Are You That Woman

California Travel Insider & Are You That Woman 58 counties 58 stories

So many stories. So many places and people. Where to begin? How to chunk it all out and tell the best stories. Originally California Travel Insider and Are You That Woman envisioned 58 counties, 58 days. Could it be done? Absolutely, but at breakneck speed and that was not my vision. I want to spend time. Meet the people and their stories.

Today, the journey began at last having discovered the story that must be told here in Solano County. The first of many California stories and only 57 more to unfold. And then begin again.

A random meeting, never. Everything happens for a reason and nothing could be truer than today's encounter with Magi Raible, President/Creative Director, LiteGear Bags staging a photo shoot at Blu Homes on Mare Island.  The details and end of the story are still a ways off and yet to unfold.

LiteGear Bags will join me on my next California and Oregon road trip along with a JEEP Grand Cherokee Summit 4x4. So stay tuned as I find my footing. Magi and Bella we will met again very soon! Thank you Solano County for delivering the inspiration. Vallejo and Mare Island are on the list for grand adventures.

The beginning.

Very comfortable at Comfort Inn in Redding California

Rating: Star!Star!Star!Star!

Pet lovers rejoice, the whole first floor at Comfort Inn is pet friendly including cats! Inquire about fees. The entire property is nonsmoking.

Convenient, that's for sure! Close to all of Redding's best attractions - Turtle Bay Exploration Park, Sundial Bridge, Sacramento River, Anderson factory outlets, and lots of great recreation. It walking distance to restaurants. Staff was very friendly upon check-in....always important. The room was clean and spacious. Lovely king size bed was comfy and welcoming with lots of cozy pillows -- my favorite. And a pull-out sofabed for the kids or friends along for the ride. They have double-queen and king rooms, too. Mini-fridge with freezer, microwave and coffee maker -- big pluses for me. Flat screen TV and the MUST free WiFi!

I returned late and people were enjoying their balconies in the coolness of the summer night after a long hot day. But, it was quiet all night and the idea place to get a good night of Zzzzzzzzz. I would definitely stay here again.

Family-friendly, free full breakfast, and coffee in the lobby all day. Oh, yes, a pool for those hot summer days.

Redding is less than 180 miles from Sacramento and a perfect weekend getaway for friends and families or romance. Nearby Shasta Lake offers a wide-range of recreational activities including fishing, boating, kayaking, water- and jet-skiing, and a chance to embrace open space.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park is fun for all ages. Interpretive displays share the local and natural history of Native Americans, life on the Sacramento River and throughout the region. Great hands-on activities for kids. Rotating displays and art. Spend the day. Enjoy the Sundial Bridge, Sacramento River Trail, Arboretum, animal shows, and plant nursery.

BevMo's newest store arrives in Midtown Sacramento

Historic Newbert's Hardware & The Beat building reborn as BevMo's 10th Sacramento store. It's bright & edgy; true to its historic past. Everything from beer, wine & spirits to party supplies & glassware. Homage to many local goods too.

Photos: Are You That Woman@California Travel Insider

 

Rating: Star!Star!Star!Star!Star!

Midtown has a new neighbor with opening of BevMo's 10th Sacramento store at 1700 J Street. The 12,800-square-foot store opened in a historic brick building that housed Newbert's Hardware and The Beat record store. The building's interior was gutted and modified to expose beams and old brick walls. High ceilings and bright lights provide an open and airy feeling to explore aisles of wine, beer, spirits, party supplies, snacks, cheese, meats, sodas and more! A welcoming and vibrant retail experience.

 

Local craft beers are highlighted including Sacramento's own Ruhstaller, Track 7 andRubicon. Loved the fact that they also carry other California products such as PopChips and California cheeses. Hope to see more of the same on the shelves. Of course, the wide array of wines -- domestic and foreign, distilled spirits, non-alcoholic beverages, and beers from around the world is dizzying. And no doubt, the famous BevMo5¢ Sale will be a popular draw in the days to come.

Not usually a fan of chain stores, this BevMo -- a California-based company -- has escaped the Big Box Store feel. This new outlet has an edgy but sophisticated vibe. Welcome to Midtown BevMo!

BevMo Midtown Sacramento
1700 J Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
916.502.9927

PS - Big plus...that's PLUS...free off-street parking!!!

Find Jesus Mountain Coffee and Stockton

Last March, Jesus Mountain Coffee Company opened its doors in a side alley in downtown Stockton. Bing Kirk, Stockton local and owner, brought his skill and love of coffee to this California Delta city. Luck was on my side to be invited to the 2013 ribbon cutting. I've been back several  times. Coffee tasting is a plus and then coming home with some of Jesus Mountain Coffee Company's best beans. My personal favorite won't surprise you...it's called Yosemite.

That visit allowed for some additional exploration and great discoveries. This photo video will help guide you to find a little Jesus (Mountain Coffee) and Stockton on your California travels.

Solano Grown only in Solano County is grown with love

Escape to Solano Grown via back roads of Solano County. The borders of Solano County include some of northern California's prettiest agriculutal lands and open spaces. Climate controled by Delta and Bay breezes, the rolling hills and fertile valleys have been truly blessed. Visit small farms, farm stands and markets, and wineries. Sample olive and walnut oils, dried fruits and nuts. Farm-to-fork has a stronghold here. Lavender oils and wreaths, handspun wool, and local art. Make it a day trip or overnight. You'll be back again and again.

 

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