Where in the world did you build those idyllic childhood memories? You know the ones I mean -- where no one said "no" and nothing stopped you from searching through the forbidden corners of an off-limits world. Was it at a relative's home? Was it in a new town, or maybe a vacation stopover?

Crockett (CA) provided so many places for children to explore that the memories remain vivid years later for me and my siblings. Walking along the railroad tracks only yards away from the waterway tempted us constantly. From there we would walk a mile or two to the pier and peek inside the ramshackle bar where fishermen bought bait and beer. On lucky days the huge cargo ship passed within spitting distance, carrying sugar cane from Hawaii to the C & H Sugar Refinery--the lifeblood of Crockett, where jobs kept the town alive for generations. They used to give tours through it, and even though it is not longer operating, the refinery and the sound of its 4p.m. whistle remain alive in my memory.

John Swett High School has educated students in Crockett for over 100 years and is still in use. The creamery and deli have long-since closed down, but there are a few traditional stores and churches remaining. The town has actually seen a building boom in the past decade, so the antique stores are gradually being joined by new small businesses.

You can find Crockett across the bridge from Vallejo (CA). The Carquinez Strait separates the two hilly towns. Just over the hill from Crockett lies Martinez, Rodeo, Concord, then Walnut Creek and Oakland. Travelling past Crockett on the freeway you will find Pinole, then Berkeley, then Oakland. The town remains a small oasis not far from the crowded Bay Area. Next time you are in the area, pull off and drive the winding, hilly streets of Crockett and take a step back in time by visiting the century-old pub, Toots & Gully's. It still has the original bar, stools, mirrors, and decor. Have a cold one on me!

By guest writer Kathleen A.