Ice Cream at Stansbury House!

How long has it been (if EVER) since you visited the gorgeous, historical Stansbury House? It's only been around since 1883! (at the corner of W. 5th St. and Salem) This Friday (Aug. 21st) would be a great time to check it out, during the annual ice cream social (6 to 9 p.m.), another great Chico tradition.

Now the property of The City of Chico and maintained by the Stansbury Home Preservation Association, this wonderful example of Italian-Victorian architecture was originally built (out of sugar-pine lumber) for Dr. Oscar Stansbury and his wife, Libbie. It remained in the Stansbury family for more than three generations.

If you can't make the Ice Cream Social this Friday, tours are regularly held Saturday and Sunday, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Cost is just $2 for adults, $1 for students, and free for children under 10. A real must-see!

Shubert's - Best Scoop in America?

Have you heard about the contest on the Good Morning America TV show for the "best scoop" in America? Believe it or not, our own little Shubert's Ice Cream and Candy Shop is among the four finalists! The winner will be announced on May 25th--which happens to be Shubert's 70th birthday! Sounds like a good luck omen to ME. Click here to cast your vote. Come May 25th--win or lose--Shubert's is celebrating their 70th anniversary with $1.00 cones from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Who doesn't love strolling around downtown while indulging in their favorite Shubert's flavor? What's YOUR favorite?

(Update 5/25/08: Shubert's took 2nd place in the contest...but it's still #1 in the hearts of Chico's citizens!)

My Funny Valentine

In chatting with son Kiel the other day (who now lives in Sacramento where he works at The Pyramid Restaurant and at his stand-up comedy career in various comedy clubs), the topic of Valentine's Day came up. Far be it from me to "micromanage" my sons' lives! However, the "mom" in me just wanted to check to be sure he remembers his adorable girlfriend, Melissa, on Valentine's Day. But who says this particular holiday has to be for "sweethearts only"? I like to surprise my family and friends with cards, e-cards and/or treats (Shubert's -- Chico's oldest ice cream & candy store -- is a family favorite!). For more "heart day" ideas, check out http://www.virtualchocolate.com/ . Wishing you love & friendship this Valentine's Day!