What's on my Calendar?

 Aw, it's finally February! 

For me, it's not about the last month being a big bully but rather the promise of spring. We're enjoying mild 70-degree weather, though February and March can still surprise us with cold snaps or snowstorms. We're still in our winter rainy season, so anything goes. 

The East Coast has Punxsutawney Phil, who predicts spring like a celebrity, while California has Mojave Maxine, the laid-back desert tortoise. Instead of a crowd, she relaxes at The Living Desert Zoo in Palm Desert, soaking up the sun. 

Maxine's annual "brumation," which sounds fancy but just means she's hibernating until it warms up. She typically goes into hiding around Thanksgiving, choosing comfort over turkey and family. When she finally re-emerges, it could be late January or early February, which might be her version of being fashionably late.

So on the calendar this month are two wedding anniversaries, and a particular favorite of mine -  Chinese New Year. We're planning to visit one of the Chinese temples near us - weather permitting! And with that, I like to indulge in some good Chinese Food. 

Do you like Chinese food, and how often do you eat it? 

Other than that, we have no plans. 

I'm a spur-of-the-moment kinda person, so who knows?? I sure don't. I just know it when the time comes -  always flying by the seat of my pants. 

 Martin's Spurge bloomed in the backyard. 

A walk by the Sacramento River on Friday. There was a definite chill down by the river. 

Source: FORE

And this month, we're all watching and waiting for our favorite love birds, Liberty and Guardian. 

We're hoping for some eggs very soon. 

On my walk by the river - 

The rest of the day, I'm doing laundry - and we might go out and do something later in the afternoon. Maybe grab some dinner, or then again, maybe not. 

For February

Dear Lord, as I turn the calendar page to February, I am comforted by Your supreme reign and authority over all creation. You hold the universe in Your hands, and nothing is beyond Your knowledge or control. 

You are the Alpha and Omega. 

Thank You for Your faithfulness in all seasons of our lives. This February, help me to rest in Your sovereignty, in this topsy-turvy world. When uncertainties arise, remind me that our times are in Your Hands (Psalm 31:15). Guide me to lean not on my own understanding but to trust in Your Wisdom and Timing.  May Your Grace continually fill my heart with assurance, and HOPE as we live each day of this month to the fullest.

The Middle of January Hodgepodge

 

1.  It's been said January is 'the month of opportunity, inspiration, and change." Which of the three do you need want most right now? Elaborate. 

Opportunity

I'm simply biding my time, patiently anticipating the right opportunity to present itself.

2. Do you consider opportunity as something that comes to you or something you create for yourself? 

It is both. 

In the Christian life, it’s vital to recognize God’s active presence in our journey, orchestrating circumstances and opening doors. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." This highlights that while we make plans, it is God who ultimately guides our paths and presents us with incredible opportunities.

Ultimately, it's about embracing God's leading and taking bold initiative in our lives. By trusting in His guidance and remaining open to the opportunities He presents, we can truly live out our faith and fulfill the remarkable purposes He has in store for us.

3. The British Museum opened on this date (January 15th) back in 1759. 

Do you like visiting museums? 

I have always enjoyed museums. Growing up in San Francisco, I was fortunate to have access to excellent museums from a young age. My parents would take us to visit on weekends, and we would have picnics on the grounds.

Do you have a favorite? 

The Temple of the Forest Beneath the Clouds

Joss House Museum

The temple is the oldest continuously used Chinese temple in California. 

This Taoist Temple of Worship is now a California State Park 

Art objects, pictures, mining tools, and weapons used in the 1854 Tong War are on display. This Taoist temple is still a place of worship and a fascinating look into the role played by Chinese immigrants in early California history. 

I live in rural Far-Northern California and have come to appreciate the small museums that tell the stories of the local history. Museums dedicated to gold mining, logging, veterans, and railroads offer insights that are just as valuable as those found in larger institutions. While it's difficult to choose just one favorite in my area,  I particularly enjoy the Joss House Museum in Weaverville, located in the Trinity Alps. This museum showcases the 1874 Taoist Temple and features various Chinese artifacts. We try to go every Chinese New Year (which is coming up Jan. 29) 

4. It's National Oatmeal Month (yes, apparently it gets a whole month as opposed to a single day). 

Do you like oatmeal? Yes

How often do you eat a bowl of oatmeal? 

Not often enough - maybe once a month

How do you like yours? 

Hot and creamy - is there any other way? 

What about an oatmeal cookie? 

With walnuts and chocolate chips, please. 

Is that a sweet treat you enjoy? 

Sure

5. What's something useful you learned in high school? 

I’m almost 71, and honestly, I’m so done with high school. I don’t want to think about it anymore. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

The first daffodils are starting to bloom.

Sometimes, it feels like winter isn't long enough. Today we hit 70 degrees. When it’s not raining, Winter can be nice. 

These Iris's were at the Shasta Dam's Visitor Center 

Soon ours will start blooming in the yard...

That's it for this Hodgepodge, until next time

Debby

Main Street

 

Source: Western Mining History

Weaverville, 1852

Weaverville, nestled in the Trinity Alps region of Northern California, was a pivotal settlement during the 1850s gold rush. Alongside Shasta and Yreka, it emerged as one of the major towns for fortune-seekers looking for gold. The rugged and remote terrain in the area had deterred sustained mining efforts, but the massive influx of miners into California prompted the first endeavors to settle and extract gold from the Trinity region.

I have always been fascinated by old western towns, particularly those that were once bustling mining communities during the gold rush.

Source: internet 

Has it changed much? 

Isn't there just something charming about a small town's Main Street? It has a special allure when you consider the rich local history it holds.

 Last week or so,  I had mentioned we drove "over the hill" to Weaverville, a favorite gold mining town nearby. 

https://myshastahome.blogspot.com/2024/09/oh-deer.html

I always make it a point to visit Olson Stoneware whenever I'm looking for unique gifts.

This old building was built in 1854. 

Notice the old, rusted, corrugated metal roof...

The buildings in Weaverville were constructed to be fire-resistant using dirt as a fireproofing material and heavy iron shutters on all windows. They have endured numerous fires and are considered one of the most remarkable assemblies of 1850s era buildings in the Western region.

In 1853, a fire caused extensive destruction. Additional fires in 1863, 1873, 1897, and 1905 also damaged the town. However, sturdy brick buildings constructed after the initial fire demonstrated the community's resilience.

An aged, weathered saloon with creaky wooden floors and swinging doors nestled beside a quaint Cafe next to the Olson Stoneware.

Diggins Saloon and the New Yorker are the only two saloons in town that have been serving patrons since the Gold Rush era and are still in business today.

If those walls could talk! 

It seems like there is a lot of energy and activity happening in there at 10 in the morning!

The historic Trinity Theater is a beautiful old building. Judging by its architecture, it was likely constructed in the 1930s, but I couldn't find the exact date.

The intricate iron spiral staircases in Weaverville are absolutely mesmerizing. On one hand, they exude a sense of cool, industrial charm, while on the other hand, they have grown a bit rickety over the years.  They were crafted to cater to the requirements of smaller people in weight and height and definitely not for the size of today’s modern person. 

There are many of these historical plagues around town. 

Pioneer Blacksmith and Tin Shop on Main St - 

close to the museum. 

The Museum.

Small town museums reveal so much history of the town and county. 

The street serves as the main thoroughfare connecting Redding and Eureka. From this vantage point, you can see the distinctive facades of the Saloon, the Cafe, and Olson Stoneware from a different angle. 

Just outside the Gold Rush Jewelers

While we were there, my husband and the owner really hit it off. They both served in the military and spent a lot of time reminiscing about their experiences. 

 

A sweet little stone bridge that has been restored...no water in that creek!

Once our winter rains begin, this little creek will be overflowing by spring. 

Finally, the Joss House -

 a Chinese temple that we enjoy visiting now and then when they have events. 

The Temple of the Forest Beneath the Clouds is the oldest Chinese Temple in California. 

The Chinese Miners came here during the Gold Rush. At one time there were over 2000 Chinese miners. Chinatown burned down in 1911. By then most of the Chinese moved on. There are a few descendents from the original coal miners that live in the area. 

Back to the 21st century...

I hope you enjoyed a piece of California's gold rush history. 

Debby