The Day Our World in Butte County Changed. #CampFire2018
We awoke to one of those crisp, crystal clear autumn mornings where we could see all the way to the coastline from our perch. From the moment I looked out our window during breakfast and saw a menacing plume of smoke racing across the sky, with gray ashes falling into the pool, our world here in Butte County has been forever changed.
We awoke to one of those crisp, crystal clear autumn mornings where we could see all the way to the coastline from our perch. From the moment I looked out our window during breakfast and saw a menacing plume of smoke racing across the sky, gray ashes raining into the pool, our world here in Butte County has changed.
Scott and I stared in shock at that swiftly moving smoky cloud as we flipped on the news to find that the newly named Camp Fire, tearing through our neighboring Paradise, was moving at the speed of a football field every 3 seconds. With my cousins and many friends living in that area we were desperately concerned for their safety. My cousins (and pets) safely evacuated to our house leaving with the roar of fire in their ears. They brought a young friend who had escaped as her home burned, flames flanking the road as she drove down the mountain, with burning embers peppering her car.
The day was a blur as we provided blankets, water, toast & jam, soup, chocolate and a steady stream of news but there was truly nothing that could quell the anxiety and fear for the possibility of lost loved ones, pets and homes. Scott ventured out to the grocery store amidst road closures and insane traffic but made it back with pasta and pizza, comfort food, for dinner.
Though I started packing a few essentials earlier in the day, around 8:30 Thursday evening it all became real as we received our own mandatory evacation order at our home on the south edge of Canyon Oaks in Chico. We suddenly had lots helping hands but left in a flurry of packing, loading and warnings and wishes to neighbors.
This was the view out our window and up our street as we fled.
Scott, our elderly cat Jack, and I ended up at my step-daughter Briana’s home on the north end of town where she, Shawn and baby Charlie provided food, drinks and lots of TLC for the night.
We finally slept but I awoke in the darkness of early morning to check the firelines on my phone to see if our home was possibly still standing. Within an hour we felt pretty certain the fire had not progressed to our home.
We later learned just how close the Camp Fire came to our neighborhood. Our home is the black dot surrounded in blue.
It was sweet comfort to wake up to this little guy, grandson Charlie, and have the kindness of family that morning. By late morning we were incredibly relieved to get the notice that we were cleared to return home.
This was the surreal drive home across town at around 11:30am as I followed Scott in his SUV. I’ve never seen a daytime sky the color of charcoal with an orange glow. We also knew, with that dust and ash came a world of devastation, loss and heartbreak.
It’s been almost a week since our world changed:
My dear cousins lost everything except the few items they could pack into their cars. They are in shock but grateful to be safe and sound. We have numerous friends and colleagues who lost their homes in Paradise and everything but the clothes on their backs. We know some who have lost a family member in the fire.
The devastation in Paradise and surrounding areas is truly jawdropping as you have probably heard on the news. The loss of life is astounding as the stories continue to unfold of residents miraculously escaping with flames on all sides. There are still so many who are unaccounted for and tragic stories of those who were unable to escape the flames. It may be months before some of those remains are found and identified.
There are also heartwarming stories of bravery, generosity and great appreciation. The firefighters have been a godsend. Giving, sharing and volunteering helps to ease the anxiety and stress of the the moment. When an entire town is decimated, as Paradise has been, our neighboring city of Chico is welcoming the residents with shelter, food, clothing, fundraisers, work spaces, governing spaces, places to worship and eventually, places to attend school. The community support is overwhelming and a true bright spot with the grim headlines.
Unfortunately, our town of Chico, with a population of around 90,000 has a 1% vacancy rate. Nearly 7,600 homes have been destroyed in this fire. Homeless camps are growing all over town. It’s cold, rain is coming, the holidays are on the horizon. My husband is at a community meeting right now and just texted me that the Camp Fire has displaced 4 times the number of students as did the Tubbs fire in Santa Rosa last year. It will be a long haul of rebuilding. Not just months but years.
I write this post today since I’ve heard from so many family and friends from around the world sending prayers and well wishes. They have watched the news coverage with horror and want to help. I know many of you reading this are wondering how you can help. Centers are overwhelmed with clothing and shoes right now but financial donations are desperately needed.
A few of my favorite local donation options:
Action News Now Camp Fire Fund 2018
North Valley Community Foundation - Butte County Schools Fire Relief Fund
If you prefer to donate directly please consider Mrs. Davis & the Fox Class on Go Fund me to support a teacher from Ponderosa Elementary who saved her students. Her classroom and home were both destroyed in the fire.
For now, life feels forever changed here in Butte County. We will support each other and we will rise again, hopefully coming out better, stronger and safer than before. We are #ButteStrong.
Thank you for your support and care for our world in Butte County. xx
Checklist for Next Steps After a Fire - FEMA
How It Feels: “When You Lose Everything in a Fire” - Kristen Moeller
A Walk in Bidwell Park with Uno Alla Volta
It's always a treat to discover a surprise package on the front step. I opened a box the other day that contained this beautiful pastel scarf from Uno Alla Volta. The ethereal leaf patterned Devore silk scarf was handpainted by Joyita. I styled it with my dusty pink faux-leather waterfall front jacket, Svelte leggings and Vince Camuto Booties.
Our walk in the park was a quick stop since we were on our way to an event in downtown Chico. The fall colors were irresistible and my scarf was perfectly in style at our favorite watering hole later that evening.
It's always a treat to discover a surprise package on the front step. I opened a box the other day that contained this beautiful pastel scarf from Uno Alla Volta. The ethereal leaf patterned Devore silk scarf was handpainted by Joyita. I styled it with my dusty pink faux-leather waterfall front jacket, Svelte leggings and Vince Camuto Booties.
Our walk in the park was a quick stop since we were on our way to an event in downtown Chico. The fall colors were irresistible and my scarf was perfectly in style at our favorite watering hole later that evening.
The watercolor silk scarf handpainted by Joyita.
"Joyita recalls the childhood joy of painting designs with rice flour and water on the floor of her home, guided by a grandmother who taught her to take notice of everything she saw. Today she takes additional inspiration from nature to create wearable works of art on 100 percent silk in her California studio. " Joyita
Uno Alla Volta from the hearts and hands of Artisans.
The silk scarf created by Joyita was a gift from Uno Alla Volta. All opinions expressed are my own.
A Sweet Bridal Brunch on the Canyon
Remembering this sweet bridal brunch on the canyon for the beautiful bride-to-be, also my honeymoon travel client, Jordyn. She and her family are longtime Chico residents and have become my dear friends in recent years. We had such fun celebrating Jordyn’s upcoming nuptials in this beautiful spot on the canyon.
Remembering this sweet bridal brunch on the canyon for the beautiful bride-to-be, also my honeymoon travel client, Jordyn. She and her family are longtime Chico residents and have become my dear friends in recent years. We had such fun celebrating Jordyn's upcoming nuptials in this beautiful spot on the canyon.
Every detail was planned to perfection by Jordyn's family and friends! From the splashes of color in the breezy centerpieces, to refreshing flavor options at the mimosa bar, to the delectable brunch dishes, the sparkles of the cupcake bar, and the rose embellished favors. Sparkles, gold dust and 'love' was in the air to celebrate the beautiful bride-to-be.
Side Note: This unique architectural home on the canyon is stunning. Rumors abound that Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor rented it while he was filming, 'The Klansman', in nearby Oroville. If these walls could talk!
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Welcome to the Family, Baby Charlie!!
Welcome to the world Baby Charlie. Grandpa and Gigi are head over heels in love with you!
Ohhhhhh Baby!
Scott and I welcomed our first grandchild to the family on November 1st. He was anxious to get here and arrived a few days ahead of schedule. Mom, dad, and baby are doing great and we (and I'm speaking for our entire family) have never, ever been happier!
Welcome to the world, sweet Charlie Daniel Clark!
We are so ready for this next chapter of life and all the joy that you bring.
Baby Charlie Raspberries!
A Sweet Summer Bébé Shower for Briana (and Our First Grandbaby) xx, Gigi
It was a sweet summer bébé shower last month for my beautiful step-daughter, Briana. We are incredibly excited for Briana and Shawn with their little one on the way. Briana's mom, Shawn's mom and I co-hosted the shower for family and friends at her mom, Danielle's, house. For me, the preparation started with flowers at home. I used a mix of pastels since they have chosen to be surprised with the gender of the baby, due in early November. I created little nosegays for use in mason jars. I added ribbons with both pink and blue colors because the ribbons (with baby motif) were just so darn cute!
A Sweet Summer Bébé Shower
It was a sweet summer bébé shower last month for my beautiful step-daughter, Briana. We are incredibly excited for Briana and Shawn with their little one on the way. Briana's mom, Shawn's mom and I co-hosted the shower for family and friends at her mom, Danielle's, house. For me, the preparation started with flowers at home. I used a mix of pastels since they have chosen to be surprised with the gender of the baby, due in early November. I created little nosegays for use in mason jars. I added ribbons with both pink and blue colors because the ribbons (with baby motif) were just so darn cute!
Scott helped me deliver the rocking chair we had ordered from their registry. We were so pleased with this piece, comfortable and stylish, that they will enjoy for years (and hopefully more babies to come!). Though this shower was only for the ladies, the men went out to brunch while we were celebrating.
A sweet summer shower for a beautiful mom-to-be and we can hardly wait for the next chapter!
xx,
Gigi
Brunch Style: Living on the Fringe with Uno Alla Volta
I have a new appreciation for brunch dates of late. Scott and I headed to one of our favorite brunch spots in Chico last Sunday, Two Twenty Restaurant, at Hotel Diamond. We were crushing on the 1955 Bel Air wagon parked out front. Nothing like cruising to Sunday brunch in style!
On the Fringe with Uno All Volta
I have a new appreciation for brunch dates of late. Scott and I headed to one of our favorite brunch spots in Chico last Sunday, Two Twenty Restaurant, at Hotel Diamond. We were crushing on the 1955 Bel Air wagon parked out front. Nothing like cruising to Sunday brunch in style!
It was a warm day and a flouncy dress was the best choice to keep my cool. I grabbed my new suede Florentine Fringe Clutch to mix up the look with a 70's vibe. This clutch is handcrafted in Florence, Italy, by Elisabetta and Alessandra for Uno Alla Volta. I'm wearing my favorite grayc glass necklace, as usual!
Translated from Italian, "uno alla volta" means "one at a time". This brand creates unique, artisan collections from around the world and makes them available conveniently online. I'm a fan of their luxurious leather bags, Murano glass jewelry and home decor pieces. With our travel to Italy last summer deeply embedded in my memories, I always appreciate a touch of Italy here in California.
For more on Uno Alla Volta.
The Florentine Suede Fringe Clutch was gifted to me by Uno Alla Volta. All opinions expressed are my own.
Retirement for Two: "So What Do I Actually Do Now?"
I’ve received so many comments and emails about my retirement series as I made the leap from school psychologist to launching my Curated Travel business, a year ago. From making the bold decision, to steps along the way, saying goodbye, even my changing spending habits, I chronicled my journey this last year in these posts: Retirement Series. There are a number of readers who are planning on retirement in the near future and curious about how it feels to go through this experience. It’s been fun to share our experience.
Retirement Update:
I've received so many comments and emails about my retirement series as I made the leap from school psychologist to launching my Curated Travel business, a year ago. From making the bold decision, to steps along the way, saying goodbye, even my changing spending habits, I chronicled my journey this last year in these posts: Retirement Series. There are a number of readers who are planning on retirement in the near future and curious about how it feels to go through this experience. It's been fun to share our experience.
As of early July, we started a new chapter in this journey and that is retirement for two. At one point, Scott and I contemplated retiring at the same time, but it's safe to say we are happy that I've had a year in between to build my business. A huge benefit of us each having 20+ years in education is receiving a retirement pension and we are both grateful for that resource in our retirement.
It's been a relaxing summer, and we've had lots of pool time, trips to farmer's market, trying new recipes, cooking together, and spending time with family and friends. We've been embracing a slower paced life. Now that Scott is finally retired, we have SO much more flexibility in our schedule. Truly the flexibility with time is the very best thing about the retirement lifestyle. Oh, and the major reduction in career stress too. The first morning after he finally moved out of his office, and it was all over, Scott and I were sitting in bed with coffee and he asked me, "So what do I actually do now?" He was serious, but it cracked us both up!
Scott is a man with many hobbies and interests - cycling, guitar playing, singing, writing, Christmas decorating (in season-thank goodness!), and spending time with family and friends. He is also now dabbling in yoga, cooking for me and considering pickleball (that's a thing for retirees in Chico). He may even show up here on the blog from time to time to share more of our travels. He is also building a consulting and training career to continue supporting kids, families, and professionals. Of course, becoming grandparents in November is our most exciting chapter ever!
We're definitely having fun figuring out the new normal around here. I've also realized that it is pretty tempting to spend less time in my home office now that I have this man hanging around with so much free time. We are looking forward to more travel in our future (all that flexibility), and we have a celebratory "retirementmoon" coming up for Scott. I'll look forward to posting on our Jamaican getaway in the near future.
If you are contemplating the leap into retirement, or a change in career, I highly recommend it. Plan and prepare the best you can and then take the leap. It is totally worth it to be bold and follow your dreams!
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The HOT List: City Guide - Chico, California
The HOT List: City Guides will feature an ‘in the know’ local sharing hot tips on her hometown. Our first HOT List features a longtime Chico resident, and one of my favorite people, Melanie Drakulic.
The HOT List: Chico
I'm excited to introduce a new series on Style*Mind*Chic Life for my Curated Travel brand. The HOT List: City Guides will feature an 'in the know' local sharing hot tips on her hometown. Our first HOT List features a longtime Chico resident, and one of my favorite people, Melanie Drakulic.
City Guide Bio: My name is Melanie Drakulic and I consider myself a local Chicoan. I was born in San Francisco, CA and moved around a bit from state to state until I was in 6th grade when my family moved to Chico. I attended Chico Junior High, Chico High, Butte College, and Chico State University undergraduate school and graduate school. I’ve been a child, a teen, and an adult in Chico and each stage has brought new insight for me about what a special community Chico really is.
How long have you lived in your city? 33 years (minus a few when we lived in Portland, OR)
3 Words to describe your city? Natural, Seasonal, & Homey
Best place to spend the night? Hotel Diamond is a historic building relatively recently restored and is in the heart of downtown Chico. It is walking distance to many restaurants, bars, and shops. There is also a restaurant and bar in the hotel that offers a fun atmosphere and live music.
Favorite spot for brunch? Nash’s Restaurant has always had a terrific brunch with bottomless champagne. The atmosphere is fun and lively for all ages.
(Mike and the kids)
Favorite place to catch a view? Monkey Face in Upper Bidwell park is a short hike that results in views of Horseshoe Lake, Bidwell Park Golf Course, and the surrounding lower parts of Upper Bidwell Park. Also driving down from Paradise, there is a lookout point where you can clearly view the Butte Creek Canyon that is breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Favorite place for a date night?Fifth Street Steakhouse is our go to for date night. It’s fun to have a drink at the bar and intermingle with the crowd of various friends we run into also out on dates. Then to be seated in their red leather booth in the dimly lit, warmly decorated dining room makes for a perfect setting to enjoy wine and a delish meal.
Describe your favorite meal in town? The Sicilian Café is a locally owned family restaurant in a unique corner of downtown. It is the kind of place you go to spend the evening, not rush through a meal. You start with antipasti, then soup or salad (they have the best homemade blue cheese dressing), your entrée (my favorite is the Chicken Americano, my husband loves the Veal Parmesan), and of course dessert ~ the homemade tiramisu!
Favorite rooftop or dive bar? Of course, Duffy’s is the town favorite. It’s a locally owned dive bar with an eclectic mix of patrons, cheap drinks, a jukebox, sports on TV, lively talk, and down to earth service. And bonus - The Pub Scouts play their traditional Irish music there three nights a week.
Best spot to workout? Upper and Lower Bidwell Park are the best free and natural places to work out. Exercise options range from hiking, running, swimming, mountain biking, roller blading, golfing, etc. There are miles of trails and creeks to explore and work up a sweat on. If you’re looking for gym action, I go to the old tried and true Chico Sports Club. It’s not fancy, and maybe a bit outdated, but the instructors are the best. They make Zumba, Pump, HIT, Yoga, and Pilates fun and calorie burning!
Favorite places to shop? We shop for food at our local co-op S & S produce and Butcher Shop Meats. They provide mostly local, organic products in a quaint and rustic shop. If we are doing retail shopping, I generally head downtown to any of the local boutiques such as Urban Laundry, For Elyse, or Made In Chico. Chico Sports Ltd. And Fleet Feet are also good for sporting and exercise shops.
Favorite natural beauty spot? I really love Butte Creek along Honey Run Road. There are several spots you can pull over and picnic and play in the water along the road all the way up to Honey Run Covered Bridge.
(Melanie - another natural beauty - enjoying the water)
(Jack and Calina walking on rock walls)
Favorite street to wander? I love to wander around the Chico State Campus for its natural beauty with its many different trees, flowers, and the creek that runs through campus. The buildings are also beautiful with the classic brick buildings to more modern designs toward the newer parts of campus. I also like to meander down the little streets between Chico State and Chico High, like on W. Frances Willard to look at the quaint and unique architecture of the homes along that street.
Hidden Gem in your city? I’d have to again reference Bidwell Park, Lower Park & Upper Park. So much to do and see. From Lower Park trails and playgrounds to Upper Park hikes and swimming at stops like Bear Hole and Salmon Hole. So beautiful and accessible.
HOT List City Style Tips: Chico has four full seasons. Your wardrobe will need things for freezing cold, rain, mid 50’s to 60’s, warm sunny days, and blistering hot over 100 degree days. We are casual chic here. Dare I even say a little Bohemian? Well, at least I am ☺. Nothing too formal is necessary in Chico.
Thanks for sharing your HOT List Chico, Melanie. I've known you for 15 years and I still learned some new tips.
Love it when you dish, girlfriend! ;) xx
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