Barber Family Nostalgia Quiz

About once a year I make a pilgrimage to the land of our forefathers in Diablo Valley.  Do you recognize this sight?

Answer after the jump…

Junk Mail

A little more than a week ago, Anthem Blue Cross (of California) made national headlines by informing regulators of a planned “massive rate hike” that “could force as many as 700,000 California customers who purchased individual premiums to pay 39 percent more for coverage.” While their plan is now on hold (until May), pending investigations and political posturing, Anthem appears to be taking advantage of its own bad press …

Health care costs keep rising.

… by sending me this. Here’s a lovely post that explains why “just for you” is such an impoverished idea. But for now, insurance companies clearly have nothing to fear. (Paging President Hope …)

It’s a riddle!

What do these three have in common?

(1)

somewhere

(2)

something

and …

Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing

We had a lovely pre-Valentine’s dinner downtown at Bix tonight.  Capped it off with some blonde brownies, which despite the nice art deco atmosphere, couldn’t stand up to Mom’s version…

they were fine.... but...

Diviz update

I spent today planning a special birthday party for Dan.  In honor of his favorite book, I organized a 9-course progressive Harry Potter-themed party with Hogwarts games and amazing decorations and…  oh wait, no,  that was Lori.  Creative little sister Lori.

I did watch the next stage of the Diviz corridor beautification go up though–  new street lamps!

Before

During

After

Doesn't it seem more peaceful already?

Neighborhood History Briefs

We’ve been here for almost 5 years now and I keep learning new things about the neighborhood.

1.  One of my favorite middle school teachers from Concord grew up in a house 1/2 block down the street (learned via email exchange after a Christmas card). Back when Divisadero St. had gas lamps (!).

2.  The site of Patty Hearst’s captivity is only a couple of blocks away. The apartment that housed the little closet she was kept in –I pass it when I walk down to my new favorite coffee place. The local neighborhood bike organization recently had a day ride which included a stop at this little bit of Bay Area history.  Too bad I was at work that day …