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Melissa | Mountain Valley Living Magazine

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?

Joel Trick fws.gov

Dr. Thomas G Barnes fws.gov

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.

Laura Perlick fws.gov

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.

US Fish and Wildlife Service

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.

Laura Perlick fws.gov

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

Wide Open Baja

Wide Open Baja

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

 

 

Wide Open Baja

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

 

 

Wide Open Baja

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

 http://youtu.be/Uuinbi8N19U

www.wideopenbaja.com

Wide Open Baja

Wide Open Baja

Wide Open Baja

When Susanville local, Allison Templeton graduated from Chico State University and returned to her hometown to work, she needed to find a studio for her art. She soon discovered the perfect place at 1015 Main Street. Not only did this building have a studio, it also had a front room for a gallery.

Templeton opened the Crow’s Nest Studio in November 2011. Here, she has room to display her own art along with showcasing the art of many local talented artists. Interested artists can call and set up a show or make a plan for consignment art.

After graduating from Lassen High School in 2003, Allison received her Associate degree from Lassen Community College and went on to receive a double major in Art Education which prepared her for teaching and Art Studio with an emphasis in sculpture and glass. Her double minor added Art History and Theater Arts to this well rounded degree.

The Crow’s Nest Studio has art for everyone. Much of it is geared toward youngsters who do not always have access to art training due to lack of funding in schools for these programs. She loves working with children and even substitutes at local schools where she will try to fit in some art whenever possible.

Each month a flyer listing the dates of workshops offered can be picked up at the studio. In April the children made “Unique Umbrellas”, “Rainsticks” and did “Rain Painting”.

Adults, too, may come and work on projects or attend specific workshops to learn more or experiment with various media. You may request workshops in any area of interest. Art 101 is a once a week class offering the basics of an art medium through four session by appointment. Specific dates are also set aside for B.Y.O.P. (Bring Your Own Project) for an evening of creativity, conversation, and camaraderie from 5-7 pm.

Allison reminds the reader that “art has little to do with talent and lots to do with practice,” while the beauty of doing art work teaches us to “think outside the box, look at things in a different way.” She emphasizes that this is a place to work with no judgment or grading. It is a place to learn, explore and have fun. And if you are one of the people that is sure you can’t draw, she emphasizes that there are many other ways to express through the arts.

Her shelves are lined with art books, materials, paints, crayons, etc. and she welcomes donations of art supplies any time. She also has many art supplies for sale.

Please call for prices and availability. Space is available to rent for clubs such as 4-H, scout meetings, birthday parties, etc. Depending on the theme for birthday parties, she will present 2-3 crafts per party.

Presently, the studio is open Tuesday-Friday from 3pm-7pm and Saturday from 11am-4pm. Anyone can drop in to work on their art at these times. Watch for new summer hours, workshops yet to come and special 5 day summer camps for children, each with a different theme.

Bigstockphoto.com

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.

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

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.

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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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.

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

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

Melissa | Mountain Valley Living Magazine

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

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.

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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CLICK LOGO ABOVE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Find experts in the fields of health and wellness. Spa owner has been an alternative healer for many decades and works with excellent, qualified professional to provide you an amazing visit, every time. Pinnacle Wellness and Healing Spa in Reno has recently moved to 18180 Wedge Parkway (Raley’s Shopping Center)  in South Reno. This beautiful, state-of-the-art facility offers services in the areas of wellness, healing, enhancement and detoxification. Nutrition is key and Pinnacle offers Nutraceuticals instead of Pharmaceuticals. Members enjoy and oxygen bar, vitamin D Therapy, Far Infrared Therapy and many more treatments. Come experience the tranquility of Pinnacle Wellness Healing Spa.

Located off of Mt. Rose
Highway in the Raleys
Shopping Center next
to the Goodwill Bookstore.

Walk-ins are welcome
and encouraged!

Hours of Operation:
Mon – Sat
10am – 8pm

 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!

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.

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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]]> http://www.mountainvalleyliving.com/2012/03/what-are-you-raising-the-chicken-or-the-egg/feed/ 0 http://www.mountainvalleyliving.com/2012/03/the-tale-of-the-tee-pee/ http://www.mountainvalleyliving.com/2012/03/the-tale-of-the-tee-pee/#comments Fri, 23 Mar 2012 17:08:50 +0000 Melissa http://www.mountainvalleyliving.com/?p=18044 By Melissa Wynn and Randy Nelson

bigstockphoto.comMany 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

Continue reading The Tale Of The Tee Pee...

By Melissa Wynn and Randy Nelson

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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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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.

There are few things better than fresh vegetables straight from the garden. Those

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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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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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Melissa | Mountain Valley Living Magazine

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.

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

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

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