Master Jeweler

Woke up to a wet grey day. Determined to stick to the day's plan I hop the MUNI bus which stops right in front of my house; one of those rare occasions of loving the much maligned bus system, then onto BART and over to Otto Frei tools and findings where I am to meet Larry Mikami the master jeweler. I could have stayed there all day, but he was generous enough to give me a good chunk of his time. I became more and more excited as he talked about his time in the jewelry/fashion design world of New York. We discussed its fickle nature; a huge dangle this season, a delicate little thing next. Letting silver chain run through my hands I saw my industrial pieces of mesh and glass dangling from it. "That's really cool" Larry said upon seeing my cuff. OK, I know I'm on to something

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Lake Merrit

Had an inspiring couple of hours around Lake Merritt in Oakland. First stop was Otto Frei. They have jewelry findings and tools. It's somehow gritty and elegant @ the same time. I was looking for earring and cuff findings. After handling wonderful metal tubing and bits I realized I needed to come back when Larry the master jeweler and shop manager was there.
Wandering around while waiting for Ricardo to get off work I stumbled upon Chop Bar. A couple of people at the bar when I walked in, 2 hours later when we left it was packed. Not only only are they commit ed to using local, sustainable ingredients, the vibe is without any attitude. The folks who work there are so genuine and nice. No debates here on how peaceful my chicken was in it's last hour. Can't say I thought of that, it was on Portlandia the great new show by Fred Armisen. OK, back to cutting up produce bags, ha ha.