On the surface, Northern California probably doesn’t seem like it has all that much in common with Ancient Greece. We’re a thoughtful bunch here, of course, but we’re not nearly as concerned with philosophy as they were. We don’t wear togas (the occasional Halloween party excluded) and my guess is…
I have a reputation with most of my friends and family as a guy who gets a little too excited about his work. It’s definitely an earned reputation, as I’m always quick to start talking about trenchless sewer repair, the risks of ruptured pipes, and the reasons you shouldn’t pour…
Bill in Rancho Cordova, CA is hearing some strange noises coming from inside his walls close to his AC unit. Bill asks: “My AC seems to be working just fine but, every time it kicks off, it starts hissing so badly it sounds like a snake might have crawled into…
A friend of mine has adult kids. Well, adults on paper, anyway. My buddy’s kids all still live at home, and, as a result, he’s always complaining that they aren’t interested enough in moving out and getting their own places anytime soon. They all have jobs, so employment isn’t the…
I love exploring the Central Valley on my days off. Modesto, in particular, is one of my favorite spots—it’s really a hidden gem of a city. With its vibrant art scene, top-notch doughnuts (I’m talking about you, Mr. T), and proximity to the wonderful rivers and lakes near Waterford, it…
Imagine coming home from a long day of work during the summer, sweaty and tired after your commute, and then switching on your home’s air conditioner and being greeted by a big blast of… warm air. Obviously, something is very wrong with this picture. An air conditioner that blows warm…
I love driving through Sacramento’s Oak Park to look at the old, colorful character houses that gracefully line the streets. My imagination tends to run wild thinking of all of the families who have lived there and the many stories those sturdy old walls must hold. While the bones of…
Earlier this summer, Davis, CA experienced five solid days with high temperatures exceeding the 100-degree mark. Because of this, the National Weather Service issued heat advisories warning folks to stay off the streets. Scorching highs aren’t unusual in Davis during the summers and, in general, my advice for homeowners is…
One of my favorite things to do in Sacramento on the weekends is to peruse vintage furniture stores. There’s something really cool about finding an old piece of furniture that has been restored or even repurposed that fits beautifully into your home. I’m always on the lookout for real wood…
Sacramento is a city of old neighborhoods filled with historic homes, from the Pocket area to Oak Park, Midtown to East Sac. These classic homes have so much character—and such unique architecture. They’re all absolutely beautiful. Well, at least on the outside. Inside walls and underneath floors, though, many of…
