Welcome to The Glass Guru of Bellingham, where expertise meets excellence in glass services! Serving Whatcom and Skagit counties, our team takes pride in being your premier destination for all things glass. With a rich history of serving the local community, we have earned a reputation for delivering top-notch craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service.
As your trusted neighborhood glass specialists, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your every need, from residential glass repairs and installations to commercial glazing projects.
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Contents
We’ve got your weekend inspiration right here, with 52 ideas for a great day out and about in the North Sound. From clam digging to galleryhopping, crafting to shopping, festivals to food tours, there’s something for every personality and all kinds of weather—you’re sure to find inspiration for your own perfect Saturday!
Photo by Anne Godenham
Photo by Kristen Boehm
Photo by Nic Aston
Hedlin’s Family Farm
Photo by Anne Godenham
Photo courtesy of Little Straw Vineyards
Photo courtesy
Melissa Hatcher
Online Exclusive
We’ve all been told how important proper posture is for our appearance, but it can have a notable effect on our body’s function and pain levels as well. In this month’s web exclusive, Jessamyn Tuttle talks to the owner of Skagit Alexander Technique, who explains how The Alexander Technique can improve posture to decrease pain and increase mindfulness.
EVENTS CALENDAR
Each month we give you the opportunity to win a prize from local merchants. You can enter once per day, each day of the month. A winner will be chosen by random draw and notified via submission email. It’s our way of saying thank you for your support and for continuing to help encourage shopping and dining local.
Be sure to check out our events calendar. If you have an event that you would like our readers to know about, bellinghamalive.com offers an events calendar where viewers can search by day, venue, event type, or city. Go to bellinghamalive.com/ events and submit your event today. Once your event has been approved, it is live.
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Photo by Kyle Szegedi
Photo courtesy of Angeline LeLeux
Skagit Alexander Technique
Connect with us
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BellinghamAlive
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WI See You Blooming
ELL, FOLKS, IT’S finally here—after a long, dark winter we are officially in the glory days of late spring, when the light hangs around long after you get off work and the weather is sunny but not too hot. We made it!
While I adore the fall season, spring is my other favorite, especially here in the North Sound where the trees explode with blossoms and the ground grows a carpet of color. There’s an awakening that stretches beyond the flora, reaching into the hearts of people and reinvigorating us. Friends meet up for a picnic, connecting for the first time in months; giddy kids ride bikes down the sidewalk on their way to get an ice cream; even the traffic on I-5, while heavier than usual, feels less grouchy and impatient. I’m betting the foxgloves dotting the median have something to do with that mood shift.
The only hard part of a perfect spring day? Deciding what to do with it! There’s nothing worse than staying inside all day simply because you couldn’t settle on a plan. But don’t worry—we’ve got more than 50 ideas for you in this month’s feature (p. 46). 52, in fact: one perfect Saturday for every week of the year. Whether you want to move your body and get out into nature,
learn something new and pick up some culture, or indulge in a tasty treat, the list has something for everyone.
And the rest of the issue is full of even more great ideas! Head north to Blaine and witness the touching Blessing of the Fleet celebration (p. 14), and then pop back down to Fairhaven to chat with the new owner of Adored Boutique about her family’s connection to boat building (p. 20).
Meet the family behind one of La Conner’s favorite farm stands and learn about the fascinating process of family farm transitions on page 80.
Hungry? Grab a bite at Mount Vernon’s Union Block Bistro (p. 86) or Bellingham’s new dim sum spot (p. 19), or cook your own spring stunner from Chef Matthew’s recipe (p. 92). Itching to get out of town? Why not head to Kelowna (p. 26) for a weekend of wine tasting, lakeside walks, and fine dining? And that’s just a tiny portion of the fabulous coverage we have waiting for you in this issue’s pages.
However you choose to enjoy this beautiful month, I hope you find rejuvenation and inspiration in it. Have a wonderful rest of spring and I’ll see you in the summer!
ANNE GODENHAM Editor in Chief
Julie Trimingham
Julie Trimingham is a mother, writer, and non-tribal member of the Sacred Lands Conservancy (SacredSea.org), a Lhaq’temish-led non-profit dedicated to protecting Native sovereignty, treaty rights, sacred sites, and the life and waters of Xw’ullemy (the Salish Sea bioregion). Her heart is filled by the work to protect and promote ancestral place-based knowledge so that we can all learn to live here, with one another, and with Mother Earth, in a good way. p. 22
Mary Kinser
Growing up in Washington state, Mary learned early on that rainy days provided the perfect excuse to curl up with a good story. Mary is now a collection development librarian for Whatcom County Library System, where she gets to spend her days spreading the joy of reading. In her free time, she enjoys travel, board games, long walks, and baking delicious treats. She and her husband share their home with one son, one cat, and far too many books. p. 21
Kolby LaBree
Kolby LaBree is owner/operator of Bellinghistory Tours with the Good Time Girls, purveyors of guided walking tours and other historical edutainment in Bellingham since 2011. The Good Time Girls are available year-round for private tours and virtual events. See Bellinghistory.com for current offerings! p. 21
PUBLICATIONS
Bellingham Alive
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Lisa Karlberg
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Anne Godenham
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kristen Boehm
ART AND GRAPHICS MANAGER
Brandee Simons
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
Isabel Hyde
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Michael Roe | Christopher Jones
WRITERS
Jessamyn Tuttle | Sadie Youngquist
CONTRIBUTORS
Julie Trimingham | Mary Kinser
Kolby LaBree | Tanna Edler | Starla’s
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS
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Morgan Merriam | William Morton
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CONTACT US
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Bellingham Alive welcomes comments and feedback for our Letters to the Publisher section. We’d love to hear what you have to say and are open to story ideas about the people, places, and happenings in the North Sound (Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan counties). Let us know what you like, and what you’d like to see in the magazine! Contact our editor at editor@bellinghamalive.com.
What a great article on cottage bakeries. Great idea for a recurring series every few months to keep us informed. I'd only heard of one of these, very excited to try.
– Jennifer-Anne K., Lynden Thank you Jennifer! We have so many wonderful boutique business in our areas, and it’s such a pleasure to highlight them to our readers.
Lisa K., Publisher
My wife and I have subscribed to your wonderful magazine since we moved to this area, and find it absolutely invaluable! … I have had a wonderful time with your current issue, in particular the “Foodies” section, as my wife and I take great delight in the amazing number of restaurants and food trucks in this area.
– Michael C., Ferndale Michael, thank you and your wife so much for being loyal readers! We
have so many wonderful restaurants and bars in our area its hard to highlight them all, but we strive every issue to bring you something new to experience and enjoy, it makes us happy to know we are succeeding. Enjoy!
Lisa K., Publisher
A foodies guide! Yes! What an awesome idea. I consider myself a Bellingham Foodie and I was shocked how many places I hadn't tried. Can't wait to get out there and try for myself!
– Nicole B., Ferndale
We thought the foodies guide would hit a special spot with our readers, Nicole, so glad you enjoyed it! It’s always fun to find unique ways to highlight the diversity of businesses in the areas we serve. Every year we have a “brain storming” session to determine the upcoming year’s features, there are so many creative juices flowing at this meeting it’s sometimes hard to choose just that right one! We appreciate your readership and loyalty to the magazine, enjoy!
Lisa K., Publisher
Photo by Brandee Simons
If you had your dream garden, what’s the first thing you’d plant?
Lisa Karlberg
Publisher
Fresh herbs add so much more flavor than dried, for that reason I would plant all my herbs I use on a consistent basis.
Jenn Miranda
Office Manager
Tropical flowers! I’ve only done food; I’d love to have fresh cut beautiful flowers for my home on a consistent basis!
Anne Godenham
Editor in Chief
We already have a fruitless cherry tree, for the blooms, but I’d love to have a fruiting one too!
Kristen Boehm
Editorial Coordinator
I’d start with the fruit trees from my childhood! Oranges, lemons, and limes.
Michael Roe
Account Executive
Tomatoes, peas, and giant zucchini.
Brandee Simons
Art & Graphics Manager
I would plant some cilantro, onions, and corn. Although I’d need a better green thumb to be able to keep them alive.
Digital Content Creator
I’ve never been a good plant mom so I’d start with something easy like strawberries and basil.
Jones
Account Executive
To my Japanese dry garden (karesansui), I’d add lavender. Classic for its calming scent, drought tolerance, and soft purple blooms.
Client Services Concierge
Sunflowers. Sunflowers everywhere!
Megan Gonzales
Christopher
Isabel Hyde
Melissa Hatcher of Adored Boutique 20
Since Time Immemorial 22
Kelowna, British Columbia 26
Photo
A Tribute to Community
Blaine’s Blessing of the Fleet
WRITTEN BY SOFIA BOUMA
DESPITE THE CONSTANT flow of travelers passing through the Peace Arch border, the seaside city of Blaine maintains a distinct small-town charm. In the heart of downtown, residents call out greetings to familiar faces as they stroll streets lined with local restaurants, boutiques, and salons. From my seat at the Portal Way Starbucks, I can see boats of all sizes dotting the blue-green waves of the Salish Sea.
These sea-faring vessels are indicative of Blaine’s fishing industry, which has been prevalent since the city was first established as a seaport in the mid-19th century. Though it has declined due to factors such as stricter regulations, overfishing, and economic challenges, the local fishing community is no less robust and tight-knit. This is particularly showcased by an event hosted each year by the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee, along with the Blaine Chamber of Commerce and Port of Bellingham: The Blessing of the Fleet.
The Blessing of the Fleet is a tradition spanning centuries. Hundreds of years ago in southern Europe, Catholic priests blessed the boats of religious fishing communities to ensure a bountiful season. The Fisherman’s Memorial Committee first brought the ceremony to Blaine in 1984 with a dual purpose: to bless the ships of the city’s harbor, and to honor community members whose lives were lost at sea.
For Gary Dunster, a longtime Blaine resident and crab fisherman, the ceremony holds deep personal significance. A member of the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee since 1987, he has known many of those honored at the annual ceremony. But Dunster is adamant that the ceremony does not center around individual recognition or the committees that host it—instead, the Blessing of the Fleet serves as closure for many members in the community.
Photo courtesy of Andrew Peterson at the Port of Bellingham
“Since the turn of the century, we’ve kept track of all the people that have been lost at sea. And what the blessing is about is remembering those people every year…you have to keep in mind that most of the ones that were lost, if not all, were never recovered. So this is always a time for [loved ones] to get some closure,” says Dunster.
The Blessing of the Fleet is truly a celebration of unity, bringing together locals, community leaders, and state representatives alike. And though the ceremony may be rooted in Catholic tradition, Dunster emphasizes that the
two-hour event focuses on community, rather than the factors that may divide those within it.
“The committee’s policy has been that we don’t use this platform for politics. We don’t use it for religion. We don’t discriminate in any way, on any religion…we make sure that we get all different representations in the community to participate,” says Dunster.
The order of events is laid out on a program each year: A flag ceremony, followed by the pledge of allegiance. Then, a State Senate Resolution, performed by a state representative, and the
Photo courtesy of Andrew Peterson at the Port of Bellingham
blessing of the fleet, offered by a local minister. A city resolution is given by the mayor of Blaine, and a musical interlude precedes the ceremony’s somber conclusion: the memorial.
This year, the memorial will maintain the same structure as it has since its origin in 1984. Dunster will begin by reading the names of the 44 individuals who have been lost at sea, dating back to the early 1900s. After each name is announced, a ship’s bell will be rung in their honor. Dunster will then read the names of community members lost at home since the previous year’s blessing of the fleet.
Whether the loss occurred at sea or at home, a friend or family member will place a flower on the memorial wreath for each name mentioned. The ceremony will conclude with a Blaine local taking the flower-laden wreath out to sea and releasing it into the water.
Andrew Peterson, a member of the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee and Blaine Harbormaster since
2010, is honored to be a part of this decades-old ceremony. Blaine is a city built with the ocean at its heart—along with the blessings and challenges that accompany it.
“Blaine is a seafaring town. We were built off logging and fishing, and what’s left is fishing. There’s a culture in commercial fishing…there’s a family here. Even if it’s competitive because everyone is harvesting a resource… there’s a real comradery. What’s good for your neighbor is good for the community,” says Peterson.
Blaine will host its 41st Blessing of the Fleet during the first week of May, as it has for almost half a century. For some, the ceremony is celebratory; for others, it is an event of sacred remembrance. But for all, the Blessing of the Fleet is an opportunity to come together and embrace the significance of community, a sentiment sure to hold for many years to come.
Photo by Sofia Bouma
Bellingham’s Summertime Hub Comes Back to Life
Portal Container Village
WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM
PHOTO COURTESY OF PORT OF BELLINGHAM
THE PORTAL CONTAINER Village at Bellingham’s Downtown Waterfront reopens on May 2, bringing with it local seasonal food, shopping, and outdoor fun.
Both the Waterfront Bike Park (a.k.a the Pump Track) and its nextdoor neighbor, the Portal, began as experiments to get folks out to the undeveloped waterfront—they opened in 2019 and 2021 respectively. Kulshan Trackside Beer Garden opened with and anchors the Portal, and has become a community gathering space and locus of activity with a packed live music and events schedule. These projects at the Waterfront are smash hits, drawing tens of thousands each year.
“It’s a terrific project,” says Mike Hogan, the public affairs administrator for the Port of Bellingham. “So many people go down there and enjoy it, and it's become such an important part of people's lives.”
Hanging out at Trackside is “a pretty quintessential summer in Bellingham experience,” says Kulshan Brewing Company’s general manager Emily Mallos. The 25,000-square-foot beer garden is family- and dog-friendly, with yard games, live music and events, and 20 taps serving frosty brews. They’ll also be opening their own food truck this year for the first time, operating within the beer garden.
Portal Putt mini-golf, Sun-E-Land Bikes, rotating retail and art businesses, and the rest of the container village tenants will also return for 2025. There’s a new, bigger restroom, and a new kids’ bike area called Bigfoot Bike Park Shoestring Circus, Northwest Tune-Up, Noisy Waters Mural Festival, and the Acid Ball Psych Rock Music Festival will all utilize the area over the summer. So, what are you waiting for? Get out to the Waterfront and have a blast this summer! 298 W. Laurel St., Bellingham, 360.393.5449, portofbellingham.com
Day in Friday Harbor
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM
Keeping Bellingham Blooming
WRITTEN BY SOFIA BOUMA
STROLLING THROUGH DOWNTOWN
Bellingham, you’ll come across many treasured local haunts. And from May through October, you’ll find yourself face to face with something unique to the summer months: enormous flower baskets hanging from downtown lamp posts.
The presence of these vibrant flower baskets is the result of the Adopt a Flower Basket program, a community giving campaign put in place by the Downtown Bellingham Partnership (DBP) in 2022. Through the program, individuals can ‘adopt a flower basket’ for $75 dollars; the donations, which ended April 30, go directly toward purchasing and maintaining baskets provided by Green Frog Nursery.
Jenny Hagemann, the development and communications director of the DBP, recognizes the benefit these baskets bring for those frequenting the downtown area each year.
“Visitors and locals alike love the look and feel that the flower baskets bring to our downtown, strengthening community pride while supporting the local economy as the baskets show we love and care for our neighborhood,” Hagemann says.
The outcome of the Adopt a Flower Basket program is a bright and “alive” downtown, with forty plus flower baskets placed in key areas, such as Holly, Cornwall, Magnolia, and State streets. The program only began a couple of years ago, but its impact ensures that the campaign will return for years to come.
“[The program] has proven to be a successful way for us to further public dollars and for people to feel a sense of pride and ownership in a tangible and visible way each year,” Hagemann says. 114 W. Magnolia St., Bellingham, 360.527.8710, downtownbellingham.com
Start your day with coffee and a view of the ferries coming and going from Salty Fox Coffee’s light-filled balcony. Hungry? Grab a breakfast sandwich, burrito, or bagel with lox!
Walk up First Street to The Whale Museum, where you can learn all about the whales of the Salish Sea, while you’re surrounded by whale skeletons, stunning murals, and even stained glass.
New ADHD Center Opens in Bellingham
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY WILLIAM MORTON
MARCH 3 MARKED the opening of the new Hallowell Todaro ADHD & Behavioral Health Center in Bellingham. The health center, an offshoot of the larger Seattle location, will initially serve as a place for new client consultations and therapy, with plans to eventually expand to patient and parent coaching.
Nick Mabbutt, licensed marriage and family therapist and one of the two initial employees at the Bellingham office, briefly describes the difference between coaching and therapy: Coaching is more solution-oriented—how, specifically, to improve executive functions or working memory—while therapy is more broad.
“Therapy is ‘here's your life and all the systems at play within your life. Your family, your school, your occupation, your relationships. And here's ADHD. How do we navigate all those?’” Mabbutt says.
Historically, ADHD has been Hallowell Todaro’s expertise, and while it still will be, they are also expanding to support anxiety, depression, and other mental health diagnoses as well.
“[ADHD] doesn’t live alone,” Mabbutt says.
Their philosophy is to focus on strength-based diagnoses.
“ADHD in general,” Mabbutt begins, “is a deficit-based diagnosis.” What a strengthbased diagnosis does is reframe the conversation. They look at who you are, what your lived experiences are, and what strengths you bring to the table.
They accept clients of all ages.
“We have clients from five years old all the way to 70-plus,” Mabbutt says.
Any prospective new clients are encouraged to reach out through email or check out the Fairhaven office. 1440 10th St., Ste. 102-A, Bellingham, 206.420.7345, hallowelltodaro.com
Wander back to the downtown area and take a tour through the many shops and galleries Friday Harbor has to offer. Don’t miss Arctic Raven Gallery, Printshop Northwest, and The Toy Box.
Grab a sourdough pizza from Bakery San Juan and drive to Lime Kiln Point State Park, “one of the best whale-watching spots on earth.” Wander along the water, then pull up a bench and settle in for the afternoon.
New Restaurant Brings Dim Sum to the People
Soho Bellingham Asian Kitchen & Bar
ANEW RESTAURANT HAS moved into the previous K-Pop Chicken and Beer space in downtown Bellingham, and it’s serving up something that Bellingham’s been missing: dim sum!
Soho Bellingham Asian Kitchen & Bar serves “dim sum, Thai cuisine, and other Asian-inspired dishes in a dynamic fusion,” according to their website. It’s a new venture by married Wanida Thai Owners Surachai (Alex) Teachaakarakasem and Thanisara Tantraporn. The restaurant also has a secondstory bar that offers “creative cocktails” and an “elevated experience.”
Dim sum dishes on the menu include shumai, bao, buns, and rice rolls. You’ll also find stir fry, noodles, vegetarian dishes, and much more! 202 E. Holly St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 360.746.7942, sohobellingham. com KRISTEN BOEHM
Finish your beautiful day in the neighborhood with an equally beautiful dinner (and view!) at Friday Harbor House. They focus on fresh seafood and thoughtfully-sourced ingredients, for delicious contemporary PNW cuisine.
“Meant to Be”
Melissa Hatcher of Adored Boutique
WRITTEN BY MORGAN MERRIAM
MELISSA HATCHER, 32, isn’t just the new owner of downtown Fairhaven’s Adored Boutique—she’s a legacy.
Since Adored opened in August 2020, Hatcher has worked by the side of former owner Bridget Knutson. Helping to start up a new business during the peak of the pandemic, Hatcher was expecting the hard stuff while solely managing the boutique, but she wasn’t expecting a blast from the past.
It wasn’t until after Knutson signed the lease for Adored’s spot in the Schering building that Hatcher realized their boutique’s new place of residence was the very same storefront her great-grandfather had rented 65 years previous.
“The Fairhaven location felt like the perfect home for Adored Boutique because of its charming atmosphere, its strong sense of community,” Hatcher says. “It was really special when we realized that my family's boat business once began here.”
In 1955, Frank Wright, Hatcher’s great-grandfather, began Wright Manufacturing Co., building fiberglass boats.
According to Hatcher, Wright rented Adored’s location along with the neighboring storefront presently occupied by Babygreens. The two were joined by a hole in the brick, with boats being built on one side and passed through to the other for storage.
Throughout the years, Wright ran the boat company, bringing his four sons into work with him: Ronald, Bud, Dennis, and David, Hatcher’s grandfather.
“When my great-grandpa passed, the boys took over,” Hatcher says. “It just worked its way through the men in the family.”
While the company has changed names and exchanged hands over the years, today it’s known as Northwest Marine Industries, and is still based in Bellingham. Family members Mark Wright and Ryan Binning are two of the four owners. The company produces fiberglass boats like the Sea Sport, and boasts that its “66 uninterrupted years” makes it the “longest running fiberglass boat manufacturing company in the United States.”After learning of her family’s connection to the location, Hatcher took to learning everything she could about the Wrights’ little slice of history in Fairhaven.
“Both my dad and my grandpa brought me photos because they could see how intrigued I was,” she says.
With her grandpa in particular, who worked out of the company’s location before Sea Sports’ move, it was especially important to share in the history of the space.
“After we did our remodel, I brought my grandma and grandpa in the shop… it brought back a lot of good memories for them,” she says. “They're excited that now I get to be here making even more memories in my own business.”
Hatcher counts herself lucky to have had a close relationship with her grandpa, who passed away in November 2021.
“He was always there for my big moments,” Hatcher explains. “When Adored opened… it was very risky for
someone his age to go out and go to events like an opening day at a business, but he still came to support me, and just showed me how much he believed in me and the dream I was building.”
Now, as the new owner of Adored, Hatcher hopes to keep her family legacy alive and to create a space that brings people together.
“My goal is to make Adored a place where our community can connect, shop, and feel inspired,” she says. 913 Harris Ave., Bellingham, shopadoredboutique.com
Photo coutresy of Melissa Hatcher of Adored Boutique
Photo coutresy of Melissa Hatcher of Adored Boutique
Book Reviews
WRITTEN BY MARY KINSER
The baby is to be named Gordon. Her husband insists on it. Gordon is his name, and the son should be named after his father. And Cora knows that she must obey her husband’s instructions. Years of abuse have taught her the consequences if she does not. Yet she cannot bear it if the boy is like his father. She wonders—will another name change her son’s fate?
So begins this inventive novel of alternative futures. In one the baby is named Bear, chosen by his sister; in another, Julian, the name Cora prefers; and in a third, she concedes to call him Gordon. Each chapter is a time jump, with threads that follow the outcomes of Cora’s choice, revealing who her son is in each future and how he moves through the world. Readers will be left reflecting on small moments and decisions that shaped their own lives. The story’s emotional resonance makes “The Names” an excellent pick to discuss with a friend or your book club.
“Homeseeking” by
Karissa Chen
This sweeping epic examines themes of displacement, identity, and loss through the lives of a couple separated by war and circumstance. Suchi and Haiwen meet as children in pre-WWII Shanghai. Their connection is instant and intense, and friendship eventually blossoms into love. But Shanghai is gripped by occupation and political upheaval, and Haiwen is forced to enlist in the Nationalist Army and leave home. The war displaces Suchi, too, when her fearful parents send her to Hong Kong along with her sister. The couple lose touch but never stop wondering about and longing for one another.
Weaving back and forth through time and place, the novel reflects on 60 years of Chinese history and the varied experiences of the Chinese diaspora. Though Haiwen and Suchi’s stories are marked by pain and heartbreak, there is hope there too, and resilience in the face of struggle.
Ambitious in scope and filled with truths that are universal, “Homeseeking” is a novel that lingers.
Literary Events
May 6, 6 p.m.
Dion O’Reilly & Kami Westhoff: An Evening of Poetry
Village Books and Paper Dreams, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com
Bellingham locals Dion O’Reilly and Kami Westhoff will be in the Village Books Reading Gallery for an inspired evening of poetry. With award-winning and -nominated works like “Sacral,” “Limerence,” and “Ghost Dogs” shared between the two authors, this is sure to be an evening to impress.
May 9, 6 p.m.
Maureen Kane: “A Guide Back to You”
Village Books and Paper Dreams, 1200 11th St., Bellingham, 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com
In celebration of Mental Health Awareness month, Maureen Kane is bringing readings and exercises from her workbook “A Guide Back to You” in this evening of reflection. Allow Kane to help you navigate who you are and what you want amid all life’s craziness.
May 15, 7 p.m.
The Chuckanut Radio Hour featuring Patrick Hutchison Hotel Leo, 1224 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, 360.746.9097, thehotelleo.com
Follow Patrick Hutchinson through his journey from the office to PNW cabin restoration in his memoir “Cabin: Off the Grid Adventures with a Clueless Craftsman.” This Radio Hour collaboration is sure to be full of exciting stories, plus terrific tunes by musical guest Phil Paige.
This Month in Bellinghistory
WRITTEN BY KOLBY LABREE OF BELLINGHISTORY TOURS WITH THE GOOD TIME GIRLS
May 2, 1884: Dan Harris worked to open his Fairhaven Hotel, obtaining furniture and help from Seattle.
May 6, 1882: “They have a hop at Whatcom every Tuesday evening regularly. People making the round trip and those waiting for the mail steamer to start on schedule time find the diversion agreeable.”
May 20, 1885: The town of Whatcom’s liquor supply was hastily saved during the Division Street fire that wiped out most of the business district.
“The Names” by Florence Knapp
Since Time Immemorial
Teresa Taylor
INTERVIEW AND PHOTO BY JULIE TRIMINGHAM
SINCE TIME IMMEMORIAL
is a recurring series featuring community members whose families have been here since time immemorial. The ancestral knowledge carried by Lhaq’temish, Nooksack, and other Coast Salish peoples is knowledge about how to live in our shared home in a good, life-sustaining way. We live in a time when we need to restore our relationship with Mother Earth and with one another. We are grateful for these stories, told in the words of each featured individual.
Teresa Taylor is the Interim Director for Economic Policy at Lummi Nation. She is currently a Trustee at Whatcom Community College, and sits on the boards of State of Washington Tourism and the Whatcom Museum of Art. She served on the Ferndale City Council, where she was a liaison for Ferndale Schools, the Bellingham International Airport, and Whatcom Transportation Association; she lost her re-election bid in a tie-breaking flip of the coin.
We’re sitting here in your big, beautiful fireworks store (Washington Fireworks Superstore on Haxton). Can you share a bit about how you got to be here in life?
I grew up in the fireworks business, with my grandma, and I keep her picture on the wall. She’s always watching over me. Families, generationally, they do what their parents did, or their grandparents did. This isn't my primary work, but it's a fun thing that I've been involved with for a long time, because of my Gram.
My mom and dad met in the Army. I was born in Chicago. My mom's family was here at Lummi and my mom, her family cried for her. They wanted her home, and she was homesick. I mean, you know what Lummi is like, community-wise. My grandma and my great-grandma did not want my mom
so far away, especially now that she had her own children. But we were all back in Chicago, and my mom pretty much told my dad, “I'm moving back to Washington.” And he said, “Well, I'm going with you.”
My mom ended up getting sick with multiple sclerosis when I was about 10 years old, so my grandma took me under her wing. I loved spending time with my grandma selling fireworks, pretty much from the time school got out all the way through the Fourth of July. After we were done selling fireworks, we would start gearing up to go stake fishing over on Portage Island, where she was born and raised. We would camp out over there on the island.
My grandma came from two big Lummi families, Solomon and Lane. Her mother was Edith Lane and she had my grandma Eva, a daughter Maxine, and two sons, Stan and Bill, who were both veterans. My great-grandma felt like there wasn’t anything to commemorate Lummi veterans, so she started the Stommish festival. Stommish means warrior in Lummi. Back in the day, they already had canoe races, and she just wanted to merge it all together. That’s how it came to be the Stommish Water Festival. It’s still going, and everybody loves it. In fact, we just got a State of Washington Tourism grant to help with the marketing of it. It feels good to be continuing my great-grandma’s work.
Is part of your mind always thinking about things like marketing and business and economics?
Yes, I’m passionate about this work. Right now, I’m the Interim Director for Economic Policy at Lummi Nation. We have a ton of projects that we're working on. Some of the more recent projects are energy projects, where we're trying to bring in fuel cells, which is a newer technology. Nobody else is doing it in Washington state, so we
would be one of the first. One fuel cell could generate enough power for 400 homes! We’re looking at becoming economically self-sufficient with energy. We also brought in $15.9 million for broadband so tribal members have high-speed internet in their homes. We bring in grants for small businesses in the tribal community, and also for tribal home improvements like heat pumps. On top of all that, we manage the Lummi Te’Ti’Sen Center, the small business location, and all the tenants that occupy that space. We’re looking at building a 9000-square-foot facility adjacent to that, which we're calling the Lummi Marketplace, for our tribal arts and crafters. This will be similar to the Bellingham Farmers Market, where people can walk in and buy from artists and crafters throughout the year. The artists will finally have their own place.
Is there a teaching or saying or story that you think about a lot?
My dad always felt like there were a few ways to get ahead in life: you either work for yourself or invent something. So he always tried to work for himself, which wasn’t always easy. One thing he’d say is, “Don't be afraid to try and fail and try and fail, because every time you fail, you learn something. And one day you're going to try and you're not going to fail, you're going to succeed.” He was able to retire at the age of 53 years old because he learned how to do the stock market, he did well for himself as a business owner. He tried and failed, tried and failed, and finally succeeded, right?
What would be your vision or hope for Lummi?
I want us all to be millionaires. And I think we can. I mean, we're so rich in community, but I think we can be rich in other ways too.
Hy’shqe, Teresa!
Kickin’ It With the South Fork Country Kickers
WRITTEN BY SADIE YOUNGQUIST | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOUTH FORK COUNTRY KICKERS
THE UNIVERSAL APPEAL of line dancing has led to a recent surge in popularity and frequent appearances at local venues. The South Fork Country Kickers combine rural charm with a mix of musical genres, bringing a vibrant energy to the dance floor while providing instruction on how to line dance. For Founder and Lead Instructor Tari Bussard, it's not just about learning how to dance—it's about building self-confidence and creating an accepting atmosphere. “I enjoy watching people transform through dance. I understand in today’s world, we all need joy,” she shares.
Bussard’s rural upbringing in the small town of Ottawa, Illinois wasn’t too different from her current life on a ranch in Arlington. After settling down in her husband’s hometown with her two sons, the couple started the South Fork Cattle Company, raising, butchering, and selling homegrown beef.
It was in a barn on her ranch that Bussard’s journey into line-dancing was sparked. “My son’s wedding initiated the whole line-dancing thing. We thought it would be a great idea to get the wedding party together and do a dance,” Bussard recalls. “We started practicing and
learning in my barn, and it just took off from there.”
After taking some teaching gigs in Seattle, Bussard began booking her line-dancing classes in Skagit County. The Big Lake Bar and Grill provided the perfect setting to get her feet wet as a teacher and launch her current business. It didn’t take long for Bussard’s warm and welcoming nature to build a following and book other venues on a weekly basis.
“Once she's in her element, she can get the whole crowd going,” says longtime friend and fellow Instructor Wendy
Hinker, who joined in to assist Bussard at her South Fork Country Kicker events.
“Wendy and I are best friends; we both make each other’s lives easier,” Bussard adds.
Over the last year, Bussard and Hinker have been joined by a team of instructors providing lessons for all ages throughout Skagit and Snohomish counties. Many beginner students arrive at their first class feeling hesitant, but they experience significant growth after just one night and continue to build confidence week after week. While the instructors focus on empowering women, they love to see men to join in on the fun as well.
“Everybody's welcome. That's the feeling we strive for. Come as you are, even in your work clothes, we don't care. You'll leave feeling better,” states Bussard.
As the Kickers organization expands and moves into the next chapter, Bussard doesn’t lose sight of her mission to help women become the best version of themselves. The goal is to continue providing a safe environment where everyone can feel comfortable and have fun. Bussard encourages each participant to break out of their shells and discover their inner beauty through dance, emphasizing that “everyone leaves as a line-dancer.”
A Taste of the Okanagan
Kelowna, British Columbia
WRITTEN BY SOFIA BOUMA
CALLING THE PACIFIC Northwest home goes hand-in-hand with a perk many of us may take for granted: being just a short trip away from our neighbors to the North. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque weekend getaway or an action-packed weeklong vacation, I have a location to suggest that you may not have considered: Kelowna, BC.
Nestled on Okanagan Lake and in close proximity to Big White Ski Resort, Kelowna is a dynamic city just a few hours’ drive away. Its location in the Okanagan Valley makes the city a perfect destination for any season. In winter, you can enjoy skiing, snow-shoeing, ice-skating in Stuart Park, and winter hiking. Summertime in Kelowna is just as exciting; from water sports on Okanagan Lake to exploring the Myra Canyon Trestles, there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of the city’s beautiful natural surroundings.
Not the outdoorsy type? Never fear! Kelowna has a robust food and wine scene just waiting to be explored. One local haunt worth visiting is Bernie’s Supper Club & Cinema, a restaurant that takes ‘dinner and a movie’ to the next level. Here, customers can indulge in a delicious meal in Bernie’s upstairs screening room while enjoying well-crafted cocktails in a setting fit for a ‘50s movie star.
Wandering around downtown Kelowna, you may also stumble upon Skinny Duke’s Glorious Emporium. This retro-inspired space is the perfect location for date night or gatherings with friends; its vintage lamps, patterned furniture, and friendly staff give Skinny Duke’s the grooviest vibes you’ll find for miles around.
The parent company of Bernie’s and Skinny Duke’s, Nixon Hospitality Group, is dedicated to facilitating creative culinary experiences that resonate with the local community.
Bernie’s Supper Club & Cinema
Skinny Duke’s Glorius Emporium
Skinny Duke’s Glorius Emporium
Photos courtesy of Nixon Hospitality
Photos courtesy of Nixon Hospitality
Photos courtesy of Nixon Hospitality
Jill Jarrett, a spokesman for Nixon Hospitality, emphasizes the importance of a satisfying customer experience.
“We'd love for people to have an exceptional experience. One where they felt welcomed and valued. Where they were well taken care of and well fed. An experience that left them with a smile on their face and great memory of their time in the Okanagan,” Jarrett says.
This commitment to creating meaningful experiences for customers extends beyond Kelowna’s restaurant scene⸺it can be found in the city’s wineries as well. One of over forty wineries in Kelowna, Little Straw Vineyards, owned by Karnail and Narinder Sidhu since 2021, stands out for its intimate atmosphere and unique offerings. The winery is also certified organic, an important distinction to the Sidhu family.
“Karnail and his family believe [organic farming] is the best way to care for the land, protect future generations, and provide consumers with healthier options…it’s a way of life, deeply rooted in respect for nature,” says Simran Sidhu, head of operations at Little Straw Vineyards.
Little Straw’s personalized wine tastings make for the perfect cozy outing to add to your itinerary.
You’ll have the chance to sample everything from full-bodied reds to crisp whites, all while asking questions and delving deeper into the wine-making process. What could be better than wine paired with a little education?
If you’re looking for a plethora of outdoor activities, a thriving culinary scene, and the taste of locally produced wine, Kelowna should be at the top of your travel list. Adventure in the Okanagan Valley is only a short drive—and hopefully an easy border crossing—away!
Little Straw Vineyards
Little Straw Vineyards
Photos courtesy of Little Straw Vineyards
Photos courtesy of Little Straw Vineyards
FLOWERS REPRESENT SPRING, which is associated with new life and motherhood—that’s part of what makes them such a popular gift on Mother’s Day. Here are some great local options for sourcing blooms for your mom this spring, because she deserves them! By the way, most of these businesses offer bouquet subscriptions or flower CSAs, if you’d like to keep the mom appreciation going.
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRISTEN BOEHM
1
Frogsong Flowers
This gardener-florist grows flowers in a roughly 1/3-acre home plot in Bellingham. Owner Eryn Shaughnessy carefully tends her garden to support wildlife and be able to create artisan bouquets for the home, small events, and gifting. Bellingham, frogsong-flowers.com
2
Mossy Gate Flower Farm
Mossy Gate Flower Farm is a founding member of Genuine Skagit Valley with a focus on motherhood! You can purchase arrangements, edible blooms and microgreens, or even “DIY buckets”—large amounts of “focal, filler, and foliage” plants that you can create an event’s worth of bouquets from. Mount Vernon, mossygateflowerfarm.com
3
Bloom
Bloom is a boutique floral shop in downtown Mount Vernon that not only offers bouquets, but also a selection of gifts! Shop online or in-store to pair mugs, books, pillows, linens, candles, jewelry, and more with your Mother’s Day gesture. 412 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.922.0416, bloomfloralmv.com
4
Poppy & Pomegranate
This cute floral boutique in Fairhaven offers same-day delivery from Birch Bay to Mount Vernon! They provide design seasonal bouquets for you, or you can walk in and utilize their Flower Bar to create your own. 1003 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.393.3149, poppyandpomegranate.com
5
Hazel Designs
Award-winning designer Annika McIntosh runs this flower studio in Bellingham. If your mom is more about enjoying living plants in her own garden, Hazel Designs offers tailored garden design and coaching services on top of designer bouquets. Bellingham, hazeldesigns.com
WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE?
Dear Whatcom and Skagit County,
It has been a dream come true for so many of us to spend our time working in this awesome 5-acre nursery, surrounded
We
We would not be here, doing what we lovewithout YOU! We all want to say THANK YOU for supporting local and voting Kent’s best Nursery & Garden Center for the second year in a row!
Let’s all continue to grow a healthy community through plants!
Gratefully— the crew at Kent’s
SPOTLIGHT MAY TOP PICKS
SPRING WINE WALK
May 9
Bellingham’s annual Spring Wine Walk returns this May! Stroll around downtown Bellingham and visit 20 different participating spaces, tasting wines as you go. General admission tickets get you 10 tastings, a cotton tote bag, and a commemorative stemless wine glass. Be a VIP for an earlier check-in and VIP reception and three more tasting tickets! 5:30-9 p.m., Downtown Bellingham, downtownbellingham. com/wine-walk
CASCADE JUGGLING FESTIVAL
May 9-11
For the second year in a row, jugglers and flow artists from all over will be gathering to jam at the Cascade Juggling Festival! Object manipulators of all skill levels are welcome to join in on free jams and workshops, including Sunday’s Jugglers’ Games, which will finish with the Della Moustachella Award for Gusto. On Saturday night there will be an all-star invitational ticketed gala show at the Bellingham Circus Guild. Find locations and the schedule online. Bellingham, cascadejugglingfestival.org
PROCESSION OF SPECIES 2025
May 3
The Procession of the Species is a tradition that began in Olympia in 1995 to celebrate Earth Day and bring attention to the Endangered Species Act. After some time away, Bellingham is bringing back our own Procession of the Species, thanks to a collaborative effort between Gabriel’s Art Kids and City of Bellingham Parks & Recreation. Join the costumed wildlife procession through downtown Bellingham towards Maritime Heritage Park, where a festival with entertainment and activities like chalk art will take place! Register and find info at gabrielsartkids.com. 2-5 p.m., Downtown Bellingham, gabrielsartkids.com
WHATCOM MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
May 24
Remember the fallen by celebrating their lives and contributions! Join Whatcom County at the Whatcom Memorial Day Parade through Bellingham. This family friendly event features a procession of local police, fire fighters, classic cars, dancers, marching bands, retired military members, and other exciting groups. The parade will begin at the corner of Alabama Street and Cornwall Avenue before heading south on Cornwall, and will happen rain or shine. 12-2 p.m., Bellingham, 360.230.8226, whatcommemorialdayparade.com
SKI TO SEA
May 25
It’s time again for Ski to Sea! This famous multi-sport relay spans 93 miles from Mt. Baker Ski Area to Bellingham Bay. Athletes in teams of three to eight race in seven different sports: cross country ski, downhill ski/snowboard, running, road bike, two-paddler canoe, cyclocross bike, and sea kayak. In addition to a finish-line beer garden, Fairhaven welcomes the racers with the Fairhaven Festival! 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Whatcom County, Bellingham, 360.746.8861, skitosea.com
Photo by Sarah Joy Fields
“DISNEY NEWSIES: THE BROADWAY MUSICAL”
May 1-4
Check out “Disney NEWSIES: The Broadway Musical,” coming to McIntyre Hall in early May. Centering around the Newsboy Strike of 1899, “NEWSIES” follows Jack Kelly and his crew as they fight a David vs. Goliath style battle for fair wages. If you’re looking for a fantastic story with lively music and dance numbers to boot, you won’t want to miss this performance! McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, 360.416.7727, mcintyrehall.org
“DIRECT FROM SWEDEN: THE MUSIC OF ABBA”
May 3
Whether you’re a diehard ABBA fan or are simply looking for a night of quality musical entertainment, “Direct From Sweden: The Music of ABBA” has you covered. Enjoy watching some of Sweden’s most talented artists perform, complete with detailed costumes, riveting solos, choreographed songs, and a live band. This experience is the closest to ABBA you will ever get! 7:30 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com
FLOWERS FOR MOTHER’S
DAY: A CARD CRAFTING WORKSHOP
May 3
This is a fantastic way for moms and kids to spend time together and gain some crafting skills in the days leading up to Mother’s Day! This card-crafting workshop is suited for ages 7 and up (as long as they’re accompanied by an adult), and entry is paid in pairs. Learn how to create beautiful botanical-themed papercrafts and mixed-media flowers, all the better to create a stunning and unique gift for mom with. 1-3 p.m., Museum of Northwest Art, 121 1st Street, La Conner, 360.466.4446, monamuseum.org
WOMEN’S MAKERS MARKET
May 4
Celebrate yourself and talented women everywhere by enjoying this Women’s Makers Market at Eagle Haven Winery. This is the perfect event for those who love a good sip-and-shop! Browse handcrafted goods from women-owned businesses, chat, laugh, and enjoy local wine all at the same time. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Eagle Haven Winery, 8233 Sims Road, Sedro-Woolley, 360.856.6248, eaglehavenwinery.com
SPRING CAR SHOW
May 4
Bring your wheels or come just for fun to the Whatcom County Cruising Association’s Spring Car Show! This is their first of three shows for the year, supporting four different charities. All makes, models, and motorcycles are welcome for a $20 on-site registration, and spectating is free. There’ll be dash plaques, trophies, a raffle, 50/50 draw, t-shirts for sale, and free NSRA inspections! 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Les Schwab Tires, 1731 La Bounty Dr., Ferndale, 760.525.0111, wccacruisers.org
QUARTET SAN FRANCISCO
May 9
Quartet San Francisco (QSF) is a classical-crossover string ensemble founded in 2001. With three Grammy wins (and seven total nominations), these musicians have made a name for themselves with their masterful blending of genres and passionate live performances. MBT will welcome the QSF in their intimate Harold & Irene Walton Theatre, and bill the show as “classical meets jazz.” 7:30 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com
YOU BELONG ON THE WATER
May 9
Bellingham SeaFeast presents this storytelling event, You Belong on the Water: Untold Sea Stories from Those Often Left Out of the Nautical Narrative. Speakers will share 4-10 minute “transformative experiences” of “belonging, resilience, and connection to the water,” all revolving around the sea. Connect with others, listen, celebrate, and reflect during this inclusive evening. Funds raised will go back to support Bellingham SeaFeast. 6-8:30 p.m., SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bellingham, 4646 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, bellinghamseafeast.org
DAVID CROSS, “THE END OF THE BEGINNING OF THE END”
May 9
Bellingham welcomes actor and comedian David Cross, a man known across genres and generations for his performances in everything from “Arrested Development,” to “Alvin and the Chipmunks,” to Broadway’s “All In: Comedy About Love” earlier this year. Presented by Wild Buffalo at Mount Baker Theatre, Cross will perform his latest stand-up hour, which leaves the stories on fatherhood from his previous tour behind for worldly (and sometimes angry) commentary on “The End of the Beginning of the End.” 7:30 p.m., 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com
Getting Market Season Running!
EN Valley Farmers Market 5k
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY
ANNE GODENHAM
THE TEAM BEHIND EN Valley Farmers Market in Everson has teamed up with the Greater Bellingham Running Club to start the summer farmers market season off with a burst of endorphins. On Sunday, May 4, at 10 a.m., runners of all ages will gather at Everson City Park to traverse a 5k course that’s accessible for strollers and young kids but also provides enough challenge and surface diversity to keep more experienced runners interested. The course highlights a range of bucolic scenery, crossing a bridge over the Nooksack River and then running alongside it on the Dike, looping through a sleepy neighborhood, and even passing through the property of one of EN Valley Farmers Market’s vendors, Broad Leaf Farm.
When they’ve finished their race, runners can join their family and friends at the farmers market to enjoy food and drinks from the coffee bar and food trucks, shop with market vendors, and even get their faces painted!
Entry fees range from $10 for Greater Bellingham Running Club members under 18 to $20 for adult non-members, and both kids under 6 and seniors 85 and over run free. Registration is open until 9:45 a.m. on May 4, but fees do increase by $5 after May 3. Race proceeds will support the market, including assistance programs and community events. Everson City Park, 201-205 Lincoln St., Everson, envalleyfarmersmarket.com, gbrc.net
Jesse Johnson and Katy Gormley of EN Valley Farmers Market
WHATCOM COUNTY MASTER GARDENER PLANT SALE
May 10
Enjoy a (hopefully) sunny visit to historical Hovander Homestead Park this May and get ready to bring home any and all things gardening! This Master Gardener Plant Sale will raise funds for the WSU Whatcom County Extension Master Gardening Program. These experts aren’t leaving anything behind—they’ll be selling “perennials, trees, shrubs, vegetables, tools, gifts, and more!” 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Hovander Homestead Park, 5299 Nielsen Rd., Ferndale, whatcommgf.org
WRITING’S ON THE WALL: AN OPEN MIC ON ARTISTIC PRACTICE
May 10
As a closing celebration for the Museum of Northwest Art’s Ceramic Invitational 2025 exhibit, local poets will perform pieces around the theme of artistic practice. The event will be led by painter and poet Duane Kirby Jensen, who hosts Everette Poetry Night. Poets are encouraged to write ekphrastic poetry inspired by the exhibit itself. 1-2:45 p.m., Museum of Northwest Art, 121 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4446, monamuseum.org
LIVE IN CONCERT: THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA
May 16
Don’t miss another chance to see The Blind Boys of Alabama live in concert. They’re the longest-running American music group; lauded gospel, spiritual, and Americana musicians who’ve been spreading their music and messages for over 70 years. Living legendas and pillars of American culture, allow their powerful voices and message of perseverance, love, and light to move you at the Lincoln Theatre! 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.8955, lincolntheatre.org
DAVID WIGHT GLASS ART GRAND OPENING
May 17
Celebrate the grand opening of David Wight Glass Art with live glass blowing demonstrations, entertainment by Kafe Radio, and great local food! Wight is a Bellingham-born and -bred glass sculptor whose work has been displayed in galleries all over the U.S., and he’s also the exclusive glass artist for Disney—all of his team’s pieces are made onsite in Bellingham and shipped globally. 12-4 p.m., 2111 Lincoln St., Ste. 102, Bellingham, 360.389.5699, davidwightglassart.com
SKAGIT COUNTY SPRING FAIR
May 17
Bring the whole family to this lowstress Spring festival at the Skagit County Fairgrounds! There’ll be craft booths, bouncy houses, face painting, and food like snow cones, popcorn, espresso, and more. It’s free to park and attend, so get out in that fresh air and have a spot of fun! 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Skagit County Fairgrounds, 501 Taylor St., Mount Vernon
MEADOWS MONTESORRI SCHOOL SPRING FESTIVAL
May 18
Celebrate the arrival of spring with the Meadows Montesorri School Spring Festival. Featuring an array of handmade and artisan products, musical performances, and face painting, the festival runs in support of the non-profit Meadows Montessori School. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Meadows Montessori School, 2377 Douglas Road, Ferndale, 360.778.3681, meadowsmontessori.org
BLAINE’S SPRING BLOCK PARTY
May 17
Spring is in the air and Blaine is throwing a party! Enjoy the sea air at this all-day street fair downtown, featuring street vendors and artisans, live music, food trucks, kids’ activities and games, and a beer garden to relax in. Don’t miss this chance to meet and party with the locals of a city that normally scoffs at Bellingham’s definition of “subdued.” 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 1590 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine, bbbparkandrec.org
“MICHELANGELO: LOVE AND DEATH”
May 20, May 25
Released in 2017, this “Exhibition on Screen” documentary takes viewers through a fresh, cinematic look at the life of one of the most famous master artists of all time. In addition to in-depth, high-definition visuals of his works accompanied by expert commentary, you’ll learn about his life, his relationships, and his legacy, from Renaissance drawing rooms to modern day museums. See it at the Pickford Film Center when it returns to cinemas for Michelangelo’s 550th birthday! Showtimes vary, Pickford Film Center, 1318 Bay St., Bellingham, 360.738.0735, pickfordfilmcenter.org
Cornhole for a Cause
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY WILLIAM MORTON
EXCITEMENT WAS IN the air. Cornhole bags flew across the astroturf field of the Bellingham Sportsplex as players warmed up for the ensuing tournament.
That was the scene at the first fundraising cornhole competition hosted by United Way of Whatcom County, a local non-profit, in partnership with Upper Left Cornhole. The competition cost $50 per team of two, with a max of 48 teams, and a first place prize of $500. All proceeds from the March 29 event help support United Way of Whatcom.
With food and drinks available for purchase and a silent auction set up adjacent to the cornhole boards, there was something for everyone.
Kristi Birkeland, president of United Way of Whatcom County, explains that this is one of the first events they’ve been a part of, and they’re hoping to do more in the future.
Photo by Kristen Boehm
A Hub for Thrift, the Heart of a Community Worn
Again Thrift
WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM
The Shop
The beautiful Bellingham National Bank Building on Holly Street has a stylish new tenant: Worn Again Thrift, a curated vintage store that believes secondhand apparel is a gateway to sustainability, community, and self-expression.
Worn Again began as a two-person team (Owner Miles Harlow and a co-founder), buying and selling vintage on the road, off porches, online, and at pop-ups. They opened their brick-and-mortar at the corner of State and Champion Streets on January 1, 2021. After four years, a need for more space and streamlined operations have led them to the Bank Building, where they opened on April 19. The new sales floor is “over twice as large” as the previous one, according to Store Manager Natalie Mote.
The People
Mote was hired six months after Worn Again’s first store opened, and has been devoted to the business ever since.
“Discovering thrift fueled my passion for clothes,” says Mote, who found that buying secondhand was the secret to unique personal style as a teenager.
Harlow and Mote are expert vintage buyers, curating Worn Again’s selection and vibe. There’s even a staff mender who makes sure their vintage has a healthy life ahead of it. While certain things like unique fade and hard-won distress contribute value and a kind of thrift patina, ripped seams, blown-out crotches, and missing buttons can all be repaired.
“If it’s something we want, we’ll fix it,” says Mote, who often encourages people to bring in clothes they’re not sure are sellable. “You never know! You might make some money for something that you thought would’ve been trash.”
By keeping those clothes out of landfills, Mote sees Worn Again and vintage reselling as “not just about the style and the love and the joy, but also about caring for our planet.”
The Atmosphere
Worn Again’s first store had an inviting and vibrant DIY patchwork energy. It was important to them to find a space that could continue to set them apart from other thrift stores.
“ When we started thinking about wanting a new space, the big thing was we needed to find a space that we loved as much as this [one] … that would level us up in more than just space,” says Mote.
The Bank Building’s huge windows, high ceilings, marble flooring, and pillars “that are just begging to be covered in clothes” lend a sophisticated air to this funky business. Worn Again has been careful to revitalize the space without stripping it of its history and charm. Now with two registers (one tall, one low and accessible), five dressing
Photo courtesy of Worn Again Thrift
Photo by Kristen Boehm
rooms, repurposed bank vaults (one a “shoe vault” and the other a “vibes spot”), space for more inventory and customers, and being open seven days a week, Worn Again is an even more welcoming and exciting place to shop.
What You’ll Find
Worn Again buys and sells head-totoe apparel, from outerwear to jewelry. Their bread and butter is vintage clothes (20 years or older), curated for style, quality, and wearability. You’ll find some newer items on the racks if they’re well made, like Levi jeans or Patagonia gear, or to fill gaps in the inventory, like plus sizes. Filson, Woolrich, North Face, and Carhartt are other brands Mote mentioned as high-quality standards. Comfortable, casual clothes are king, thanks to the preferences of their largely college-aged customer base.
Favorites
While it’s hard to have favorites with an ever-changing, unique inventory, Mote stresses that their favorite part of the business is the community they’re working to serve.
“ I think our mission kind of developed … as we formed our team, and we found our passions and what mattered the most to us. And I think what really matters the most to us is community, and providing for said community,” says Mote. “Whether you know you’re going to find cool stuff, or something that fits you, or you don’t have very much money and you know we have a free bin that’s going to keep you warm … We’re kind of trying to be this hub for thrift, rather than like a boutique of thrift, you know?” 101 E. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3448, wornagainthrift.com
Photo by Kristen Boehm
Photo by Kristen Boehm
AS PRIME FARMERS market weather continues to roll in, it’s time to get a bag that will stick by your side through your daily missions. This assortment includes beautiful and practical designs to help you carry home any fresh produce, local artwork, or other trinkets and knick knacks you may find.
3 Mushroom Boho Cross Body Bag Third Planet, $33 200 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.778.3765, thirdplanetboutique.com
4
Cotopaxi Taal Convertible Del Dia Tote Bag REI, $60 400 36th St., Bellingham 360.647.8955, rei.com
5
High Coast Totepack Fjällräven, $90
128 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.215.2104 fjallraven.com
Collective, Infectious Joy—and Great Hair!
Beauty Collective
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED
BY ANNE GODENHAM
ELSPETH PALMBY LAUGHS and looks a little bit
uncomfortable when I ask if she’s the owner of Beauty Collective, a small salon tucked back from the sidewalk on Fairhaven’s Harris Avenue.
“Technically, yes, I own Beauty Collective—the name,” she says, “but everyone booth-rents and it’s more like a co-op.”
Miranda Ridgely, Palmby’s longtime friend and fellow hairstylist, agrees with a smile. The two women worked together at their previous salon, The Hair Art Studio, along with Samantha Hall and Jessica Angelica, who also rent booths at the Collective. They all moved to the Fairhaven space when the Studio’s owner opened up an offshoot location.
To everyone’s surprise, the new location closed soon after the move, and the owner began to wrap things up at their downtown Bellingham spot as well. She went to Palmby with an offer to take over the Fairhaven lease. Palmby wanted to provide a space for herself and other stylists to work together on equal footing—“and not break us up,” Ridgely adds, noting that the tight-knit team was likely to scatter otherwise.
Palmby, Ridgely, Hall, and Angelica are a close group, but they’re also a welcoming one: the Collective’s newest stylist,
Sydni Heiss, joined the team last October and was quickly embraced into the fold.
“The sense of community between the women is so strong, and it really is a collective,” Heiss says. “We are so supportive of one another, and I just love that. I need that.”
That sentiment was echoed by all of the stylists, multiple times, and they’re not the only ones who feel and benefit from their camaraderie.
“So many times clients have come in and been like, ‘wow, it just feels good in here,’” Hall says. “It's because of the energy that we exude.”
That energy starts before you even enter: instead of Palmby’s personal hair and makeup business becoming the umbrella name for the salon, she opted to put all the stylists’ businesses on the door, to create a more inclusive brand. That, plus the charming interior and the friendly chatter among the chairs, makes for a warm and inviting atmosphere.
“[We’re] artsy with hair and aesthetic décor,” Ridgely says, gesturing at Palmby and then at the salon’s creative, colorful décor, which includes custom resin mirrors and striped wall paint. “She’s the master crafter.”
While many of their clients (myself included) are drawn to Beauty Collective for funky cuts and bright dye jobs, the salon offers a wide range of styles, from side shaves to bobs, balayage to root touch-ups.
“I think we’re pretty open and welcoming,” Palmby says. “We’re pretty relaxed, but still pretty professional.”
There’s much that sets the Collective apart from other salons, but the cornerstone is the relationship among the women who work there.
Hall gets misty-eyed as she talks about it: “I don't think they even really realize how many times like I've been shattered or at a place where I was just done, but I could walk in the door here and be heard and held and loved.”
Even the business structure reflects that mutual support.
“A lot of people will use [booth rental] to make money, and they'll just be the owner…a lot of them don't even do hair, you know, they just own the salon,” Palmby says, adding that she’s always wanted to do things differently. “I still do hair, still love my clientele, and I still make more [money] working, myself.”
Everyone I spoke to was enthusiastic about the joy their job brings them, and how lucky they feel to work with each other, and that enthusiasm is infectious.
“Part of it is just us having fun,” Ridgely says, as Palmby nods enthusiastically. “And the reward is the clients, how happy they are, and they come back to us more often because we’re not charging them an arm and a leg, and they tell their friends and their families— that’s the reward.” 905 Harris Ave., Ste. 201, Bellingham, 360.746.7112, beautycollective.glossgenius.com
Nurturing Excellence: Empowering Nurses to Thrive, to Provide Exceptional Care and Influence Nursing Practice.
ARTICLE AND PHOTO COURTESY OF PEACEHEALTH
WITH THE SUPPORT of generous donors in the community and the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Foundation, the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Institute for Nursing Excellence (INE) provides resources empowering nurses to thrive, provide exceptional care for our community and influence nursing practice locally and nationally.
“The institute really belongs to all our St. Joseph nurses,” said Melissa Laitsch, director of the institute. “Wherever they are in their nursing journey, the institute is here to support them.”
The INE is comprised of three centers — Research and Innovation, Professional Growth and Development and Clinical Expertise — each aligning with nurse roles included in PeaceHealth's Nursing Professional Practice Model. The institute positively influences recruitment and retention, workforce development, innovation and research.
Nurses who engage in continuous learning are better prepared to provide exceptional care, leading to improved health results and happier patients.
Nurses who master clinical competency, knowing the newest treatments, technologies and practices can deliver the most effective and efficient care, ensuring patients receive the best treatment.
Continued professional development empowers nurses to step into leader roles, driving positive change and shaping healthcare to be responsive and inclusive.
Since its opening in November 2024, the INE has supported numerous nursing achievements and continues to grow:
Center for Clinical Expertise:
• Nurse Fellowships: 32 nurses who are training in a new specialty, for example medical surgical nurses training to labor and delivery.
• Nursing Techs: 18 nursing students currently working in paid nursing support positions as they complete their nursing education.
• Nurse Residency: 62 nurses in residency, a program that offers mentorship in their first year of practice after graduating from nursing school.
• Conference Presenting: 9 nurses presented continuous improvement projects at national and regional conferences.
Center for Research and Innovation:
• Supported two nursing teams’ research, both published in national journals, Nurse Leader and Nurse Journal.
• Offered 10 innovation sessions with 80 caregivers and nurses attending.
• Hosted annual PeaceHealth St. Joseph Fall Innovation Showcase with over 100 attendees and 32 research posters presented.
• Completed 12 innovative “Shark Tank” continuous improvement projects and the annual event coming up May 2025.
• 23 unit-based practice councils and 4 house-wide councils with over 100
• Continued national and local nursing recognition awards and nominations.
• Supported national specialty conference attendance.
Center for Professional Growth and Development:
• Supported the Professional Nurse Advancement Program (PNAP), promoting 264 nurses providing direct patient care.
• Trained 58 nurse preceptors who mentor, teach and guide new nurses.
• Continued leader enrichment programs.
• Developing a new simulation center.
Community Benefit
When hospitals prioritize nursing development, the entire community reaps the benefits. Opportunities for professional development let nurses provide better care, engage in health promotion activities and advocate for community health needs. This holistic approach leads to improved health outcomes and a stronger, healthier community.
PeaceHealth collaborates with many education partners like Bellingham Technical College, Whatcom Community College, Western Washington University, Skagit Valley College and others to offer many pathways for nursing education. The Institute for Nursing Excellence centralizes many resources for nurses to grow their careers.
Rigorous and continued professional development are the cornerstones of a thriving healthcare system. Resources like the Institute of Nursing Excellence encourage nurses to grow and excel, ensuring that our communities remain healthy and vibrant.
You can read more about INE at: peacehealth.org/nursing-excellence/st-joseph
PeaceHealth nurses, from left, Jeffrey Coto, Terra Merwin, Keila Torres, Jake McGuire, Roseanna Bell, Melissa Laitsch, published research on nursing retention in the national journal, Nurse Leader.
Attendees at the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Fall Innovation Showcase, earning continuing education credits while learning from their peers.
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PERFECT
by
Photo
Anne Godenham
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM AND KRISTEN BOEHM
EVER WAKE UP on the weekend and feel a tug to get out of the house and do something fun, but you have no idea what fun thing to do? Sometimes, you can waste a whole beautiful day languishing around trying to figure out a plan. Well, we’re here to help, with 52 ideas for a great day out and about in the North Sound. From pottery painting and picnicking with a book to bar crawls and whale-watching, there’s something here for every personality and all kinds of weather—you’re sure to find inspiration for your next perfect Saturday!
Photo by Anne Godenham
Go Clam Digging
While all but the bravest diggers will wait until spring, razor clams are available all year in Washington—just make sure to check the Department of Fish & Wildlife’s website before you head for the beach. The department sets mini dig seasons throughout the year, according to clam population, tides, light, and marine toxicity levels. Once you know your weekend is cleared for digging, all you need is a license, a clam shovel, a bucket for your catch, and a pair of waterproof boots!
Salute Our National Celebrities
Grab your binoculars, stop for a hot drink, and drive east along Highway 20 to look for bald eagles. Winter (late November through January) is eagle season in the Skagit Valley; the huge birds migrate to the river to feast on the salmon carcasses left on the banks, which means tons of opportunities for viewing and photography. If pulling over at random spots and trying your luck doesn’t appeal, start at the Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center in Rockport for help making a more concrete plan.
Photo by Kapil Kapre
Museum Medley: Culture, Art, and History
Tour some local museums to fill your perfect day with new knowledge and appreciation. If you love tech and invention, head to the Heritage Flight Museum in Burlington and the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention in Bellingham. Visit the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum, The Skagit County Historical Museum, and the Museum of Northwest Art in La Conner for a trifecta of craftsmanship, history, and art! To explore local history, check out the Sedro-Woolley Museum, Lynden Heritage Museum, Orcas Island Historical Museum, and even Ferndale’s Pioneer Park, which hosts a village of real late-1800s slab cedar houses open for touring from May-September. For those with kiddos, let them explore at the Children’s Museum of Skagit County in Burlington. And if you like everything, you can’t go wrong at the Whatcom Museum in Bellingham, which hosts a Family Interactive Gallery, a photo archive, a permanent exhibit about local Native culture, and rotating art exhibits.
Photocourtesyof CreativiTea
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Find Color on a Gray Day
If the winter darkness is getting you down, inject some color into your day by painting pottery! Whether you choose to paint a
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Snow Day!
On those special Saturdays where grey skies yield piles of fresh, fluffy snow, make sure to get out there and have yourself a perfect snow day!
For general frolicing or small hill sledding, Bellingham has some wide open spaces and gentle inclines in parks like Lake Padden Park, Maritime Heritage Park, and Fairhaven Park.
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Get Inspired at IKEA
IKEA is notorious for stressing people out, but there’s one sure-fire way to combat the cortisol increase the confusing layout and crowds of families can cause: lean into the chaos. Instead of visiting the furniture giant when you need something, why not go for the experience? Have some meatballs with lingonberry sauce in the cafeteria, then let the meandering floorplan take you through room after room, testing out armchairs and soft-close kitchen drawers as you go. You might even be inspired by some of the creative room layouts their designers come up with!
Enjoy the (Indoor) View at an Art Gallery
The views in the North Sound are unparalleled, but even our stunning region has its less-than-beautiful days. That’s when local galleries are a great way to both stay warm and remind yourself of the natural beauty all around us (under a layer of cloud cover). Enjoy out-of-season landscapes and moody seascapes while you soak in the quiet, contemplative surroundings at Perry and Carlson in Mount Vernon, Smith & Vallee Gallery in Bow, The Heron’s Nest Gallery in Fairhaven, or Sharon Kingston Art Studio and Gallery in Bellingham—and that’s just to name a few.
Expand your Artistic Horizons at Make.Shift Art Space
Weekends are busy at Make.Shift Art Space, a non-profit art center in Bellingham focused on grass-roots expression. On any given Saturday, you can spend a day there by taking a beginning arts class like DIY Block Printing, checking out the rotating art exhibit in the gallery, shopping at a pop-up market, or renting a studio to record a music track or work on a project. Keep it going into the night by attending an all-ages concert in their basement venue! Just remember, Make.Shift is for everyone in the community, leading to their motto: “No Booze. No Drugs. No Jerks.”
Take a (Short) Wander Through Downtown Edison
The tiny downtown area that makes up Edison (part of Bow-Edison, which is a census-designated place in Skagit Valley), is home to a disproportionate number of fabulous shops and eateries. Grab brunch at Tweets and then wander north along Gilkey Avenue, popping into Indigo Dreams, Hedgerow, The Lucky Dumpster, and Book Shucker for some shopping. Or start with the shops and finish with lunch at Slough Food, Mariposa Taqueria, Terramar Brewstillery, or The Edison Cafe. Whatever you do, don’t leave without picking up a treat from Breadfarm!
If downhill skiing and snowboarding is more what you’re after, Mt. Baker Ski Area is the gift that keeps on giving! With three lodges, nearly 700 inches of annual snowfall, marked runs and plentiful backcountry opportunities, snowsports lovers can’t go wrong.
If you’re willing to go a little further for something new, about two hours South and bit East is The Summit at Snoqualmie, with their family-friendly (“no skill required!”) Summit Tubing Park! Over 18 groomed tubing lanes, provided snow tubes, a lift to the top of the 500-foot-long hill (with 40 feet of vertical), and even night sessions with rainbow lighting make this destination a sure-fire contender for best snow day ever.
Looking for a more relaxing snow day? We have local agencies like Mt. Baker Vacation Rentals and Luxury Getaways to help you find the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a picturesque snowy day in, from log cabins in the Deming woods to private alpine lodges in Glacier.
For you comfy-cozy lovers, don’t forget to accent your snow day with all the creature comforts. Mount Vernon’s own gourmet Forte Chocolate creates decadent hot cocoa powders you can whip-up at home, plus crispy dessert barks to crumble on top.
Photo by Emily Porter
Fall in Love with Whales
Go beyond watching whales—take a Saturday to learn all about them, explore different options for sightings, and come away with a whole new understanding of these complex marine mammals.
Start at The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor, which has been educating the public and stewarding whales in the Salish Sea since 1979. On the first floor of the museum, you’ll find their newest exhibit area, which features an exhibit honoring Sooke (L-112, a resident orca from L pod), an exhibit about the dangers of plastic, an overview of baleen whales, and more! Upstairs, the second floor hosts the Gallery of Whales, which will teach you all about the Salish Sea’s resident J, K, and L orca pods, with life-sized models and real articulated skeletons.
From there, join San Juan Kayak Expeditions for their Lime Kiln Half-Day Tour. You’ll launch from San Juan County Park into the Whale Sanctuary area designated on the west side of San Juan Island. You’ll spend several areas paddling around gorgeous coastline, and although there’s never a guarantee, you might spot orcas, humpbacks, minke whales, porpoises, otters, harbor seals, and maybe even some sea lions!
Afterwards, retreat to one of Snug Harbor Resort’s waterfront cabins, also on the west side of the island. The cabins face Mitchell Bay, where the resort also has its own private marina. Relax on a private patio just 45 feet from the shore and see if you can catch any last glimpses of our marine neighbors!
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Try a New Gastropub
Bars and lounges are great for happy hours or after-work drinks, but on a Saturday afternoon you might want to stay a while and have a meal with your beer. Luckily, we have a ton of great breweries and bars that double as mellow (but high-quality) restaurants! In Skagit, we love The Office Tavern in Burlington, District Brewing and Temperate Habits Brewery in Mount Vernon, and The Firehall Kitchen & Taphouse in La Conner. Meanwhile, you can’t throw a burger in Whatcom without hitting a great brewery lunch, but we always recommend El Sueñito Brewing Company and GRUFF Brewing Co. in Bellingham and The Newsroom Pub in Lynden. More into wine than beer? Head to Blaine and visit The Vault Wine Bar.
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Build up Your
Shellfish-Eating Muscles
Many shellfish aficionados will tell you that Penn Cove, on Whidbey Island, is the source of the best mussels around—in Coupeville, they host a whole festival celebrating them. Whether you eat a bowl of delicious Penn Cove mussels at a local restaurant like Rock n’ Rye or The Oyster Bar or take a day trip to Coupeville for the festival on the first weekend in March, spring is a great time to build this particular strength!
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Fun and Games
Maybe your perfect Saturday is all about racking up points, executing a perfect strategy, and claiming the win! If you like a game day at home, check out stores like Cosmic Games, Aegis Games, Wishes Toys Books and Games, and even Comics Place for RPG supplies, board games, and card games. If you’d rather get out and about, check out Bellingham’s The Racket Bar and Pinball Lounge, the Ruckus Room Arcade and Fun Center, or Fairhaven’s 1-Up Lounge. Aim & Game in Ferndale offers everything from axe throwing to an arcade, and Phoenix Nest Classic Video Arcade stays true to the retro-vibe, even keeping most games at 25 cents per play!
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Head North Across the Border
Grab your passport and head north for a day trip to Vancouver! The coastal British Columbia city is one of Canada’s most diverse and densely populated cities, and welcomes an average of 10 million tourists a year. These travelers are drawn to Vancouver because of its blend of architectural and natural beauty, thriving cultural arts scene, and exceptional food.
Can’t-miss attractions include VanDusen Botanical Garden, the Vancouver Aquarium, and Stanley Park (the third-largest park in North America!), but our favorite thing to do in the city is to wander the neighborhoods, stopping for snacks and meals and coffee and cocktails along the way. The waterfront Gastown district is the oldest commercial area of Vancouver and is home to the famous Orpheum Theatre and the Vancouver Art Gallery. For a funkier vibe—and a bustling outdoor market—head across Granville Bridge to Granville Island, an industrial site-turnedupscale neighborhood that’s become a hub for artsy shopping and entertainment, as well as a foodie destination. If all that food and walking has made you sleepy, why not stay the night in one of the city’s many beautiful hotels? Plus, then you’ll have time on Sunday morning to squeeze in some dim sum in Richmond on the way home! Our current favorites are Kirin Seafood Restaurant, Golden Paramount, and Royal Garden Seafood Restaurant, but you really can’t go wrong.
Go on a Garden Center Tour
With so many nurseries in our region, it can be overwhelming to choose where to shop. So for this one day, make a rule: look, but don’t shop! Head for a wander (and maybe some photo sessions) through the flowering aisles of Christianson’s Nursery & Greenhouse, Salazar's Nursery and Landscape Supplies, and Well’s Nursery in Mount Vernon, or peruse perennials at Kent’s Garden & Nursery, Joe’s Gardens, and Garden Spot Nursery in Bellingham. Take notes on anything you feel tempted to buy, then reassess next weekend before you go to close the deal.
PhotobyCocoaLaney
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Tiptoe Through the Tulips
Spring is a riot of color in the North Sound, from the purple foxgloves that dot the I-5 to the pink buds on plum and cherry trees all over the region. The most concentrated displays of color, though, are found every April at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, when five local farms open their fields and curated gardens to the public. The breathtaking beauty is worth the traffic and the crowds, trust us. (Can’t wait for April? The daffodils pop up in March, and a quick drive through the bright yellow fields in West Mount Vernon will give you the dopamine hit you need!)
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Sleep Under the Stars
While summer is the most common time of year for camping, booking a site for spring usually means less competition for the best spots, and while the nights can be cold, that’s actually perfect for gathering around the fire! Plus, after a chilly morning the days often warm up enough to enjoy the same hiking and water activities you’d do in summer. Some of our favorite spring campgrounds are Rasar State Park in Skagit and Larrabee State Park on Chuckanut Drive.
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Put Your Saturday on Ice
Getting tired of the hot sunny days already? Cool off with a day of ice skating at Bellingham’s Sportsplex Arena. Drop in on a public skating session to wobble around without the threat of hockey sticks or pucks whizzing by, or register for a skating class like Learn to Skate Saturdays to get axle-ing like a pro!
Beach It at Birch Bay State Park
Year-round, weather permitting, you can spend a perfect Saturday unplugging at Birch Bay State Park! This little state park is the perfect combination of wooded campground and rocky beach. Set up camp in the trees (pitch a tent or bring a trailer) before going to explore the beach, swim in the relatively warm shallows, or bountiful clam-digging at low-tide. Shoot some hoops at the basketball court, hike or bike ride around the trails, or just set up a hammock and take a shady nap. We’d recommend going back to the beach to watch the sunset, then gathering around a campfire to tell stories and roast your favorite treats.
Saturday Market Fun
Saturday markets are the perfect makings for a perfect day! They’re an excellent way to get some fresh air while shopping for fresh produce, hand-crafted consumables and crafts, and vintage finds. Typically, we love a morning market combined with a stop somewhere for coffee or breakfast, possibly followed by some hang time in a park or enjoying a walk around town, before heading home with our spoils.
The Bellingham Farmers Market fills the downtown Depot Market Square and even the street leading up to it with wellloved local artisans and producers. They put the farm back in farmers market, with dozens of stalls representing local agriculture like Cloud Mountain Farm Center, Alluvial Farms, BeeWorks Farm, Bellingham Flower Farm, and many more. Cascadia Mushrooms farms and forages potent and delicious fungi. Lummi Seafood Market, LLC, and Sea to Shore Seafood Co. provide the freshest catches! Bakeries, creameries, fermenters, and coffee roasters are on-site, too. Craftsmen sell everything including knives, pottery, woodworks, jewelry, skincare, and clothes. Add the ready-to-eat food vendors, and there’s truly something for everyone!
For those with a hunger for vintage, unique home decor, and art of all sorts, you’ll want to keep an eye out for Wonderz Market, held once-monthly in Bellingham for most of the year. They have an ever-changing line-up of vendors, so there’s always something new to find. Some of their regulars are clothing airbrusher Blythe Ave Market, eclectic decor reseller Funky Fresh Finds, and Bellingham-famous jewelry crafter Good Boy Mercantile.
With some planning, you could hit both these markets on the same day! Worry not, though—you’ll find no shortage of farmers markets throughout Whatcom, Skagit, and the San Juan Islands to visit any given Saturday during the spring and summer, with some even continuing into the colder months. 20 20
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Visit Sedro-Woolley
If you don’t live in or near Sedro-Woolley, you might never have been—it’s a bit of a ways east from I-5—but it’s worth a visit! In addition to a charming historic downtown area, Woolley boasts beautiful scenery, great locallyowned shops, and a bunch of great restaurants. Plus, they have the cutest pharmacy/coffee shop we’ve ever seen: Apothecary Coffee inside Schaffner’s Pharmacy.
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Bellingham Bar Crawl
Downtown Bellingham has more unique bars than ever, so if your perfect Saturday includes plenty of brews and spirits, we challenge you to hit the town! To ease you in, start at Ponderosa Beer and Books, where you can sip while perusing books on their mezzanine. Working your way into downtown, go to The Temple Bar for light bites with the next round, then The Admiralty Lounge where you might start feeling a little bit like a salty sea dog. Just a hop away is the friendly Uisce Irish Pub, then head down Cornwall Avenue to Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant at Chuckanut Bay Distillery, where you can tuck into a filling meal. Continue to Holly Street, then head west towards JUXT Taphouse and Jack’s, or east towards Matthew’s Honest Cocktails and The Orion. That’s not even all of them, but we think that’s plenty to start!
Have a Lake Day
With so many fabulous lakes in our region, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to inland beach days. Lake Whatcom is the go-to beach spot for many Bellingham residents (it’s also a great place for water sports), but Lake Samish is equally beautiful and boat-friendly; Lake Padden has a fantastic, beginner-friendly hiking loop around it, as does Lake Louise in Sudden Valley. Down in Skagit, Big Lake is known for boating and fishing, Lake Shannon is a secluded beauty with views of Mount Baker, and Clear Lake has a great beach for young kids.
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Hungry or Thirsty? There’s a Festival for That
There are almost too many food and beer festivals to name here in the North Sound, but one of the most popular events to get your hops on in Bellingham is April Brews Day, where you can sample brews from more than 50 craft breweries and nosh on delicious food truck offerings. In the summer, we celebrate all things berry with Skagit’s Berry Dairy Days in June and Lynden’s Northwest Raspberry Festival in July. And the end of summer is just the beginning of festival season: September in Bellingham brings SeaFeast, VegFest, and GreekFest, and Skagit’s Farm to Pint Fest and B’Town Fall Fest run in September too.
Photo by Kym Larvie
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Take a Hike
The Pacific Northwest is famous for its mountains, its views, and the general outdoorsiness of its residents, so of course we have to suggest you spend a perfect day hiking! If you’re in Whatcom County and you’re a fairly experienced hiker (or just in good shape), you’ve got to try Oyster Dome. The 5-mile round-trip trail gains 1,000 feet of elevation and reaches more than 2,000 feet at its highest point, and the views at the top sweep from Anacortes to Lummi Island, with Samish Bay and its islands in between and Vancouver Island in the background. For hikers who like to take it easier or bring kids along, Whatcom Falls Park has a range of trails, some of which are paved.
In Skagit, Sauk Mountain is a challenging 4-mile hike with stunning views at the summit (5,541 feet up). Tight switchbacks take hikers through dense foliage and beautiful wildflowers in the spring, with the option to peel off on a side hike to an alpine lake; at the top, you can see all the way across the Skagit Valley to Mount Vernon. If you’re looking for something mellow, try Dock Butte in Concrete. It’s just under 4 miles out and back, with an option to pop over to Blue Lake along the way. The San Juan Islands are a favorite view from mainland peaks, but they also have plenty of fabulous trails to offer their residents! On Orcas, the 2.9-mile Cascade Lake loop is a great place to start, while Moran State Park offers more than 38 miles of trails for a wide range of experience—head 2,409 feet up to Mount Constitution for the most challenging.
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San Juan offers a handful of easy to moderate hikes, from the 1.8-mile, 52-foot elevation Bell Point Loop trail to the 3.5-miles of trails with 350 feet of elevation at Jakle's Lagoon & Mt. Finlayson.
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Connect With Nature—in Style
Love the idea of camping under the stars and getting away from it all, but not the reality of sleeping on the ground and trekking to shared public bathrooms to brush your teeth at night? You sound like a glamper! Glamping (glam + camping) is sleeping outdoors without roughing it: many glamping sites offer kitted-out safari tents or yurts with real beds, and some (like Lakedale Resort in Friday Harbor) even have multi-room cabins with full private bathrooms. You can have your campfire s’mores without the dirt and bugs.
Volunteer in Your Community
Give back to the community and feel accomplished at the end of this perfect Saturday. Find opportunities through Skagit Volunteer Center and The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County, or just reach out to your favorite local non-profit—chances are they’ll be happy to accept your help. Whatcom Million Trees Project and Wild Whatcom will get you out in nature; volunteer at the Whatcom Literacy Council to help adults gain literacy; the Alternative Humane Society and Humane Society of Skagit Valley volunteer opportunities directly support animals; volunteer at Lydia Place to help your neighbors in need.
PhotobyDean Davidson
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Race Day
For some, there’s nothing more rewarding than getting up early, teeing up at the starting line, and giving a run your all. To turn any Saturday into your perfect running day, make sure you’ve got all your supplies from BBay Running, Fairhaven Runners & Walkers, Skagit Running Company, Yeager’s Sporting Goods, and Backcountry Essentials. Find community and races with Skagit Runners and Greater Bellingham Running Club (GBRC). If you love joining in with organized events, we’ve got all sorts of fun-runs, races, and marathons to suit every type of athlete!
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Heart-Pumping Adventures
Get the adrenaline flowing and fill your day with thrills! At Summit Adventure Park the whole family can have fun jumping across the open trampoline court, rope-swinging into a giant airbag, wall climbing, and more. If you have a need for speed, try MACH1 Speedway and Arcade’s indoor electric go-kart racing, or go to Skagit Speedway to watch car racers rip around the track. Head a little further south to High Trek Adventures in Everett for high-flying ziplines and a ropes course, plus laser tag, a wall-climbing tower, and more.
Party at a Local Music Festival
Love nothing more than jamming out to live music? We’ve got an excellent festival line-up throughout the year for you to party at! One thing all our local music festivals have in common is a core theme of community.
Northwest Tune-Up will be July 11-13 this year, and always takes place down at Bellingham’s Downtown Waterfront. In addition to commanding huge crowds at their waterfront stage for the concerts, this festival celebrates bicycles and local brews.
Going strong for over 20 years, the Subdued Stringband Jamboree is a multi-day fest that takes place at the Deming Log Show Grounds, this year Aug. 7-9. This is the festival to be at if you love folk and roots music, hanging out at the campgrounds, and making friends into the night.
If you’re more into performance arts and shenanigans, Sh’Bang! might be the festival for you! Held at the Lookout
Arts Quarry, this one boasts multiple whimsical stages where musicians perform nearly every genre, an off-road Downhill Soapbox Derby, and tons of circus arts, among other performances. This year, Sh’Bang! will run Aug. 29-31.
The Bellingham Celtic Festival will come around Sept. 17-21 this year, and takes place across multiple venues in Downtown Bellingham. This festival is great for lovers of string and other traditional instruments, and of sitting at a bar with a frosty beverage and joining in on a jam, singalong, or dance session.
Lastly, for fans of popular, alternative, and electronic dance music, the Bellingham EXIT festival has been bringing performances to venues around Bellingham for the last few Octobers. This one brings art installations and markets to its various venues along with a huge lineup of both big name and small local acts.
Photo courtesy of Forrest Templin
Get Your Hands Dirty with Ceramics
Whether or not you’ve worked with clay before, spending a day in the ceramics studio is a dream come true for many! It’s hard work, and you will get messy, but nothing’s more rewarding than bringing home a mug, planter, or little sculpture that you put your heart into. Bellingham has multiple studios to choose classes or workshops from (MUD Ceramics Studio, Burnish Clay Studio, and Baker Creek Ceramic Studio). In Anacortes, clayhouse is a newer studio that runs handbuilding “Clay Dates,” workshops, and private classes and parties.
Picnic With a Book at Your Favorite Park
If you like to picnic by the water, Marine Park in Fairhaven is a perfect blend of shaded grass and lapping waves. On your way, stop at Avenue Bread for a sandwich and maybe pick up a new novel from the Local Authors display at Village Books. In Mount Vernon, grab a Muffaletta Sandwich and a selection of snacks from Skagit Valley Larder and head across the river to Little Mountain Books & Botanica for a new read, then spread out your blanket at Edgewater Park and listen to the river rush by as you read and nosh.
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Bring on Brunch
We know Sunday is the default brunch day, but Saturday is prime brunching time, too! This delectable, flexible meal between breakfast and lunch has gone from an invention of necessity after late nights to the main social event of the weekend. There’s serious competition for the title of best brunch spot in these parts, so consider what kind of vibe you’re looking for. Martini Brunch in Mount Vernon is a 21-and-up spot that promises a good time for catching up with friends. If you’d like to combine brunch with walking and shopping, try cozy coffee spot Cafe Blue or French-inspired bistro The Black Cat in Fairhaven. For a homey cafe with an excellent drinks menu and a special focus on decadent sweets, try Sugar Mama Cafe in Anacortes.
Meet Me at the Fair
Crowds, craft and agricultural shows, rides, games, prizes, live performances, and deliciously deep-fried food! That’s a recipe for an amazing Saturday at the fair. Every year in August, Lynden hosts the Northwest Washington Fair at its fairgrounds and events center. With it comes grandstand music concerts, adorable and impressive animals, crafts exhibits, performances that entertain and inform, the Lynden PRCA Rodeo, a demolition derby, and a fantastically diverting carnival. This year, the Northwest Washington Fair will run Aug. 7-16, which gives you two Saturday opportunities! If you didn’t get enough, the Washington State Fair in Puyallup will be just after that, lasting almost a month from Aug. 29-Sept. 21. The self-proclaimed “biggest party in the state” is celebrating their 125th year in 2025, so you know they’ll be going all out!
Sleepless in Seattle
For you urbanites out there, there’s no better place for a perfect Saturday than the Emerald City. We know we can’t suggest a single day’s itinerary that would please everyone, so forgive us if we don’t mention your must-dos.
Sure, maybe you’ve been to Pike Place Market, but have you actually tried what it has to offer? Get there before the crowds with this Early-Bird Tasting Tour of Pike Place Market, available on viator.com. It starts at 9 a.m., lasts about twohours, and takes you behind-the-scenes with a small group to taste everything from smoked salmon to local chocolate. continued on page 58...
Photo by Anne Godenham
Find a cafe and kick-back to enjoy some delicious coffee. For a certified classic experience, hit-up one of Caffe Vita’s locations, or Seattle’s oldest espresso bar, Cafe Allegro
Hit the streets for some shopping! Visit Seattle recommends the Ballard neighborhood “if you’re a boutique freak,” so go here if you like hip and quirky stand-out shops. For a classic and high-end shopping spree, the Downtown core and University District have got you covered with places like Nordstrom and Zara. We always make sure to head to Chinatown for Uwajimaya, a huge Asian market, and its encompassed Kinokuniya Bookstore.
For dinner, head back towards Pike Place Market and get ready for an experience at The Pink Door. This ItalianAmerican restaurant is, indeed, done-up in shades of “perfect … milky pink,” and presents live entertainment every evening that can range from trapeze to tarot. Don’t worry, you can see what show’s in store ahead of time when you’re making your reservation (which we highly recommend you do).
You could definitely call it there, but if you’re still going strong, Seattle’s night-life awaits you! From high-end cocktail experiences like Needle & Thread at Tavern Law to colorful bars like The Unicorn and multi-stage dancing at Kremwerk, there’s something for everyone.
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Adventure by Train
We’re lucky to have an Amtrak train stop at the multimodal Fairhaven Station in Bellingham and the Skagit Station in Mount Vernon. Amtrak train service connects us to Vancouver in the North and Seattle in the South. Hop onto an Amtrak Cascades train and head south, seeing gorgeous vistas and the Oregon Coast as you go (this route takes you as far as Eugene, Oregon). Board Amtrak’s Coast Starlight train in Seattle to travel in comfort and style, with delicious on-board food and the Sightseer Lounge car. If you want to head West, check out Amtrak’s Empire Builder, which can take you from Portland or Seattle across Washington and towards Chicago.
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Experience Salmon Days in Issaquah
Head south to experience the salmon festival that’s been going for 55 years! The festival’s many ‘spawnsors,’ vendors, and volunteers come together to feed, water (or beer), and entertain visitors with hundreds of artisan booths, live music, and the beloved Dock Dogs competition. Make sure to stop on the Issaquah Creek bridge to cheer on the salmon as they head home from the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery—and while you’re in the area, say hi to Jakob Two Trees, Issaquah’s 14-foot Thomas Dambo troll!
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Get Spooked
Visit some of the North Sound’s reportedly haunted spots! The Northern State Hospital in Sedro-Woolley, Sycamore Square in Fairhaven, and Mount Baker Theatre in downtown Bellingham are all surrounded by ghost stories, unexplained events, and sightings of repeat ‘visitors.’
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Movie Marathon
Movies are a unique artform, a visual storytelling experience that can make us laugh, cry, learn, and dream. Most of us have childhood favorites or comfort watches that can be restorative to revisit. For this 7Saturday, set up your perfect movie marathon den at home—we recommend pillows and blankets, low lighting, and snacks galore. Pickford Film Center recently revived Bellingham’s beloved movie archive, Film Is Truth 24 Times A Second, so check out the catalogue of more than 22,000 titles! Or, if you feel like having a movie marathon at the theatre, head to the Pickford on a Saturday in October for their annual documentary film fest, Doctober. You can take in up to four documentaries back-to-back.
Photo by Tyler Nelson
Photo by Tyler Nelson
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Aquariums and Zoos
A special visit to the zoo is a tried and true way to fill your weekend with some wonder! The Vancouver Aquarium is the largest aquarium in Canada (according to itself), and is home to over 65,000 animals big and small! Exhibits include Marine Mammal Rescue, Frogs Forever?, sea lions at Steller’s Bay, stingrays and blacktip reef sharks at The Tropics, and more. The Greater Vancouver Zoo spans 120 acres, with large animals like big cats, bears, and plains animals.The Seattle Aquarium is the ninth most-attended aquarium in the U.S., and opened its Ocean Pavilion expansion in August 2024 to be a “living classroom” on reef biodiversity. Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo
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Go Mad for Fall Foliage
Late September through the end of October is colloquially called “Larch Madness” here in the North Sound—more specifically, in the North Cascades, where Washingtonians flock to witness the strange phenomenon of color-changing conifers called larches. The mountains turn a vivid gold as the needlelike leaves on subalpine larches prepare to drop, and the effect is stunning. It’s well worth a drive east along Highway 20 for the best views.
is organized by “bioclimatic zones,” so you can visit animals in their African Savanna, Australasia, Living Northwest Trail, and Reptile Realms (among others). In the winter, when animals are tucked away somewhere safe and warm, they transform the zoo into a wonderful lighted experience called WildLanterns. For those who’d like a more laid-back experience, visit the Port of Bellingham’s Marine Life Center, a free-admission center that helps to educate and encourage stewardship of the Salish Sea. They’ve usually got some sea creatures and shells to learn about, plus a touch pool!
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Go Wine Tasting in Woodinville
Fancy a day of wine tasting in a stunning location that’s just far enough from home to feel like an adventure? Woodinville is your answer! Just 30 minutes northeast of Seattle, the valley is home to well-known wineries like Chateau Ste. Michelle and Goose Ridge Estate Winery as well as many smaller (but equally well-regarded) vineyards—more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms in all, representing every wine region in the state.
Photo by Anne Godenham
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All-Day Spa Day
For this perfect Saturday, all you have to do is bring yourself to Flow Motion in Ferndale and focus on healing and rejuvenation. With their “Bliss Out!” package you get a 3-hour spa pass for a self-guided exploration of their Himalayan salt cave, amethyst cave, infrared salt sauna, zero-gravity massage chairs, library, and relaxation lounge, which includes a hot tea bar. You’ll also have a halotherapy session in the salt cave, plus an additional healing massage or Vibrational Sound Therapy. Upon each visit, you’ll be provided with a luxury spa robe, towel, and sandals. To extend your spa day even further, consider a yoga class before or after your spa time! Flow Motion holds regular, hot, and aerial yoga classes.
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Sample Sweet Specialties in Lynden
Head north to the beautiful Dutch town of Lynden and take a day sampling the many treats available there! Of course, you’ll want to start at Lynden Dutch Bakery for classics like Dutch Boterkoek (Butter Cake) and Edaleen Dairy for their famously creamy ice cream, but don't sleep on Lesley's Baking Basics, a cottage bakery that serves up homemade bread, cinnamon rolls, and other delights right from the owner's front porch!
U-Pick Harvesting
Heading out to a farm or field and hand-harvesting a crop to take home is definitely a Washington go-to for a great Saturday. In summer, berries are ripe and ready for plucking. You’ll want to start looking for strawberries in June, raspberries in July, and blueberries and blackberries in August. There's the well-known Boxx Berry Farm and Barbie’s Berries in Ferndale. Bellingham Country Gardens grows berries, plus veggies and sunflowers! Late summer and fall means it’s time for apples and squash! Many u-pick farms will also be running fall festivals. Corn mazes, tractor rides and hayrides, fresh cider, markets, and even bonfires warming the crisp air make for perfect Saturdays in themselves. Bellewood Farms & Distillery is a go-to location in Lynden, and in Mount Vernon there’s Schuh Farms! Christianson’s Nursery & Greenhouse gets a shoutout for their Skagit Valley Giant Pumpkin Festival, which hosts a giant pumpkin weighoff every year! If you’ve never cut down your own Christmas tree, don’t be intimidated: the u-cut tree farms in our region
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Host a Weekend Party
Any weekend is a good weekend for a get-together! Why wait for an occasion when you can party anytime you want? Whether you’re throwing a garden party, dance party, costume party, cocktail, or dinner party, the prep is largely the same. Start your Saturday by transforming your space with decorations, mood lighting, and whatever else you need to perfect the vibe. Consider some fun party activities like karaoke, games, or even a photo booth! You can try creating one on your own, but professional partiers Glitt3r Lyfe and Oh Snap! Photo Booths would be happy to do it for you. and others have extra entertainment—Big Lake Trees in Skagit even brings in Mr. and Mrs. Clause for photos—but they’ll all have gorgeous, super fresh trees to choose from. Bundle up and bring the family to tromp through acres of trees and find your perfect one! Put out unique pastries from Iron Rooster Bakery or charcuterie from Hela Provisions, chill the drinks from Welcome Road Winery or Bloomhaven Bottle Shop, and get cooking if you’re hosting a luncheon or dinner. Finally, get all dressed up, whether that means dressing to the nines or getting into fresh PJs (pajama parties are never out of style).
are super beginnerfriendly and welcoming. They usually have saws you can borrow and will net the tree for you, and usually they’ll help you get it properly secured on your car if you need a hand. Some farms are more bare-bones and others have extra entertainment—Big Lake Trees in Skagit even brings in Mr. and Mrs. Clause for photos—but they’ll all have gorgeous, super fresh trees to choose from. Bundle up and bring the family to tromp through acres of trees and find your perfect one!
Photo by Anne Godenham
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Take a Ferry to a Day Trip Destination
Enjoying a ferry ride makes it on to many Washingtonians’ list of things to do on a perfect day. We love being whisked across the water in these hard-working boats. Many ferries have both inside and outside decks for passengers. Inside, there’s usually puzzles on the tables and snacks available. Outside, you can gather at the railing and look down to see the cold water breaking against the ship, or outwards towards your destination to see islands, coast, homes on the shoreline, and possibly sealife. Our ferries can take you to island communities like Eastsound and Friday Harbor, and port towns like the picturesque Port Townsend. Once you get there, your Saturday is your oyster!
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Bake Your Heart Out
Did you know that the prestigious King Arthur Baking offers culinary classes at two locations in the U.S., and one of them is right here in Burlington? King Arthur Flour's Baking School at The Bread Lab can teach you how to make everything from croissants and other laminated pastries to empanadas and fresh pasta—they even do a three-day British Baking class!
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Live it Up at the Casino
Our casinos are one-stop options for a perfect day filled with variety! For instance, at Swinomish Casino & Lodge, you can relax in your lovely room or suite, have fun gaming and sportsbook betting, have an excellent dining experience at 13moons, or enjoy the day on the green at Swinomish Golf Links!
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Warm up With Animal Snuggles
Love animals but don’t have the ability or desire to live with them full-time? In Bellingham, you can hang with furry friends on your own terms! Grab a coffee and a cuddle (if the cats deem you worthy) at NEKO: A Cat Cafe, where visitors can spend time with adoptable rescue cats of all ages. If you fall in love, don’t worry: they’re all adoptable! Whether you’re looking to play with a kitten—in which case your best bet is
‘kitten season,’ April-October—or curl up with a mellow old Tom, NEKO’s cats are here for you. If you’re more of a dog person, you’re in luck: Are You My Human Dog Rescue & Lounge is only a few blocks away. You can even check out their website to see the current lineup, in case you have specific pup preferences—they’re all guaranteed to be funny and sweet and lift your mood. Fair warning if you can’t have a dog in your home or think you don’t want a pet: all their residents are adoptable, and they’re likely to have some truly adorable puppies, so enter at your own risk! Want to hang with dogs in a more hands-off environment or avoid the temptation to take one home? Parks are always a good place to ‘meet’ other people’s dogs, but you can also grab a pint and watch the pups play at Paws for Beer in Fairhaven.
Visit Your Local Public Library Destination
Libraries are wonderful places to spend a day, with tons of resources on offer, and often different vibes based on the location. Libraries don’t just provide access to books, graphic novels, movies, and research materials, they also host community events like book clubs, crafting meetups, guest speakers, storytimes—the list is endless! One new, modern library that deserves a visit is the Mount Vernon Library Commons, opened in late 2024. Libraries tend to have surprises hidden around their corners—downstairs at the Bellingham Public Library Central Branch, there’s a rack of free magazines to dig through (that’s big for collagers and enjoyers of random articles like ourselves). 51 51
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Ring Out the Year Right! Destination
Finish the year strong with a refreshing winter day out on the water! If kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding sounds too cold (or the lake is iced over), bundle up and bring a hot drink to walk onboard the ferry—you can spend a day in one of the stops or just putter around the Salish Sea enjoying the view!
For even more ideas, check out our annual North Sound Life Guestbook and Welcome to Whatcom guide, and keep an eye on the Agenda in every issue of Bellingham Alive!
Photo by Anne Godenham
La Conner Public Library
FUN& CAMP GUIDE
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DIRECTORY
Anacortes Arts Festival
The 64th Anacortes Arts Festival is happening August 1-3! Boasting over 220 artisan booths, vibrant working studios, a stunning fine art exhibition, a hands-on youth discovery area, and 3 days of live music across 2 stages! Plus, indulge in delicious food, beer, and wine gardens throughout the festival! anacortesartsfestival.com
Anacortes Farmers Market
Flowers, Hot Food, Live Music, Artisan Goods, Handcrafted Items, Fresh Local Produce, Great Community, & more!
Saturdays May - October 9AM - 2PM
Depot Arts Center 611 R Ave, Anacortes anacortesfarmersmarket.org
Bellingham Bells
Junior Bells Developmental Program. Summer Camps and 2025 Summer Co-Ed Youth Baseball League. Now Enrolling. juniorbells.com
Bellingham Farmers Market
Discover fresh produce, handmade goods, and local flavors at the Bellingham Farmers Market—your go-to destination for summer fun and community! 1100 Railroad Ave, Bellingham 360.647.2060, bellinghamfarmers.org
Berry Dairy Days
Join the 88th Celebration at our new Skagit River Park location. June 20-22 2025 Free Admission and Events. Visit our website for a full festival schedule of events and locations. berrydairydays.com
Birch Bay Waterslides BACK FOR 2025 SUMMER SEASON! Newly remodeled slides
Concessions, gift shop and more. 4874 Birch Bay Lynden Dr., Birch Bay birchbaywaterslides.net
The C Shop
Counter-serve landmark candy shop along charming Birch Bay with homemade treats, taffy, ice cream, and saltwater taffy. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day! 4825 Alderson Road, Birch Bay
Coding and Robotics Club
Join Bellingham’s Coding and Robotics Club STEM camps for old-school fun and new-school smarts! Robots, coding, drones, makerspace, Legos, Minecraft, sports - ignite creativity. Sign up today!
Transform your child’s summer at Gabriel’s Art Kids Camp! Ages 2.5-16 explore painting, ceramics, and creative adventures across specialized programs. Register today! gabrielsartkids.com
Lang’s Horse and Pony Farm
Enjoy a relaxed family outing atop a horse in Mount Vernon. Lang’s also offers classes and other events in addition to trail rides by appointment.
21463 Little Mountain Rd, Mount Vernon 360.424.7630, comeride.com
Lutherwood Camp and Retreat Center
106 acres nestled on Lake Samish. Join us for faith-based retreats and summer programs. Welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and life experiences. camplutherwood.org 360.734.7652, office@camplutherwood.org
Marysville
Free family fun is our specialty! Marysville has it all this summer: outdoor concerts, movies and
Northwest Railway Museum
All aboard for a Day Out With Thomas with the Northwest Railway Museum. Come celebrate 80 years of Thomas & Friends! 425.888.3030 Ext. 7202, trainmuseum.org
North Sound Voices Film Fest
Real stories, real change. Join the very first North Sound Voices Film Fest and celebrate local films, culture, and grassroots action.
Touring locations in beautiful Washington state June 6th - August 3rd. June 6th - June 22nd under the Big Top Tent in Downtown Bellingham. shoestringcircus.com
Station 49 Family Entertainment
Go Karts * Mini Train Rides * 18 Hole Mini Golf * Arcade * Saloon & Smokehouse * Live Music
4620 Birch Bay Lynden Rd., Birch Bay station49.fun
WITH A NOD to the English countryside, this farmhouse design combines old and new, mixing modern pieces and antique furniture with rough-and-ready European elements that everyone is gravitating toward—a ‘hipstoric’ farmhouse with a curated maximalist style.
What is ‘hipstoric?’ It’s a recent industry buzzword for a place that's historic in nature and redesigned
to look hipster—or a place that's totally hipster and designed to look historic. For us, that clearly fits our modern farmhouse vibe with hints of industrial aesthetics.
You’ve probably heard the saying ‘stick to your roots’ or maybe ‘do what you do best’ or ‘be your authentic self.’ Well, we have not only heard these phrases—we are living them. All along we have believed that more is more! With
many layers, textures, ample accents and loads of art, our designs create warm, inviting, playful moments without going over the top, which we consider a curated maximalist style. One that prides itself on plenty of interest and vitality.
Our Countryside Equestrian Project boasts the trending rustic traditional direction. In line with the minimal maximalism trend and our established brand aesthetic, this kitchen design
showcases a somewhat monochromatic palette with off-white tones and an open floor plan with loads of light.
Our style includes rustic furniture and decor with an organic modern twist. Influences of history and nature, old and new, pairing client mementos with a contemporary chandelier for example. Layers and texture with comfy velvets, copper accents and bronzed patina. Points of interest with gallery walls and special pieces
Whenever we hear someone say this beloved style is on the way out, we remind them that this aesthetic is rooted in every approachable, balanced, organic, and causal room they see. This hipstoric kitchen is a perfect example of the flexibility and eternal nature of the modern farmhouse style.
showing signs of use. Classic yet cozy with earthy neutrals, not fussy but definitely luxe—think gold standard. Balancing our spaces with exposed beams, handcrafted dark wood surfaces, woodsy paint accents, leather upholstery and brass hardware will be our trademark. And as always, and very popular today, you will see a plethora of antiques and vintage pieces throughout our design plans. Think Modern Farmhouse!
Backyard Beekeeping
Northwest Apiary Services
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY TRISTYN MACDONALD
HAVE YOU EVER thought of providing local pollination from your own home?
Whether you want to hardly lift a finger or go all in and be one with the bees, Northwest Apiary Services makes this possible. Co-Founders Monica Burdette and Karly Kerr are beyond passionate about making beekeeping local, sustainable, and accessible.
Every county and city has different sets of rules to abide by when it comes to beekeeping, including Bellingham. Kerr and Burdette can provide an assessment of your land to determine what needs to be done to curate an environment where the bees will survive and thrive.
By renting a hive, you get an established colony for six months, with regular maintenance done for you. If you’re in Bellingham, you can rent single hives at $75 each per month; for the rest of Whatcom County, there’s a two-hive minimum. Benefits include honey and beeswax straight from your backyard, increased crop yields, and enrichment of your local ecosystem. Bees also produce propolis, which is largely medicinal. Northwest Apiary Services also offers full apiary installation, either leaving the maintenance to you or providing regularly scheduled service. Outside city limits, if your hives need maintenance, they require the homeowner to rent at least two. If you’re unable to host hives or don’t want one in your backyard but still want to strengthen local pollination, they offer the option to adopt a hive. Those who adopt a hive will still receive their very own honey harvest!
What caused Kerr and Burdette to join forces was their shared philosophy for holistic beekeeping. They don’t use chemical treatments on their hives and only intervene when absolutely necessary. This means they spend a lot of time with the colonies to make sure everyone is in line. Education is the main goal of Northwest Apiary Services; they’re always encouraging
customers to be as hands-on as they are comfortable with.
“If you want to buy a bee suit, while we're there [doing maintenance] you can look over our shoulder to see what's going on. The more people that learn the skill, the better,” says Burdette.
By getting the hives in the hands of our community, we can blanket the county with these little pollinators that haul a big weight. Bees only typically fly within a two-mile radius, which is not very far! Meaning the more bees the better, especially in a time when their population is struggling. They are greatly beneficial in many ways but often get pinned as bad guys because of the fear they instill among people.
“I have never been stung by any of my bees. The only time [Burdette] has been stung is when she's doing something that is kind of upsetting to them,” says Kerr.
Just like us, they’re only trying to survive. One of the many things
Burdette loves about her bees is their ever-changing habits and personalities. It always keeps her on her toes and she, of course, has her favorite bee children.
Even if you don’t have the means to own bees, there are smaller ways to help your local bee population thrive. You can purchase mason bee tubes, leave your garden a bit messier so they can house themselves in your leaf litter, and plant native species that can host bees—even if it’s just a potted plant on your patio. Got a swarm? Don’t spray them! Northwest Apiary offers free swarm removal, and they’ll even reward your kindness with your choice of honey or beer.
Kerr and Burdette always hope to spark people’s interest in bees and occasionally host educational opportunities, which you can find more information about on their social media pages or by phone. Bellingham, 360.389.6530, IG @ northwest_apiary_services, Facebook @Northwest Apiary Services
Sonnette™ Roller Shade
Finding Your Perfect Feeder
THIS SPRING, DON’T forget your favorite feathered friends. Blue Jays? Finches? Hummingbirds? We’ve got a selection to meet their—and your—needs. Explore these options, local and online, to find the perfect bird feeder for you!
MORGAN MERRIAM
Whatcom: (360) 318-0604 San Juan: (360) 468-3278 King: (206) 546-5336
1 Hand Blown Glass Hummingbird Feeders ceramicdarrell, $54 etsy.com
5 Smart Bird Feeder Burlington Country Store, $180 1276 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.757.4055, countrystore.net
Robin Ekloff Owner
Legoe Bay Reefnetter 85
Union Block Bistro 86
Spring Spot Prawn & Asparagus Risotto 92
Photo by Anne Godenham
Mixing Family and Business for Delicious Results
Hedlin’s Family Farm
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM
FARMING, SPECIFICALLY ON the La Conner land his family has owned for four generations, has always been in Kai Ottesen’s blood. But that doesn’t mean he always planned on being a farmer.
“I’d just graduated with a degree in English Literature from the University of Alaska Southeast but had been down here to the farm pretty much every summer of my life,” Ottesen says. “I saw a lot of issues, connecting around land use, around where our food came from as I graduated…and farming made as much sense as anything…So I came down here to work the summer, work a season, and see how I felt about it.”
And that’s when he met his wife, Jules Riske. Riske studied agriculture and knew she wanted to farm longterm—if she could make it work
financially. She was farming full-time with Anne Schwartz at Blue Heron Farm that summer when Ottesen was seeing how he felt; the pair met at the Mount Vernon farmers market, when Riske was snooping on the competition’s tomato prices.
“We started having farm swap dates,” Riske says, “because neither of us had any extra time. And so I came down to the farm here and we spent an afternoon pruning cucumbers, and then he came up to the farm I was working on and he spent an afternoon slaughtering chickens.”
Eventually they found time to go on ‘real dates,’ but the relationship was forged in farming, and it was clear from the start that this was more than a summer fling.
“I remember being really frustrated that I had met Kai,” Riske says with a wry smile, “I knew right away that it seemed kind of serious, and I didn’t
Photo courtesy of Hedlin’s Family Farm
Photo by Anne Godenham
want to move and he was tied to the family land, and so I was really grumpy for a few weeks.”
Ottesen’s ties to the family land have always been nonnegotiable, whether or not he was interested in actually tilling the generational soil.
“There was never any pressure on us kids to go into farming,” he says, “but there was the expectation that whatever we chose to do in life, we would be good stewards of the family land.”
Ottesen’s Danish great-grandfather Rasmus Koudal moved to the Skagit Valley in 1906, and the land he purchased has stayed in the family. When Dave Hedlin and Serena Campbell, Ottesen’s uncle and aunt, took over the farm in the 1970s, they initially focused on growing hybrid cabbage for seed, peas for frozen processing, cucumbers for pickling, and fresh market cauliflower. As the markets and industries they were working within began to consolidate, the couple began to add more direct-to-consumer offerings. They built the now-iconic roadside stand right off the roundabout as you drive into La Conner and sold strawberries, sweet corn, and greenhouse tomatoes to local customers.
When Ottesen began working for his aunt and uncle, he was mostly on the sales side, running farmers market stalls and managing business relationships.
“My farming trajectory kind of grew up with the farm,” he says, explaining that as the organic fresh market grew, so did his involvement with the farming side.
That was 17 years ago, Ottesen points out—nearly two decades of hands-on farming and business experience, plus Riske’s years of experience working in the seed and organic farming program industries, and a graduate degree in business management from Presidio Graduate School for Ottesen. All of which aided the couple’s decision and ability to lease the farm stand from Hedlin and Campbell for a trial year in 2023, and then to make the leap to starting the transition process in earnest.
Photo by Anne Godenham
Photo by Anne Godenham
“We’ve taken tons of different courses on farm business, farm finances, marketing, HR—all kinds of stuff,” Riske says.
“The largest stumbling block for new and beginning farms is finding that land base to operate on,” Ottesen points out. “So we recognize the privilege we had in that respect. And so it was a matter of having that background to take a run at it that trial year, to see that there was enough growth potential in that business to make it profitable.”
After they decided that they wanted to take over, it was time to figure out how to structure that transition.
“[There were] so many meetings,” Riske says, “so so many—and we’re not done. There’s many meetings ahead of us, because we’re in a slow, rolling transition. Some farms, they transition and it’s done. They buy the whole thing. We’re more complicated, because they are not ready to be done farming yet, and we’re not ready for them to be done farming yet. And so we utilize resources between us that help both farms be sustainable and profitable, but also kind of keep everything stable for our employees, keep equipment functioning, [and] keep markets stable.”
The two families are making the transition one step—and one crop—at a time. Hedlin and Campbell continue to own and operate Hedlin Farms, and at the end of each crop cycle they sit down with Riske and Ottesen and let them know which crops, if any, they no longer want to grow. Then the younger generation purchases the crops that fit in with their business, Hedlin’s Family Farm, which includes the farm stand and also sells into restaurants and retailers through Puget Sound Food Hub. The two businesses share resources and wisdom, and they also have a non-compete agreement to ensure their business activities remain complementary to one another; they both produce organic wholesale produce, but they grow different crops, and Hedlin Farms continues to produce seed crops, grain, transplants, and greenhouse crops as well.
“We’re all here where we are today because Dave and Serena took
Photo by Anne Godenham
Photo by Anne Godenham
Photo by Anne Godenham
the farm and innovated and adapted to the markets and conditions and opportunities that they saw,” Ottesen says. “The thing that undergirds it all is that sense of stewardship and that sense of shared values.”
“I think as long as we continue the family philosophy on soil health, land health, environmental health, sustainability,” Riske says, “those are all things we consider as we make each farm decision, each purchase decision. And we can’t always do the best thing, but we’re always trying to get as close as we can.”
“As Dave likes to say,” Ottesen adds, “‘we’re just trying to make new mistakes every day.’”
So far, the results are delicious. The farm stand heaves with bright, beautiful produce every summer, in addition to a selection of products from outside vendors.
“We carry largely what we like to eat,” says Ottesen, “things that complement what we’re already doing, right? So if we’ve got Hedlin Farms tomatoes in there, and lettuce, it makes sense to have the [Water Tank Bakery] bread, and if we can find a local bacon…it lets us be not just a flagship for our own farm, but a flagship for the valley, for what’s what’s grown here and made here, and it’s really a privilege to be able to kind of show that off to locals and to visitors.”
Hedlin’s Family Farm’s La Conner roadside stand is open from late May through the end of October. 12052 Chilberg Rd., La Conner, hedlinfarms.com
Photo by Anne Godenham
Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita
Red Star Taco Bar, $12
Ingredients: Jalapeño-infused blanco tequila, blackberry jam, lime, and a salt and Tajín-rimmed glass
ACOLD WINTER'S NIGHT, a warm summer’s day, tequila and blackberry have come to say hey.
The Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita from Red Star Taco Bar is clean, refreshing, and sharp. In a short crystal glass over ice, the cool, lightpurple color gets darker as you drink, thanks to the settling of blueberry jam.
While drinking, a low, slow burn of spice dances around the back of your mouth and the front of your throat—moves like molasses, pinching and poking. A mix of tajín and salt hugs the rim of the glass like glitter. And when you’re finished, if you’re feeling brave, the bright green slice of jalapeño provides a final kick of spice. 1327 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.919.3665, redstartacobar.com
WILLIAM MORTON
Stretching Your Herbs to Last Through the Year
WRITTEN BY MORGAN MERRIAM
A Worry-Free Way to Wet Your Whistle
Beverages by Boel
WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM
“IKNOW WE GIVE people the gift of time, because we’re experts in putting together the beverage part of people’s special events,” says Boel Laxfoss, owner and operator of Beverages by Boel. Through her beverage catering company, Boel not only provides custom cocktails and mocktails, wine, beer, coffee, hydration stations, all the accouterments like ice, cups, napkins, and portable bars—she bartends, too!
Beverages by Boel began in 2008 when Boel gifted her bartending services to a friend, then worked 32 weddings the following summer. In the nearly 20 years since, she’s grown her business through word of mouth, and has “a team of four amazing people” who assist based on event size.
“It’s just a joyful, happy experience,” says Boel about why she loves her business. “I enjoy the people, and helping them get more time with their family and friends.”
Going into 2025, Laxfoss had three goals: to focus on sustainability, to continue to support local businesses, and to expand to a full-service beverage catering model. Being full-service means never having to deal with “little hiccups” like someone’s tardy “Uncle Bob, who was supposed to bring the keg at 2 o’clock.” Now, everything pertaining to the beverages at your event is included in Boel’s service packages, including libations from breweries, cideries, and distilleries local to Whatcom.
Boel caters tons of weddings in the summer, plus breakfast meetings, special occasions, and other events year-round. In July, they’ll be at Race Week, a 4-day sailing event that moved from Anacortes to Bellingham this year. Swing by for a Dark ’N’ Stormy and tell Laxfoss we sent you! beveragesbyboel.com
Get a Dehydrator
A fan favorite option for preserving herbs is drying, for which there are plenty of strategies. A food dehydrator can work especially well for herbs with short stems like sage. Just place in a single layer and set the temperature to 95-115 degrees for 1-4 hours, depending on your dehydrator.
Use the Microwave!
If you’re looking for a quick way to dry your herbs, a high-wattage microwave can do the trick for leaves like parsley and basil. Herbs should be spread in a single layer and sandwiched between paper towels. Pop ‘em in for 2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until dry.
Photo by William Morton
Small But Mighty: Local Seafood Truck on Lummi Island
Legoe Bay Reefnetter
WRITTEN BY TRISTYN MACDONALD
LEGOE BAY REEFNETTER has been operating for around two years and is a one-man operation run by Kevin Castellanos. Though the menu is short, it will not fall short of your expectations.
Coming from Guayaquil, Ecuador, where the salmon had to be imported, Castellanos says, “I think maybe one or two times I tasted it, but it never was this flavor.”
The salmon and halibut Castellanos uses here are caught in Legoe Bay with reef nets at Salish Center for Sustainable Fishing Methods. It’s cooked fresh and served with perfectly crunchy fries. The chowder is sourced from the same place as Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Riley Starks, executive director of the Salish Center, worked with Castellanos to get the food truck established. The tribes on Lummi Island have a long history of using reef nets, an eco-friendly method for fishing and their connection to the bay is undying.
Castellanos has gained community, new experiences, and gotten to share his passion with others.
“Knowledge is power,” he says. “It changed all my perspective on my life. I never expected to go away from home and I had to. All of this is really special. I love it.”
The food truck is stationed right next to The Islander grocery store and gift shop. It can also be found at the Bellingham Dockside Market at Squalicum Harbor on the first and third Saturday of each month. 2106 S. Nugent Rd., Lummi Island, 360.296.2105, legoebayreefnetter.com
The Classic: Oven-Drying
In addition to using a tool almost everyone has, oven-drying is also the preferred method for bay leaf and mint. Just wash ‘em up and spread in a single layer before placing them into an oven preheated to a low heat. Check and stir periodically during a 2-4 hour dry time.
Freeze Thyme
Freezing is another great option for preserving herbs in the long term. Once you’ve gathered your herbs, chop into smaller pieces. Then, add to an ice cube tray and fill with water. Store in an airtight container, and these cubes are perfect for any sauce or soup in the making!
Make an Infusion
To prepare your infused oil or vinegar, select your favorite herb and lots of it. Clean, chop if necessary, and place in a sterilized bottle. Add a neutral oil or a mild vinegar and allow your infusion to take place somewhere cool and dark for 2-plus weeks before straining.
Photo courtesy of Kevin Castellanos
Photo by Tristyn MacDonald
Photo by Tristyn MacDonald
New Bistro Opens in Historic Mount Vernon Building
Union Block Bistro
WRITTEN BY WILLIAM MORTON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEIDI HURR
UPON ENTERING THE
Union Block Bistro, you’re immediately greeted by a friendly face. The Union Block Bistro is homey. The interior boasts a variety of colors, from lime green to black to ‘80s-disco-teal; the painted-over brick walls reflect the stories and age of the 1906 building. Although the features of the room are hard, the lighting is softened by the white linen cloth hanging over the long fluorescent lights above.
Heidi Herr, the owner of Union Block Bistro, takes locally-sourced food seriously. She tries to adhere to what she refers to as “super hyperlocal ordering,” sourcing ingredients from places as close by as she can find: Watertown Bakery, Puget Sound Food Hub, Earthly Gourmet, and, occasionally, Costco.
“That’s kinda my whole schtick here,” Herr says, expanding on how we vote with our dollars, and how supporting the local economy is a way to gain fiscal independence. Additionally, locally-sourced goods sometimes act as an insulation from national shortages; Herr is currently on the lookout for a local egg supplier.
This hyper-local sourcing causes the menu to be dependent on what is available around the area. For example, Herr explains, avocado toast is pretty hard to make because avocados are not native to the area. That’s where she got the inspiration for the Union Block Bistro’s mushroom toast. “It’s the Skagit version of avocado toast,” she says.
Herr was a business owner in the Seattle area’s food industry for 30 years, owning two restaurants and a catering business. In 2020, she sold both businesses and moved up to Mount Vernon, where she eventually fell into buying the space for the Union Block Bistro.
The bistro officially opened in December 2024. The previous occupant had been a restaurant as well, so moving in was pretty easy, but there’s been a lot of updating and cleaning needed. Additionally, December can be a difficult time for local businesses to open. The holidays, paired with shorter and darker days, sometimes curb public interest, according to Herr. On the bright side, the slow start has given Herr ample time to decorate, clean, and prepare the bistro for the expected rise in springtime diners.
The bistro has also been a welcomed addition to the Mount Vernon area. After Herr joined the Chamber of Commerce, they held a formal ribbon-cutting event, complete with the obligatory ergonomically oversized scissors, to celebrate the bistro’s opening.
On Sundays, the bistro hosts what they call a crafternoon—an event where members of the community can
come together and work on craft projects. People congregate in the corner of the large bistro and, through chatter and food, work on various craft-related projects. Herr hopes to continually promote community connection, considering the future potential for open mic nights, music events, and more.
The Union Block Bistro is open from Thursday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 614 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.389.1664, unionblockbistro.com
Bar Guide
Special Advertising Section
Southside Bar
1323 11th St, Bellingham, WA 98225 drinkatthesouthside.com
Located in historic Fairhaven, Southside Bar is here to serve you. Join us from Happy Hour to Late night any day of the week and you will find a welcoming atmosphere full of lively people, great drinks, and classic hospitality. Stop by, grab a drink, and you will see why our motto is “welcome home.”
Hours
Sun-Thurs: 3pm–12am | Fri-Sat: 3pm–1am
Happy Hour
Sun: All Day Happy Hour | Mon-Thurs: 3–6pm
McKay’s Taphouse & Pizzeria
1118 Maple St., Bellingham, 360.647.3600 McKaysTaphouse.com
Serving up bold flavors, a big variety of brews, and a welcoming vibe, we’ve been Bellingham’s go-to taphouse and pizzeria for years. With plenty of options to satisfy every craving, pull up a chair, grab a slice, and enjoy the best of the neighborhood. Cheers!
Hours
Sun-Thurs: 11am–2am | Fri-Sat: 11am–3am
Happy Hour
Mon-Thurs: 3–6pm
Jacks Bar
219 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225 drinkatjacksbar.com
In the heart of downtown Bellingham Jack’s Bar offers a modern twist on timeless charm. We host a menu of thoughtfully curated cocktail classics and inventive contemporary libations. Jack’s is the go-to spot for quality pours in a relaxed environmentwhatever your preference, we offer something for everyone.
Hours
Sun-Thurs: 5pm–12am | Fri-Sat: 5pm–2am
Happy Hour
Sun-Thurs: 5–7pm
The Score Sports Bar & Grill
2030 Main St. Ferndale, WA 98248, 360.392.0350 thescoredowntown.com
Welcome to The Score Sports Bar & Grill, Whatcom County’s newest place to watch your favorite games! Highlights include an extensive and varied elevated bar menu, an assortment of local craft beer and spirits, and 13 TV’s to watch ALL the sporting events. Come check The Score!
Menu items and prices are subject to change, so check before you go. See all our restaurant reviews on our Taste tab at bellinghamalive.com
* Review provided by restaurant. WHATCOM
If you’ve been to Carnal in downtown Bellingham, you know meat is their forte. For even more protein-forward goodness, head to the restaurant’s burger offshoot, Accomplice, located right next door. Originally created as a destination for casual takeout during the pandemic, the space was remodeled to include a quirky dining area plus a variety of sandwiches and house-made sauces.
AMBO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Ethiopian
902 N. State St., Bellingham 360.756.1627, amboethiopian.com
If you’ve never had Ethiopian food before, get ready you’re in for a treat. Ambo has something to offer meat eaters and vegans alike, and it’s the best kind of comfort food: Hearty, healthy, and warming on a soul-deep level.
ANTHONY’S
HEARTHFIRE GRILL
Steak, Seafood
7 Bellwether Way, Bellingham
360.527.3473, anthonys.com
The Hearthfire menu speaks to the everyday eater, not just the special occasion treat of Anthony’s. Seasonal items, such as peaches or huckleberries in the summer, complement salads, entrees, and drinks. Steaks, seafood, and items on the Woodfire rotisserie round out the selections.
ASHURI BAKLAVA AND CAFE
Turkish
103 Grand Ave., Bellingham 360.318.3030, ashuri.co
Ashuri Baklava and Cafe is introducing Bellingham residents to the traditional Turkish coffeehouse experience strong coffee, decadent pastries, and a place to enjoy good company. The owners, brothers Kristofer and Lukas Konutgan, were both born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey. They opened the shop as a way to create a space that felt a bit like home.
AVENUE BREAD & DELI Deli
1313 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 1135 11th St., Bellingham 2301 James St., Bellingham 444 Front St., Lynden 360.715.3354, avenuebread.com
With several convenient locations in Bellingham and a location in Lynden, Avenue Bread is a favorite lunch spot for many. Fresh ingredients make these sandwiches unusually good the bread is made by their bakers, and the vegetables and meat are all of the highest quality. Avenue Bread also offers some of the freshest, tastiest breakfast sandwiches around.
B-TOWN
KITCHEN AND RAW BAR
Seafood, American 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com
If fresh shellfish is your gastronomic highlight, you’re in the right place at B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar. Items from the Small Plates menu make terrific appetizers or adult-beverageworthy snacks. The heated patio provides an urban vibe suited for parties or gatherings.
Cold press juices make up the bulk of the menu at Big Love Juice. However, these aren’t your average juices. Big Love Juice uses a hydraulic press, rather than the traditional high-heat methods that eliminate much of the vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. Customers looking for something a little heartier
can also pick from a multitude of smoothies, soups, salads, bowls, and loaded toasts.
Tucked away in the heart of Fairhaven, this iconic Bellingham eatery serves up craft cocktails and American fusion eats on the third floor of the Sycamore Square building. Come for happy hour and stay for the delicious food and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
CULTURE CAFÉ Eclectic
210 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.746.6558, kombuchatown.com
This inviting, comfortable place gained a reputation for its all-natural, craft kombucha but it also offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Most items are prepared in-house, and the menu reflects a great deal of care and integrity, served by authentic and accommodating employees in a communal space that offers karaoke, board games, and live music.
You’ll be taking a personal trip to the islands when you bite into Fairhaven Poke’s poke bowl concoction. The iconic raw fish, doused in a unique blend of sauces, along with a variety of other topping options are piled onto a bed of homemade sushi rice or salad. Customers then garnish their bowls with additional condiments such as furikake, a Japanese nori seasoning.
FAT SHACK American
414 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8752, fatshack.com
Fat Shack offers a variety of burgers, wings, and their specialty: densely packed sandwiches. The typical “fat” sandwich is some combination of grilled steak and fried chicken, along with cheese and a host of sides, all pressed inside a fresh hoagie roll. It is not for the meek, or for someone looking for a salad bar. Along with its unapologetic embrace of deep-fried food, Fat Shack serves up some surprises. Its hamburgers are handpressed, hand-seasoned, and never frozen.
JACK NIEMANN’S BLACK FOREST
STEAKHOUSE German, Steak
638 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine 360.306.8342
Black Forest Steakhouse offers a versatile dining experience. It’s fancy enough for special
occasions, anniversaries, and graduation celebrations, but it’s also a place you’ll want to go to any day. Black Forest cooks their steaks different than most other steakhouses: They broil them in a 1,600-degree oven, leaving the meat tender and flavorful.
Head to Maple.Bar for a cozy-yet-cool atmosphere, great coffee, and perfectlysized donuts. Try the Maple.Bar Signature latte, a maple latte with a deep, authentic flavor and no hint of sickly sweetness. If you really want to go all out, add one of their eponymous Maple Bars, or choose another flavor of donut– they’re all small, almost beignet-sized, squares of fluffy deliciousness.
MCKAY’S TAPHOUSE & PIZZERIA American 1118 Maple St., Bellingham, 360.647.3600
McKaysTaphouse.com
McKay’s Taphouse and Pizzeria is located in the Sehome neighborhood tucked away on the curve of Maple St & Samish Way. We offer 50 rotating taps of beers, ciders and wines. We also offer over 30 canned/ bottled options for dine in or to go. We have a family atmosphere, so everyone is welcome.
RIFUGIO’S COUNTRY ITALIAN CUISINE
Italian
5415 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming 360.592.2888, ilcafferifugio.com
Rifugio’s brings fine dining to the “wilderness.” Fifteen miles out on Mount Baker Highway, just past Deming, sits a funky old cafe that has been transformed into an oasis for foodies and coffee-lovers alike. Menu items befit their Italian name and the dinner menu changes weekly, begging for a second trip. A small covered deck with colorful lanterns sits adjacent to the dining room for your al fresco pleasure. Just beyond, in a meadow, sits a red deck used as a stage and centerpiece for special dinners under the stars.
SCOTTY BROWNS American Cuisine
3101 Newmarket St., Suite 201, Bellingham 360.306.8823
scottybrownsrestaurant.com
Scotty Browns offers an edgy, energetic ambiance, a varied menu of mainstream and upscale creations, and excellent drink options for all ages. Outdoor dining is a popular option during warmer weather. Some items on the menu, like appetizers, change seasonally, so you know you’ll never get bored. Casual to upscale dining options range from hamburgers, rice bowls, and pastas to higher-end seafood and steaks.
Niccolo Coturri’s High Diving Sparkling 2023
COURTESY OF CHRISTY WYBLE AND JORDAN KOPLOWITZ, OWNERS OF STARLA’S IN BELLINGHAM
PRODUCER: NICCOLO COTURRI
WINE: HIGH DIVING SPARKLING 2023
GRAPES: MADELEINE ANGEVINE AND SIEGERRBE FROM LOPEZ ISLAND VINEYARDS
WE LOVE THESE wines from our friends at Lopez Island Vineyards—they’re some of the only natural wines being made in Washington state. Nic and Tess farm this organic vineyard themselves on Lopez Island, using no preservatives or chemicals in the winery and doing everything as sustainably and regeneratively as possible.
This wine is sparkly, aromatic, and zesty, with notes of grapefruit and elderflowers. We love it with apero, pizza, or just by itself!
Just flying through? Grab a bite at their second location inside Bellingham International Airport.
SLO-PITCH SPORTS GRILL AND CASINO
3720 Meridian St., Bellingham 360.733.2255, slopitchcasino.com
Conveniently located right on Meridian, SloPitch serves up a great burger and fries. With excellent happy hour specials in a casual, sports atmosphere, Slo-Pitch is a great place to watch the game or take a midday break.
SUGAR
& CO. American
1210 11th Street, Bellingham
360.392.8738, EatSugarandCo.com
Sugar & Co. is an American Bistro in historic Fairhaven that blends familiar comfort foods with unexpected flavors and high-quality ingredients— classic dishes with a creative twist and a touch of sophistication. With outstanding service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for a casual night out or a special occasion.*
This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Prime-grade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. They also have an extensive wine list. This dining experience rivals any of the big-town steakhouses in quality and service without the big-city price tag.
TASTE
OF INDIA Indian
3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.647.1589, tasteofindiabellingham.com
At Taste of India, all the dishes are rich, delicious, and authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Taste of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite and well-developed flavors. For those unsure of what to order, or those who want to try multiple dishes at once, try the lunch buffet.
TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar
306 W. Champion St.,Bellingham 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com
Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please. In between delicious bites made from locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house-made infusions and bitters.
UNDERGROUND BURGER American
8114 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden undergroundburgers.com
If you’re craving a classic burger experience, Underground Burger offers delicious, affordable burgers made from locally raised, certified Angus beef. The restaurant began as a virtual kitchen based out of Jake’s BBQ, but quickly expanded into a permanent spot where you can order dine-in or to-go. Round out your meal with waffle fries and a chocolate shake.
Wake ‘N Bakery is a staple rest stop along Mount Baker Highway. If you’re in need of a sweet treat and hot coffee to bring the feeling back to your numb fingers, this will fit the bill. Whether you’re traveling to or from the mountain, watch for its signs as you pass through Glacier the cafe is about a block off the highway.
Bellinghamsters who love Thai know the name Wanida! Now with two locations, Wanida Thai serves up authentic Thai food from appetizers, soups, noodles, curries, and stir-fry. Whether you’re satisfying a craving with Phad Thai or trying something fresh like their Papaya Salad, you won’t be disappointed by their menu.
SKAGIT
13MOONS AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE Seafood, Steak
Located on the waterfront within the casino, 13moons is sure to catch your attention. The menu offers a wide variety including first plates, entree salads, seafood, and steaks. Give this go-to place for locals a try and you will be walking away satisfied.
A’Town Bistro’s careful sourcing of ingredients, creative approach to food and drinks, and comfortable atmosphere are why it’s about to become your new go-to restaurant. Pair your meal with something off the ever-changing cocktail menu. Bitters, shrubs, and syrup are made in-house and the creative cocktails
are composed by staff or sourced from a collection of vintage bartending books.
On the Bastion Brewing Company menu you’ll find classic salads, an array of interesting burgers, and crispy chicken wings drenched in your choice of sauce. Food arrives impressively quick, and even more impressive is the quality of the food.
BOB’S CHOWDER BAR & BBQ SALMON
Seafood, American 3320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.8000, bobschowderbarandbbqsalmon.com
Treasured for its fresh and local seafood, Bob’s Chowder Bar & BBQ Salmon has long been a favorite dining destination in Anacortes. The restaurant specializes in all-things seafood, from fried calamari to oyster burgers and grilled wild prawns. Pair your meal with a huckleberry or sarsaparilla soda, wine by the glass, hard cider, bottled beer, or a featured beer on tap.
FORTUNE MANDARIN Chinese, Mandarin 1617 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.428.1819, fortunemandarin.com
Tea warmed over a candle, delicious drinks with a slight exotic twist, tender and flavorful meat, and vegetables cooked to perfection are expected at this peaceful bar and restaurant with Chinese decor. The owner and staff remember regular patrons, creating a sense of community alongside mouth-watering food.
NELL THORN Seafood
116 1st St., La Conner, 360.466.4261, nellthorn.com
Nell Thorn is seafood-heavy, so trying one of their seafood dishes is a must. Their daily specials take into account the freshest catches, but you’ll also typically find a seafood pasta, filet-topped salad, and oysters on the menu.
THE OYSTER & THISTLE RESTAURANT & PUB Seafood, Steak
205 E. Washington St., La Conner 360.766.6179, theoysterandthistle.com
The Oyster & Thistle Restaurant and Pub takes the time to prepare food with care. Their pastas are handmade and hand-cranked using semolina flour and an egg-rich dough. You’ll also find plenty of fresh, expertly shucked oysters and perfectly seared sea scallops.
The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive is perched among towering conifers above the oyster beds. Housed in a structure dating from the 1920s that has survived many incarnations, the restaurant owes its reputation to its remote, quintessentially Pacific Northwest setting. But people don’t dine at The Oyster Bar for its location alone. While oysters are the signature offering, The Oyster Bar offers a variety of other fine-dining choices and is known for its extensive wine cellar.
4 HOURS TO HAPPY
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SOUTHSIDE BAR
SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR Japanese
1830 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.588.4281, sakuraburlington.com
Professional Teppanyaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse. Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice, and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar.
SHAMBALA BAKERY & BISTRO American
614 S. 1st Ave., Mount Vernon 360.588.6600, shambalabakery.com
Crack open Shambala Bakery and Bistro’s menu to find all-day breakfast options and an array of sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and lighter fare items such as quiche and soup. Their daily specials take advantage of what’s in season.
TAQUERIA LA BAMBA Mexican
2222 Riverside Dr., Ste. 850, Mount Vernon 360.424.0824
Off the road and inside a small plaza sits a little gem a family-run, low-key Mexican restaurant. Taqueria La Bamba offers authentic taco truck food in a sit-down restaurant. The salsas are spicy, full of flavor, and made in-house. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food at a low price, eat here and you won’t be disappointed.
ISLAND COUNTIES
CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN American
2072 Captain Whidbey Inn Rd., Coupeville 360.678.4097, captainwhidbey.com
The entire menu features down-to-earth items that are reasonably priced, locally sourced, and well-balanced. While the inn does serve as a special-occasion spot, folks dressed in
2
Located in historic Fairhaven, Southside Bar is here to serve you. Join us from Happy Hour to Late night any day of the week and you will find a welcoming atmosphere full of lively people, great drinks, and classic hospitality. Stop by, grab a drink, and you will see why our motto is “welcome home.”
Happy Hour: Sunday: All Day Happy Hour Monday - Thursday 3-6pm 1323 11th St, Bellingham drinkatthesouthside.com
AMENDMENT 21
Amendment 21, located inside Hotel Leo, brings a prohibition-era vibe to the heart of downtown Bellingham with expertly crafted cocktails, a lively atmosphere, and rich history. Enjoy Jazz Brunch with live music every Saturday and Sunday, weekly Friday night live music, daily Happy Hour, and special events—always served up with a perfect pour.
WRITTEN BY MATTHEW BOUDOUSQUIE | PHOTOS BY ANNE GODENHAM
MAY IN THE Pacific Northwest is a time of abundance— farmers markets overflow with vibrant produce, and the Salish Sea offers some of the freshest seafood imaginable. One of the reasons I fell in love with this region is the unparalleled access to high-quality local ingredients—some of the best I’ve ever cooked with. Whether meeting farmers in the field or picking up seafood straight from the docks, sourcing ingredients is as much a passion as cooking itself.
This month, I’m sharing a dish that celebrates the season: Spring Prawn & Asparagus Risotto with Sugar Snap Peas & Pea Tendrils. Fresh, creamy, and comforting yet light enough for a spring evening, this dish brings together everything I love about this time of year—locally harvested spot prawns, crisp asparagus, and sweet snap peas.
Spring Prawn & Asparagus Risotto (Serves 4)
Ingredients
1 pound large spot prawns, peeled & deveined
1 cup arborio rice
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup dry white wine
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed & cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed & halved
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon lemon zest
¼ cup fresh pea tendrils, for garnish
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
• Warm the broth: Heat broth in a small saucepan over low heat; keep warm.
• Sauté the prawns: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over mediumhigh heat. Season prawns with salt and pepper, then cook for 1-2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside.
• Start the risotto: Add butter and the remaining olive oil to the same pan. Sauté shallot and garlic until soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in arborio rice and toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly translucent.
• Deglaze with wine: Pour in white wine, stirring until absorbed.
• Slowly add broth: Ladle in warm broth one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Let the rice absorb each addition before adding more. Repeat for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender. Add vegetables: Stir in asparagus and sugar snap peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Finish the dish: Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in Parmesan, heavy cream (if using), lemon zest, and the sautéed prawns. Adjust seasoning.
• Garnish & serve: Plate the risotto and top with fresh pea tendrils. Serve immediately.
Chef’s Tip:
For extra depth, make a homemade shrimp stock using prawn shells. A final drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice elevates the dish beautifully. Finish with flaky Maldon sea salt. I also recommend serving this risotto alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed with extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, and sea salt. A crisp Chablis makes the perfect pairing.
Meet Chef Matthew
I’m Chef Matthew Boudousquie, a New Orleans native who has called Bellingham home on and off since childhood. My journey in hospitality started in Louisiana and Georgia, flourished here and on Orcas Island, and led me back to New Orleans before returning to the Pacific Northwest for good. My love for farm-to-table cooking runs deep, and I’ve been fortunate to build relationships with local farmers and fishers who shape my approach to food.
These days, I’ve embarked on a new adventure—real estate—partnering with my wife, Kerri, as brokers with Compass Real Estate. While I’ve stepped away from restaurant kitchens,
my passion for food remains strong. Now, I focus on teaching, consulting, and offering exclusive private chef services. You can find my cooking classes at the Community Food Co-op, or reach out to talk about food, sourcing ingredients, or even real estate—I give both the same level of detail and care.
shorts and a T-shirt are also welcomed. Built in 1907, Captain Whidbey Inn is a historical gem.
DOE BAY CAFÉ American
107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga 360.376.8059, doebay.com
Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular Doe Bay Café. This iconic cafe has stuck to its mission of providing world-class seafood and vegetarian dishes.
FRIDAY HARBOR HOUSE Regional NW
130 West St., #101 Friday Harbor 360.378.8455, fridayharborhouse.com
It’s hard to beat the view of the ferry landing, marina, and San Juan Channel from Friday Harbor House the hotel and restaurant provide a sweeping panorama of water and sky. In addition to the delicious food menu, Friday Harbor House is one of the few island restaurants to offer a full bar at brunch every day of the week.
INN AT LANGLEY American
400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com
If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouth-watering culinary journey through a multi-course tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
ISLAND SKILLET Homestyle
325 Prune Alley, Eastsound, 360.376.3984
Beloved by loyal patrons for its large portions and casual, customizable meals, Island Skillet is a must-stop for anyone visiting Orcas Island. A rustic metal rooster outside the entrance sets the tone. Start the day with a skillet breakfast complete with a bottomless cup of coffee. Sandwiches rule the lunch menu, and you can choose from a lengthy list of sides and customizations for most items, so you can totally have it your way.
PRIMA BISTRO French
201 1/2 First St., Langley 360.221.4060, primabistro.com
A quintessential South Whidbey dining experience in the heart of Langley, Prima Bistro marries gourmet French cuisine and classic Northwest ingredients. The selection of red and white wines offers options for
connoisseurs of every stripe, along with a full bar. For fabulous food, elegant ambience, and world-class views, be sure to visit Prima on your next visit to Whidbey Island.
SALTY FOX COFFEE American
85 Front St., Friday Harbor 360.622.2486, saltyfoxcoffee.com
Items on the menu at Salty Fox are quick to whip up, but still healthy and satisfying. It’s an ideal stop for ferry riders on a time schedule, along with the locals who stop in for breakfast or lunch. Guests can take anything to go, including sealed wine and beer, much of which is locally made on the island.
SAN JUAN ISLAND BREWING CO.
American
410 A St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com
At San Juan Island Brewing Company all the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts, and if you can’t decide what brew to try, order a sampler. If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. The thin crust is crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy.
TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood
8 NW Front St., Coupeville, 360.678.4222, tobysuds.com
Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambience with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Steamed and soaked in a scrumptious mix of simple seasonings, wine, and juices, Toby’s robust offering of mussels makes for a memorable visit.
VINNY’S RISTORANTE Seafood
165 West St., Friday Harbor 360.378.1934, vinnysfridayharbor.com
Ciao! Vinny’s welcomes diners to their Friday Harbor Ristorante, mirroring the feel of this warm Italian restaurant. Dishes change monthly and reflect the desire to serve simple, gourmet Pacific Northwest seafood and modern comfort Italian. As well as a good selection of pastas, Vinny’s has seafood and meat entrees, many of them traditional favorites. The cocktail list includes the classics, along with some fun offerings.
8 TASTES GREAT
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The Black Cat is known for its vintage, classy atmosphere and it’s delicious Mexican Street Corn Dip. From red brick walls to stained-glass Tiffany lamps, this is the perfect restaurant for fancy dining in historic Fairhaven. Who knows, maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of the ghost who reportedly roams the halls of the building!
Get the night started right with Juxt Taphouse’s Cocktail Flight! Pick any four of their pre-mixed house cocktails, like the Bees Markie or Juxta Colada Boozy Slushie. The pours are generous, making this four-drink deal one of the best in town.
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If you’re looking for a delicious place to eat in Mount Vernon, look no further than La Terraza Taqueria! They have a wide selection, from to-die-for burritos to large plates heaped with various amounts of warm foods.
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While Starla’s has many alcohol options, from wine to beer, their Phony Negroni is all the rage. Pair this refreshing drink with the sausage, kale, and onion pizza and you’ve got yourself a wonderful meal.
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Have you ever tried the Rooster Rolls from The Iron Rooster Bakery & Cafe? If not, make it a must-do on your next walk around Fairhaven. These pull-apart crusty brown rolls are filled with cream cheese, honey, and garlic, making them irresistibly delicious, gooey, sweet, and savory!
We love the Fajita Burrito at El Agave, but if you don’t want to have leftovers (can’t relate) their combos are the perfect amount for one person!
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Netos Market & Bakery has some of the best quesadillas in town. With large portions, great sides, and abundant amounts of sour cream, Netos is definitely worth stopping by.
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If you’re headed to Vancouver, don’t miss the charming Steamworks Brewpub, where our intern Morgan had the best Calamari of her life—she recently crossed the border just to eat it again!
Photo by Kristen Boehm
“Time spent amongst trees is never wasted time.”
— KATRINA MAYER
PHOTO BY TRISTYN MACDONALD
seaside is for
Yes, we know they grow up fast
So here’s a little unsolicited advice. Take them on some vacations when they’re young. Doesn’t have to be for a long time. Could even be a surprise beach weekend somewhere within easy reach, somewhere like Seaside. Because when they get older they aren’t going to remember routines and regular days. They are going to remember the way going on adventures with you made them feel.
