Summer on Blossom Street
Author Debbie Macomber drew a large crowd to the Highlands Ranch Tattered Cover bookstore Thursday evening. As we waited in line for the engaging Macomber to sign copies of her newest release, Summer on Blossom Street, strangers compared notes on which of her over 100 books they’ve read, which was the first or how they discovered her books. Many had attended previous signings or receive Macomber’s e-mail newsletter. I was amazed at the diversity of the audience from young mothers pushing strollers to barely mobile elder – and, it wasn’t a woman only crowd.
My daughter-in-law, Tammy, introduced me to Macomber’s writing four years ago. When we arrived for a visit Tam had The Shop on Blossom Street on the nightstand. This was the first of Macomber’s Blossom Street series, based around a knitting shop, A Good Yarn, in Seattle.
Since then, I’ve visited with Macomber’s characters in Texas, the Dakotas and Washington state settings. These are people I would like to have as neighbors or friends. When I need a reprieve from the busy, stressful world I know the perfect escape – snuggle into a corner of the couch with a cup of tea, a handmade quilt and a Macomber book.
Personable and funny, Macomber shares personal antedotes with her audience – from her first library book (the librarian was Beverly Clearey – later to become a best selling children’s author) to writing her first book on a rented typewriter while bouncing a three-year-old on her hip. When attendees wanted pictures she good naturely posed and gave us this tip, “If you swallow it gets rid of one chin.” After meeting her I’ll always think of her simply as Debbie.
An avid knitter herself, in addition to Summer on Blossom Street she’s also released a Knit Along with Debbie Macomber Summer on Blossom Street book of knitting patterns.
The Tattered Cover was the second stop on a 17-city book tour in the next six weeks. In addition to Summer on Blossom Street I’m sure audiences across the country will enjoy getting to know Debbie as much as they enjoy her characters and storylines. Check her website for the tour schedule, a complete list of her books and purchasing information.
All paintings shown here are by Bob Yackel.
The 18th annual Colorado 
There’s plenty to do in the 
The town lies west of the Organ Mountains along the Rio Grande River. 
Located in the center of the heart of chile-growing country we find delicious, authentic Mexican food. Many family owned restaurants use recipes handed down for generations. Especially on weekends, dinner may be accompanied by a live mariachi band. Several wineries welcome visitors to tasting rooms and wine festivals. Then there’s my favorite – 
This was our first visit at a Staybridge Suites, designed primarily for extended stays. Although we stayed only one night at the 
Although we reserved a one-bedroom suite we were given a two bedroom/two bath. Being able to set up the laptop in the extra bedroom and work early in the morning while Bob still slept was an nice bonus. Quality bedding and linens contributed to a much needed night’s rest. The equipped kitchen included a stove top, microwave oven, full refrigerator and dishwasher. My only negative comment is that there is no ice machine in the hotel. They expect you to use the ice maker in your frig; however, if it’s not turned on when you check in it can’t keep up with demand – even for two people.
Built from 1783 – 1797, the church frequently is proclaimed to be the finest example of mission architecture in the United States. Records reveal little about the architect and artisans responsible for the original construction. Influences of Moorish, Byzantine and Late Mexican Renaissance architecture blend to create the strikingly unique edifice. We can only surmise why the east tower was never completed.
The building has a long history of respectful care followed by neglect and restoration. For three decades in the 1800s priests were sent home to Spain. Parishioners safeguarded church furnishings in their homes but the building fell into disuse.
We sometimes hear the gasps of wonder as visitors step into the church for the first time. Every surface seems to resonate with color: altars, statuary, arches, retablos, frescoes, carvings. Some have called this the "Sistine Chapel of North America." It’s quite a compilation of baroque and folk art. Whether one says a prayer and lights a candle or sits quietly observing the features this is a time to pause and contemplate.
We abandoned the comfort of home and headed to South Broadway Grill which opened a few months ago. The location first saw a Mr. Steak restaurant back in the \’60s and has seen numbers of eateries come and go. The completely redone interior is pleasing in its sleek urban simplicity, contemporary art and floral highlights. Bob immediately noticed an impressive orchid on the hostess stand. The host assures us that it’s real. We later learn that co-owner Carolyn Kinsella is a talented floral designer.
Dinner started with the Broadway Salad – fresh spring greens, dates, figs, toasted almonds, goat cheese dressed with the house vinaigrette and topped with polenta croutons. I loved the salad, next visit I may make it my entree. Bob selected the grilled sole with a creamy caper sauce served with mashed potatoes and spinach. He ate the whole thing – there was no need for a to-go box. My choice was the pasta Fabiano. Sautéed chicken breast, broccoli,roasted cashews and penne pasta in a basil cream sauce. The cashews added a nice texture and flavor to an otherwise rather bland dish. A little added salt helped bring out some flavor. The ice tea received excellent reviews from both of us.
A serving of chocolate chip caramel bread pudding to share capped our Dinner Deal. I watched dishes coming out of the kitchen, a number of sandwiches looked very appealing as did the buffalo short rib stroganoff. The clientele spanned the range from young singles watching a ballgame while eating at the bar to three-generation families with Grandma in a wheelchair. I’m thinking one of the circular corner booths will be just right for the next girls night out.
Where To Go - Travel USA 