Scotts Valley

Each time I hear Craig Morrow ringing his Salvation Army Red Kettle Bell in front of the Safeway market in Felton, I am reminded that Christmastime has arrived.

The winter season is underway for local high school soccer teams and Scotts Valley and San Lorenzo Valley high schools look to make a splash.

Early on one of those freezing mornings I came across a large stand of California native toyon shrubs, every branch covered with juicy red berries. Dozens of songbirds were enjoying the feast, loading up and bracing for another cold night. You couldn't ask for a more Christmas-ey plant. Bright red and green — the Christmas colors. I made a note to put toyon on my list for gift ideas. What would be better than to give my loved ones something that feeds the birds and the spirit?

The days are short and cold and steelhead season is starting! I love fishing and one of my favorite types of fishing is for steelhead. There are many varieties of fishing and steelhead fishing is one that you either love or dislike, because it is during the cold wet winter months where we live.