Pacita

Pacific Avenue runs parallel to, and is between the main streets of Lincoln and Buena Vista, yet it feels totally different. This street is reminiscent of Disney-ania's vision of a neighborhood of enchanting Victorians, dogs peeking out through the slats of picket fences, parents riding alongside their young kids on bicycles.

Little John Park is one of the happiest places to be. Early mornings, you'll see several people strolling around the park for exercise. Some days, you'll find young men, presumably from the nearby Coast Guard Island, playing soccer. After hours, parents are throwing, catching and hitting softballs with their children for practice. Weekends, there are always picnics where kids are running through the fields. And occasionally, you'll see some folks training their dogs, or taking them for a walk. The activity room for children and the playground are popular destination for parents and their young children.

It's truly a happy place.

This is one of the few streets in Alameda where there are so many stop signs, so that there is less chance of reckless drivers speeding. And residents don't have to worry about moving ther cars from one side to the other due to scheduled street cleaning (hence, no parking tickets).

What is so delightful about this street is the variety of architectural styles --- from stately Victorians to charming bungalows.

It's a block from the bus route on Buena Vista, and two blocks to the main bus rounte on Santa Clara. And it's a short walk to the fabulous waterfront park by Fortman and Grand Marina, a little longer walk to Marina Village. Head the other direction, and voila!, one is in the historic and picturesque Gold Coast area, and enclave of Alameda's version of grand homes on tree lined streets on the island.

Happily, Alameda is a wonderful place to live. It's a small island that is close enough to San Francisco (via ferry, express bus), Oakland or the major highways just across the bridges for easy commute to other parts of the Bay area. Picturesque and historic, it boasts a wonderful selection of restaurants of different cuisine. The Alameda Town Centre is right on the beach, and is continuing to grow the number of fine shops like Bed Bath and Beyond, Old Navy, TJMaxx and soon, Kohl;s. Recently, the newly restored Alameda Theater opened its 8-cineplex.

There are always all kinds of fun events like outdoor summer concerts, art and wine street festivals, etc. all of which evoke pleasant memories of happy events that people enjoy.