Seasonal reflections

It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving has already come and gone. What a strange fall we’ve had, what with Donald Trump being elected leader of the free world and the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series. I sort of feel like I’m in The Twilight Zone. Pinch me! Despite all the chaos, though, I took Thanksgiving to reflect on all the things—and people, mostly—I’m thankful for. I hope you did, too.

The holiday season is a time to reflect on our blessings as well as our dreams and personal endeavors. And it’s often a time to close the book on certain chapters in our lives (and open others).

One store in Paradise is closing a rather large chapter. After 10 years in business, Morning Star Quilts will be shutting its Pearson Road shop for good at the end of the year. “We are sad to leave, but will always cherish the wonderful relationships we have built throughout the community,” owner Marsha Haunschild said in her announcement.

Morning Star Quilts had quite a run on the Ridge. In 2009, it was recognized by Better Homes & Gardens as one of the top 10 quilting centers in North America. Over the years the shop became a go-to spot for everything from quilting patterns to fabrics to equipment and all manner of sewing and crafting classes.

A liquidation sale is underway at the store (43 Pearson Road), and through Dec. 23, Haunschild will be accepting perishable food donations, which will go to the Christian Missionary Alliance Church to feed locals in need. The Paradise High School wrestling team also will be selling Christmas trees in the store’s parking lot.

Sayonara, Hashi The Wednesday before Thanksgiving (Nov. 23), I stopped by Hashi to pick up some of my favorite ramen soup in town … for the last time. A little birdie had hinted that the lunchtime to-go spot might be closing after eight short months, and when I reached out via Facebook I was told the restaurant just wasn’t financially viable. (Forcella fans, do not fear: The popular dinner spot on Mangrove that shared a home with Hashi will continue business as usual.)

For that last taste of Hashi, I got the tori ramen with marinated chicken. De-lish (but not quite as amazing as their wor wonton soup, available only on special). And, because they were little bites of heaven, I ordered a pork belly slider on a Chinese bao bun. Hashi, you will truly be missed.

Shop local I’m a strong supporter of shopping locally year-round, but it’s especially important during the holidays, when we tend to spend a little more. Sierra Oro Farm Trail is trying to make that a little easier this year by partnering with local farms and wineries on its website. Products range from wines and cheeses (a few of my favorite things!) to olive oils and scented soaps. Go to www.sierraoro.org for more info on holiday gifts as well as extended hours at some of Butte County’s most popular agritourism destinations.