Another Pocatello

In July, I received a card from a Postcrosser* in Belarus. The postcard's title is "Another Minsk," and it's one of a series of photos depicting backyards and alternative views of places in Minsk. The photos were taken in 2009 by an artist named Rakovich.

Inspired by Rakovich, I started a new blog, inelegantly titled "Pocatello Backside," where I post backyard and alternative-view photos taken as I walk around Pocatello.

As that blog's introduction says, "Living in Pocatello is a bit like being in love with an ugly person. Beauty is there, but you might have to look closely to see it.  And sometimes, the backside is the best view."

Go to http://pocatellobackside.blogspot.com and see if you can guess where I was standing when I saw those Pocatello backsides. 

*For more information about Postcrossing, go to: http://myturntodayyourstomorrow-cheryl.blogspot.com/2010/07/postcrossing.html 

Marigolds

Marigolds is a fairly recent addition to the wine and entertainment scene here in Pocatello. Located in the Gold's Gym Plaza on Flandro Drive, just off of Yellowstone Avenue, Marigolds is a relaxed, friendly place to wind down after work and jump-start your weekend fun.

The centerpiece of Marigolds is a wall-length electronic wine dispenser. Customers may purchase a "key card" that allows them to sample a huge variety of wines. We liked being able to do some experimental tasting before settling on a larger quantity of our favorite selections.

Tana Christensen, the vivacious owner of Marigolds, met us with a warm welcome and took plenty of time to describe our tasting options, make recommendations, and show us how the dispenser worked. Plus, look how cute Tana is in her little hat and vest!

We sampled several of Tana's recommendations: the Shiraz, and "Red Electra," a California Muscat. Another of our favorites was a whipped drink made with a chocolate-raspberry wine.

Here's Marigolds' wall of wines, for those who are ready to buy an entire bottle.

Other delicacies and wine accessories are also available.
Before we left, Tana asked each of us to autograph a cork, which she then hangs from the ceiling.

We initially went to Marigolds because a family member, Ray Rodriguez, was providing musical entertainment.  We'll return for more of Marigolds' wine, delicacies, and friendly atmosphere!

Click on the card to see Marigolds' contact information.