris and The Men’s Den, anything you ever wanted to read at Margie’s Book Nook and sell your scrap gold or pick up a special gift at Leslie’s Jewelry. Susanville is dotted with shopping and dining treasures end to end. Trek the trails then pedal through and enjoy the hospitality of Susanville.
http://susanvilleranchpark.com
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Scentsy began with a simple idea—a safe, wickless alternative to scented candles—and quickly grew into one of the most successful direct selling companies in the world. This wickless concept is simply decorative ceramic warmers designed to melt scented wax with the heat of a light bulb instead of a traditional wick and flame. Safe and simple.
In less than eight years, Scentsy has generated more than $1 billion in revenue. Today, Elizabeth McClure Baker, passionate Independent Scentsy Director, shares the Scentsy experience and the Scentsy difference throughout the Chico,Ca area.
On March 1st 2012 Scentsy Wickless released its Spring/Summer 2012 Catalog, featuring the new product line, Layers by Scentsy—a personal fragrance experience that lets customers build a signature scent using nine personal and laundry care fragrance products. The line extension includes eight new fragrance products, plus Scentsy Solid Perfume introduced in 2011. The eight new products include shower cream, shower gel, body lotion, body butter, body spray, hand cream, Washer Whiffs—a laundry fragrance additive that dissolves in the washing machine, and Dryer Disks—a reusable, anti-static fragrance enhancer.
Elizabeth is proud to announce the May 1st 2012 release of Velata, featuring a patent-pending, silicone dish on an electric warmer paired with the world’s finest quality Belgian chocolate to create a fun, easy-to-use, and delicious fondue experience. Scentsy isn’t just wickless candles anymore.
Independent Scentsy Director
Elizabeth McClure Baker
530-566-5643
Joinwickless@hotmail.com
www.joinwickless.scentsy.us
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Dr. Marlene Birkholtz, Banner Health
Preparing for surgery can be a daunting task: You have to arrange for time off work, make sure someone is going to walk the dog, and pick up your mail. But don’t forget to tend to the biggest part of all: the mental and emotional stress of anticipated pain and disability.
Researchers increasingly link mental, emotional and spiritual health to that of the physical body. So when a major physical event like surgery is on the table-no pun intended-the other human elements need caring for too.
Educating yourself before the procedure is key. The more informed patients are about what’s going to happen to them, the better they can be to cooperate with post-operative instructions including rest, nutrition and exercise, and the sooner they can return to normal activities. Patients should openly discuss their pain level with their nurse when they are hospitalized so it can be managed effectively. And, upon discharge, patients should closely follow their physician’s discharge orders. Many people try to return to normal activities too soon after surgery, resulting in pain and slowing the healing process.
How to Stave Off Surgery Stress
1. Get as much information as possible. Speak with all the doctors involved in the procedure, including the anesthesiologist, surgeon and your primary care physician. Seek out reliable information from the Internet or meet with people who have undergone the procedure in the past.
2. Choose a surgeon you trust. Ask family, friends and your family physician for a referral. Meeting with the surgeon before the procedure helps build a relationship.
3. Stick to a healthy lifestyle before surgery. Stop smoking and consult your doctor about the foods, vitamins and exercise that aid in a speedy recovery.
4. Take an active role in your healthcare. Express your concerns, worries or discomfort with the surgery process and make sure you get everything answered.
5. Enlist support. Research has found that a social and emotional network is essential to relieving stress and aiding in recovery.
6. Keep a notebook. Document the names and titles of all the medical staff involved and details of all tests and medications.
7. Seek professional advice. In extreme cases of stress, sessions with a therapist or someone who can instruct you on stress-management techniques can be very helpful.
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The main attraction that turns mountain boys into mountain men is the hunting and fishing available in their own back yard. Quail Lodge would like to welcome you into their backyard to join in the fun. Perched among the towering pines, with rustic mountain decor and fragrant cedar beams, Quail Lodge is the perfect sportsman base. Patrons are free to rent an outdoor sports themed room and just explore or may also choose all inclusive packages including meals, licensed hunting and fishing guides and lodging.
Golf courses abound in this neck of the woods and the friendly staff at Quail Lodge is more than happy to help you arrange your own mountain golf retreat.
No need to worry about crowds, Quail Lodge has eight rooms that sleep 2-4 waiting for you and your own small group of adventurers. Come hunt fish swim and enjoy the old fashioned hospitality of Quail Lodge.
Click The Pic To Schedule Your Adventure
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I started out looking for a great spa; I stumbled onto a great realization. As any writer in search of a story, I got on the phone and made a few calls. (There had to be an amazing spa getaway somewhere in our gorgeous corner of Northeastern CA.) Within minutes I was told about Chico Canyon Retreat. A quick peek online ( chicocanyon.com) and I was intrigued. I quickly made the call and reached a soft and friendly voice. Two weeks later, buried in the usual workload, I arrived.
We met Dulcy Shroeder, proprietor and gracious hostess for the retreat located at Forest Ranch, about 15 minutes from Chico and a little over an hour from Lake Almanor. She drove us in to the lush wilderness. The ride in provided an amazing preview of what was to come, as it delivered a strong sense that the workload could wait a day.
I remember the words of my sister and mentor, “Sometimes you have to walk away from working IN your business, long enough to work ON your business”, words that had stuck with me long after her passing. I would enjoy the property and my mind was already working ON my business.
Freshly baked cookies greeted us before the planned hike I would enjoy with Dulcy, Eddy and Hanna, the heart and soul of Chico Canyon Retreat. Eddy enjoys clearing the trails and keeping the home fires burning. Hanna is an artist in the field of massage therapy, and Dulcy’s jobs range from chef (and an amazing one at that!) to assistant trail clearer. All are eager for Dulcy’s new venture to become a success.
We hiked up the driveway and over a bridge where Big Chico Creek winds its way through the property. Mounds of berry bushes adorn the 240+ acre retreat, which was already calling me back for an August frenzy of mountain blackberry picking. Sulfur pools invade spaces in the creek and Dulcy pointed out one bubbling sulfur spring outside the creek. We hiked around a newly cut trail near the creek. Gentle waterfalls along with about a thousand birds and critters made for some inspiring background music.
We soon headed back for some iced tea and a time to refresh before my scheduled massage. I sat at a small patio table and took it all in. Aroma of rosemary drifts past bright yellow daffodils as two majestic mountain tops stand in the distance.’Relax’, I remind myself, ‘you have arrived.’
Soon I was met by Hanna and taken to a private room with amazing views of the canyon. Hanna has a soft and welcoming spirit and amazing hands. She offers many treatments including crystal healing, therapeutic massage, deep tissue, reflexology, Ayurvedic massage, energy work and her favorite, the sacred Lomi Lomi which she brought with her from Hawaii. I opted for her signature massage, which incorporates a bit of it all. It took me away from it all, indeed. My treatment ended with an aromatherapy-infused steam bath. A tent came down from the ceiling and the fragrant steam enveloped me.
After a quick shower and another walk on this amazing property, it was time for dinner, another sweet surprise at Chico Canyon Retreat. Dulcy had prepared a beautiful and delicious chicken dinner with fresh baked biscuits and manzanita jelly, something I had never tried before. It was sweet and very good.
After dinner, and inspired by the serenity of the day’s events, I began to plan strategies for a new division of our company. My mind was refreshed, my outlook was new. I had already decided I will be back.
We stayed in the Rosemary Room. Rosemary is one of those scents that keeps calling me back for more, so when I arrived and the window was open in our room, I was pleasantly surprised. A wide-opening window gave view to a sort of secluded patio which was a small space surrounded by a hillside of blooming rosemary. Ahhh… heavenly. I slept like a baby.
Eddy and Hanna joined us for a splendid breakfast of quiche, with fresh fruit baked in. It had a sweet touch, was delicious, and provided a nice start for a new day. Fresh coffee, juice and nice morning conversation wrapped up our stay at Chico Canyon Retreat.
This place is a great choice for hosting a workshop, retreat or a small wedding. Dulcy is one of the neatest gals you will ever meet. Eddy and Hanna are some of the best people ever, according to Dulcy. I enjoyed them all. Feeling at ease and at home is easy here. Leave your worries (or work) behind for a day or a weekend. You can book a massage with the herbal steam bath (for a full hour and twenty minutes of letting go) for $120. There are a variety of services on the spa menu which you will find online at chicocanyon.com. You can also call to book a day or a stay at 530-982-8796.
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Aging in Place
by Nancy Lund
“ I joke that at the age of 94 I have embarked on a new career.” Nancy Lund
Did you always wish you could play the piano? What about ceramics or writing? Are there things you want to do but think you are now too old to try?
When you give yourself permission to look foolish you have taken the first step in starting something new. Because many of us are own strongest critics we inhibit ourselves from even beginning. So we need to be told you can’t fail where there is nobody to judge you!
These words of wisdom come from my own recent experience. I joke that at the age of 94 I have embarked on a new career. Seriously, what I have done is enroll in a watercolor painting class. And I am enjoying it hugely! Certainly the results are not worth framing but they are mine. I can hardly wait for next week’s lesson ! I don’t know if Grandma Moses always wanted to be a painter but she decided at some point that she would do it. I have always been fascinated by the seeming freedom of watercolors and now I’m learning its secrets.
We seniors have the time now to do some of the things that work or family kept us from doing before. Maybe you took piano lessons as a child but didn’t stick with it. Why not take it up again? Admire the needlework that your neighbor is doing? There are quilting groups in each of our communities. Always wanted to write? Do it!
I am confident that you can find the teacher or the class to learn (or improve) your skills right here in Plumas County. The Feather River College is a good place to start. (toll free:1-800-442-9789 or 283-0282) If there is nothing currently scheduled, they might offer it if enough people are interested in the subject. Ask the people at the Senior Nutrition Site or at your church if they would join a class if it were offered. The Plumas Arts Center ( 283-3402) will have a list of classes and teachers.
Let 2012 be the year you do one of the things you always wanted to do!
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By Melissa Wynn
So you’ve decided to raise some chickens. The first question is what are you raising , the chicken or the egg? Many first timers are just looking for a few birds that can peck around and lay some eggs, others want table chickens for meat production and some would like a bit of both. Next do you want white eggs, brown eggs or blue-green colored eggs? Here are a few details to help you choose the breed best for you.
Leghorn chicken breeds are arguably the best laying chickens around save the Rhode Island breeds. A small, white, noisy bird with red comb and waddle, Leghorns like to move about. They are good foragers and can often glean much of their diet from ranging over fields and barnyards. Leghorns are light and like to take flight and often roost in trees when available. Leghorns lay more than 300 white eggs a year.
Australorp breeds are Autralian birds developed from the Orpington chicken. These larger plump fowl have black feathers with a green sheen and a red comb and waddle. These breakfast makers are popular fortheir ability to lay eggs from as early as 5 months. Australorps lay about 300 dark brown eggs a year, so another good layer for chicken eggs.
The Rhode Island Red Chickens are another excellent source of medium brown eggs. Relatively hardy, they are probably the best egg layers of the dual purpose breeds. These are a great choice for those who wish to raise table chickens as well as collect eggs. Reds handle marginal diets and poor housing conditions better than other breeds and still continue to produce eggs, 200-250 a year.
The Barnvelder is the bird for you if you desire a quiet and often lazy little bird that lays 180-200 light brown eggs a year. Originally from the town of Barnvelder in Holland, it is the most popular dual purpose chicken in this country, great for eggs or the stew pot. Brown and buff bodies with black heads and small red comb make this breed a dapper looking bird. A good chicken for damp and cold, windy climates makes the Barnvelder a great choice for higher elevations.
If colored eggs for fun is what you’re after then perhaps the Aracuna is the breed for you. The Araucana is a South American bird that is rumpless and a producer of 180-200 medium-sized blue/green eggs a year. Although the eggs are smaller, no dying needed for the Easter basket.
These are just a few of the breeds available for your own backyard barnyard. For a longer list and more details an awesome visit is countryfarm-lifestyles.com.
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By Melissa Wynn and Randy Nelson
Many people today believe that all historic Native Americans lived in Tee Pees. I recently learned that this is not true. Originally tee pees were used by the tribes living in the Great Plains.These brave buffalo hunters used small tee pees as portable, temporary housing when following the majestic herds of bison. They also used the poles and covers to make dragging their kill easier. Many used dogs tethered to the “sled”, manufactured by strapping the cover over the poles, much like the sleds used for ski hill rescues. As the Native Americans were displaced from their homelands tee pees became more the norm.
These days tee pees have been mostly replaced by manufactured tents because they are lighter and more portable. However, the ancient tee pee has several advantages over today’s nylon tent, the most prevelent being the smoke flaps that allow ventilation for an inside heat source be it an open fire or camp heater. During summer the cover can be raised on the shady side creating a canopy so that cool air blows in. Being made of hides, or today heavy canvas, these more durable, primative structures are much better at keeping out the wind and much more water resistant.
Tee Pees are comprised of four basic components, poles(number dependant on size 12-18), cover, liner and floor. The poles stand upright with the bottoms fanned out and are bound together at the top with straps or rope. Next the cover is wrapped around the exterior with the smoke flaps at the top and then laced up the front like a tennis shoe. The liner goes on the interior of the structure from the bottom about half way up. This creates a void between the liner and cover for ventilation. Finally the floor canvas covers the bare ground providing insulation from the cold ground and protection from soiling your things.
Tee Pees are popular with the Mountain Man Rendevous crowds but anyone can enjoy these primitive structures. The larger tee pees can sleep ten and sometimes more. They say love grows best in small spaces so fill your tee pee with those you love and see what grows.
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By Melissa Wynn
Life in the mountains is sprinkled with episodes of unpredictable weather. Heavy snows, gusty winds and the occasional forest fire often lead to power outages for all of us. Being prepared is as simple as having a back-up generator installed in your home or business. Local contractor Cal Thurber of CST Construction and Electric Inc. is our only local Generac dealer. He installed a back up generator in his own home several years ago and says he wouldn’t have anything less for his own family. When his power goes out the generator kicks on automatically and life goes on uninterrupted by the darkness.
Generators for your home or business eliminate the need for candles and lanterns when the lights go out and no more worries about losing the food in your freezer. One might think these handy contraptions come as a one size fits all but Cal taught me that this is not true. Many models and sizes are available to custom fit your needs. A small generator may be all you are looking for. These are just for the basics, run the lights and a few appliances until the power comes back online. You can have such a generator installed in your home starting around $3500-$4000. Larger systems have the capability to run your home or business and are more in the $6000-$8000 range. An outage lasting several days would make it worth every penny. While the neighbors are cooking on the wood stove your family can still be baking in the electric oven and taking hot showers. You could also be the only business on the block still open while the others are forced to close with no power to run the register, computer ect.
Don’t be left in the dark ages. Get a back up generator and be ready when the lights go out. For more information about Generac or generators in general please contact Cal Thurber at CST Construction and Electric Inc. at 530-259-4995. He is the go to guy for sales, service and installation along with general information. Keep the light in your life with a back up generator.
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By Lorraine Shoemaker
There are few things better than fresh vegetables straight from the garden. Those
of us fortunate enough to grow our own veggies can attest that there is little comparison between home grown, home canned green beans and those in an aluminium can from the local grocery store. They hardly taste like the same vegetable!
It’s just as easy to grow pole beans in pots on your deck as in a formal garden. Just make sure that there is sufficient support for the vine. This can be in the form of a lattice or maybe a tipi shaped support made of three 5-6 foot sticks or poles tied together at the top. Tipi style supports make for easier bean picking later on. For complete instruction of planting vegetables and general gardening visit, www.usda.gov .
Once your bean plants start bearing fruit, check the vines thoroughly and often for mature beans. The optimal size is about 4 inches long. Left too long on the plant, the bean pod grows pithy and fibrous, and will slow or prevent the growth of new fruit. So you may need to pick every day as these pods are adept at hiding. Getting low to the ground and looking up under the leaves will expose many pods previously undetected.
Once you have harvested your plants, can or freeze as soon as possible for optimal freshness and nutrition. Five pole bean plants yield about 40 quarts of prepared beans. Safe and complete canning instruction is also available at www.usda.gov .
There is an abundance of fruits and vegetables that can be container grown in a limited space, so almost anyone can enjoy garden fresh produce – even without a green thumb.
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By Lorraine Shoemaker
Spicy Golden Pepper Jelly
For all you culinary jelly adventurers, this pleasantly sweet and curiously hot jelly is a must try. This is a guaranteed delight for all you chili lovers out there! Make it as hot or mild as you prefer.
You will need the following fresh (preferably homegrown) ingredients:
3 large yellow bell peppers
1 to 4 serrano chile peppers (to taste)
1-1/2 cups 5% white distilled vinegar
7 cups sugar
1 package (3 oz.) liquid pectin
Yield:
About 7 half-pint jars
Before you began, be sure to put on plastic or rubber gloves and do not touch your face or eyes while handling or cutting hot peppers. The capsaicin oils can be quite painful to sensitive areas.
Wash all the peppers thoroughly; remove the stems and seeds from the peppers. Preserve the membrane of the hot peppers, as the remaining capsaicin is located there. Place the sweet and hot peppers in a blender or food processor, adding just enough vinegar to puree the peppers.
Now combine the pepper-vinegar puree and remaining vinegar into an 8-quart saucepan. Heat the mixture to a boil, then boil for at least 20 minutes to extract the prime amount of flavors and color. Remove from heat and strain (through a strainer lined with several layers of cheesecloth) into a large bowl. Add the strained pepper-vinegar juice back to the saucepan.
Stir in the sugar until well dissolved and return mixture to a boil. Next add the pectin, then return mixture to a full rolling boil and boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, quickly skim off any foam, and fill into sterile jars- leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a dampened clean paper towel. Tighten the lids and process. For safe and thorough canning instructions visit http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/publications/publications_usda.html . Happy canning!
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By Melissa Wynn
Since the first pioneer yelled “TIMBER” in the woods log homes have dotted the landscape. Strength, superior insulating qualities and ease of construction made these dwellings the obvious choice for the first non-native inhabitants of the forested Sierra Nevada mountains. Proof of the durability of the log home is often found by hikers who chance upon small log shacks slapped together by the 49ers of the gold rush in the 1800s but still standing today.
Don Sabin, of the now ghost town known as Seneca, built his log home in the summer of 1947 with his buddy Duke. They fell the trees on site with hand saws, notched them with axes and lifted the higher tiers in place using a home made block and tackle system. Mr. Sabin lives these rustic digs year round to this day.
Modern day log homes come in all shapes, sizes and degrees of luxury. Rick and Vickie Nelson live in a shining example on the pristine bank of Lake Almanor’s East Shore. Built in 2002 by Cal Thurber of CST Construction & Electric Inc. Lake Almanor, in conjunction with Precision Craft Log Holes of Meridian Idaho, this 5000+ square foot beauty with lake view deck and built in generator is sure to be impressing passers by a hundred years from now.
The best mountain traditions never change, living simple, lakes and log homes.
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By Lorraine Shoemaker
On a recent trip to Reno with my sister, Melissa, we had the pleasure of staying the night at the Atlantis Hotel and Casino. Along with the first rate room on the 21st floor of the Concierge Tower, we had access to the opulent Spa Atlantis- which has so many treatments available that it’s nearly impossible to chose just one. Fortunately we didn’t have to! With the purchase of one treatment each we were treated to an entire day of luxurious pampering.
Melissa chose the Signature Physiodermi Facial as her treatment and her Facial Technician, Charlene lead her to a candlelit room with calming music. Melissa was in a semi reclining position on an elegantly draped massage table . Charlene first placed a warm towel on Melissa’s’ face to open the pores and relax the facial muscles. Next, a gentle cleansing and exfoliation using botanical extracts-most noticeably papaya enzyme- the aroma was heavenly! A very gentle extraction of impurities was followed by another warm towel. Rich moisturizer was applied and a final spritzing. Charlene also shaped Melissa’s’ eyebrows and waxed her upper lip as well as massaging her shoulders, neck and hands.
My treatment was The Hot Rock Massage. The intimate candlelit room with soothing music and delicate aroma made me feel relaxed and I wasn’t even on the massage table yet! I started by laying facedown on the soft, warm table and felt my shoulders ease. It was so serene. My Massage Therapist, Nickie, eased quietly into the room and began preparing to do magic. Using wondrously warm cream and a gentle touch, Nickie massaged my neck, shoulders, back, arms, legs, feet and hands. About the time I was dozing, Nickie began using the hot rocks up and down my back. What a luxury. The rocks used are river rocks, specially selected for several qualities: size for different parts of the body, color for heat retention (black absorbs more heat -white less) and shape and smoothness.
At the end of my massage I melted into the table for a few minutes before getting up. As I stood up my legs were so rubbery I felt intoxicated. I, sadly, bide farewell to Nickie-an excellent Massage Therapist. Next time you’re in Reno, give yourself an indulgent treat- visit Spa Atlantis and experience the magic. For a full menu of amenities contact Atlantiscasino.com
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By Melissa Wynn
When I made the reservations at Bistro Napa in the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno I was looking forward to a quiet dinner out. Little did I know. A meal at Bistro Napa is NOT dinner out, it is a decadent, opulent dining experience. After spending the day at Spa Atlantis Lorraine Shoemaker and I arrived for dinner so relaxed we were nearly liquid. Why make decisions? We asked our sweet server Nicki Shea to have Chef Clayton Slieff just send out his favorites. Our lack of decision was the best choice after all. Even our request for just any house specialty cocktail was chosen by Nicki. For me she chose a sweet tequila based cocktail called the Pom Daisy, sweet and tangy with pomegranate and sure to warm your cheeks. Lorraine savored her Winter Lemonade, Citron Vodka based, sweet and tart with hints of basil and lemon thyme. Powerfully delightful!
Dinner began with a bit of Duck Pate’ atop a crispy crouton with roasted pumpkin seeds. Just a nibble of delicate flavor, full of texture, a tiny party for your tongue. Mmmm. Next Chef sent out two wood fired artichoke hearts, barely charred with a sassy lemon aioli. Tender to perfection. Four bread choices warm in a basket arrived just before our beautiful Baby Lettuce Salad ($9). What a salad, wood fired pear, crunchy apple, candied pecans and a sprinkle of Sonoma goat cheese nestled on a bed of baby greens and lightly drizzled with a Late Harvest Riesling Vinaigrette. I was beginning to wonder how to possibly save room for an entree. No worries, I’ll manage. Again Chef Clayton made stellar choices. Pan Roasted Chilean Seabass ($35)was the first entree to grace our table topped with a jumbo shrimp resting juicy on a bed of fingerling potatoes, fresh spinach, sweet teardrop tomatoes and pearl onions all coated with an outstanding citrus butter sauce. I think this was about the time I decided this meal merited proposals of marriage. Chef’s wife is a lucky lady! Entree number two was also a fiesta for our tastebuds, Cabernet Braised Boneless Shortribs ($30). Mercy, mercy me. Beyond tender, the ribs just fell apart under the fork. Lazing a top applewood smoked bacon mashed potatoes swimming in the most mouth watering Cabernet Sauvignon Sauce I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. Sooo full, I was certain I would pop. But wait, here come cups of hot, full flavored coffee to settle the tummy and make room for dessert. I know, very naughty but we couldn’t resist. Our royal feast ended with a perfect cheese tray offering four varieties of cheese and four amazing dips for them including a strong reduced balsamic that Lorraine loved and a sweet bit of fresh honeycomb that I picked at until it was gone. All in all this was a true work of culinary excellence. Visit the Bistro Napa at Atlantis Reno. Bon Appetit’
photos courtesy of Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
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By Melissa Wynn
When my sister Lorraine and I checked in at Atlantis in Reno we had already planned to pamper ourselves, so why not live large and get a room in the Concierge Tower? The views of the city lights by night and sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains by day are outstanding from these plush, larger rooms on floors 21 through 25. Tinted windows eliminate any glare, we were on top of the world. We kicked off our shoes and decided on a cocktail from the handy in room mini bar, time to relax before our spa appointment. Lorraine enjoyed a hot soak in the tub with her favorite afternoon TV show on the 20 inch HD TV in the bathroom. I curled up on my comfy bed in my pile of four pillows and rented a movie on the 42 inch HD TV with a touch of a button on the remote. This is the life. A light tap on the door was housekeeping dropping by with complimentary bottled water. We left for the spa already feeling spoiled. Upon returning from our luxurious afternoon we changed for a gourmet dinner downstairs at Bistro Napa. We spent hours there and ate until we could barely move. Good thing our lovely room was just a swipe of the room key in the glass elevator away. We returned to find our beds turned down and a yummy mint on the pillow. With all the extras these luxury accommodations are a steal starting at $145 mid week. I was never more happy to crawl between the triple sheets, beneath the fluffy duvet, and drift away to sleep.
Life rarely offers me the opportunity to sleep undisturbed until I wake on my own but black out curtains and no alarm let me play in dreamland until nearly 9:00 the next morning. Lorraine brewed us each a cup of rich in room coffee and we were off to enjoy the complimentary continental breakfast in the 25th floor concierge lounge exclusively for tower guests. Yogurt with granola and berries parfaits along with several items from the fresh fruit tray tempted us both. Light and sweet with our croissants and danishes from a nearly endless number of breakfast breads. Windows from ceiling to floor overlook the city with the mountains looming majestic in the background. It was bittersweet to head for home. I couldn’t wait to tell all of you about our excellent stay in the Concierge Tower at Atlantis but I also wished to stay where I was queen for a day. Check out these amazing amenities.
- Express key-card access glass elevators
- VIP check-in
- Exclusive 25th floor Concierge Lounge with complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon hors d’oeuvres
- Bose® Wave® Radio with iPod® docking station
- Refrigerator
- Fully-stocked mini bar
- Luxury body and bath products
- Sealy pillow-top mattresses with luxurious triple sheeting
- Plush guest robe
- Personalized butler service, available upon request
- Custom furnishing featuring warm, rich woods and marble accents
- Custom desk with multi-media launch pad connectivity to the 42” flat screen HDTV
- Individual climate control
- Digital safe
- High-speed wired and wireless Internet
- Dual line telephones
- Data ports and speakerphone
- Rainforest Alliance Certified in-room coffee
- Complimentary access to indoor pool, outdoor pool and whirlpool
- Complimentary airport shuttle
- 24-hour room service
Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
3800 S. Virginia St. Reno, NV 89502
Reservations: toll-free 800.723.6500 or 775.825.4700 | Group Sales: 800.994.5900
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By Melissa Wynn
For many years now Lassen and Plumas counties have been without a music store. Each time one of the many musical members of my family needed guitar strings or drum sticks it meant a long trip out of our area, oh bother!
On December 1st of 2011, local luthier and inventor of the MiniFlex Microphone, Ken Donnell and his partner Jim McBean opened Donnell’s Music Land at 207 Main St. in Greenville, finally bringing music back to the mountains. It’s a great little shop and so much more than a place to buy, sell and trade instruments and accessories.
The day of my tour, I arrived to find the storefront full of customers watching local teen Christopher Gibson practice his skills on a beautiful red drum set in the corner. A few minutes later jazz lover Andrea West came in to sell her Alto Saxophone and joined Christopher in song to play it one last time. She was very happy when Ken Donnell invited her to come back and play it again at Donnell’s Music Land’s weekly jam night. These Wednesday night get togethers welcome all musicians from 6-7:30 pm.
It’s all about the music and a walk through the back of the shop showed me the true passion of Ken and his staff . In the first workshop area we found electronics tech Micheal assembling Miniflex Microphones and tapping his foot to the beat he was hearing in his headphones. Sold on a global scale for acoustic instruments Donnell’s Music Land is the only place to purchase yours from the inventor himself.
A man of many talents, Ken also has a large work area for his luthier work. This is the room where instruments are created, including a gorgeous fiddleback guitar of stunning walnut in progress. Repairs and restorations of musical instruments as well as fine wooden antiques are also on the list of services that keep the melodies flowing through our neighborhood.
Wanna join the jam sessions but can’t play a note? No worries, Donnell’s has you covered again. Several local musicians give lessons and Music Land has the information to get you started.
Donnell’s Music Land is open Wednesday-Friday 12-6pm and Saturday 12-4pm. The man himself, Ken Donnell will also open for you by appointment, just give him a call at the store at 530-284-1689 or after hours at 530-230-7842. He’s happy to open the door and bring music back to the mountains.
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By Melissa Wynn
So, you’ve decided to raise chickens. What comes next? First you need to choose a breed that meets the criteria of your needs. Some are good egg layers but not best for the stew pot. Others are better for meat but not so much for eggs and many breeds are just fine for both. (See Critters page this issue)
Will you start with adult birds or downy baby chicks? Like all babies new chicks need special attentive care. The first week chicks need to kept very warm, 90-100 degrees. Each week that follows the temperature is lowered by five degrees. This means the chicks will need an enclosed well ventilated space called a brooder. Several commercial models are available but a brooder can be as simple as a sturdy cardboard box. Small brooders are easily heated with a 100 watt light bulb pointing into one corner. Your brooder should allow for each chick to have at least one square foot of space as they grow quickly. A floor covering for the brooder , such as pine shavings, is also needed. Like their adult chicken parents chicks love to scratch and peck at the ground. On nice days start introducing your chicks to the great outdoors. Section off a small area so that they are easy to catch when it is time to come back inside. Handling your chicks when they are little helps them get used to being caught and moved around. Always wash your hands after handling your chicks and after cleaning their areas. Of course all living things need food and water. Locals in our area can pick up chick crumbles and starter feed blends as well as water dispensers and even the chicks themselves from the Pardner at 702-100 Johnstonville Rd in Susanville.
After the first two months the chicks are ready to move outside to a chicken coop. Chickens are very vulnerable to predators so your chicken coop and hen house need to be sturdy. Skunks, fox and coyotes are all good at digging and love to eat chickens so be sure that the floor and perimeter of your chicken coop has a liner such as chicken wire to prevent entry from tunneling. A wire covering over the coop is a good idea as many predators are also good fence climbers. There are endless options for designing your hen house but each should have plenty of nesting boxes for egg laying. Pine shavings or straw make excellent bedding for the boxes. Many designs have “back doors” allowing you to reach into each nesting box from the outside when gathering eggs.
Adult chickens will require a food change as well. Many varieties are available to help enhance egg laying or quicker growth for meat production. Ask our friends at the Pardner or your own local feed store which feed is right for your birds. Chickens also enjoy a treat of veggie scraps or bread crumbs now and then. Happy chickens are healthy chickens.
Chickens can fill your fridge with fresh, organic eggs and poultry, entertain you as a pet or take you to exotic breed competitions. They can be a load of fun but are also a big responsibility. They are messy, noisy and require regular maintenance and care. Before you decide that back yard chickens are for you do your home work and check your local codes to be sure it is allowed in your town or city.
Facts Courtesy of The Pardner and backyardchickens.com
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By Lorraine Shoemaker
The secret to stress free camping is in the planning and preparation. Think first of what type of camping you will be doing and where. Then, make a list of what you think you will need (there are several sites online to download a basic checklist). Make your master list as specific as possible. Then, set your list aside for a day and go over the list again- until you are sure you’ve included everything you will need.
Keeping in mind that you will have limited storage space, go back over your list and eliminate all kitchen gadgets. You’ll find that you will only use the most basic utensils and pots/pans- those time saving gadgets take up a lot of precious space.
Food is another area that takes up a lot of space. Most often you can find a grocery store close to where you are going. Keep groceries to a minimum while on the road. Remove foods you do take with you from bulky packaging and put them into plastic ziplock bags. You can use collapsible coolers as well.
Take a minimum of clothing, rolled up and put into a cloth or duffle bag. Many camping facilities have laundries on site or nearby.
Limit one gallon sized ziplock bag per person for toiletries and accoutrements.
Instead of books and full sized games, think Kindle, travel sized games and card games. Don’t bring movies and video games-you can do that at home. Tell stories and sing around the campfire, gaze at the stars – enjoy nature!
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There is no better place than the Sierra for equestrians to call home. Endless spaces near or bordering National Forests open miles of trails and wilderness for riding. From rugged mountain areas to creek side meadows, its all right here. Don’t just imagine you and your horses calling these majestic mountains home, visit our realtors and be our neighbor!
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Melissa | Mountain Valley Living Magazine
