The first frost
This week saw more lights and inflatables popping up in Alameda yards and, according to my human companion, “unbearably cold weather.” While it’s a bit chilly out in the mornings as demonstrated by the appearance of the first frost of the season, the sun feels really great during the day. If you happen to see a handsome German Shepherd walking the streets of Alameda pulling a person dressed like he’s ready for the final ascent of Mount Everest, that’s us. Please stop and say hi, especially if you happen to have any treats in your pocket.
This week also marked the appearance of the Star of Alameda after a long hiatus. Apparently, this was a longstanding symbol of the holiday season that went dark a few years ago. It’s located high in a tree in a yard on Central Avenue near Willow Street. Does anyone know the story behind this light, and who had the courage to climb the tree to install it?
I am noticing more front door decorations this year, ranging from traditional wreaths to cute reindeer images and modern-day interpretations.
If you thought that more traditional DIY decorations had gone extinct, check out the sleigh (minus Santa) and Rudolph (complete with lighted red nose) on Lafayette Street between Central and Alameda avenues.
This absent Santa situation popped up again on Pearl Street with a team of reindeer pulling an empty sleigh. What’s going on?
If there was an award for the funniest holiday inflatable, it would go to the house on Elm Street that featured a mischievous canine marking their territory that happens to be occupied by a vibrating snowman who was not happy about the situation. Made me smile.
While this reporter has been preoccupied with covering seasonal decorations, there are other things going on in the city that need to be covered. For those of us who follow the renovation of the big old house on Central Avenue, the crew put up the window panels that enclosed the front porch and replaced a bunch of windows including the curved ones in the turret—a major architectural feature that is not cheap to replace. High four to the folks doing this renovation.
A few weeks ago, I noticed the mini “training” roundabout that appeared at the intersection of Pacific Avenue and Chestnut Street. It’s an interesting place for a roundabout, since it’s in the middle of a residential area that doesn’t seem to have that much traffic. There must be smarter people than me that see the need. In any event, if it makes it more safe for us on foot, I am all for it.
This week, I am gearing up for my annual holiday stocking delivery to all my friends that will be spending December 25th at the shelter. As you know, I was in the shelter over the holidays, and it can be a lonely time. I know I would have really been grateful for a bully stick or cute chew toy to bring some joy to the day.
Happy holidays however you chose to acknowledge the season.
Mouf, Roving Reporter
Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda
Mouf and his human companion can be reached via [email protected]. Their stories are collected at AlamedaPost.com/Jeff-Cambra/. All photos and videos by Jeff Cambra.
