Post-Thanksgiving Activity

The Trusty BoulevarDog, having eaten too much turkey, has been in need of walks. As has Your Boulevardier. A new favorite stroll is to Valley Java on Stanton Avenue, which just might be the friendliest place in town.

Although Your Boulevardier cannot be considered a regular at Valley Java, he is impressed that the proprietor, Vincent, greets most customers by name. (Indeed, he seems to keep an eye on the tiny parking lot, and can recognize cars; drinks are sometimes waiting when customers reach the counter.) Everything about the shop is thoughtful -- the array of newspapers, the artworks by local painters, the stirring spoons (along with a glass of water for used utensils), even the little shelf by the door so patrons can set down their cups to operate the knob. Outdoor tables allow the Trusty BoulevarDog and other canines to observe the morning's hustle and bustle.

An array of local dignitaries, including retired Judge Peggy Hora (who drives a sporty green Audi TT) and school board member George Granger have been noticed as regulars. Your Boulevardier is certain there are others. It's a shame that Valley Java doesn't have a website, or Your Boulevardier would happily provide a link.

In other news: Your Boulevardier notes, belatedly, that a kind person has left some comments on the site. Apologies are given for not posting the comments in a timely manner -- the fact is, it was a surprise to see that anyone had even found the Castro Valley Boulevardier, as no publicity has been attempted. (A pleasant surprise, it must be said.) And rest assured, the Trusty BoulevarDog will walk up Lake Chabot and/or Redwood Roads soon; although her arthritis might prevent a very long exploration, some short trips are in order.