tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-369539922024-03-14T08:33:49.813-07:00Seattle SongIdeas for enjoying the real life of Seattle (that often cost little or nothing).Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-38791707744168828042007-05-12T08:49:00.000-07:002007-05-12T08:53:24.932-07:00A Follow up on Ballard Past and PresentYesterday, the Seattle Times published a <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003702524_ballardlives11m.html">front page story </a>of the blending and clashing of the old and new Ballard. It also mentioned the <a href="http://www.ballardhistory.org">Ballard Historical Society</a>. Both the article and the Society's website are good reads.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-88435924567449049642007-05-07T15:17:00.000-07:002008-11-13T00:59:38.277-08:00A Day (or so) in: Ballard<em>Note: This post is one of an intermittent series focused on experiencing the full and authentic flavor of specific Seattle neighborhoods. What to do and see, where to eat and drink, and other details are included, with an eye to keeping it affordable.</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFdWhKyc9raEWdf7lgWqFl6IZli7DE2wdePyrX3v70mKCSNG21YIihuYBJ9W8SfFUS9TS5ETpkLMX6rA-yZT9veECBUAs8Bt2U3k06Jpy2onBh-EmcfbOJB3zo0zTQEriCEIp/s1600-h/Rotation+of+freeway+park+003.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFdWhKyc9raEWdf7lgWqFl6IZli7DE2wdePyrX3v70mKCSNG21YIihuYBJ9W8SfFUS9TS5ETpkLMX6rA-yZT9veECBUAs8Bt2U3k06Jpy2onBh-EmcfbOJB3zo0zTQEriCEIp/s320/Rotation+of+freeway+park+003.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5061950873813332498" /></a>For a taste of both Old-School and New-School Seattle living in blended harmony, the neighborhood of Ballard is your destination. Situated in Northwest Seattle along the shore of Puget Sound, Ballard is the epicenter of Seattle’s <a href="http://www.historylink.org/essays/output.cfm?file_id=7041">long-standing Scandinavian community</a>. It is also a hub of the fishing trade for the city. <br /><br /><em>Left: The brick-paved, tree-shaded shopping street of Ballard Ave. on a quiet afternoon.</em><br /><br />With a staunch, proudly blue-collar image and long, <a href="http://www.mcphee.com/store/ballardproducts.html">independent-minded</a> history, Ballard has become a magnet for artists and craftsmen as well as a new generation of fisherpeople and shipbuilders. You will find cafes that still serve up <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lutefisk">lutefisk</a> (eeesh) and Maxwell House to the older generations of Swedes and Norwegeans and newer restaurants that list Copper River salmon and Café Vita espresso on the menu. The folks here are real, and there’s a wide range. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6_ShWBveRqSE9XCCjJs28poLEFHgMAmeVEmh2B0-zhbny2IcHAKTT8UsqYhplXUMs5ko045Vpg7Z-qrpXmR1kllI7zoXMZ3dS9cRJHZ96636oKf5nihtEdfvZwosFpT0v7qQ/s1600-h/freeway+park+001.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6_ShWBveRqSE9XCCjJs28poLEFHgMAmeVEmh2B0-zhbny2IcHAKTT8UsqYhplXUMs5ko045Vpg7Z-qrpXmR1kllI7zoXMZ3dS9cRJHZ96636oKf5nihtEdfvZwosFpT0v7qQ/s320/freeway+park+001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5061950852338495970" /></a><br /><br /><em>Right: One of the many funky little car mechanic shops in the 'hood... this one obviously with a sense of humor!</em><br /><br /><em>Below: A ship in drydock on the Ballard waterfront.</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0l0torw5vk1go2FqG4HV19jawmhkIbegDe66qSFgFj8zru8hNU9QWy6RB04cxR1jXD56EPCAhVzWONeQ0mnrXUU8noWxDkjbypbHwL-8_9EkvjaLEJ9ZJeY0eoAoYf35acans/s1600-h/freeway+park+002.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0l0torw5vk1go2FqG4HV19jawmhkIbegDe66qSFgFj8zru8hNU9QWy6RB04cxR1jXD56EPCAhVzWONeQ0mnrXUU8noWxDkjbypbHwL-8_9EkvjaLEJ9ZJeY0eoAoYf35acans/s320/freeway+park+002.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5061950856633463282" /></a><strong>What to do, What to do….</strong><br /><br />Get a sense of Ballard Past by visiting the <a href="http://www.nordicmuseum.org">Nordic Heritage Museum</a>. Apparently, it is the only museum in the U.S. to honor the immigrants from the Nordic countries. Here in Seattle, it is a relevant institution. Not only are there historical exhibits, but also ongoing events which are well attended, including a Christmas Pageant, concert series and Scandinavian art exhibitions.<br /><br />Next Head to the <a href="http://www.seattle.gov/tour/locks.htm">Chittenden Locks</a> to watch ships of all sorts move from the freshwater lakes to the salt water sound. You will see everything from huge container ships to single-person kayaks take the ride up and down. The Locks also host a well used fish ladder where many varieties of <a href="http://cascadiasong.blogspot.com/2007/03/salmon-image-of-northwest.html">salmon</a> can be seen migrating throughout the year. Finally, stroll the botanical gardens and find a nice perch over the locks for a picnic lunch.<br /><br />Another great picnic spot is <a href="http://www.seattle.gov/parks/parkspaces/Golden.htm">Golden Gardens park</a>, just west of downtown ballard. It is a waterfront park with sandy beaches where you will find kids making sandcastles, beach volleyball games, and many, many sunbathers on the warmest days. From Golden Gardens, you can soak in views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains and catch a stunning sunset over the water.<br /><br />If it is art you crave, visit the neighborhood on the second Saturday of the month to participate in the <a href="http://www.inballard.com/Webroot/artsballard.shtml">Ballard Art Walk</a>. Galleries stay open late and often showcase new exhibits for this event, sharing wine and appetizers. <br /><br />If it’s performing arts you crave, visit <a href="http://www.livegirlstheater.org">Live Girls Theater</a> to attend a play, comedy, or poetry reading. This theater supports women artists by showcasing their work.<br /><br />If it’s music you seek, check out who’s playing at the The <a href="http://www.tractortavern.com">Tractor Tavern</a>. A long standing venue for local talent as well as touring bands, the Tractor is a staple in the Seattle music scene (and they serve good beer!)<br /><br /><strong>Shopping in Ballard</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDNNDcgsHyJru4qvqKhg60i69u73EXJx4dRIMSGRUe2i_agUXMuAvAFfTr_krww30ZnTo6C7gI30NttFe0S2JLpfM-KtNfk6rBmdQBbHe76dZXmkyuQ0RefQoZrHpR0s6Ft8aK/s1600-h/freeway+park+004.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDNNDcgsHyJru4qvqKhg60i69u73EXJx4dRIMSGRUe2i_agUXMuAvAFfTr_krww30ZnTo6C7gI30NttFe0S2JLpfM-KtNfk6rBmdQBbHe76dZXmkyuQ0RefQoZrHpR0s6Ft8aK/s320/freeway+park+004.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5061950865223397890" /></a>There are far too many great shops in Ballard to try to list them. Suffice it to say, perusing Ballard Avenue alone could be a weekend’s project. Market St., which crosses Ballard Ave., is also filled with shops, markets and cafes. Here are a couple resources to get you going:<br /><a href="http://www.nwsource.com/shopping/guides/neighborhoods/ballard.html">NWSource.com</a>, and <br /><a href="http://www.inballard.com/Webroot/shop.shtml ">InBallard.com</a> <br /><br /><em>Above: Ballard Ave. is chock-a-block full of fabulous shops from clothing and shoes to home furnishing and pet supplies</em><br /><br /><strong>Eatin’ & Drinkin’</strong><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQRS7Wgi0xQUKSULgGe0xIWDJej9bF2ufwrmy0_ZlUSFifg6p4tIhU5sYKUY89sz1gr2y-ABmXZlHIFw71c5tHi66BNbgQlot-0wG8VDsesNP9gVqQZoTpaWmuqfIPfGTep-o/s1600-h/Rotation+of+freeway+park+005.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQRS7Wgi0xQUKSULgGe0xIWDJej9bF2ufwrmy0_ZlUSFifg6p4tIhU5sYKUY89sz1gr2y-ABmXZlHIFw71c5tHi66BNbgQlot-0wG8VDsesNP9gVqQZoTpaWmuqfIPfGTep-o/s320/Rotation+of+freeway+park+005.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5061950882403267106" /></a><br /><em>Right: Portalis is a sweet little wine bar on Ballard Ave.</em><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hattieshat.com">Hattie’s Hat</a>, a venerable Ballard institution is where you will find old-time Ballard stalwarts and young-folk mixing and matching. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.rays.com/new">Ray’s Boathouse</a> is another Ballard Tradition, albeit more upscale than Hattie’s Hat. This is where you go to watch that sunset with a cocktail or morsel of salmon in hand.<br /><br /><a href="http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/34957527/seattle_wa/restaurante_michoacan.html ">Restaruante Michoacan</a>, reportedly some of the best Mexican food in Seattle.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.volterrarestaurant.com">Volterra</a>… amaaaaazing Italian. <br /><br /><a href="http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/41463701/seattle_wa/dandelion_cafe.html">Dandelion Café</a>… a hip, newer eatery.<br /> <br /><a href="http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/10793279/seattle_wa/larsen_s_original_bakery.html">Larsen’s Original Bakery</a> is where you will find the real thing when looking for a “Danish”. <br /><br /><a href="http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/11477093/seattle_wa/cafe_besalu.html ">Café Besalu</a>, another great bakery that trends more modern than Larsen’s traditional.<br /><br /><a href="http://seattle.citysearch.com/profile/43929935/seattle_wa/dish_d_lish.html">Dish D’lish</a> is a casual little eat in/take out joint by Seattle foodie celeb, <a href="http://www.kathycasey.com/index.html">Kathy Casey</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.inballard.com/Webroot/portalis.shtml">More Drinks… </a> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.inballard.com/Webroot/eat.shtml">More Eats…</a> <br /><br /><strong>Where to Stay???</strong><br /><br />If anyone knows of a good hotel, inn or B&B in Ballard, please comment! This is the one thing that seems to be missing from the world of Ballard.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-36102158123771631072007-05-03T20:06:00.000-07:002008-11-13T00:59:38.566-08:00Opening Day – Seattle Style<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cVo7P2tIEUGslP-Scis57GRaFlvEp-WbZnQQpylfNQy35jOT6yO-u9XoYIXxGzMy353LsSwfsFZsFJZNzSHHhGhFK2FiqqaqyAXlrhEDLDgCon4DVEVSaqmr7BwQcf67d-8W/s1600-h/PictureOpeningDay.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cVo7P2tIEUGslP-Scis57GRaFlvEp-WbZnQQpylfNQy35jOT6yO-u9XoYIXxGzMy353LsSwfsFZsFJZNzSHHhGhFK2FiqqaqyAXlrhEDLDgCon4DVEVSaqmr7BwQcf67d-8W/s320/PictureOpeningDay.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5060539998531432914" /></a> Everywhere else in God’s green America, Opening Day is synonymous with the start of baseball season. Not here. Not in Seattle. In Seattle, Opening Day, always the first Saturday in May, marks the official start of boating season. It is a long-standing tradition, dating back to 1913. The <a href="http://www.seattleyachtclub.org/OpeningDay">Seattle Yacht Club</a>, which has hosted the event from its inception, has a great <a href="http://www.seattleyachtclub.org/OpeningDay/History">history</a> of this big party on the water, which now includes crew races and huge parade of <a href="http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/getaways/21228_opening03.shtml">boats, yachts and ships</a> of all kinds. <br /><br /><em>Above: Opening Day Parade passing through the hoglines of boats. Image from the <a href="http://www.seattleyachtclub.org/OpeningDay/PictureOpeningDay.jpg">Seattle Yacht Club website</a>.</em><br /><br />The races and parade pass through the “<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montlake_Cut">Montlake Cut</a>”, a narrow canal that connects Lake Washington with Lake Union. Spectators-on-foot line both sides of the Cut, and spectators-on-boat create long hoglines that extend the canal up to ¼ mile or more into Lake Washington. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4H3mJClrtdZlilYuzMuOSs9MvMuqn7a-juOF_OwUrPEzPouviX0HuRjEUSg_NZsfHyvfxdIIRUE-tHZ9_BNmAOSfKPCUV-Jbv65g18dvvPVGvfWv4b41JRW6o1lDz9wLzoGj/s1600-h/crew+race.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4H3mJClrtdZlilYuzMuOSs9MvMuqn7a-juOF_OwUrPEzPouviX0HuRjEUSg_NZsfHyvfxdIIRUE-tHZ9_BNmAOSfKPCUV-Jbv65g18dvvPVGvfWv4b41JRW6o1lDz9wLzoGj/s320/crew+race.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5060539998531432898" /></a> <br /><em>Left: Crew teams recovering at the end of a race. Image from the <a href="http://www.huskycrew.com">Husky Crew website</a>.</em><br /><br />Opening day is Seattle’s May Day, celebrating the return of warming weather, waxing days, and how we spend them… namely, on the water. Yachts, kayaks, dragon boats, row boats, canoes, sail boats, ski boats, fishing boats, skiffs, and inner tubes with beer holders will all be in attendance on Saturday to watch the races, tag along the end of the parade, and generally make merry.<br /><br />Here is the <a href="http://www.seattleyachtclub.org/OpeningDay/sycOpeningDaySchedule.htm">schedule of events</a>. Arrive early along the Cut with a picnic blanket and basket to claim a vantage point to cheer on the <a href="http://gohuskies.cstv.com/sports/c-crew/spec-rel/windermere-cup-home.html ">Husky crew teams</a>.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-36864892755587291452007-05-02T13:02:00.000-07:002008-11-13T00:59:39.325-08:00Hidden Treasure – Freeway Park<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsdqJ30LXJHPpGYoj-OnPZUogPcbMbK_02Ebb-pUebJgy9cBPTtBRcOQBNmYmt_lFdBiSWBVUMy2RYVXrzXHh7JcihvmChDWtGVhsNtbpMXeIHxpYbttkY-dKn5qWo-N2L3FX/s1600-h/freeway+park+003.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsdqJ30LXJHPpGYoj-OnPZUogPcbMbK_02Ebb-pUebJgy9cBPTtBRcOQBNmYmt_lFdBiSWBVUMy2RYVXrzXHh7JcihvmChDWtGVhsNtbpMXeIHxpYbttkY-dKn5qWo-N2L3FX/s320/freeway+park+003.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5060059477590356386" /></a>Tucked behind Seattle’s Convention Center and the Union Square buildings, and over a small cap covering a portion of the I-5 freeway, is <a href="http://www.seattle.gov/parks/parkspaces/FreewayPark.htm">Freeway Park</a>, an intricate web of walkways, thick landscaping, and restful cubbyholes hiding in plain sight in the middle of the city's business district. The respite from the downtown streets is over 5 acres in size, but given its <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?f=q&hl=en&q=Freeway+park,+Seattle&ie=UTF8&om=1&msa=0&ll=47.609324,-122.331541&spn=0.003515,0.007231&z=17&msid=106601364460701802068.000001124e435ee8d00d3">inconspicuous location</a>, it is one of those special places in Seattle that you must know about (or be an intrepid and fortunate wanderer) to find. <br /><br /><em>Above: A bright red information kiosk with map stands among the lush plantings.</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_BN_N8JWmYc1_oDikzMmILA1aQ71VByaBAuEPpZT3QWR3gJQIkZmi9no4gUvI8ejzESPr-_4nacvIpSK-7exoApMyt0iAU8Q_Y7FrTzNbUlCJQ81UhiwYyVpVlxfyTPVScMR/s1600-h/Rotation+of+freeway+park+004.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_BN_N8JWmYc1_oDikzMmILA1aQ71VByaBAuEPpZT3QWR3gJQIkZmi9no4gUvI8ejzESPr-_4nacvIpSK-7exoApMyt0iAU8Q_Y7FrTzNbUlCJQ81UhiwYyVpVlxfyTPVScMR/s320/Rotation+of+freeway+park+004.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5060059456115519874" /></a>The park reflects the highrises of the city by use of a “<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brutalist_architecture ">Brutalist</a>” hardscape using heavy forms of concrete to define the spaces of the park’s many “outdoor rooms.” This architecture is balanced by the dense plantings of evergreens and flowering shrubs, trees and annuals. There are highlights of sculpture and a large waterfall at its south end (only on in the late spring to early fall). <br /><br /><em>Right: An arbored "hallway" between garden rooms.</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJz4B44m_-65-YCg9NQpud5OlnfRbu1OYkkTb-IjkzwyH4CMxIqn7vJFNqEBmjf7nC1ASrSyi32D_UyOnhrKloTdvCdGBwBkCE0dnNzM4Jlhj6I2QNSeoB5n36QU62jDIDmwb/s1600-h/Rotation+of+freeway+park+001.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJz4B44m_-65-YCg9NQpud5OlnfRbu1OYkkTb-IjkzwyH4CMxIqn7vJFNqEBmjf7nC1ASrSyi32D_UyOnhrKloTdvCdGBwBkCE0dnNzM4Jlhj6I2QNSeoB5n36QU62jDIDmwb/s320/Rotation+of+freeway+park+001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5060059447525585266" /></a>The park is strewn with benches and summertime lunch hour finds it packed with office workers reading, napping, or chatting over a brown bag meal. The one drawback of the park is the incessant drone of the freeway traffic. However, it is not overpowering and falls into “white noise” status after a while. <br /><br /><em>Left and Below: Two sculptures at the north end of the park, near the Convention Center.</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQxs3xjQpAR2l_bUEHP9w6RRIqnZtUJGnuCYX1ailbyEZHzGIJjD7Uir5tmxkt-DTN0OgfoH-co0N47AxzYzlc2rlRTVdAazvOUg-wPBdQzg8h9A_15I5rXHZ4SmnCtrbsIik/s1600-h/freeway+park+002.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQxs3xjQpAR2l_bUEHP9w6RRIqnZtUJGnuCYX1ailbyEZHzGIJjD7Uir5tmxkt-DTN0OgfoH-co0N47AxzYzlc2rlRTVdAazvOUg-wPBdQzg8h9A_15I5rXHZ4SmnCtrbsIik/s320/freeway+park+002.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5060059464705454482" /></a> <br />Only 4 or 5 blocks from the center of Seattle’s retail district, Freeway Park provides a nice break from the shopping frenzy. To-go lunches can be found in the concourse at nearby <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Two_Union_Square">Two Union Square</a>.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNKvJCmCq1JjBkEphdyZho3fGZGf0G-Xe_xqdV6kXNqBeRMaFlPjo1ssyWdiALiL0Bfj23zgnXboaASi7le7MizejqN6SsFi2XSW8jl7MsD0-pnKCOCbuqmJ4rqYpD8BKtUkP/s1600-h/freeway+park+005.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNKvJCmCq1JjBkEphdyZho3fGZGf0G-Xe_xqdV6kXNqBeRMaFlPjo1ssyWdiALiL0Bfj23zgnXboaASi7le7MizejqN6SsFi2XSW8jl7MsD0-pnKCOCbuqmJ4rqYpD8BKtUkP/s320/freeway+park+005.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5060059481885323698" /></a> <em>Left: This Escher-esque edifice is a wall of falling water in the summertime.</em>Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-71631016385592182902007-04-22T20:57:00.000-07:002007-04-22T20:57:16.361-07:00Getting to know Seattle through the Eyes of its BloggersNo better way to learn about the personality of a place than to get to know its people. In the right-hand column you will find a smattering of blogs from the Pacific Northwest with a wide range of voices, topics, and opinions. Most are from the Seattle area. Perusing these is a wonderful way to become acquainted with the interests, politics, and idle thoughts of those who reside in this fair city.<br /><br />Another great resource is <a href="http://seattle.blogmob.org/">Seattle Blogmob</a>. This is a portal for weblogs located in and around Seattle. It has both a list and a map of Seattle weblogs highlighting the locations of the authors of recent posts. Want to know what Seattlites are thinking RIGHT NOW? Check out Blogmob.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-41337614574224543792007-04-14T08:11:00.000-07:002008-11-13T00:59:40.659-08:00Weekenders: Orcas Island - A Center of the Cascadia Universe<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RqUecgBAMdEI3BZYY_0n7FH1i9qucWUE6byD8zC2iZEbO5hzz3U7fhCnnf5dqudkaxiJ2Dd8DjicePflYR7aobX56qDaVqwpcpIp3cuehuj7sobH2wERjDzXXngpIJY-JUHL/s1600-h/buck+bay+2.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RqUecgBAMdEI3BZYY_0n7FH1i9qucWUE6byD8zC2iZEbO5hzz3U7fhCnnf5dqudkaxiJ2Dd8DjicePflYR7aobX56qDaVqwpcpIp3cuehuj7sobH2wERjDzXXngpIJY-JUHL/s320/buck+bay+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053364850329545106" /></a><em>This post is one of an intermittent series on weekend getaway destinations that are 1/2 day or less drive from Seattle. There are so many options: seashore, islands, mountains, countryside, neighboring cities and towns. We will take a look at some of the best examples of each. </em><br /><br />About 100 miles north of Seattle, in the most northwest corner of the contiguous US lies a group of craggy, evergreen, windswept islands called the <a href="http://www.sanjuanislandsdirectory.com/san%20juan%20islands%20map.htm">San Juans</a>. They are part of a larger archipelago that reaches north along the BC coast. <br /><br /><em>Above: A view of the hamlet of Olga on Orcas Island</em><br /><br />The San Juan Islands include far over 100 islands. Many are tiny holding, at times, a single tree. Some are completely owned by a single person. Some are entirely state parks, complete with docks, mooring bouys, and basic camping facilities such as water spigots, fire rings, and outhouses. Only four of these islands have sizeable populations: San Juan, Lopez, Shaw and Orcas. These are also the only four islands in San Juan County that are accessible by the Washington State Ferries. As the WSFs are by far the most affordable way to travel to the islands, these four islands have become even more populated and have developed into destinations for travelers. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OtoyJJTl0bQyidFv4uLuhmSZ5dmZi_L5ebq_BgysK1TfapVynahWPa3mU8TjMgM7TTYl-QDmlZGllq7S9KVH_RIo0dKUOEAd6BbZ2W-VVH38d1POGB0Vvcm5P3a7yEUmpxwP/s1600-h/Orcas+Easter+010.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OtoyJJTl0bQyidFv4uLuhmSZ5dmZi_L5ebq_BgysK1TfapVynahWPa3mU8TjMgM7TTYl-QDmlZGllq7S9KVH_RIo0dKUOEAd6BbZ2W-VVH38d1POGB0Vvcm5P3a7yEUmpxwP/s320/Orcas+Easter+010.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053399347506866690" /></a><br /><em>Left: Riding the Washington State Ferry</em><br /><br />Each of the four major islands has its own individual charm and unique landmarks and assets. Each has accommodations and parks and historic sights. <a href="http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/hotels/washington/rosario/orcas.html">Orcas</a>, although not the largest or most populated (San Juan Island is), seems to be the most popular with visitors. It may have to do with the charm of East Sound, the only town on the island. It could be the marketing muscle behind historic Rosario Resort. Or it might be that Orcas has, by far, the highest point in the county, Mount Constitution in Moran State Park, from the top of which on a clear day one can see as far north as Canada and behold <a href="http://images.google.com/images?q=mt.%20constitution&sa=N&tab=wi">breathtaking views</a> of Mt. Baker, the Olympic Peninsula, and nearer bird’s eye views of the islands themselves. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLjuTQs0uN9FAWb-Td-0Kpo8pwUHVP5nqJveIgSu5kPBLPT3b5BfPdyZ7_oPJH8poRslZ7KvFfxpB7Tl5sWfbVN2V6AOp42TSQL92BSF9jMh0lhIaql7Ga4re2j1GK_fm91-9i/s1600-h/Orcas+041.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLjuTQs0uN9FAWb-Td-0Kpo8pwUHVP5nqJveIgSu5kPBLPT3b5BfPdyZ7_oPJH8poRslZ7KvFfxpB7Tl5sWfbVN2V6AOp42TSQL92BSF9jMh0lhIaql7Ga4re2j1GK_fm91-9i/s320/Orcas+041.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053364863214447042" /></a><br /><br /><em>Right: A view southwest toward Lopez Island after sunset from Buck Bay</em><br /><br />This mild, sunny region (due to a “rain shadow” created by the Olympic Mountains, the San Juans get about ½ the rainfall of Seattle), is rich in wildlife from eagles, loons and herons, to whales, seals, otters, and deer. Orcas Island, approximately 60 square miles in size and with a year around population of about 5000, is also rich in landscape, arts, and activities. It has such a vast spectrum of things to do and see it’s hard to know where to start in describing Orcas and highlighting the must-see sights. Nonetheless, here is an intrepid attempt:<br /><br /><strong>How To Get There </strong><br /><br />To drive to Orcas (recommended due to its size and limited rental car service), you must plan ahead, particularly in the summertime. There are a limited number of ferries to Orcas each day. Check the <a href="http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/schedules/current/index.cfm/route/ana-sj.htm">WSF website</a> for the schedule. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gJGMhLoqSWbxwjz1kRM3tzFW-JONr_tGVM2o1oy2seC-LxZy2cZMWzptUy4qkHlyBp5b2c0ccQ6yVQKzNLsZJKvtLd2CTl3BHV3qSUzs_gUsfxKEvKJCibkYJrUkoaJXggUJ/s1600-h/Rotation+of+Orcas+Easter+001.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gJGMhLoqSWbxwjz1kRM3tzFW-JONr_tGVM2o1oy2seC-LxZy2cZMWzptUy4qkHlyBp5b2c0ccQ6yVQKzNLsZJKvtLd2CTl3BHV3qSUzs_gUsfxKEvKJCibkYJrUkoaJXggUJ/s320/Rotation+of+Orcas+Easter+001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053399351801834002" /></a>You cannot reserve a space, and boats fill up in the summertime, so depending on the day and time (Thursdays and Fridays are most popular), you should arrive at the landing between 1 and 3 hours ahead of your intended sailing time.<br /><br /><em>Left: 90 minutes before the ferry departs on a Friday in April</em><br /><br />Directions: From Seattle, drive North on I-5 about 65 miles to exit 230.<br />At exit 230 head west on highway 20 approximately 15 miles to Anacortes.<br />Head north on Commercial Ave a little over a mile, then follow signs west to the Washington State Ferry Landing.<br /><br />Flights are also available through <a href="http://www.sanjuanairlines.com/flights-to-orcas-island.cfm">San Juan Airlines</a> and <a href="http://www.kenmoreair.com/sub_content.php?content_type=1044">Kenmore Air</a>. <br /><br /><strong>Activities</strong><br /><br /><u>Scenic Drive Destinations</u><br />•<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjh9criE_4c1oBYuu44z_35yMXdKJY4jVZ4TDqAoYs-PYyLwKV0_5OeZDG_eje8TOjaiqemssBVPqV6EeeGmx6WOllQi4PprSBxTAXbLeKJqiyQhPpffN897BEuFsV6SoODI3C/s1600-h/Rotation+of+Re-exposure+of+0528Bud+050.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjh9criE_4c1oBYuu44z_35yMXdKJY4jVZ4TDqAoYs-PYyLwKV0_5OeZDG_eje8TOjaiqemssBVPqV6EeeGmx6WOllQi4PprSBxTAXbLeKJqiyQhPpffN897BEuFsV6SoODI3C/s320/Rotation+of+Re-exposure+of+0528Bud+050.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053365606243789282" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.westsoundhall.org"><em>West Sound</em></a> is a sweet little crossroads on, you guessed it, the western half of the island. There is a small inn and café with a view south to the water. Getting there, you drive through farmland reminiscent of Ireland with its sheep and grassy expanses. <br />• <a href="http://sanjuanislands.kulshan.com/Washington/San_Juan_County/Orcas_Island/default.htm"><em>Deer Harbor</em></a> is a step beyond West Sound, and offers views of a snug little harbor after a trek along a rocky shoreline. <br />• <a href="http://sanjuanislands.kulshan.com/Washington/San_Juan_County/Orcas_Island/Eastsound/Outdoors/Mt._Constitution.htm"><em>Mt. Constitution</em></a> in Moran State Park on the east side of the island is a long, windy drive up and up through fir forests breaking open to ever-more breath taking views as you climb. <br /><br /><em>Above: A summer solstice sunrise from the top of Mt. Constitution, looking across Lummi Island toward Mt. Baker. Photo Credit: Cascadia Dad.</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfcx5oqyxbO4Y-uZ4lRj7oN5hRkkZoc3D6V7sGoxtPPmUA239DLJPBjRh35xoBn9cV6bF3J20fNc6LADbeketzh-Xa5Zw5ljHaFrT30fM6kiHBBHY-nEVoYc8wzxGj_9jevnY/s1600-h/dad+on+the+dock+2.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfcx5oqyxbO4Y-uZ4lRj7oN5hRkkZoc3D6V7sGoxtPPmUA239DLJPBjRh35xoBn9cV6bF3J20fNc6LADbeketzh-Xa5Zw5ljHaFrT30fM6kiHBBHY-nEVoYc8wzxGj_9jevnY/s320/dad+on+the+dock+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053364850329545122" /></a><br />• <u><em>Olga</em></u>, a couple miles south of Moran Park, is small, quaint and intimate. The Orcas Artworks is there, with Café Olga, and a drive down to the road’s end offers a peek into hamlet life on the island. A dock, gazebo, potter’s workshop, community hall and park, and a post office being the highlights<br /><br /><em>Above: The public dock in Olga</em><br /><br /><u>Hiking</u><br /><br />• <a href="http://www.parks.wa.gov/parkpage.asp?selectedpark=Moran"><em>Moran State Park</em></a> offers several hiking trails of varying length and difficulty, two beautiful and COLD lakes which are perfect for trout fishing (in season) and non-motorized boating (paddle and row boats can be rented in the summer), and comfortable camping facilities. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWv83THPATTHBEvBAhBWY_qBb3olNiP81iZwPukkRahIIeBa4-rUX9rxSBZpSwnn0V7frFm0dNpa5tUN_RzOL9YU2nvXtjLSPS6xOfFvIBrfBiZTrsmgdo3O7d_nO11T6FFknx/s1600-h/Rotation+of+Copy+of+mn+falls+1.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWv83THPATTHBEvBAhBWY_qBb3olNiP81iZwPukkRahIIeBa4-rUX9rxSBZpSwnn0V7frFm0dNpa5tUN_RzOL9YU2nvXtjLSPS6xOfFvIBrfBiZTrsmgdo3O7d_nO11T6FFknx/s320/Rotation+of+Copy+of+mn+falls+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053364867509414354" /></a> <em>Left: Cascadia Falls in Moran State Park </em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtTW5uldPQBq4XhIUhfzzxEdMy69Bi6etlcYwPrJezQvshMa_1PuTeUPnvOyMjoxitXdCDMsd8lvj-SIWQS2XPpEzE5lePD0w1ZBtKDRTYfDkDXXgPmt3pLNS6LlvsOP_BduE0/s1600-h/IMG_0031.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtTW5uldPQBq4XhIUhfzzxEdMy69Bi6etlcYwPrJezQvshMa_1PuTeUPnvOyMjoxitXdCDMsd8lvj-SIWQS2XPpEzE5lePD0w1ZBtKDRTYfDkDXXgPmt3pLNS6LlvsOP_BduE0/s320/IMG_0031.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053368866123966962" /></a> <em>Right: Hiking Mt. Pickett in Moran State Park</em><br /><br />• <a href="http://www.sjpt.org/turtleback.php"><em>Turtleback Mountain</em></a>, recently saved from the threat of development through the efforts of the San Juan Preservation Trust is another hiking gem of the island, only recently opened to the public for <a href="http://www.sjpt.org/pdf/driving_turtleback.pdf">hiking</a>. <br />• <a href="http://sanjuanislands.kulshan.com/Washington/San_Juan_County/Orcas_Island/Eastsound/Outdoors/Obstruction_Pass_Park.htm"><em>Obstruction Pass Park</em></a> is a locals’ favorite. A short, flat hike through fir and madrona forest and dense salal leads to a beautiful rocky beach. A few campsites are available. <br />• <a href="http://sanjuanislands.kulshan.com/Washington/San_Juan_County/Orcas_Island/Eastsound/Outdoors/Madrona_Point.htm"><em>Madrona Point</em></a> is a small park and sacred Lummi burial site just a few short blocks from “downtown” Eastsound. It offers an easy, short hike to views south out of the Sound. Grab a picnic lunch at Roses Bakery or Island Market and head over. <br /><br /><u>The Arts</u><br />• <a href="http://www.orcascenter.org"><em>The Orcas Center</em></a>,hosts local and visiting performances of theater and music. If you see a local group on the calendar, don’t shy away… Orcas is a magnet for artists of all kinds and the talent shows up on stage. <br />• <a href="http://www.islandgrange.org//component/option,com_extcalendar/Itemid,191/extmode,cat/cat_id,5/"><em>Orcas Grange</em></a> hosts the occasional dance, which is supposed to be truly a wonderful time. <br />• <a href="http://www.orcasisland.com/artworks"><em>Orcas Artworks</em></a> shows and sells fine art and craft only from full-time residents of the island. Membership in the co-op is competitive and prospective members’ work is juried. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik-48faRgfBOraqE0rDvh9XBUpAu2PFGz0dTdgF1Y5s7Ckr9dtS3j8SXdcaGpKYTR1BPqAFO-MnYCT8byScRYOQVubJ7BzTEt4SLr-6xPbXBdPQ96wZXkmmE0rYVuzFck6wW2E/s1600-h/Re-exposure+of+062503Kann+001.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik-48faRgfBOraqE0rDvh9XBUpAu2PFGz0dTdgF1Y5s7Ckr9dtS3j8SXdcaGpKYTR1BPqAFO-MnYCT8byScRYOQVubJ7BzTEt4SLr-6xPbXBdPQ96wZXkmmE0rYVuzFck6wW2E/s320/Re-exposure+of+062503Kann+001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5053408302513678882" /></a> <em>Left: A self-serve flower stand across the street from the Artworks. Photo Credit: Cascadia Dad</em><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />• <a href="http://www.howeart.net"><em>Howe Art</em></a> is a magical, kinetic sculpture garden and gallery. <br />• <a href="http://www.crowvalley.com"><em>Crow Valley Pottery</em></a> is both beautiful and historic. <br />• <a href="http://www.thesanjuans.com/orcas-island-places/orcas-museums-gardens/orcas-islands-lambiel-mus.shtml"><em>Lamiel Museum</em></a> is a continuously evolving collection of local art in a private home. <br />• <a href="http://www.thesanjuans.com/orcas-general/orcas-island-art-gallerie.shtml">Other Ideas</a> <br /><br /><u>History</u><br />• <a href="http://orcasmuseum.org/index.html"><em>Orcas History Museum</em></a> is a sweet little place in Eastsound, comprised of several historic cabins from the island which have been moved and attached. Learn about the Native American tribes and the European pioneers as well as later history through the depression and world wars. <br />• <a href="http://www.thesanjuans.com/orcas-island-places/orcas-historical-places/rosario-resort-museum.shtml"><em>Rosario Resort</em></a> was originally the private home of <a href="http://www.whatcommuseum.org/pages/archives/moran.htm">Robert Moran</a>, a wealthy Seattle shipbuilder. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century and is a lovely place to tour. Robert Moran was also a great patron of the island, developing and donating the land that would become Moran State Park to Washington State.<br /> <br /><u>Shopping in Eastsound</u><br />Here are a few Cascadia Girl favorites:<br />• <a href="http://www.orcasislandfarmersmarket.org"><em>Farmer’s Market</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://www.tresfabu.com "><em>Tres Fabu</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://www.olgasonorcas.com"><em>Olga’s</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://www.darvillsbookstore.com"><em>Darvill’s Bookstore</em></a> <br /> <br /><strong>So Much More</strong><br />• Kayaking, Whale Watching, Fishing, Spas, Sailing are just a few of the other activities on Orcas. Here is a good resource for finding outfitters, charters, rental companies, etc: <a href="http://www.thesanjuans.com/orcas-island-activities/recreational/index.shtml ">thesanjuans.com</a><br /><br /><strong>Where To Stay </strong><br /><br /><u>Inns and B&Bs</u><br /><a href="http://www.turtlebackinn.com "><em>Turtleback Farm Inn</em></a> <br /><a href="http://www.kangaroohouse.com"><em>Kangaroo House</em></a> <br /><a href="http://www.buckbayfarm.com "><em>Buck Bay Farm</em></a> <br /><a href="http://www.innatshipbay.com"><em>Inn at Ship Bay</em></a> <br /><a href="http://www.outlookinn.com"><em>Outlook Inn</em></a> <br /><a href="http://www.deerharborinn.com/index.php"><em>Deer Harbor Inn</em></a> <br /><a href="http://kingfishinn.com"><em>Kingfish Inn</em></a> <br /><br />There are far more options than the ones listed here, but it is a start. Here is a resource for more ideas: <a href="http://www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/sanjuan/Orcas/orcas_bandb.htm ">gonorthwest.com</a><br /><br /><u>Camping and Other</u><br /><a href="http://www.parks.wa.gov/reserve.asp "><em>Moran State Park</em></a> Note: Try to reserve a camping spot NOT along the main road.<br /><a href="http://www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/sanjuan/Orcas/orcas_rentals.htm "><em>Vacation Rentals</em></a> Note: These are for longer stays. Usual minimum rental is 1 week.<br /><a href="http://www.doebay.com/index.html "><em>Doe Bay Resort</em></a> Note: Very crunchy-granola funky.<br /><a href="http://www.rosarioresort.com"><em>Rosario Resort</em></a> Note: Very popular due to strong advertising and long history. Some folks love it. Not a Cascadia Girl favorite, however the spa there is said to be very nice.<br /><br /><strong>Dining</strong> <br />As with the accommodation list, the array of options for dining is far wider than the list here. However, all those listed below have the “Cascadia Girl Seal of Approval.”<br /><br /><u>Casual, less expensive, options</u><br />• <a href="http://sanjuanislands.kulshan.com/Washington/San_Juan_County/Orcas_Island/Eastsound/Restaurants/Cafe_Olga.htm"><em>Café Olga</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://www.orcasislandchamber.com/dine.php"><em>Rose’s Bakery</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://www.orcasisle.com/members/kitchen.htm"><em>The Kitchen</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://www.orcasonline.com/~portofino"><em>Portofino Pizzeria</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://www.orcasislandchamber.com/dine.php"><em>Bilbo’s Festiva</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://kingfishinn.com/diningorcasisland.html"><em>Westsound Café</em></a> <br /><br /><u>Fine Dining</u><br />• <a href="http://www.innatshipbay.com/dining.html"><em>Inn at Ship Bay</em></a> Note: Their scallops are heavenly.<br />• <a href="http://www.olgasonorcas.com"><em>Olga’s</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://christinas.net"><em>Christina’s</em></a> <br />• <a href="http://www.deerharborinn.com/OrchardHouseRestaurant.html"><em>Deer Harbor Inn</em></a> <br /><br /><u>Other Information Resources</u><br />The list above does not begin to do justice to highlighting all the attractions of Orcas… there is just so much. Therefore, here are a few more resources for research and dreaming:<br />• <a href="http://www.orcasislandchamber.com">Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce</a> <br />• <a href="http://www.guidetosanjuans.com/index.cfm?action=orcasmain">Guide to the San Juans</a>Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-6592209346633425662007-03-29T09:10:00.000-07:002008-11-13T00:59:40.924-08:00Knowing Where We Came From to Understand Who We Are: HistoryLink.org<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmnGi3UeyeiRB3miI9BnTw_4403VppkJNK-ejVkVqa_S_Lsfg6TAfWgPT8Ob8Z5Lo_shE-ebJFASQcSjDZMWaa-ibM98xkTpTuVGW1Pm9DuDHVOb0WWu6zF6MbVu1Nq4eVzRO/s1600-h/Resize+of+history+link.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmnGi3UeyeiRB3miI9BnTw_4403VppkJNK-ejVkVqa_S_Lsfg6TAfWgPT8Ob8Z5Lo_shE-ebJFASQcSjDZMWaa-ibM98xkTpTuVGW1Pm9DuDHVOb0WWu6zF6MbVu1Nq4eVzRO/s320/Resize+of+history+link.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5047383078676434370" /></a>Want to know more about the Pike Place Market, read Chief Seattle’s 1887 prophetic speech on environmental stewardship, or get a virtual tour of Seattle’s neighborhoods? Check out <a href="http://www.historylink.org/this_week/index.cfm">HistoryLink.org</a>., an “online encyclopedia of Washington State History.”<br /><br />“Encyclopedia” does not do the site justice. It offers themed slide shows, covering topics from the 1909 world’s fair, to the Lewis and Clark expedition, to thumbnail photo histories on neighborhoods. There are study aids and bibliographies for students and teachers, a travel section for visitors (and locals), biographies, and a progressive search engine that allows you to drill down on topics. If you search under “art” then “asia”, you will be served articles such as a biography on George Tsutakawa and a timeline of the Nipon Kan Theater.<br /><br />This is a great way to prepare for a trip to the Northwest, particularly if you have specific interests, or a desire to understand the region's roots and influences.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-85168454521819886032007-03-19T07:55:00.000-07:002008-11-13T00:59:41.085-08:00The ArboretumGiven the exquisite landscaping and loving upkeep of the <a href="http://depts.washington.edu/wpa/">Washington Park Arboretum</a>, there is a valid argument that any season is the season to walk this zenful 230 acres. However, springtime and fall are the highlights with blossoms and leaves, respectively, providing a parade of color and texture.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8_KeLJ2nPNJTOWkNzeYqUcMhX-980i7ov7tWwV1WIvpXpNphR9jqmJftpDJebHO15zMI-DKECtCygsCOx7g4H64ZCojEEb1N1WoTFS8lHvC9d_YgCfEwR8HjNHEmzStCpDjF/s1600-h/Rotation+of+cherry+blossom+007.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8_KeLJ2nPNJTOWkNzeYqUcMhX-980i7ov7tWwV1WIvpXpNphR9jqmJftpDJebHO15zMI-DKECtCygsCOx7g4H64ZCojEEb1N1WoTFS8lHvC9d_YgCfEwR8HjNHEmzStCpDjF/s320/Rotation+of+cherry+blossom+007.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5043651186846736786" /></a><br />Spring bloom time has recently begun, with Japanese cherries, magnolias, rhododendrons, camillias, and forsythia showing off among the new, bright green leaves of other trees. Professional and hobbyist photographers alike are flocking to the park these days, along with the usual dog walkers, runners, couples-in-love, and troupes of school children on nature walks.<br /><br />Highlights include the Japanese Garden and the Foster and Marsh Islands trail at the north end of the park, featuring breathtaking views of Lake Washington, University of Washington, and often crew boats, kayakers, canoers, and all other sorts of boaters. This area is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, filled with herons, eagles, red-winged blackbirds and all forms of ducks and other marshland birds. This <a href="http://depts.washington.edu/wpa/html/wpa02trailmap.pdf">trail map</a> will be helpful on your walks.<br /><br />The Arboretum is open from dawn to dusk every day of the year. There is no admission fee. The Graham Visitors’ Center is open from 10am to 4pm every day of the week (closed on certain holidays) and includes a gift shop, restrooms, and a meeting space. The Japanese Garden is open Tuesday - Saturday, except for June, July and August when it is open every day of the week. The admission fee is $5.00. <a href="http://depts.washington.edu/wpa/directions.htm">This map</a> will help you find your way there.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-30554644935695535802007-03-16T18:15:00.000-07:002007-04-22T20:30:08.566-07:00“The Cirque” Seattle StyleThere is a new spring ritual in Seattle: <a href="http://www.moisturefestival.com/">The Moisture Festival</a>. This is an amazing two-week-long celebration of local cabaret, circus, burlesque, and vaudeville talent including acrobatics, juggling, comedy, dance, interactive performances and more. Over 130 artists perform across two venues in the city (<a href="http://www.halesales.com/">Hale’s Palladium </a>in Fremont and the <a href="http://www.acttheatre.org/">ACT</a> downtown). It is quickly becoming the Spring equinox equivalent to the <a href="http://imageevent.com/mbates/fremont/holgasolstice;jsessionid=ae1w2gkeg1.tiger_s">Summer Solstice parade </a>and festival (also held in Fremont). Per the website, the Festival has become an annual reunion of sorts for local vaudeville-style artists.<br /><br />Proceeds are donated to two local charities: the <a href="http://www.seattleschools.org/schools/bfday/voluntee/sc/foundati.htm">BF Day School Foundation </a>and the <a href="http://chautauqua.org/">New Old Time Chautauqua</a>. <a href="http://www.moisturefestival.com/tickets.php">Tickets</a> to the Palladium show start at $5 and tickets to the ACT’s burlesque show are $20. The Festival runs from March 15 to April 1.<br /><br />This is just the tip of the psychedelic iceberg when it comes to neo-burlesque and Cirque du Soleil style cabaret performances. <a href="http://dreams.zinzanni.org">Teatro Zinzanni</a> takes you to Liza Minelli's Cabaret and beyond. <a href="http://www.thecancan.com/">Can Can’s</a> neo-burlesque cabaret is new and supposed to be cheeky and fun.<br /><br />The Seattle Times recently did a <a href="http://archives.seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/texis.cgi/web/vortex/display?slug=burlesque11&date=20070311&query=burlesque">great write-up</a> on the mushrooming new-burlesque scene in Seattle, and included a <a href="http://archives.seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/texis.cgi/web/vortex/display?slug=burlesqueshows11&date=20070311&source=st">list of venues</a>.<br /><br />This Seattle zeitgeist should not be missed…. Enjoy!Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-583344076566050062007-02-13T08:58:00.000-08:002008-11-13T00:59:41.912-08:00A Sculpture Park is Born<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRuL5YHuBOWiScW8-iHGv4UtaHtvVnAxFy2pHi0E_RzKCenGDbWPod5BaKUMyhbIHNa0Ia0B8I9aujc3jMIbgVYrcaTGEjlY69vwOFPFuSWx9xv6ZUSVuzbOgLI015OebWhER/s1600-h/park+%26+LJ+070210+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5031066286238179154" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRuL5YHuBOWiScW8-iHGv4UtaHtvVnAxFy2pHi0E_RzKCenGDbWPod5BaKUMyhbIHNa0Ia0B8I9aujc3jMIbgVYrcaTGEjlY69vwOFPFuSWx9xv6ZUSVuzbOgLI015OebWhER/s320/park+%26+LJ+070210+001.jpg" border="0" /></a>Seattle is all a-buzz about its new <a href="http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/OSP/default.asp">Olympic Sculpture Park</a>, and for good reason. This public space in the <a href="http://www.belltown.org/">Belltown</a> neighborhood is the first in Seattle to have the potential for the grand quality of New York's Central Park, or the Tuilleries of Paris. It is a large space in the center of the city, designed for walking, that has beauty unto itself and shows off the beauty of the city that is its home. Entrance is free and it is open every day of the year.<br /><br /><em>Above: Looking west, past Calder's "Eagle," toward Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains - The park's name sake.</em><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5031066294828113762" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3G3_BRsSDoFO_W0sfzv_IMcqbRJudHTk4svqC3-awtsQiuh61SIaSI2dZqI0SftjdS-dNEiQcbF-AQ7d-LlK5ZxvYbFr3qD16rFEf2nzMrie1AU2zpp62OqrfmeObGH7ivOC1/s320/Rotation+of+park+%26+LJ+070210+004.jpg" border="0" />I say "potential", as the park in many ways is nascent. The <a href="http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/OSP/AboutOSP/landscape.asp">landscaping</a> is in its infancy, and the art collection (although already a great range of sculptural styles and concepts) remains small relative to the expanse of the nine acre site. In fact, although the park opened a couple weeks ago, parts remain under construction. Not only will the collection flesh out, but it will constantly evolve, with pieces appearing and others disappearing over time.<br /><br /><em>Above: Richard Serra's, "Wake"</em><br /><br />Although there are aspects of the Park that are similar to the great urban parks of other cities, there are some significant differences too. The Olympic Sculpture Park is very modern, not classic, in its <a href="http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/OSP/AboutOSP/design.asp">design</a>. It was also not part of the original or early plans for the city. This place was reclaimed from industrial use and winds its way over and around both a major city street and train tracks. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi44KVz4mA-iQkjGpSVONmMtKUCCXu6IUZGT8C_Hl14BQ0xG41Vt_ucrvcGHV_ZzG7l8kZVAyPrsDcbrF10vIFV-PlfMidgBMRREQiewwTcaMmCz8wxTAcSWE58GeSdpPwce0rr/s1600-h/Rotation+of+park+%26+LJ+070210+011.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5031066299123081074" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi44KVz4mA-iQkjGpSVONmMtKUCCXu6IUZGT8C_Hl14BQ0xG41Vt_ucrvcGHV_ZzG7l8kZVAyPrsDcbrF10vIFV-PlfMidgBMRREQiewwTcaMmCz8wxTAcSWE58GeSdpPwce0rr/s320/Rotation+of+park+%26+LJ+070210+011.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Additionally, great efforts were put into <a href="http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/OSP/AboutOSP/green.asp">environmental restoration</a> of the site, including the restoration of part of the shoreline of Puget sound.<br /><br /><em>Right: "Split," by Roxy Paine</em><br /><br />It seems every aspect of the park was thoughtfully considered, from the site, landscape, architectural, and collection design, to details such as the compostable serving ware at the <a href="http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/OSP/default.asp#cafe">cafe</a> (which has a lovely selection of tasty, "picnic-able" <a href="http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/pdf/OSPMenu.pdf">food</a>) and an acknowledgement of the displacement of homeless folks who had lived on the old industrial grounds.<br /><br /><strong>Details</strong><br /><br /><em>Location</em>:<br />2901 Western Avenue, Seattle<br /><br /><em>Maps:</em><br /><a href="http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/OSP/default.asp#maps">Click here</a><br /><br /><em>Holiday Closures</em>:<br />Although the park is open every day, the Pavilion, which houses the gift shop, cafe, restrooms and garage, is closed on the following holidays:<br /><br />Independence Day, Wednesday, July 4, 2007<br />Columbus Day, Monday, October 8, 2007<br />Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 22, 2007<br />Christmas Eve, Monday, December 24, 2007<br />Christmas Day, Tuesday, December 25, 2007<br />New Year's Eve, Monday, December 31, 2007<br />New Year’s Day, Tuesday, January 1, 2008<br /><br /><em>Hours</em>:<br />Park Hours<br />May 1–September 30: 6 a.m.–9 p.m. daily<br />October 1–April 30: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. daily<br /><br />Pavilion Hours<br />May 1–September 30 Closed MondaysTuesday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.Friday: 10 a.m.– 9 p.m.<br />October 1–April 30Closed MondaysTuesday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.<br /><br /><em>Parking</em>:<br />Pay parking is available in the Pavilion garage. The entrance to the parking garage is on Broad Street. Open Daily from 6 a.m.–10 p.m. No overnight parking.<br />Rates: 0–2 Hours $62–4 Hours $12All Day $22<br />Metered parking is available on Western Avenue and Alaskan Way.<br /><br /><em>Dogs</em>:<br />Allowed on leash in the park, but not in the pavillion (except, of course, service dogs).Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-9755812895597041332007-02-05T19:24:00.000-08:002008-11-13T00:59:42.697-08:00Weekenders: Mount Hood & Timberline Lodge<em>This post is part of an intermittent series on weekend getaway destinations that are 1/2 day or less drive from Seattle. There are so many options: seashore, islands, mountains, countryside, neighboring cities and towns. We will take a look at some of the best examples of each.</em><br /><br />About an hour east of Portland, Oregon sits <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Hood">Mount Hood</a>, the state's highest mountain. It is to Oregon what <a href="http://cascadiasong.blogspot.com/2007/01/mountain-is-out.html">Mount Rainier</a> is to Washington: a point of orientation, a comforting icon of home, an outdoor recreationalist's haven. The mountain is almost entirely <a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mthood/about/">National Forest</a> land, with much of it designated as wilderness. Climbing, hiking, and <a href="http://www.mthood.com/">skiing</a> are all <em>year-around</em> activities there.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUT4unK5bHRpJMy9sHC_LgDuXQetVKsKRUBvWei7nq0rQ5_-_hSgIiFG1nTnTPlQiXEXfpxmlFJkpsIVzZ3sbtfutDwTzGu5kVGCS3giRYzJ6RSN-ppwodVuyJX7yVtMWxsce/s1600-h/Mt+Hood+070203+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5028589278774922066" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUT4unK5bHRpJMy9sHC_LgDuXQetVKsKRUBvWei7nq0rQ5_-_hSgIiFG1nTnTPlQiXEXfpxmlFJkpsIVzZ3sbtfutDwTzGu5kVGCS3giRYzJ6RSN-ppwodVuyJX7yVtMWxsce/s320/Mt+Hood+070203+002.jpg" border="0" /></a>Mount Hood also has a treasure trove of history in <a href="http://www.timberlinelodge.com/">Timberline Lodge</a>, a gorgeous hand-built lodge constructed at the height of the 1930s depression by the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Works_Progress_Administration">WPA</a> (Works Progress Administration). Forest workers and WPA artists worked long hours to complete the entire project in less than two years, from early 1936 to late 1937, and was dedicated by President Roosevelt.<br /><br /><em>Above: Outside of Timberline Lodge. Look familiar? The lodge was used for the outside shots in "<a href="http://www.cedmagic.com/featured/shining.html">The Shining</a>."</em><br /><br />The lodge, which operates to this day as an inn, was dedicated as a national historic landmark in 1978. It is also a <a href="http://www.timberlinelodge.com/lodging/art_history.php">"living" piece of American craft</a> from woodcarving to wrought iron works, from weaving, applique, and painting to mosaic, carved linoleum, and stained glass.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Vsz0r3Roy-vfvtd9ayqvGHEN_IvWbkovbDqf3HEDdMS0MLOFKLCq5j1y27DaTvkHy42Dcap64Pq4Gzh-zYTgdBDTLQGte_nqzGv0T4WOnEgnjZmhkQGSLWvUyhnLYKe46_n_/s1600-h/Rotation+of+Mt+Hood+070203+010.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5028590472775830434" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Vsz0r3Roy-vfvtd9ayqvGHEN_IvWbkovbDqf3HEDdMS0MLOFKLCq5j1y27DaTvkHy42Dcap64Pq4Gzh-zYTgdBDTLQGte_nqzGv0T4WOnEgnjZmhkQGSLWvUyhnLYKe46_n_/s320/Rotation+of+Mt+Hood+070203+010.jpg" border="0" /></a><em>Left: A pelican banister post leads to a stairwell paneled with a carved wood mural and lit by a hand wrought iron lamp.</em> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmM8PtsABlFadU2yl9i0GtQPG_vWjhcasr8qP626EYQBnRBh1yC9gTztPI1goOtXjD1UpdKCM6lSnQGsNbsOneSXlZh73WlC4GODON-ao2yafstl55VgdphAsn0uNgZLdOWVG/s1600-h/Rotation+of+Mt+Hood+070203+011.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5028590481365765042" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmM8PtsABlFadU2yl9i0GtQPG_vWjhcasr8qP626EYQBnRBh1yC9gTztPI1goOtXjD1UpdKCM6lSnQGsNbsOneSXlZh73WlC4GODON-ao2yafstl55VgdphAsn0uNgZLdOWVG/s320/Rotation+of+Mt+Hood+070203+011.jpg" border="0" /></a> <br /><em>Left: A mosaic illustration of Mt Hood wildlife is the back splash for the brass water fountain. </em><br /><br />Since the mid 1970's the lodge has been maintained and restored by a dedicated group of volunteer artisans, called the <a href="http://www.friendsoftimberline.org/">Friends of Timberline</a>, who work diligently to preserve, repair and when necessary replace craftwork in the same manner the original pieces were created. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_NxpTJHD-83Ck8YWgogzBC3bf2dWZ8DGjbbkxNViX413uRLSe8vVT_91_0NQGKCM1zv3CAavL6TCYp1XH7lCTOBvP2N_jVvdwrmlH_362Ln1jkmF7McO9zRRNOdq1O73cSRl/s1600-h/Mt+Hood+070203+012.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5028589300249758594" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_NxpTJHD-83Ck8YWgogzBC3bf2dWZ8DGjbbkxNViX413uRLSe8vVT_91_0NQGKCM1zv3CAavL6TCYp1XH7lCTOBvP2N_jVvdwrmlH_362Ln1jkmF7McO9zRRNOdq1O73cSRl/s320/Mt+Hood+070203+012.jpg" border="0" /></a><em><br />Left: Note the loom next to the ranger's desk. Visitors can often watch artists recreating fabrics to replace worn out draperies and furniture cushions.</em><br /><br />Many of the rooms in Timberline are dedicated to the lodge's history, from its creation to its famous visitors to the evolution of Mt. Hood as a destination for outdoor recreation.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDO5cewWfde2KByCmnJhpK_q40YrB875jFkAhM2y1xduoeWOEsOXlOtEua13X-vFSYOoE72bbcVqAXDi-yADDTVBJIuLo3SBHXkFhvjCrp52Z60iO2Mqx9PDCBIQdfr0B5Vupe/s1600-h/Mt+Hood+070203+013.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5028589308839693202" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDO5cewWfde2KByCmnJhpK_q40YrB875jFkAhM2y1xduoeWOEsOXlOtEua13X-vFSYOoE72bbcVqAXDi-yADDTVBJIuLo3SBHXkFhvjCrp52Z60iO2Mqx9PDCBIQdfr0B5Vupe/s320/Mt+Hood+070203+013.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX3oRwL_v-65mejpIUPrJCSMVrOr8qbhRtPAI1x7lvec_iVrRSn6iknPtlkHiU64um0EyMwu84cKdaMClFBCNOEZ2qIPtvAZqSFUHCNm7hdzbVPCjafa-TVmF6kuXSpcJN3z4E/s1600-h/Rotation+of+Mt+Hood+070203+014.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5028590489955699650" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX3oRwL_v-65mejpIUPrJCSMVrOr8qbhRtPAI1x7lvec_iVrRSn6iknPtlkHiU64um0EyMwu84cKdaMClFBCNOEZ2qIPtvAZqSFUHCNm7hdzbVPCjafa-TVmF6kuXSpcJN3z4E/s320/Rotation+of+Mt+Hood+070203+014.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><em>Above: Pictures from early-day visitors.<br />Left: The story of how local <a href="http://www.campfire.org/all_about_us/history.asp">Campfire Girls</a> designed the insignia for the lodge. Campfire has long been an <a href="http://cascadiasong.blogspot.com/2006/12/campfire-girl.html">icon of Northwest living</a>.</em><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The video clip below provides a glimpse of the Lodge's great room.<br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ADZtVXdHA0k"><br /> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ADZtVXdHA0k" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"> </embed> </object><br /><br /><strong>How To Get There</strong><br /><br />From Seattle, take I-5 south to I-205. Continue south on I-205 to I-84 east. Heading east on I-84, take exit 16 and follow signs to US-26. Continue on US-26 to Timberline Highway, which takes you right to the lodge.<br /><br /><strong>Where To Stay</strong><br /><br />You would be cheating yourself if you stayed anywhere other than<a href="http://www.timberlinelodge.com/lodging/room_types.php">Timberline</a>, especially in the wintertime. Given the beauty and historic significance of the lodge, as well as the ski lifts being right out the door, the prices are very reasonable ($90-$255). However, if you can't get reservations or prefer to camp (summer only) the local chamber of commerce can point you to <a href="http://www.mthood.org/businesses_supercategory.html?supercatID=3">other places to stay</a>.<br /><br /><strong>Where to Eat</strong><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTW1xQ_4ZGMcxLzkTGillFqCLB77hVhXE6JHlE6AR6FgWSeIMS-fzU-gA1H-FN-qnRd_kdc3eD5rvLUCZ2PBUzAsr_7-K4rj7NbhiABgVb8oPhvDE-FRYDT_K4zcZoX0CDKIa2/s1600-h/Mt+Hood+070203+007.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5028589295954791282" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTW1xQ_4ZGMcxLzkTGillFqCLB77hVhXE6JHlE6AR6FgWSeIMS-fzU-gA1H-FN-qnRd_kdc3eD5rvLUCZ2PBUzAsr_7-K4rj7NbhiABgVb8oPhvDE-FRYDT_K4zcZoX0CDKIa2/s320/Mt+Hood+070203+007.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Again, really, the place to be when you visit Timberline is Timberline. The lodge has a fabulous fine-dining room in the <a href="http://www.timberlinelodge.com/dining/cascade_dining_room.php">Cascade Dining Room</a>. The <a href="http://www.timberlinelodge.com/dining/rams_head_bar.php">Ram's Head Bar</a> is great for lunch with a view of the skiers. The <a href="http://www.timberlinelodge.com/dining/blue_ox_bar.php">Blue Ox Bar</a> is another option.<br /><br />Down the mountain in Government Camp, the <a href="http://www.huckleberry-inn.com/">Huckleberry Inn</a> is the place for breakfast. The huckleberry pancakes are a must. Further on, in Welches, is a great little Mexican joint called El Burro Loco.<br /><br /><em>Above: The view to the slopes from the Ram's Head Bar.</em><br /><br /><strong>Where to Play</strong><br /><br />For the snow sports:<br /><a href="http://www.timberlinelodge.com/ski_ride/trail_map.php">Timberline</a>, of course, has a very nice ski area that takes you far up the mountain onto its famous glaciers. The largest (and nicest) area is a bit further east at <a href="http://www.skihood.com/Default.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1">Mount Hood Meadows</a><br /><a href="http://www.skibowl.com/">Ski Bowl</a> is the least expensive... for a reason.<br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snow_Bunny">Snow Bunny</a> is a long-standing inner tubing site for snow-loving non-skier.<br /><br />For summer activities, the <a href="http://www.mthood.info/">Mount Hood Information Center</a> has lots of great info and links on camping, hiking, climbing, fishing, festivals and more.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-72339232411301476112007-02-01T21:21:00.000-08:002007-04-22T20:31:38.664-07:00Getting out with the KidsWithout benefit of having kids herself (but regularly acting like one), Cascadia Girl tries her hand at ideas for outings with the kinder-folk:<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.zoo.org/">Woodland Park Zoo</a></strong><br /><br />A "park within a park" in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood of Seattle, the Woodland Park Zoo is a comfortable and fun <a href="http://www.zoo.org/zoo_info/planning/hours.html#fees">affordable</a> outdoor family outing:<br /><br />Per their website: "Woodland Park Zoo encompasses 92 acres and features more than 1,090 individual animals representing nearly 300 species. The grounds are divided into what are known as bioclimatic zones, the unique habitats around the world, from tropical rain forests to the frigid climes of the Far North."<br /><br />The grounds are well designed for the wanderings of humans and animals alike. The bioclimatic zones give a feel for the natural habitat and species mix in the large area. (But, no... no lions in with the gazelle... only species that play well together.) <br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.pacsci.org/">Pacific Science Center</a></strong><br /><br />The Pacific Science Center is an interactive, hands-on museum of physical science. Exhibits teach about everything from astronomy to dinosaurs to insects (the butterfly exhibit is my FAVorite). PSI also houses Seattle's IMAX theater. <br /><br />The Science Center is <a href="http://www.pacsci.org/info.html">priced</a> about the same as the zoo, so a family of four would pay about $35 for the day.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.seattleaquarium.org/">Seattle Aquarium</a></strong><br /><br />Another great hands-on experience, with thirteen, ever-changing <a href="http://www.seattleaquarium.org/exhibits/exhibits/">major exhibits</a> and frequent special events, there is always something new here.<br /><br />Try to time your visit with one of the <a href="http://www.seattleaquarium.org/exhibits/feeding/">talks or feeding times</a>.<br /><br />Cost for a family of four is a bit more here: approximately $40.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.thechildrensmuseum.org/">Seattle Children's Museum</a></strong><br /><br />Quite literally a creative playground, the SCM "challenges visitors to work in teams, manipulate objects, role play, problem solve and develop eye-hand coordination with a variety of unique exhibits and programs."<br /><br />With 8 permanent exhibits and many other child-sized venues for learning, the Museum transports kids to other parts of the world and history through its programs and activities.<br /><br />The most affordable of the outings listed, a trip to the Museum for that family of four will cost $30.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.sct.org/index.aspx">Seattle Children's Theater</a></strong><br /><br />With a mission to provide children of all ages access to professional theatre, with a focus on new works, and theatre education, SCT has "developed and improved the caliber of plays available for young audiences in the United States and abroad, developing and producing over 90 new works."<br /><br />Each play is rated for the age-range that would most enjoy the performance. Currently, "Goodbye Moon" is playing, which is great for ages 4 and up.<br /><br />More expensive than the museums (but well worth the cost), ticket prices range. For a family of four, an evening at the theater would be around $85.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.thistletheatre.org/">Thistle Theater</a></strong><br /><br />For a different type of theater, try Thistle. Thistle Theater, "brings together professional puppeteers, artists and musicians to create unique & diverse puppet theatre productions for the entire family. They specialize in a form of Japanese puppetry called Bunraku. The puppeteers dress in black and operate the puppets from behind. <br /><br />Thistle performs at more than one venue, so families can often attend a show close to home. Ticket costs for a family of four would be approximately $33.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.museumofflight.org/Portal.asp?Flash=True">Museum of flight</a></strong><br /><br />More for the older (and much older) kids is Boeing's Museum of Flight, which chronicles the history aeronautics, including many historic planes that visitors can step into, including an Airforce One and a Concorde. There are workshops for the little ones. Cost for a family of four is about $33.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.emplive.org/">Experience Music Project</a></strong><br /><br />Another place for kids of all ages, EMP is part music history museum, part interactive music lab. You can teach yourself to play a guitar, mix an album, or scratch. You can learn about the history of Northwest rock, the evolution of the guitar, or the life history of Jimi Hendrix.<br /><br />The most expensive of the museums, and understandably once you "experience" it, EMP will cost that family of four $70.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-77162461796860166102007-01-27T08:40:00.000-08:002008-11-13T00:59:42.779-08:00When in Rome... or Seattle: Eagle Watching on the Skagit<em>This post is one in an intermittent series on places and activities favored by Seattle locals when they want to “sightsee” their own backyard. In every city there are activities and landmarks promoted to tourists that locals avoid, because of the crowds, the cost, the “cheesy” factor, and/or having done it every time family visits from out of town. In Seattle, these include the Space Needle, the Underground Tour of Pioneer Square, and riding “The Duck,” among others. Ever wonder how a New Yorker sightsees in Manhattan or a Parisian in Paris? Here is a look at what Seattlites do when they want play tourist.</em><br /><br />One of the most raw yet beautiful events of nature in Cascadia is occurring right now on the upper Skagit River, approximately 2 hours north and east of Seattle. A major salmon spawn is in full swing, attracting hundreds of bald eagles. This year, the <a href="http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/washington/preserves/art6376.html">Nature Conservancy</a> counted over <a href="http://archives.seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/texis.cgi/web/vortex/display?slug=eagle16m&date=20070116&query=SKagit+eagles">500 balds</a> along an 11.5 mile stretch of the river. This is a record for the Skagit and is the largest gathering of the raptors in the country.<br /><br />Cascadians, in turn, flock to the area to take in the amazing sights of both the salmon run and the convention of eagles and other large birds that converge to feast. Each year thousands of visitors arrive with binoculars, cameras, boots, and raincoats to watch the spectacle of this cycle of life.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03rgtiClWPCDWKxKW_Lxs0YCqtaD-kZ3axLszKDgfWLwirSntiOi3f_ajn4CHWp0Y_GcYnFEG-CJMfnt6wDXKxMcrQAqsPnL4U5M2y_Cgk_gPTfoDMlQH0RUHyV1ymfH9LgtH/s1600-h/eagles.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5024754558451252514" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03rgtiClWPCDWKxKW_Lxs0YCqtaD-kZ3axLszKDgfWLwirSntiOi3f_ajn4CHWp0Y_GcYnFEG-CJMfnt6wDXKxMcrQAqsPnL4U5M2y_Cgk_gPTfoDMlQH0RUHyV1ymfH9LgtH/s320/eagles.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Left: Bald eagles dining on spawning salmon in the upper Skagit River. Photo from the Skagit River Bald Eagle Awareness Team, taken by Bradley Husick.<br /><br />The upper Skagit is an intensely beautiful area with dense forest laced with moss and carpeted in ferns, <a href="http://www.bcadventure.com/adventure/wilderness/wildflowers/salal.htm">salal</a>, and other evergreen undergrowth. The small towns of Concrete, Rockport and Marblemount which line the Skagit River host the annual <a href="http://www.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&amp;amp;amp;amp;q=Rockport,+WA&ie=UTF8&z=7&ll=47.761484,-123.771973&spn=5.288209,15.13916&om=1&iwloc=addr">Upper Skagit Bald Eagle Festival</a>” which happens next weekend, February 3rd and 4th. Events range from the “biscuits-and-gravy” breakfast feed at the local senior center to scientific presentations, guided tours, and entertainment in the form of storytelling and musical concerts. The locals put their heart and soul into the festival. They are very proud to be stewards of this part of the region and to be helping to preserve this annual rite of nature.<br /><br />There are many ways to see the eagles, from <a href="http://www.skagiteagle.org/bef/bef-Volkswalk.htm">guided hikes</a> to <a href="http://www.pacificnwfloattrips.com/Skagit_River_Eagles.htm">float trips</a>. However, you don’t have to be an outdoorsman to catch the action. Highway 20 parallels the river in many places and it is common to see folks pulled over on the shoulder of the road, taking pictures of the feasting birds from inside their cars.<br /><br />Here is a link to a couple <a href="http://www.skagitvalley.com/fisheries/index.shtml">video clips of eagles feeding on salmon in the Skagit</a>.<br /><br /><strong>How to Get </strong><a href="http://www.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&saddr=Seattle,+WA&daddr=marblemount,+wa&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=49.444078,92.285156&amp;amp;amp;amp;ie=UTF8&om=1&z=9"><strong>There</strong></a><strong>:<br /></strong><br />Head north on I-5 one hour to Sedro Wooley, then east on Highway 20.<br /><br /><strong>Where to Eat (and stay):</strong><br /><br />There are many little local cafes and restaurants in the area. Most are of similar casual, family-style quality. For a little piece of history and local color, stop in at the <a href="http://www.buffaloruninn.com/">Buffalo Run Inn</a> in Marblemount. This restaurant/hotel used to be the area’s brothel (many, many moons ago). Last time I ate there, the waitress told us about shooting a bear in her back yard who had started rummaging in the trash cans. Generally, shooting bear is illegal except for when one becomes a “public nuisance and danger”. “And,” she told us, “bear’s good eatin.”<br /><br />An eagle-watching trip can easily be a one day outing. However, if you want to make a weekender of it, there are many kitschy, little <a href="http://www.ovenells-inn.com/">places</a> to <a href="http://www.northcascades.com/Index.asp ">stay</a> along the way.<br /><br /><strong>Delving a little Deeper:</strong><br /><br />If you do make a weekend of it and want take a break from the Festival, check to see if any of the other <a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/skagit-wsr/recreation/river-recreation.shtml#trail">hiking trails</a> in the area are open and hikeable.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-17994266493335461552007-01-25T20:46:00.000-08:002007-04-22T20:33:20.024-07:00A Carnival of Ideas for Cheap EatsBack in October, <a href="http://www.chowhound.com/">Chowhound</a> started a thread on its Pacific Northwest forum on the <a href="http://www.chowhound.com/topics/331196">$5-or-less meal in Seattle</a>. There's a month's worth of lunches (or dinners) listed now, and a similar list was compiled for <a href="http://www.chowhound.com/topics/325696?query=portland%20$5%20less">Portland</a>.<br /><br />Fill 'er up!Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-3532647164999054522007-01-22T20:33:00.000-08:002008-11-13T00:59:43.046-08:00Weekenders: The Methow Valley<em>This is the first in an intermittent series on weekend getaway destinations that are 1/2 day or less drive from Seattle. There are so many options: seashore, islands, mountains, countryside, neighboring cities and towns. We will take a look at some of the best examples of each.</em><br /><br />On the eastern border of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Cascadia</span>, where Highway 20 touches down from a <a href="http://www.cascadeloop.com/">flight through the North Cascades</a>, there is a magical place called the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Methow</span> Valley. This region, half wilderness and half cowboy country, is an outdoor <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">recreationalist</span>’s dream, both in the summer and the winter. Although it is a “working” valley of farms and ranches, it is also a mecca for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Seattlites</span> craving real seasons; the heat of summer and the snow of winter.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eoniFJUFtEjC-jzXiqEIBVGnvVdn4VoRPPorhVp-Vq0NfOzWT8ghcfu0so3vsNnGDGng6sXnwLQDqO9WVcy5Mej7BCgKDmX9PEnOh66qai3mUGcySu_K46VyvanvdM8O9hxJ/s1600-h/Mazama+014.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5023081217717894386" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eoniFJUFtEjC-jzXiqEIBVGnvVdn4VoRPPorhVp-Vq0NfOzWT8ghcfu0so3vsNnGDGng6sXnwLQDqO9WVcy5Mej7BCgKDmX9PEnOh66qai3mUGcySu_K46VyvanvdM8O9hxJ/s320/Mazama+014.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This time of year, many of the ranchers and farmers open their fields for cross-country skiers. There is over <a href="http://www.mvsta.com/ski.html">100 miles of groomed cross-country trail</a> in the valley. Track, skate, and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">back country</span> skiers flock to the valley from December to early March. There are ample <a href="http://www.mvsta.com/snowshoe.html">snowshoeing trails</a> as well, and each year there are more trails (ski and snowshoe) that are open to dogs!!<br /><br />Above: The dog-friendly, "Big Valley" trail just east of Mazama<br /><br />In the summer, many of the ski trails continue to be publicly accessible for walking and <a href="http://www.mvsta.com/mtnbike.html">mountain biking</a>. There are also many great <a href="http://www.nwsource.com/travel/scr/tf_detail.cfm?dt=4262&cid=6&amp;amp;amp;amp;pageid=WA&cityid=30">hiking trails</a> in the national forest. Climbers scour Goat Wall. There is hiking and horseback riding. There are <a href="http://www.winthropwashington.com/winthrop/majorevents.html">music festivals</a> and <a href="http://www.okanogancountry.com/what2do.html">rodeos</a>.<br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/jAWBqpj2VU8"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/jAWBqpj2VU8" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="420" height="350"></embed></object><br /><strong>How To Get There</strong><br /><br />Getting to the Valley is the only challenge. From Seattle in the wintertime, the drive is at least five hours. Travelers must take either Steven’s Pass (Highway 2) or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Snoqualmie</span> Pass (I-90) to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Blewett</span> Pass (Highway 97). The North Cascades Highway (Highway 20) is closed in the winter due to heavy snow and avalanche danger. However, the 20 is the undeniable route to take in the summer. Each journey is beautiful, but the 20 is unsurpassed.<br /><br /><strong>Where To Stay</strong><br /><br />In the wintertime, the preferred destinations are the communities closest to the mountains. Early Winters, Mazama and Winthrop are the areas that will have the best snow. There are many affordable, little cabin motels in the Valley, including Winthrop. My favorite Winthrop <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">accommodation</span>, however, is the <a href="http://www.methownet.com/duck/rooms.html">Duck Brand Hotel and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Cantina</span></a>. It is a comfortable spot right in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">kitschy</span>, "old western", downtown Winthrop with very reasonable prices. For a more all-inclusive and swankier stay, try the wonderful <a href="http://www.mazamacountryinn.com/">Mazama Country Inn</a>. The hearty yet gourmet meals are served family-style in the winter, and they set up a brown bag buffet so you can pack a trail lunch for your ski day. Many folks like the <a href="http://www.sunmountainlodge.com/">Sun Mountain Lodge</a>, a classic hotel/resort on the south rise of the valley.<br /><br /><strong>Grub</strong><br /><br />There is a wide selection of great, inexpensive food in the Valley. Here's just a small selection:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.methow.com/mazamastore/">Mazama Country Store</a> in Mazama<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Topo</span> Cafe (Asian) in Winthrop<br /><a href="http://www.methownet.com/duck/rest.html">Duck Brand <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Cantina</span></a> (Mexican) in Winthrop<br /><a href="http://www.methowbrewing.com/">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Twisp</span> River Pub</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Twisp</span><br /><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.it/ShowUserReviews-g58794-d627630-r5954641-Tappi-Twisp_Washington.html"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Tappi</span></a> (Italian) in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Twisp</span><br /><a href="http://www.cinnamontwisp.com/">The Cinnamon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Twisp</span> Bakery</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Twisp</span><br />The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Blackbird</span> Cafe in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Twisp</span><br /><br />All dining in the Valley is casual, or at least casual optional. Never worry about walking in in jeans and boots!<br /><br /><strong>Gearing Up</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://www.winthropmountainsports.com/home.html">Winthrop Mountain Sports</a> is the favorite outdoor clothing and equipment shop in the valley.<br /><br />The Trails End Bookstore in Winthrop is your gear shop for the more snowy days.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-32266467725640373062007-01-18T07:28:00.000-08:002007-01-23T07:45:07.634-08:00PS to Coffee-Counter Culture: A Starbucks UpgradeIn my last post I lauded local coffee houses over Starbucks. However, if your caffeine withdrawal does not allow you to venture more than 1/2 block to find your fix, this morning I read in the <a href="http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/business/299984_starbucksmilk17.html">Seattle PI</a> a reason to step into Starbucks: they are switching to BGH-free milk. Always a good thing.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-5450472861708603552007-01-16T20:23:00.000-08:002007-04-22T20:34:01.921-07:00Coffee-Counter CultureSometimes there is truth behind a stereotype. One such true myth is that of the caffeine-propelled, latte-swilling Seattlite. We looooooooove our coffee. (Although, some of us prefer our brew straight-up. I’m a cup-a-joe girl, myself.) We spend top dollar to cozy a big mug of fine java, or score a pound of lovingly roasted beans. It is also true, I am sad to say, that lines at Starbucks can wind through the shop 30 espresso-fixated customers deep.<br /><br />Mind you, Starbucks does a fine job… a wide range of descent coffee drinks whirled out like baseballs in a batting cage. For what they do, which is ensure consistent, good quality at high volume, they have it down. However… if you are looking for <em>great</em> coffee, something unique, and to linger over it in a coffeehouse with ambience and local personality – and fabulous pastries, check out a few of these favorite neighborhood coffeehouses:<br /><br /><strong>Ballard:</strong><br /><a href="http://www.sipandship.com/">Sip & Ship</a> <br /><br /><strong>Belltown:</strong><br /><a href="http://www.bellinocoffee.com">Bellino Coffee</a> <br /><a href="http://www.macrinabakery.com">Macrina Bakery</a> <br /><a href="http://www.uptownespresso.net">Uptown Espresso</a> <br /><br /><strong>Capitol Hill:</strong><br />B and O Espresso (No website)<br /><a href="http://bauhauscoffee.com">Bauhaus Coffee</a> <br /><a href="http://caffevita.com">Café Vita</a> <br /><a href="http://www.victrolacoffee.com">Victrola</a> <br /><br /><strong>Fremont:</strong><br />Canal St. Coffee (no website)<br />Icon Coffee (no website)<br /><br /><strong>Madrona:</strong><br /><a href="http://veritecoffee.com">Verite Coffee</a> <br /><br /><strong>Pioneer Square:</strong><br /><a href="http://zeitgeistcoffee.com">Zeitgeist</a> <br /><br /><strong>Queen Anne:</strong><br /><a href="http://www.eldiablocoffee.com">El Diablo</a> <br /><a href="http://www.caffeladro.com/stores.htm">Caffe Ladro</a> <br /><a href="http://www.uptownespresso.net">Uptown Espresso</a> <br /><br /><strong>University District</strong><br />Café Allegro (no website)<br /><br />There are, oh-so-many more wonderful neighborhood coffeehouses (and so many more neighborhoods for that matter). These are those I know, personally, to be great. I recommend you check out <a href="http://seattle.wifimug.org/">Caffinated & Unstrung</a> for the full lowdown on where to go when you’re in the ‘hood, no matter which ‘hood it is.<br /><br />Finally, Here are a few of the stellar roasters in the city. Like some small wineries, often their volume is so small, you can’t find their product unless you go to their shop (or call and order):<br /><br /><strong>Roasters:</strong><br /><a href="http://www.espressovivace.com/retail.html">Vivace Espresso</a> <br /><a href="http://www.caffeladro.com/stores.htm">Caffe Ladro</a> <br /><a href="http://caffevita.com">Café Vita</a> <br /><a href="http://www.victrolacoffee.com">http://www.victrolacoffee.com</a>Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-55590829991487465142007-01-14T09:44:00.000-08:002007-04-22T20:34:37.197-07:00The Kitsch FactorFor those who get their kicks on the funky side of life, here's a sampling of Seattle's kitschy destinations:<br /><strong><br /><a href="http://www.ratcityrollergirls.com/">Rat City Roller Girls</a></strong><br /><br />Yes, roller derby has had a renaissance in Seattle in the form of an all-women team in a growing league. Although this is honest competition and true athletics, these gals play up the camp as well, with stage names such as "Dirty Little Secret," Burnett Down," and "Diva Skate" as well as personalizing thier uniforms with details such as fishnet stockings, cat ears on helmets, and face paint. They have a rabid fan base. Check out the "Hall of Pain" injury gallery on the website!<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.sunsetbowl.com/">Sunset Bowl</a></strong><br /><br />For those of you who prefer to participate in your sports, check out Sunset Bowl, a Seattle landmark in Ballard that continues to draw crowds with 24x7 (yes, it's true) hours and some of the rockin'-est Karaoke in Seattle in the nagahide-covered lounge. Check out some <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/u2ccE9ZfxYZrnRwObsgziw">local reviews</a>...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mcphee.com/"><strong>Archie McPhee's</strong></a><br /><br />The kitschiest shop in the kitschiest neighborhood in Seattle (Fremont), Archie McPhee's is the epicenter of funny, funky STUFF. These are the folks who brought us the <a href="http://www.mcphee.com/items/11548.html">action-figure librarian</a> (modeled after our own <a href="http://www.nancypearl.com/biography.html?-session=booklust:D8A074AC02c8f18E73rnX15F774F">Nancy Pearl</a>), among other treasures. Stepping into this store is like stepping into a carnival.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.nwsource.com/ae/scr/edb_vd.cfm?ven=7237&s=nws">Deluxe Junk</a></strong><br /><br />Also in Fremont, Deluxe Junk is a mecca for midcentury modern furnishings and vintage, Hollywood inspired tiki and Asian decor. Everything is in pristine condition and artfully merchandised. You will lose track of time here.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.frommers.com/destinations/seattle/D52124.html">13 Coins</a></strong><br /><br />If you want to take your camp in a different direction, 13 Coins, a rat-packy old-school classic of Seattle, is the place to head. These guys are the best kind of kitch... they are not trying to be that way, they've just never changed! Open 24 hours a day, they serve up classics such as jumbo shrimp on ice, eggs benedict, and baked salmon. Try to snag a high-backed counter seat to watch the cooks flip omlettes and steaks over high-licking flames.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-68135455903412893372007-01-12T09:38:00.000-08:002008-11-13T00:59:43.522-08:00When in Rome…or Seattle: Mt. Si<em>This is the first in an intermittent series on places and activities favored by Seattle locals when they want to “sightsee” their own backyard. In every city there are activities and landmarks promoted to tourists that locals avoid, because of the crowds, the cost, the “cheesy” factor, and/or having done it every time family visits from out of town. In Seattle, these include the Space Needle, the Underground Tour of Pioneer Square, and riding “The Duck,” among others. Ever wonder how a New Yorker sightsees in Manhattan or a Parisian in Paris? Here is a look at what Seattlites do when they want play tourist.</em><br /><br />When Seattlites want to “get outside,” test their meddle, and take in some awe-inspiring scenery without hauling out the backpack, they head to Mt. Si. Located in the beginning of the Cascade foothills, about ½ hour east of Seattle in North Bend, this day hike is a pilgrimage for many locals; some annually, some weekly, some daily. Many hike it in the late spring to test their readiness for other mountain excursions. It offers lovely, forest scenery and stunning views of the Cascades and the city from the top. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmUtvFkq9wZtfZYx8JJa0xscwQc_OYZpBVmkMlxhBoee32adA964fpjbsBsQQOjcqK9PRu6zzQgc9qAVgOjxzlenSDXSIZoKJQ3aABu1xCvrT0zruSXtF1J9ad7gjH4QaUqbCc/s1600-h/Rotation+of+Party+012.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmUtvFkq9wZtfZYx8JJa0xscwQc_OYZpBVmkMlxhBoee32adA964fpjbsBsQQOjcqK9PRu6zzQgc9qAVgOjxzlenSDXSIZoKJQ3aABu1xCvrT0zruSXtF1J9ad7gjH4QaUqbCc/s320/Rotation+of+Party+012.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5019204533136180690" /></a><br />An eight mile hike, round trip, you climb 3700 feet to a craggy outcropping with views to the west (Seattle) and south (Mt. Rainier). If you investigate a bit, you will also find some views to the north (Mt Baker). <br /><br />Left: The view South<br /><br />While on the trail, you may need to step aside for one of the Mt Si runners. These are folks training for big races and use Mt. Si as their Stairmaster. If you see water bottles tucked next to the trail, leave them. They are left by the runners while heading up to grab and use while coming down.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctKv1fo6DsmtqPDEu0KwoQYOVxGTKCNSfGhAGdOtBCR3l3BjKtjdJGTi3DjXKiRxZQJYl_tlX9lqloq7rC0ojztVYs3veCmgHbwePJFPa4VKwd1nE__Sg5GVozEQas0PFYL3_/s1600-h/Party+011.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctKv1fo6DsmtqPDEu0KwoQYOVxGTKCNSfGhAGdOtBCR3l3BjKtjdJGTi3DjXKiRxZQJYl_tlX9lqloq7rC0ojztVYs3veCmgHbwePJFPa4VKwd1nE__Sg5GVozEQas0PFYL3_/s320/Party+011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5019204537431148002" /></a><br /><br />Left: A close up of Mt. Rainier<br /><br />You will also likely run into many big, friendly dogs. Dogs are welcome on Mt. Si and, although officially they are supposed to be on leash, most are so friendly and well behaved that their owners let them loose to blaze the trail.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_HoNsZAqDfOwlTxKctm3qk8I3EcgidHO9DOwOzmTnQBe_uNMtBArXH0o9HTRv3MW1XlT3s5hTiXVap-2-gqgLIRiP7m-QEKSzA6rEE60XVpyJjhUvfbptRXDcw_9lWUdbcB-/s1600-h/Party+009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_HoNsZAqDfOwlTxKctm3qk8I3EcgidHO9DOwOzmTnQBe_uNMtBArXH0o9HTRv3MW1XlT3s5hTiXVap-2-gqgLIRiP7m-QEKSzA6rEE60XVpyJjhUvfbptRXDcw_9lWUdbcB-/s320/Party+009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5019204541726115314" /></a><br /><strong>Tips: </strong><br /><br />Go when it’s been dry for a few days (yes, that happens). Mt. Si is a steep hike in places, and can be treacherous when muddy. <br /><br />Above: Looking west toward Seattle<br /><br />Wear sturdy boots. Although the trail is very well maintained, it is an eight-mile hike with a healthy incline. Also, the last stretch to the top is a rock scramble.<br /><br />Go early in the morning and/or on a weekday. This is a VERY popular hike. If you start after 8am on a sunny weekend day, you could find yourself in a glory train of fellow hikers. Also, if it is going to be warm, you don’t want to be hiking up in the heat of the day.<br /><br />Don’t forget food and water! Make sure to bring a knapsack with the basics, including lots of water, a hearty sandwich, and something to snack on, on the way up.<br /><br />Bring your camera. The views really are breathtaking, and fellow hikers will be happy to take a “victory shot” of you at the top.<br /><br /><strong>Directions: </strong><br /><br />From Seattle, drive east on I-90 to Exit 32. Turn left on 468th Avenue and drive to North Bend Way. Turn left and drive to Mount Si Road. Turn right and drive 4 miles to the trailhead on the left.<br /><br /><strong>Links:</strong><br /><br />http://www.mountsi.com/<br />http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Si<br />http://www.peakbagger.com/peak.aspx?pid=2087Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-28621881988485499052007-01-08T17:34:00.000-08:002008-11-13T00:59:43.662-08:00A Day (or so) In: The Pike Place Market<em>Note: This post is the first of an intermittent series focused on experiencing the full and authentic flavor of specific Seattle neighborhoods. What to do and see, where to eat and drink, and other details are organized in itinerary form, with an eye to keeping it affordable. </em><br /><br /><strong>Overview: </strong><br />Granted, the <a href="http://www.pikeplacemarket.org/frameset.asp?flash=true">Pike Place Market</a> is not a neighborhood, officially, but it certainly should be. The Market is the epicenter of Seattle for tourists and residents alike. Perched in a stellar setting over Elliott Bay in downtown, it is central to all of the city. Just about everything one would need for daily living is found in this historic, patinaed landmark. Produce and flower stalls, bakeries, butchers, fish mongers, breweries, cheese makers, and ethnic grocers abound (as do local craft stalls and the more generic souvenir shops). There are restaurants, shops, services, and apartments. There is even a health clinic, a senior center and a daycare facility in the greater, 12+ block labyrinth of the Market.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDDjgW3TYV9jrR8KUKqs-uCYooph_u75yX1DGSyJHpd3K8UTro2XlXHa06DkU64Jh5hGtiIWzmnrtuzCuV3CmTzvaqHBOhA1KxPh4q6FcDWZl3bMY92xEPBxqOW6IbTgaKIK1/s1600-h/Pike+Place+Market+002.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDDjgW3TYV9jrR8KUKqs-uCYooph_u75yX1DGSyJHpd3K8UTro2XlXHa06DkU64Jh5hGtiIWzmnrtuzCuV3CmTzvaqHBOhA1KxPh4q6FcDWZl3bMY92xEPBxqOW6IbTgaKIK1/s320/Pike+Place+Market+002.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5024106112878836994" /></a><br /><strong>Checking in: </strong>There are two places to consider staying at the Market. For those traveling on the proverbial shoe string, the <a href="http://www.hiseattle.org/">HI-Seattle Hostel</a> is a real bargain. This clean, and secure hostel is right in the lower part of the Market and dorm beds start at $25 per night. For those with more leeway in their budget, the bed and breakfast, <a href="http://www.pensionenichols.com/">Pension Nichols</a>, offers the best value for ambience, location and amenities. (It is also, by the way, pet friendly!) Rooms start at $120 per night for double occupancy.<br /><br /><strong>Morning:</strong><br />Start your day at the Market with a hearty oatmeal or egg-&-bacon breakfast at the Soundview Café. It is a cafeteria-style diner with one of the best views in town. A counter seat at the west wall proffers a sweeping vista of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains (on sunny days). This place is frequented by locals, and the café even has an area for folks bringing their own brown bag meals.<br /><br />Then, walk all the calories off by exploring the main drag of the Market, Pike Place, and the adjacent walking street, Post Alley. Take pictures, listen to buskers (there is a fabulous A-cappella singing group that is often in front of the original Starbuck’s shop), take in the stunning view from <a href="http://www.gonorthwest.com/Washington/seattle/viewpoints/victor.htm">Victor Steinbrueck Park </a>at the north end of the market, and do a whole lot of tasting and window shopping. Some of my favorite haunts include: <a href="http://www.surlatable.com/">Sur La Table</a> (the original shop), The Souk, <a href="http://www.delaurenti.com">DeLaurenti</a>, <a href="www.metskers.com">Metsker Maps</a>, <a href="www.leftbankbooks.com/">Left Bank Books</a>, Market Spice, and <a href="http://www.ravensnesttreasure.com/">Raven’s Nest</a>.<br /><br /><strong>Afternoon:</strong><br />On a nice day, shopping for picnic groceries for lunch at the park is a fun option. If you do, check out <a href="www.beechershandmadecheese.com">Beecher’s Cheese</a> and the deli counter at DeLaurenti’s for some nice additions to your basket. If the weather is less than accommodating, there is a myriad of small lunch spots and take out counters to choose from. You can find humbow to yeeros, piroshky to pizza. These are your most affordable options. For great food and ambience at reasonable (but not cheap) prices, try Maximilien Bistro for GREAT salads and french onion soup or, <a href="www.mattsinthemarket.com">Matt’s in the Market</a> for fabulous seafood. During tourist season, you may need a reservation for either.<br /><br />Fueled up again, now head “Downunder” to the lower levels of the Market. You will find a playground of unique, kitchy shops, like Market Magic, F & J Great Western Trading Co., and Holy Cow Records. Let yourself get lost in the maze of shops. Any shopkeeper will help you find your way out.<br /><br /><strong>Evening:</strong><br />For dinner, head to the bar at the <a href="www.thepinkdoor.net">Pink Door</a>. This whimsical, romantic little Italian joint is a favorite place for Seattlites to meet up with friends. If it is summer, try to snag a table on the patio. Their antipasti menu is very reasonable as is their house wine. For a treat, try their blue martini called “Parfait Amore”. Later in the evenings there is usually live music and sometimes a fabulous cabaret.<br /><br />If you want to keep going, just across Post Alley from the Pink Door is <a href="www.kellsirish.com">Kells</a>, an Irish (surprise-surprise) restaurant and pub that also has live music on the weekends.<br /><br />And if you want to keep going in the wee hours, <a href="www.lepichetseattle.com">Le Pichet</a> stays open until 2am, serving French Bistro fare, good espresso and wine.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-32452941342647154952007-01-03T11:23:00.000-08:002008-11-13T00:59:43.788-08:00Day Trippin' 101Here's a tasting of the smorgasbord of day trips accessible from Seattle. It is just a sampling, with ideas for a variety of settings. Each of these outings is a full day except for Snoqualmie Falls which can be a 1/2 day excursion. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.nps.gov/mora/pphtml/nature.html">Mount Rainier</a> is the largest mountain in the state and is a gorgeous national park. It is about a two-hour drive from Seattle. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.skagittourism.com/">Skagit Valley</a> & the town of <a href="http://www.laconner.net/c_calendar.cfm">La Conner</a> are about an hour north of Seattle. The valley is one of the richest areas of farmland in the country and all kinds of flowers are grown there (although most will be past their bloom season in late May). The town of La Conner is a farming and fishing town that is also very pretty. There is interesting shopping and good food there. The <a href="http://www.museumofnwart.org/">Museum of Northwest Art</a>, in La Conner, is a great showcase of the northwest style of contemporary art and craft: . <br />Mt. Pilchuck is just east of the Skagit Valley, with great hikes in the <a href="http://www.parks.wa.gov/mtpilchuck.asp">park</a>: http://www.localhikes.com/Hikes/MountPilchuck_7602.asp and <a href="http://www.pilchuck.com/default.htm">Pilchuck Glass School</a>. <br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv77yM_TTpLAmOOReZBHRf4rMd__yuuXXyIIRbhHAdIgVk_GRhFfT5qkv_IqGBkcgZz-8Sy6n2ngX4v4b2hDNcNbArqxDmSmHAb2mTqE4x9F6-QGBfGR5Aff6UhIrFv9fv71Yc/s1600-h/whidbey+2.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv77yM_TTpLAmOOReZBHRf4rMd__yuuXXyIIRbhHAdIgVk_GRhFfT5qkv_IqGBkcgZz-8Sy6n2ngX4v4b2hDNcNbArqxDmSmHAb2mTqE4x9F6-QGBfGR5Aff6UhIrFv9fv71Yc/s320/whidbey+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5015892762002020946" /></a>Whidbey Island, is about 1 1/2 hour away, including a great 1/2 hour ferry ride across Puget sound. The town of <a href="http://langleychamb.whidbey.com/">Langley</a> is very picturesque and <a href="http://www.nps.gov/ebla/">Ebey's Landing</a> is a great walk both over and along a beautiful beach. <br /><br />(Above: The Ebey Landing walk)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.snoqualmiefalls.com/">Snoqualmie Falls</a> and <a href="http://www.salishlodge.com/">Salish lodge</a> are about 45 minutes east of Seattle, toward the Cascade Mountains, in farm country. The falls are quite dramatic. The lounge in the lodge offers a fabulous view of the falls and surrounding countryside.<br /><br />Tacoma is about an hour south of Seattle. Things to see there include: <a href="http://www.museumofglass.org/s99_home.jsp">The Museum of Glass</a>, founded by Dale Chihuly, the <a href="http://www.tacomaartmuseum.org/">Tacoma Art Museum</a> (which I think has a better, albeit smaller, collection than the Seattle Art Museum), and <a href="http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/page.php?id=24">Point Defiance Park</a> which has a great 5-mile loop drive as well as many trails and great views of, and access to the beaches on, Puget Sound.<br /><br />Although this list just scratches the surface, it is a great place to start.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-56044078160649756462006-12-31T08:30:00.000-08:002007-04-22T20:36:46.495-07:00Finding Events in Seattle and Surrounding TownsHere is a great search site that seems to have just about every little and big community event in the area: <a href="http://www.festivals.com/encore/seattle/?section=events">Seattle City! Encore</a>. You can search by dates, and the greatest thing is that it shows all the little events happening in the little towns in the area! For instance, it shows the New Year's dance on Orcas Island, the "Ski for Health" event in Leavenworth, and the "Kids n Critters Naturefest" in Eatonville. A great resource for finding truly local events.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-16847182576929429502006-12-29T09:41:00.000-08:002007-04-22T20:37:21.697-07:00Living, and working, on an Organic Farm in the Pacific Northwest (or anywhere for that matter!)One interesting way to experience life in Cascadia is to volunteer on an organic farm in the area. The international nonprofit organization <a href="http://www.wwoofusa.org/">World-Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms </a>acts as a matchmaker between organic farmers and volunteers willing to work on the farm in exchange for housing, food, and a hands-on education in sustainable agriculture. Generally, volunteers work 1/2 a day, each day, in exchange for their meals and accommodation.<br /><br />They are clear that it is a volunteer program, so neither WWOOF nor the farms are able to assist with work visas. Most international volunteers come on a tourist or student visa. By the way, there are <a href="http://www.organicvolunteers.com/">other organic farm volunteer opportunities </a>as well, such as academic/internship programs.<br /><br />More on the organic farm movement in the Pacific Northwest can be found on <a href="http://cascadiasong.blogspot.com/">Cascadia Song</a>, under the December 29th post.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-10797292505289437532006-12-26T12:45:00.000-08:002007-04-22T20:37:50.278-07:00Riding the Ferries<span style="font-family:verdana;">The </span><a href="http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Washington State Ferry System</span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;"> is the largest in the US. These lovely old (and some new) boats service 20 destinations throughout the Puget Sound, including two routes to Vancouver Island in BC.<br /><br />To drive onto the ferry can be spendy. So, if you are traveling by car, you may want to plan your route to avoid the boats. However, as a walk-on passenger, the ride is very inexpensive and is a comfortable, fun, and very authentic way to see one of the most beautiful parts of Washington State.<br /><br />If you are in Seattle, the easiest rides to take are from pier 52 at the downtown waterfront. There is a marvelous ride from </span><a href="http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/schedules/current/index.cfm?route=sea-br"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Seattle to Bremerton</span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;"> that takes 1 hour each way. The fare is $6.50 for the round trip. The route takes you from the city west out of Elliott Bay into Puget Sound and past Bainbridge Island and parts of the Olympic Peninsula. On a sunny day, you will also have stunning view of the Olympic Mountains. Departing and arriving Seattle, you get amazing views of the city. Once on the water, you have beautiful vistas of the Sound, the islands and the Peninsula. Although </span><a href="http://www.ci.bremerton.wa.us/"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Bremerton</span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;"> itself is not a real tourist destination, the journey there is worth the trip. When you disembark, you can just get right back in line for the return boat.<br /><br />The boat is large and has two car decks and passenger levels. Although there is a café, I would recommend bringing a picnic meal (which you can gather at the </span><a href="http://www.pikeplacemarket.org/frameset.asp?flash=true"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Pike Place Market</span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;">, which is about 10 blocks away). I recommend timing the trip so that on your return voyage, you are arriving back at the Seattle dock just after sunset, as the view of the city from the water at night is spectacular.<br /><br />My other favorite route the ride through the </span><a href="http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/schedules/current/index.cfm?route=ana-sj&direction=west"><span style="font-family:verdana;">San Juan Islands from Anacortes</span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;">, although once in the San Juans, you will not want to leave. So, you might want to plan for an overnight or two on one of the islands. </span><a href="http://www.friday-harbor.net/"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Friday Harbor</span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;">, the largest town in the islands, sits right at the bay where the ferry arrives. You would be able to walk to your hotel from the ferry landing. On Orcas Island, there is a </span><a href="http://www.orcashotel.com/"><span style="font-family:verdana;">lovely, old hotel </span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;">right at that landing as well. </span>Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36953992.post-85323530692133813672006-12-21T20:00:00.000-08:002007-04-22T20:38:23.390-07:00Winter SolsticeFor a true taste of the local Seattle culture in the holiday season, try to secure a seat at the <a href="http://www.fremontartscouncil.org/">Fremont Arts Council's</a> <a href="http://www.fremontartscouncil.org/events/winterfeast.html">Feast of the Winter Solstice</a>. It shows a very intimate and locally-flavored side of Seattle's arts and activist community. It is a potluck dinner for all the volunteers of the FAC that includes amazing art installations, drumming and dancing, and a sun effigy to which you tie notes of what you wish to let go of in the coming year. At the end of the evening, it is burned. This is a wild, druidic affair that is also a great time to meet some of the most community-oriented Seattlites in the city.<br /><br />You bring your favorite food and whatever you wish to imbibe. They are also now asking that if you are not a FAC member, that you join ($25) and contribute a donation to cover costs ($10). This is voluntary, however. If you are strapped on cash you can always, in the spirit of community, volunteer to help with the set up or clean up... another great way to meet the locals!<br /><br />If you are coming in the summer, then the MUST SEE is the <a href="http://imageevent.com/pmattf/fremont">Summer Solstice Festival Parade</a>, on the weekend closest to June 21st.... costumes galore, belly dancers, men in kilts, and naked bicyclists (and that's just the AUDIENCE!!) But, more on that later.Cascadia Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02278508447362331972noreply@blogger.com0