I’ll get back to writing about northern California history soon, I promise. You might get tired of hearing about my new book, and we don’t want that. But here’s one more tidbit of book news:

Yesterday I was interviewed by Jerry Olenyn for a news feature on KRCR-TV. Jerry did a good job of turning my stumblings and babblings into cogent soundbites, and it was fun to see how he does the job. You can watch it at the KRCR website. It was also a beautiful day to enjoy the fall colors at Bidwell Mansion.

Here are some Holiday Happenings I’d like you to know about.

The Bidwell Mansion Association is having its holiday event for member on Friday, December 4th, 6-8 p.m. Not a member of the BMA? You should join! Tickets are $30 for members and $35 for non-members, including a one-year membership, so you can save on your first year as a member.

Bidwell Mansion is all gussied up for the holidays, with lavish new decorations all through the house. John and Annie will be there to welcome their guests. The Glatz sisters will be presenting seasonal music in the parlor.

Catering is by A Fresh Approach, and wine-tasting (don’t tell Annie!) by Bertagna Vineyards. Steve Ferchaud and myself will be signing books. The BMA promises you a lovely evening to start off the holiday season.

For other holiday events at Bidwell Mansion — family photo sessions and holiday evening tours — take a look at the Bidwell Mansion SHP page.

If you aren’t coming Friday evening, but would like to get a signed copy of John and Annie Bidwell: The Long and the Short of It, please come to the Chico Library on Saturday, December 5 at 2 p.m. I’d love to see you there! Sales will benefit the Bidwell Mansion Association.

The first weekend in December is chockful of fun things to do. Here are two more:

Stansbury House presents A Merry Dickens Christmas Friday through Sunday, Dec. 4-6. Check their website for times and goings-on. Mark Twain will put in an appearance!

The annual Christmas Creche Festival takes place at the LDS Church at East and Mariposa, Thursday Dec. 3 through Sunday Dec. 6. Check their Facebook page for times. Thousands of nativity sets from around the world will be on display, and there will be refreshments and activities for the kids. Admission is free.

Thursday evening at the Creche Festival I will be reading The Gift of the Magi, by O. Henry, as part of a program of readings and music. I hope you can come enjoy the special spirit of Christmas at this event.