A Filipino-Spanish Restaurant in Rancho Cordova, California

I was browsing for Pilipino food and was longing for Lengua Mechada, a dish that Macrine loves to cook and I love to devour with gusto. However, this dish is not an ordinary dish in a typical Pinoy Family. Usually it is only prepared for special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries. However, this new restaurant only a few minutes from Fair Oaks, has this dish in their menu including Seafood Paella and other Filipino-Spanish Party dishes. Too Bad I am moving, but hopefully there will be a high class restaurant serving Spanish-Filipino dishes in the Walnut Creek Area. I know they have SeaFood City in Concord. But knowing and shopping at other SeaFood City stores, the menu in their restaurant are the common Pinoy Food.  Here's a brief description of Fiesta Philippines, Rancho Cordova from their website.   

"Our restaurant is operated by three native-born Filipinos whose interests in cooking began at a young age learning from family members. With a primary background in Filipino dishes, they expanded their skills from working at various Filipino-Spanish restaurants in the Philippines and in California. At Fiesta Philippines, our kitchen elevates Filipino cuisine with the infusion of Spanish flavors into our dishes". Here are my favorite Spanish-Filipino dishes.

Paella Espanola - Medium

Signature Spanish dish embellished with Chorizo de Bilbao, mussels, shrimp, and chicken

$25

Paella Espanola - Large

Signature Spanish dish embellished with Chorizo de Bilbao, mussels, shrimp, and chicken

$35

Paella Negra

Signature Spanish dish infused with saffron cooked in squid ink

$34

Beef Lengua

Thinly sliced beef tongue in mushroom sauce

$25

Beef Callos

Beef tripe and ox feet in tomato sauce

$24

Camarones Al Ajillo

Shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil

$23

For more details and additional menu, appetizers, desserts, drinks visit:

https://www.fiestaphilippines.restaurant/

Here are 2 reviews of the restaurant

1. Simply put, the food was as authentic as it gets. Sinigang was perfectly sour, with the fish and bakchoy well prepared. Calamares paired well with the soy sauce. The beef tapa meal reminded me of my Lola’s breakfasts and had me licking my plate! Service was also great, our server checked up on us periodically, as well as the hosts. Decor inside the restaurant was spectacular, colorful flags lining the ceiling, a cute rose wall for social media, and a cute bahay kubo-style wall decor, lots of attention to detail. Being a Filipino immigrant and having eaten at plenty of Filipino restaurants in the Sacramento area, this is definitely a place to check out! Will be returning and bringing my extended family!

2. This is an upscale Filipino restaurant, a go to place to relax and enjoy authentic Filipino cuisine. The food is awesome, the ambiance is warm and joyful, the staff and management were extremely welcoming and helpful. I really enjoyed eating there. Tasty, fresh and authentic. Thank you for opening this much needed oasis in Sacramento Marvin David and company.

Its just too bad, I am moving and will not be able to taste their Beef Lengua and/or their Paella dishes. 

 

My Kimball, Artist Console Upright Piano Needs a Home

Because I am moving, I advertised my Kimball, Artist Console Piano Upright with Bench for $300. The value as listed in the link below ranged from $1000-1500 depending on the condition of the Piano. My ad had run for 2 weeks now, so far I have no response. The future buyer of my house casually mentioned she will buy the piano, but as of today I have not heard from her. I have an Estate Sale scheduled for either the 2nd or 3rd Weekend of June. After the Estate Sale if the Piano is not sold, it will go to the Dumpster. It will be a shame if this happens. 

Today, I have been asking relatives if they need a Piano. It will be free and available after my Estate Sale. So if you know of someone who may want my Piano (photo above), it will be available after my Estate Sale on the 3rd Week of June, otherwise it will be in the Dumpster on the end of June, when the buyer of my house takes possession of the house and the future owner of my home do not want it.       
 

For details on the values of Kimball Pianos visit this link:

https://www.digitalpianoreviewguide.com/kimball-piano-value/

Meanwhile enjoy this photo of my creation- a cacti terrarium to honor the Heroes of Memorial Day.

 

A Delicious Pinoy Lunch at Yuka and Alex Residence Today

On my last week in Fair Oaks, I finally had lunch at the residence of Yuka and Alex in Roseville, CA today. The menu is shown in the photo above. Yuka purchased these dishes from the Oriental Market in Harding Blvd. We have 2 kinds of calderetta ( goat and beef), beef soup, mongo with pork and pinakbet.  I brought with me our dessert of cassava cake ( prepared by my home-care aide) and pastillas de Leche, I purchased at Spohie's-a Pinoy on-line store.

Alex Jr, is getting more mature in behaviour and I was surprise to hear him say, Thank you Lolo for the Cake. Elena is also growing fast and starting to baby talk. Again, Thank you, Yuka and Alex for the delicious Pinoy lunch.  Here are a few photos of the occasion. 

   

 

This Week Real Estate Activities in Fair Oaks, CA

With the debt ceiling in limbo and projected US default and recession, I am worried that the current pending sale of my house here in Fair Oaks, may be still in jeopardy. I am worried that my prospective buyer may have financial problem in closing the sale, so I did some Google Search and here's what I learned about the future owner of my home. 

The prospective buyers of my house are a couple in their early 70's ( my guess on how they look). They owned a bigger home, 6BR, 4Bath and a 2-story, not too far from Treecrest. I checked this morning and learned that their house was sold 10K above the listing price of 600K.  That answer my questions about the financial capability of the Buyers of my house.

In addition, I had a chance to talk to their agent. Their agent informed me that besides the equity on the sale of their house, the buyer had additional resources to pay my house. Their agent informed me why they are downsizing and why they like my house. They prospective buyer hurt his knee and their 2-story house is a Pain in the A--, so my one floor ranch-type house is perfect for him.  His wife also loves plants and indicated that all my potted plants outside will be included in the sale of the House. 

As of today there are 123 single homes for sale in the 95628 zip code ( Fair Oaks). There are 59 Pending Homes including my own. The price ranged from 425K to 1.6M. The mortgage rates is still hovering 8%. for a 30yr fixed mortgage. 

Who can afford a house with the mortgage interest so High? Not too many, unless you are downsizing or rich.

In April 2023, Fair Oaks home prices were down 3.6% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $623K. On average, homes in Fair Oaks sell after 9 days on the market compared to 7 days last year. There were 34 homes sold in April this year, down from 46 last year.

Meanwhile here are some of my garden Plaques for Sale:

 

 

I Have My First Taste of Blood Orange Today

Types of Oranges: Photo Credit: freenology.com
 

I saw that Blood oranges were on sale the other day in our neighborhood Safeway Store. I have never tasted blood oranges before because I prefer Navel oranges. But with the sale I ordered a couple of blood oranges because I am just curious. It is not as sweet as my favorite Navel variety, but the blood oranges have more nutrition and health benefits as described in the link below: 

Here's a brief summary from Wikipedia.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia: Blood Orange Slices
 

The blood orange is a variety of orange (Citrus × sinensis) (also referred to as raspberry orange) with crimson, almost blood-colored flesh.

The distinctive dark flesh color is due to the presence of anthocyanins, a family of polyphenol pigments common to many flowers and fruit, but uncommon in citrus fruits.  Chrysanthemin (cyanidin 3-O-glucoside) is the main compound found in red oranges.  The flesh develops its characteristic maroon color when the fruit develops with low temperatures during the night. Sometimes, dark coloring is seen on the exterior of the rind, as well, depending on the variety of blood orange. The skin can be tougher and harder to peel than that of other oranges. Blood oranges have a unique flavor compared to other oranges, being distinctly raspberry-like in addition to the usual citrus notes. The anthocyanin pigments of blood oranges begin accumulating in the vesicles at the edges of the segments, and at the blossom end of the fruit, and continue accumulating in cold storage after harvest.

^{For Complete details of the health benefits of Blood Oranges read:}

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/blood-orange-benefits#3.-May-support-healthy-pregnancy

https://freenology.com/orange-a-healthy-diet-with-some-benefits-and-disadvantages-2111 

Meanwhile, here's a recent photo from my album

My Beautiful Centerpiece- Papaya, Mango, Apple, Tangerines and a Blood Orange

Meanwhile, enjoy this recent photo from my collection:

 

Money Trees- Pachira Aquatica-one of my Favorite House

Plants

 

Dining, Social and Property Amenities of The Heritage Downtown, Walnut Creek

The Rose Garden near the Pool and Spa at the Heritage Downtown, Walnut Creek

Besides the property amenities, two other amenities that made my decision easy  to move to an independent senior living facility (THD) are the social and dining amenities provided to the residents. During our last week visit/tour Jenny gave Dodie and I, a copy of the Newton's Restaurant menu for that week.

There is always a choice of seafood, chicken or meat dishes for the Entry. That day one of the main entry was Curry Lamb Stew. By pure coincidence I had Lamb Curry prepared the Pakistani way the day before. Newton's restaurant is rated as a 5 Star dining facility.

Dodie and I also got a copy of the highlights of the Social Calendar that week as follows: 

THD has bridge twice a week-one for beginners and one for advanced players. It has also activity for mahjong beginners. There is a Cinema in the Compound showing old classic movies five days a week at 7PM. There are writing workshops, poetry readings and Film Studies as well as Sunday Shopping. This place is like in a Cruise Ship except you are in the Land of Beautiful Gardens and Surroundings.

I am really getting excited for my move scheduled for the first week of June. Here are the property amenities as advertise in the facility brochure.

Here's the latest photo of Part of My Patio Compared to the Old Patio Photos

 

  

 

The Photographs of Peter Dombrovskis and Others in David E Collection

Tasmanian Wilderness by PETER DOMBROVSKIS (1945 - 1996)

Peter Dombrovskis was born in Wiesbaden, Germany in 1945 of Latvian parents. He emigrated to Australia in 1950 with his mother Adele and started taking photographs in the 1960's. He was strongly influenced by Lithuanian-Australian pioneer, conservationist and photographer Olegas Truchanas, who became a father figure to him. He was equally influenced by landscape photographers of mid-century America such as Ansel Adams, Edward and Brett Weston and Eliot Porter.

In February 2003, Peter Dombrovskis was inducted into the International Photography Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City, now in St Lious Murori, United States of America. Peter is the first Australian to be accorded this honour, and one of only 58 people to be inducted over the 200 or so years of the history of photography. Peter's work is also represented in the collections of the National Library, National Gallery of Australia, Australian Heritage Commission, National Gallery of Victoria, Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, the Wilderness Gallery and many private collections.

Some of Peter's photographs have been instrumental in the conservation of various Tasmanian wild places including the prevention of the damming of the Franklin River. Peter's works have been published over 35 years in the form of books, calendars. cards and posters, and his wife Liz continued publishing until July 2009.

Peter's photography has now moved to a new phase of public access. The National Library of Australia has acquired the archive of Peter's transparencies so that future generations may view and enjoy his photography.

On 28th March 1996, Peter died while photographing in the Western Arthur Range in southwest Tasmania. He is survived by his second wife, five children and two step-children.

All Peter's photographs were taken with a large format Linhof Master Technika 5 x 4 inch flatbed field camera. He used three lenses; a 90mm Nikkor F4.5, a 150mm Schneider Symar-S (standard lens), and a 300mm Nikkor MF9. He sometimes used a polarizing filter.

Here are other photos in David E. Collection 

 

1. The Signed Framed Photo Titled: Marine One Departing the White House by Don Cannavaro

 

2.Carenna Katague Thompson- Leaping Leopard-$100

2a-Back of Carenna's Photograph

3.The Oakland-San Francisco Bridge at Night Time

 

Take A Power Nap Whenever You Can

Batman & Robin Taking a Power Nap-May 14, 2023

Do you believe in the benefits of the power nap ? I am a believer and a practitioner of this activity because it boost my memory, creativity, and energy level during my working hours and even after work at home. I had been power napping, since I first started working for FDA in 1990 and until my retirement in 2002. Today I still Power nap at home even for just 15 minutes whenever I can. I take longer Power Naps after retirement usually after lunch.

According to Dr. Sara C. Mednick, PhD, sleep expert and author of Take a Nap! Change Your Life.

"You can get incredible benefits from 15 to 20 minutes of napping, You reset the system and get a burst of alertness and increased motor performance".

According to the article from WebMD, the length of your nap and the type of sleep you get help determine the brain-boosting benefits. The 20-minute power nap. sometimes called the stage 2 nap which is good for alertness and motor learning skills like typing and playing the piano.

What happens if you nap for more than 20 minutes? Research shows longer naps help boost memory and enhance creativity. Slow-wave sleep -- napping for approximately 30 to 60 minutes which is good for decision-making skills, such as memorizing vocabulary or recalling directions.

When I was still working for FDA ( 1990 to 2002), I take power naps during my one hour lunch break. I take a nap whenever I can, that is if we do not have all day meetings with the pharmaceutical companies, or seminars and emergency project meetings.

My office was very conducive and had ultimate privacy when it comes to power naps. Speaking of offices in FDA, during my working years at the agency, I had offices ranging from small and no windows to an office with 3 windows with venetian blinds and big enough for a sofa and lounging chair.

During my first 6 months in FDA my office was in the old Parklawn Building in Rockville, MD. I had even to share the office with another review chemist. The opportunity to take a power nap is zero except when my office mate went out to lunch and I had packed my lunch before I left for the office.

During this period at about 3PM, two hours before closing time, I could barely open my eyes and my productivity is almost zero as a chemistry reviewer. When I arrived from the office after saying Hello to my wife and kids, I take a 30 minutes nap. After my nap, I am ready for dinner and conversation with the family. This has been my habit until my retirement in 2002. The kids when they were still small know not to bug me when I arrived from work and not until I have my nap.

In 1995 our Division ( Anti-Infective Drug Products) moved to a newer building with bigger offices with windows, new furniture and computers. As a reviewer with five years seniority I was entitled to have an office with one window by myself. During lunch time, I could closed my office and take a nap between 15 to 20 minutes.

When I was promoted to Chemistry Team Leader in 1998, my office had three windows and space big enough to bring my own private lounging chair and sofa, a small microwave oven and a small refrigerator. With the oven and the small refrigerator, I brought my own lunch every day except on Fridays when our team went out to lunch. This office set-up was perfect for power napping.

In FDA at the time, the sizes of the offices had direct connection to your position. Specifically, the reviewers ( chemists, medical officers, pharmacologists/toxicologists, project managers) have offices with one window. The team leaders could have offices from 2 to 3 windows. The directors and up will have offices with 4 windows or more, depending on their seniority and location of the office buildings. The size of your office is a status symbol, indeed!

May I conclude this article that power naps had made me a productive and happy Federal employee from 1990 to 2002.

Today, I still practice my after lunch nap whenever I am at home which is almost every day except on Tuesday when my wife and I are gallivanting to the Indian Casino near our home.

I suggest you start taking power naps whenever you get a chance at the office or at home. I guarantee you will like it. 

Note: This is a repost of my article written on 2014 except for the Photo above.

 

Learning the Market Values of David E Art and Sport Collections

David E had 4 items that have higher market values of what I expected as follows:

1. This is one of the Samurai Japanese Warrior Prints ( Framed) out of 12 that I found in David's closet while I was preparing for the Estate Sale because I am moving. I was intending to sell it for $10 each, However, when I had it appraised I was told the current market value of this art is around $80-$100 each. Here's a quote from the Appraiser.    

The photo above is by Kuniyoshi. The series is titled 69 stations along the Kisokaido and this particular print is of Yabuhara Station with the warrior Sue Harutaka on horseback.  The market value for prints from this series are about $80-100 each.

2. This is a Mark King Painting, Martin Laurence Edition, Framed 28'' x 31'' 

I was planning to sell it for $100. I did some search on E-Bay. It is listed at $675

3. This is Pair of Chinese Water Color Prints, Fah-yen-Fah,the Princess dated 1926

I was planning to sell it for $50 each. I did some google search and I found the market value of this art ranged from $225 to $250 each. An honest neighbor informed me to do some search, before selling it at $50 each. Here's our conversation with my honest neighbor on the value of this art.

"I just Google lenses those. They are worth a couple hundred each. I would get them appraised if I were you. But I will take them for 50 if you just want to sell them".

 

You

Thanks for the advise. How will I go about appraisal?. They are dated 1926 and were $50 then, so they must be worth more than a couple of hundred as you indicated by today. Yes I will have it appraised. Tks

 

This painting is Fah-yen-Fah, the Princess. The 1940 is listed on Goggle for $225. Since Mine is dated 1926, it probably worth at Least $300. The other painting is titled Elbow Page of Viceroy, Painting No.2

 

Honest Neighbor:

I would look for a reputable antique dealer. Watch out though, there are shady people out there. 😂

 

https://www.worthpoint.com/page/welcome-landing?cvsource=ppc1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwu-KiBhCsARIsAPztUF2pmYLKomh3gECr2kcW0DVIzEfXHBGyeBM2KVE4XUf-CbsJaT-d1wIaAmIVEALw_wcB

https://www.justanswer.com/sip/antique-appraisers?r=ppc|ga|13|US-Antiques-Appraisal-PMax-AllDevices||&JPKW=&JPDC=&JPST=&JPAD=&JPMT=&JPNW=&JPAF=txt&JPRC=1&JPCD=&JPOP=&cmpid=15960974075&agid=&fiid=&tgtid=&ntw=&dvc=m&gad=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwu-KiBhCsARIsAPztUF0JibJ6ht8I24Inew-De93Dm9S5Nf_H4qlHGgQOaZw8niPggi_5xowaAloTEALw_wcB

 

You

Thank you for your honesty and advise!

 

 

4. This is another valuable of David E sports Memorabilia. I have no idea what the market value is but at the bottom of this page is the link on some of his memorabilia,  

 

Nolan Ryan is possibly the most devastating, unpredictable, and intimidating pitcher to ever lace up the spikes. Nolan Ryan is one of this generation’s most collectible baseball players. Ryan debuted in 1966 with the New York Mets and pitched in all or part of 27 seasons. For Ryan the good came with the bad. When he retired in 1993, he held the record for most career strikeouts (5,714) but also the record for most career walks (2,795). Ryan continues to hold both records today by a commanding margin. Ryan was always considered an exciting and fiery pitcher to watch. He threw more no-hitters, seven, than any other pitcher, which is three-more than second-place Sandy Koufax.

https://www.collectorsweekly.com/baseball/nolan-ryan

https://www.steinersports.com/baseball/nolan-ryan/o-2376+a-73069026+z-90195-3028766199?_s=gppc&utm_campaign=MLB%20-%20Player%20-%20Nolan%20Ryan%20-%20Steiner|11019936882&utm_medium=ppc&ks_id=6251_kw39111998&utm_term=ryan%20memorabilia&matchtype=b&utm_source=g&target=kwd-363268789383&pcrid=461217359713&adposition=

 

Senior Rental Living Versus Continuing Care Retirement Communities

 Are You Looking for Over 55+ Community? These are the 2 Popular Choices.

A continuing care retirement community (CCRC) sometimes known as a life plan community, is a type of retirement community in the U.S. where a continuum of aging care needs—from independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care—can all be met within the community. These various levels of shelter and care may be housed on different floors or wings of a single high-rise building or in physically adjacent buildings, such as garden apartments, cottages, duplexes, mid- and low-rise buildings, or spread out in a campus setting. The emphasis of the CCRC model is to enable residents to avoid having to move, except to another level of care within the community, if their needs change.( From Wikipedia)

 

In my search for an independent living facility in the East Bay, California, I had received information on the Financial burdens if you want to reside in an CCRC facility. The First CCRC that I received information was the Paradise Valley Estate in Fairfield. The place is beautiful if you love playing golf but the initial fee/entrance was $650K. For details visit their website:

 https://pvestates.com/

The second CCRC facility that gave me financial information is the Viamonte in Walnut Creek, CA.  Here's a letter I received recently. 

 

"Thank you for your interest in Viamonte at Walnut Creek, a lifestyle community for folks like you who thoughtfully plan for the future.  Viamonte at Walnut Creek is the brand new dynamic retirement community which recently opened!  It offers comprehensive amenities and services through experienced staff in various areas including hospitality, dining, wellness, healthcare, technology and much more.  Viamonte Life incorporates multiple levels of living environments with Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care-  including the option to receive assistance in the privacy of your very own home.   

Here is some preliminary information on our fee structure since you are inquiring.  Entrances Fees are currently starting in the mid $700,000 range paid in full upon move-in and receiving 75% Repayment when no longer living at the Community.  Monthly Fees for services are currently starting at $4,000.  We are not a rental community in case that is what you are looking for.  As a new and filling community many of our 15 floor plans are sold out -I would be happy to discuss further what the available floor plans are.

Currently, we are still taking fully refundable reservation deposits on residences and offering Limited Time Benefits -lucrative financial savings!   You are invited to schedule a visit to tour our Community and Model Homes!  However, please do not delay, as many floor plans are already sold out.   

Please call or email me so we can schedule your visit soon.  We have available appointment times Monday-Friday ".

 For details visit their website:https://viamonteliving.org/

 I got another E-mail from Via Monte Today

 

1. Resident-centered Culture: Our residents, coming from from all walks of life and equipped with diverse expertise and talents, serve on our Resident Council and a myriad of interesting Resident Committees, including a Programs and Activities Committee, a Wellness Committee, and a Dining Committee, to name just a few. These groups are the engine of Viamonte, facilitating much of the resident-initiated programming and contributing significantly to how the community functions.

2. Dedicated Team: The Viamonte Team is made up of dedicated team members who go above and beyond, have provided years of service to our residents in Sequoia Living communities, and consistently exemplify our core values of Serivice, Integrity, Stewardship, Teamwork, Excellence, and Respect. And we celebrate those team members!

3. Location & Natural Beauty: At the basis of every great story is an ideal setting. Ours is here at the foot of Mt. Diablo in beautiful Walnut Creek. Viamonte residents are amazed by the natural beauty of the campus, its proximity to the mountains, and the breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets. In terms of access, residents can stroll into The Orchards for convenient shopping, dining, and socializing; investigate the attractions of beautiful downtown Walnut Creek; or take a shuttle to the BART station to access the treasures and pleasures of the Bay Area.

4. Unparallelled Art Collection: From the outdoor sculptures that decorate Viamonte’s lawns to the original commissioned works that adorn the community’s corridors, Viamonte’s thoughtful contemporary art collection is integral to the design and furnishings of the community. And to help residents take in the full experience of that art collection, a Viamonte resident who is a former docent provides virtual guided “Curiosity Art Walks” of the campus exhibits, encouraging residents to study the carefully chosen works of art, consider the artists’ intentions, and pique their curiosity.

5. Creativity: Viamonte is an eclectic community of accomplished, inspired, and creative individuals—a community of artists, photographers, writers, gardeners, musicians, teachers, and travelers. From art classes, curiosity art walks, and resident art shows, to poetry sharing, photography contests, writing programs, dance classes, and the production of a quarterly anthology of resident-created works—Viamonte’s talented residents generate no shortage of creative, life-enriching opportunities for one another.

6. Pet-friendly Lifestyle: Viamonte’s pet-friendly culture is just one of the many warm and fuzzy aspects of life at Viamonte. Residents stay fit while walking their dogs along the scenic pathway located behind the community, complete with dog-walking stations. Their furry friends are kept fresh, thanks to Viamonte’s on-campus doggy spa, and are treated to a pet nibble each time they pass the concierge desk, where a jar full of treats is kept. And not least, residents (and their beloved four-legged friends) make new friends in Viamonte’s Happy Tails Club.

7. Resort-like Fitness Center: Viamonte residents are active and engaged, living a life centered around well-being. Our first-class Fitness Center is a place where residents can refuel, rejuvenate, and relax. The Center’s brand-new gym is furnished with high-tech fitness equipment; the indoor pool hosts aquatic classes; and the serene spa and salon provide a sancuary for selfcare. Quality fitness programming includes yoga, Pilates, stretching, and access to customized workouts with personal trainers.

8. State-of-the-art Wellness Center (Clinic): In addition to the full continuum of care provided on campus, Viamonte’s top-tier Wellness Center provides residents with onsite clinical services; access to outside providers, including podiatrists, hearing care specialists, and mobile dentists, who are brought in regularly based on resident need; and access to convenient, onsite rehabilitation and therapy services. Wellness programming includes classes and workshops on nutrition, balance, strength, and fall prevention, among other wellness topics.

9. Social Events & Activities: In addition to the many classes and programs offered through Viamonte’s fitness and wellness centers, the campus itself—with its lush gardens and courtyards, bocce ball court, and meandering pathways through the community—provides an oasis for outdoor activities and nature-inspired wellness opportunities. Residents also enjoy a wide range of social and cultural events, from music concerts to discussion groups, game days, lectures, arts programs, book clubs, walking and hiking groups, music classes, jazz café, coffee hours, happy hours, support groups, dances, volunteer work—and the list goes on!

10. Dining: Viamonte residents choose from an eclectic selection of culinary venues offering more dishes than their palates can imagine, all under the supervision of our gourmet chef and skilled culinary team. They enjoy the flexibility of dining in the venue of their choice, and whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they are welcome to invite their friends and family to dine with them at Viamonte. Dining highlights include the following:

• seasonal menus that feature daily specials and local fare
• a flexible dining plan providing each resident with monthly credits good for use at all dining venues
• healthy food choices that offer lower sodium, fat, and sugar content
• onsite catering for special events

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

What is An Independent Living Facility? By Chris Harper

Independent living communities cater to independent-minded seniors who no longer wish to live alone in their own homes. These communities offer seniors all of the privacy of living at home, but within the context of a connected and welcoming community. Many independent living communities, including Arbor, also offer additional help for seniors who have chronic health issues or need assistance with daily tasks.

In independent living, seniors participate in community events and outings, can take classes or attend group meetups, and enjoy gourmet meals in lush settings. The focus is on community, although seniors live in private units and do not have to participate in any specific activity.

The benefits of independent living are myriad, including:

• More social connections.
• A beautiful home without any work.
• Help when you need it.
• Potentially lower costs, since seniors no longer have to fund home ownership
• Plenty of activities.
• A chance to keep learning.
• Caregiver support and family education about aging, dementia, and other concerns.

Many independent living communities enable seniors to age in place by offering assisted living and memory care within the same community.

The primary drawback of independent living is that seniors must move out of their homes.

What is a CCRC?

Continuing care retirement communities are communities or neighborhoods where seniors can age in place in a freestanding home, apartment, or condo. For seniors who crave their own space but who want the reassurance of help when they need it, they’re a great option. CCRCs often offer activities for seniors, but the focus is less on daily activities and more on supporting seniors’ desire to remain independent.

The benefits of a CCRC include:

• A chance to live in a beautiful neighborhood alongside other seniors
• Aging in place as your needs change
• Neighborhood amenities such as a pool and/or workout room
• Caregivers and support staff who come to you

The drawbacks of a CCRC include:

• Fewer social connections. CCRCs tend to offer fewer events and activities, so seniors don’t have as many opportunities to make friends.
• High costs. CCRCs are significantly more expensive than any other senior living options. They tend to charge hefty entrance fees—$100,000 to $1,000,000, and sometimes even more.
• Isolation. If the CCRC is not located near local attractions or amenities, or if it does not offer transportation, seniors may struggle to remain engaged with their communities.
• Less caregiver support. In CCRCs, the focus is on supporting senior health, not helping the entire family.

How to Make the Decision

For seniors who dislike the idea of community living and who can afford it, CCRCs can be an enticing option. These communities are out of reach for most seniors, however, and independent living often offers better benefits. So which one is right for you?

A CCRC could be a good choice if:

• Your primary concern is getting help to age in place.
• You want to live in a standalone home, not a unit that is part of a larger community.
• You need less support for daily activities and entertainment.
• You can afford to make a significant investment in senior living.
• You’re anxious about living alone at home, but don't necessarily want to move to senior living.

Independent living could be a great option if:

• A CCRC appeals to you, but you can’t afford it.
• Finances are a key concern, and home ownership is becoming too expensive.
• You want support to remain active in your community.
• You want your family to be involved, and to get lots of support.
• You relish the chance to make new friends and embrace new interests.
• You want a day full of activities, as well as a beautiful place to eat with friends.

Retirement can be anything you want it to be. The right senior living solution helps you make your retirement dreams a reality.

https://www.arborcompany.com/blog/know-the-difference-independent-living-vs.-a-ccrc 

Personal Note: My Future Home, The Heritage Downtown(THD) in Walnut Creek is not a CCRC, but primarily a rental independent living facility. The entrance fee is reasonable and affordable. However, the monthly rental fee is higher compared to the average monthly fee for a typical CCRC.  

 

The Art of Mark King, the Martin Laurence Limited Edition

 

I found this painting in David E closet when I was preparing for this coming Estate Sale.  I was just planning to sell it for $25, but I learned it could be worth more than tenfold ( see link on bottom of this page). So who is Mark King?

Mark King, a champion of Impressionism and the École de Paris, was born in Bombay in 1931 of British parents. He is the product of an exotic and privileged upbringing in India, where he lived until the age of sixteen during the tumultuous last days of the British Raj. In 1948, following graduation from La Martiniere College in Calcutta, where his focus had been botany as well as art, King sailed to England to attend Bournemouth College of Art, having determined to pursue painting, sculpture, architecture and theatre design. He subsequently spent seven years as Resident scenic designer at the Oxford Playhouse Theatre, but in 1961 decided to concentrate solely on painting and moved to Paris to study at the École des Beaux Arts and the Louvre.  

For Pricing of Mark King, Martin Laurence Limited Edition Paintings read the following link.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/175169850834?chn=ps&_trkparms=ispr=1&amdata=enc:1DtEApXTtRHOsF5CHr-4U0g9&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&mkscid=101&itemid=175169850834&targetid=1587262743057&device=c&mktype=&googleloc=1013678&poi=&campaignid=15275224983&mkgroupid=131097072938&rlsatarget=pla-1587262743057&abcId=9300697&merchantid=6296724

Meanwhile here's a photo of some Nagle Prints also owned By David E. I plan on selling this for $25 each.

I plan on selling my Pinoy Polo Barongs, Hawaiian shirt, Mexican Habanera for only $5 each. A few of them I barely used. If you are interested they are M size. See photo below:

 Currently, I have sold most of My Garden Statuaries, but not one Garden Plaques. I have sold a few indoor as well as potted outdoor plants. One of my customer for the garden statuaries, send me a note of thanks for selling him three of my Garden Statuaries.

 

 

It was a Hectic Day with Six Tour Appointments Yesterday

 

I had six tour appointments yesterday with various prospective buyers of my house. I had one tour request two days ago, two hours after the House was published in Zillow. Of the  tour requesters, one was a real estate agent and took pictures of the House for His clients. So of the 6, my guess is that only two are serious considering the amount of time they spent during the tour. I think the others are just curious open house addicts. 

Regarding Demographic representations of the Prospective Buyers. The first prospective buyers were 2 middle age couple from the Middle East based on the name and dialect conversation with their agent. My guess is they are Iranian.   

The second prospective buyers were an older couple and an adult relative ( son). I have no chance talking to them. I just observed them before they enter the house. I guess this couple were serious. The man ( in his 60's- just guessing) looked around the Perimeter of the House. The woman ( in her 50's-just guessing) had some Oriental feature probably Indonesian or Filipino. The son is a mestizo-looking ( my guess is 18). 

The third prospective buyer were a couple either with Indian or Pakistani ancestry. They were very polite and even ask if they can remove their shoes before touring the house. The guy spent a lot of time outside looking at my leaking gutters ( there was hail and thunderstorm that lasted for 10 minutes) before their tour. After the tour, they spend more than 10 minutes outside talking to their realtor.

The rest of the tour requestors were alone. One was a Man with Indian/'Afghan/Pakistan features. He wanted to see the Garage. The other was a woman speaking to her realtor with Eastern European accent. They did not stay long only about 15 minutes. 

There was Latino couple middle age who were also very polite. They ask if they could take off their shoes before the tour. They were speaking in Spanish to their realtor and just stayed inside the house. They just look at the swimming pool from inside the house. 

These are the names of the realtors who left their business card with me. The other one left her card in her car ( bad idea). Ehsan Ahmadsai, Inna Martsinyuk, Luke Vincent and Maria Garibaldi. 

I have three tour appointments scheduled for today. Hopefully, there is a serious buyer in this group. Bye for now, I need to remove all the floating debris from the Hail Storm yesterday.

Meanwhile take a last look at my Potted Maple tree. I sold it yesterday ($40) to a young 3rd generation Filipina-American who speak perfect Tagalog and asks several questions on how to care for the plant. This plant was from Ditas plant collection that she gave to me when she moved to the East Coast.          

 

Seven Staged Photos versus Actual Photos of My House For Sale Today

The Seven Staged Photos of My House came today. It looks nice but to me it looks fake and indeed staged. Personally, I love the actual photos than the staged one. But if the staged photos sells who am I to complain. Here are the staged photos of the family room, living room and master bedroom along with the corresponding actual photos. Judge for yourself.

The Staged Living Room without the Piano featuring the Picture Window

The Actual Living Room with the Piano and Other Furnishings/Clutters

The Staged Family Room-the only actual photo is the sliding door and drapes/Fire Place/Patio Scene/Walls

My Actual Family Room with all its Clutters-Photos etc..-Not as Inviting.

The Staged Master Bedroom with completely different furnishings

My Actual Master Bedroom and its Furnishings with a view to the Patio

So judge for yourself. Do you like the staged photos better than the real live-in photos? Personally I love my actual live-in photos. It is real and not staged or digitally altered. The wonders of Digital Photography and Staging in action!

The House is in the Virtual World today. My realtor and I agreed that the List Price will be 580K. This is the lowest range of the property valuation of the house. Meanwhile enjoy this photo of my newly resurfaced and tiled swimming pool and backyard landscaping. 

Here's the link:

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/8167-Treecrest-Ave-Fair-Oaks-CA-95628/26054842_zpid/?view=public

One Hour after Posting- A prospective buyer requested a tour after 3PM today,