HEALTH + WELLNESS
HOLISTIC WOMEN’S HEALTH: BRIDGING SCIENCE, TRADITION, AND SELF IN WOMEN’S WELLBEING
Futurecast Forum 2025
The Pacific Northwest remains a leading economic engine in the US, yet it remains to be seen if history will repeat itself in a modern day 'roaring twenties' .
The Futurecast Forum is a real estate industry think tank offering timely insights, expert perspectives, and interactive events to help you stay informed and activated within an ever-changing housing market landscape.
This month, we’re proud to share the release of our 2025 Market Report—a comprehensive look at the economic forces, housing trends, and policy shifts influencing real estate across our region. Designed to support confident decision-making, this resource empowers buyers, sellers, brokers, and investors alike.
Inside the report:
•2025 Housing Overview
•Mortgage & Inflation Trends
•House Bill 1110 Impact
•$90 Trillion Great Wealth Transfer
•Local Market Data Highlights
•New Development & Urban Demand
Explore the insights and discover what’s driving the market—and how it may impact your next move.
Dean Jones President and CEO
Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty
Mercer Island Women: Shaping Health, Travel, Flavor, and Art
Dear Readers,
This month, we’re shining a spotlight on the powerful, passionate women who are shaping the way we live, feel, and thrive—right here in our own community.
Our cover story, “Women’s Health – Meet Mercer Island’s Expert Providers,” introduces you to a remarkable group of professionals redefining care with heart, science, and soul. You’ll meet Maria Amadi, PA-C, who blends aesthetic artistry with wellness; Ashley Besecker, RDN and Dr. Susan Kleiner, PhD, who bring nutritional science to life; Dr. Julie Lamb, a nationally recognized fertility expert and fierce advocate for access to care; Dr. Lauren Hagel and Dr. Alissa Borda, who are reimagining orthodontics for women and girls of all ages; Dr. Carrie York and Dr. Allena Novak, who treat oral health as an essential part of whole-person wellness; Dr. Paramita Mukherjee, who helps us understand the importance of bone health; and Stacey Ulacia, co-founder of HotPause Health, leading the charge in menopause care. Each of these women is transforming the conversation around health—and we’re honored to share their voices.
And because well-being extends beyond medicine, our travel expert Brenda El-Ghazzawy offers soul-refreshing ideas for retreats in “Luxury Getaways for Women Who Travel Well.” From Sedona’s healing canyons to the refined vineyards of Napa and Santa Barbara’s seaside elegance, these destinations are perfect for women who want to explore the world—and themselves—with style and intention.
In our culinary corner, Nutritionist Ashley Besecke returns with a delicious nod to fine dining, sharing Premier Catch’s Nobu-Inspired Miso-Marinated Black Cod—a must-try recipe that proves healthy can still be indulgent. And our friends at Northwest Spirits, led by the ever-talented Merrisa Claridge, delight us with The Lemon Enchantress—a rosemary-kissed cocktail that’s as radiant and refined as its name suggests.
Finally, we celebrate the artistry of the Contemporary QuiltArt Association in “A Tribute to Art.” Featuring the innovative works of Tasha Owen, Suzanne Uschold, Kristine Herman, Gabrielle McIntosh, and Janet Darcher, this story showcases the quilt as canvas—where fiber becomes fine art and creativity knows no bounds.
To every woman featured in these pages—and to all of you inspiring women in our community—we honor your brilliance, your resilience, and the strength you bring to the world.
With gratitude, SHARON
PEREZ & CHRIS ISHII
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Chris Ishii | chris.ishii@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sharon Perez | sharon.perez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Premier Catch, Brenda El-Ghazzawy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
J Garner, Les K. Lee
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Youth Theatre NW advocate Yvonne Willard, In-coming Co-Director Theresa Heeran and Development Director Bailey Sipila. 2: Mercer Island Youth Theatre NW parents and supporters at the 2025 Gala. 3: Youth Theatre NW Board Chair, Karin Davies and husband ________ at YTN’s 40th Anniversary Gala. 4: Executive Artistic Director, Mimi Katano, who has been with YTN since 1999 with YTN staff. 5: Retiring Executive Artistic Director, Mimi Katano, and students sing a farewell at the YTN Gala. 6: Arts Advocates and dedicated YTN sponsors, John Gordon Hill, Anne Hill Thompson and friends. 7: Mark Elster AOME Architects, Rachel, Joey AOME Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
8: They make it happen! Fox Sports Rich Dewey, Dan and Sam 9: The after-party at ASA, Jim, Tadashi, Sharon, Jody, Ed cheers to our MI community! 10: DJ Lamar is keeping all the grooves going for a great evening at Realogics Sotheby’s 11: Class of ‘89 is in the house! Dan, Ed, Sharon, Jim 12: Jody Elsom and Devi Brunsch 13: Sarah Heller, Kimberly Mizigawa Frank and Julie Hsieh at MICL Issue Release Party 14: Snapped! We finally got a photo of our photographer, Jim Garner, MICL Issue Release Party. Photography by J Garner Photography
city scene CONTINUED
15: Mercer Island Country Club celebrated the opening of the bubbled courts extending the season! 16: MIHS tennis coaches Shelly Whelan and Leigh Perks at their new practice facility, MICC’s bubble! 17: Wine Wednesday at Barrels! Josh owner Barrels Wine Bar, Jody Elsom and Danielle, Elsom Cellars. Photography by Mercer Island City Lifestyle
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H O L ISTIC WOMEN’SHEALTH
Mercer Island is home to a remarkable network of women’s health providers offering care that goes far beyond the basics. With expertise in nutrition, sports coaching, fertility and IVF, menopause, bone density, aesthetic dermatology, dentistry, orthodontia, and the healing arts, this vibrant community of professionals embraces a holistic approach to well-being. Together, they’re redefining what it means to experience the true wealth of good health.
MEET MERCER ISLAND’S EXPERT PROVIDERS
ARTICLE BY SHARON PEREZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES LEE, PREMIER CATCH
Maria Amadi, PA-C
Co-Founder Amadi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery & Medspa
Maria Amadi, PA-C, is a nationally certified physician associate and co-founder of Amadi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery and Medspa on Mercer Island. With a background in medical and aesthetic dermatology, Maria is passionate about helping women feel confident in their skin at every stage of life. Her approach blends artistry with science, focusing on natural-looking results that enhance—not change— her patients’ unique features.
For Maria, aesthetic care is deeply connected to women’s overall wellness. “When women feel good about how they look, it often empowers them in other areas of their lives—personally and professionally,” she says. Her treatments go beyond the surface, taking into account lifestyle, hormonal changes, and skin health as women age.
Maria emphasizes education and long-term care over quick fixes. She and her team take time to listen, educate, and customize treatments ranging from medical-grade skincare to injectables and non-invasive rejuvenation. “Our goal is to support healthy, confident aging,” she shares.
As a mother and clinician, Maria understands the pressures women face and is committed to creating a supportive, welcoming space where self-care is celebrated. “Investing in yourself isn’t vanity—it’s vitality.”
Ashley Besecker, RDN
RDN and Nutrigenomics Specialist
Ashley Besecker is a registered dietitian nutritionist and lectures at universities and conferences around the country about personalized nutrition and the science behind it. A recent study published in Neurology suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may help protect against cognitive decline in midlife. Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital analyzed data from over 10,000 participants in the Framingham Heart Study, following them for an average of 20 years. They found that individuals with higher levels of omega-3s in their blood were significantly less likely to experience memory and thinking problems over time—even after accounting for factors like age, education, and smoking.
Researchers believe omega-3s may reduce brain inflammation—a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Beyond brain health, omega-3s have also been linked to lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and even some cancers.
To boost your omega-3 intake, incorporate wild fish, nuts, and seeds into your diet, or consider supplements. Be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any supplement routine.
Dr. Alissa Borda, DMD, MPH, MS
Owner Islander Orthodontics
Dr. Alissa Borda, founder Islander Orthodontics, is proud to bring her expertise—and her heart—back to her hometown. A Mercer Island native and MIHS alumna, Dr. Borda has returned to the community where she grew up to open her orthodontic practice and raise her family.
Dr. Borda emphasizes that orthodontics is about more than straight teeth—it’s about long-term oral health, function, and self-esteem. Her practice is designed to be welcoming and accessible with flexible scheduling and a community-first mindset.
Dr. Borda works with girls during their formative years to guide jaw development and prevent more complex issues later. For adult women, she provides discreet treatment options like clear aligners, helping address both functional concerns and confidence in their smile. “I love helping women and girls feel confident, healthy, and supported through every stage of life,” she says. “It’s more than orthodontics—it’s whole-person care.”
An active member of the Mercer Island community, Dr. Borda is passionate about creating lasting relationships with her patients and helping them feel at home in the dental chair. “It’s an honor to care for the next generation of Islanders,” she says, “and to be part of their smile journey from start to finish.”
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Dr. Lauren Hagel, DDS, MSD
Mercer Island Orthodontics
Dr. Lauren Hagel, a respected orthodontist serving the Mercer Island community, believes orthodontic care is about much more than just straight teeth— it’s a vital part of lifelong health and wellness, especially for women. From adolescence through menopause, women face unique dental challenges influenced by hormones, bone density changes, and overall oral health.
“Proper alignment isn’t just cosmetic,” Dr. Hagel explains. “It can dramatically improve bite function, reduce jaw pain, prevent tooth wear, and make daily hygiene more effective—especially as we age.” With options like clear aligners and low-profile braces, adult orthodontics has become more accessible and discreet, helping women feel confident while addressing long-term dental health.
Dr. Hagel also sees a growing number of women seeking orthodontic treatment to manage issues like TMJ, clenching and grinding, and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene due to crowding. These treatments can prevent future complications, reduce the risk of gum disease, and even improve sleep and digestion.
Passionate about patient education and comfort, Dr. Hagel creates personalized treatment plans for women of all ages. “Orthodontics isn’t just for teens,” she says. “It’s never too late to invest in your health, function, and smile.”
Dr. Julie Hsieh, MD
Founder, Yuan Ru Gallery & Art Center
Julie Yuan-Ru Hsieh, MD, is an abstract artist based on Mercer Island and the founder of Yuan Ru Gallery in Bellevue and Taipei. While her initial career was in medicine—earning a Bachelor of Arts from Stanford University and a medical doctorate from Baylor College of Medicine—creative arts have always been central to her identity. Since transitioning into the art world in 2017, Julie has flourished as an artist, art patron, and gallerist. She believes, “Art is an expression of our humanity, with limitless potential to connect people across different backgrounds and cultures. It transcends boundaries, offering the power to heal, inspire, and foster empathy.”
For Julie, art and wellness are deeply intertwined, nurturing both the mind and the soul. She believes that engaging with art, whether through creating or experiencing it, can foster emotional healing, reduce stress, and promote inner peace. This connection between art and wellness forms the foundation of her work.
With her background in medicine and a deep understanding of the human experience, Julie brings a unique perspective to her artistic practice, where creativity and healing merge seamlessly. As she continues to grow as both an artist and a gallerist, her work remains a testament to the power of art to inspire and transform lives.
Dr. Susan Kleiner, PhD Nutrition and Human Performance
Founder High Performance Nutrition
Fueling Women’s Health Through Science and Strength
Dr. Susan Kleiner, PhD, RD, is a renowned nutritionist, author, and performance coach who brings a science-backed, empowering approach to women’s health and nutrition. With decades of experience working with everyone from elite athletes to everyday women, Dr. Kleiner believes that optimal nutrition is foundational to thriving-not just surviving. Her philosophy challenges restrictive diets and outdated norms. “Women are often taught to eat less and shrink themselves,” she says. “But real vitality comes from nourishing your body, building strength, and fueling your goals.” Through personalized coaching, she helps women understand how their nutritional needs shift with age, hormones, activity, and stress.
Dr. Kleiner’s work focuses on sustainable strategies-balancing performance, energy, mood, and long-term health. Whether supporting women through perimenopause, intense training, or demanding careers, she champions a strength-first mindset. Her coaching emphasizes food as a powerful tool for building resilience and confidence.
As a pioneer in the field of sports nutrition, Dr. Kleiner is also an advocate for evidence-based information in a world full of wellness noise. “There’s power in understanding your body,” she says. “And nutrition is one of the most effective ways to take charge of your health.”
Dr. Julie Lamb, MD
Physician and Medical Director Pacific Northwest Fertility and IVF Specialists
Dr. Julie Lamb is a nationally recognized fertility expert and advocate working to expand access to care and normalize conversations around reproductive health. In her Seattle practice, she sees many women—especially in communities like Mercer Island—who delay childbearing due to career, life circumstances, or not yet finding the right partner. But with age, fertility declines, and many need help to conceive. “We’ve shifted from having children in our 20s to our late 30s and 40s in just one generation,” she says. “And even many physicians don’t fully understand how hard it can be.”
Dr. Lamb champions fertility preservation—such as egg or embryo freezing—as a key option for women planning for the future, especially those with medical conditions like endometriosis, cancer, or genetic risks. Despite being recognized as a disease, infertility treatments are often considered elective and excluded from insurance coverage.
Through policy advocacy at the state and national level, Dr. Lamb is fighting to make fertility care accessible to all, not just the privileged few. “Access to care shouldn’t be a luxury,” she says. “Women need to understand their options, advocate for themselves, and feel empowered to talk about fertility—without shame or stigma.”
Dr. Paramita Mukherjee, MD PhD
Nephrologist UW Medicine, Northwest Kidney Center
Bone health is an important aspect of women’s health in order to stay active and agile. Osteoporosis is a disease caused by loss in bone mineral density (BMD) associated with decreased bone strength and increased fracture risk and is more common in women than men. Common osteoporotic fracture sites are spine, hip, and wrist.
Osteoporosis has no signs or symptoms until a fracture occurs. Low trauma fractures that occur spontaneously or from trauma that would not ordinarily result in fracture ( fragility fracture) is usually due to osteoporosis.
Weight-bearing and muscle strengthening physical activity reduces risk of falls. A diet rich in vitamins and calcium, and taking calcium and vitamin D supplement is helpful. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan is the most widely used method for measuring BMD. DEXA scan is recommended for all women 65 or older. For women in 50-64 age group, DEXA scan is recommended for women with family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, early menopause, history of fragility fracture, steroid use, smoking or heavy alcohol consumption. At your next annual health visit, ask your doctor if you need a DEXA scan to screen for osteoporosis.
Stacey Ulacia
Co-Founder HotPause Health
HotPause Health: the future of menopause care is here. For too long, menopause has been misunderstood, dismissed, and simply ignored. At HotPause Health, we’re changing that. Founded by Melissa Oliveira and Stacey Ulacia, HotPause Health is a digital platform designed to give women the support, education, and medical resources they deserve during perimenopause and menopause.
HotPause Health was born from frustration—too many women struggling with life-altering symptoms, misdiagnoses, gaslighting, and a healthcare system that isn’t keeping up. It’s estimated that 85% of perimenopausal and menopausal women experience symptoms impacting their quality of life, with 60% seeking clinical help, but 75% of those women subsequently go untreated.
We’re here to change that. HotPause Health offers the most comprehensive menopause provider directory in the U.S., expert-reviewed treatment information, symptom overviews, and peer-reviewed products. We’re putting science, specialists, and solutions back into the hands of the women who need them, so they can live better, healthier lives.
Perimenopause and menopause deserve science-backed support and solutions. Visit hotpausehealth.com to get the answers and care you need.
Dr. Carrie York, DDS & Dr. Allena Novak, DDS
Dental health is closely connected to overall well-being—and for women, hormonal changes throughout life can significantly impact oral care needs. Local dental providers are seeing more conversations around pregnancy gingivitis, which arises from increased inflammation during pregnancy and requires diligent home care. Later in life, menopause often brings dry mouth, a common side effect of medications and reduced salivary gland function. Autoimmune conditions, which affect women at higher rates, can also contribute to dry mouth and increased risk of cavities.
As people age, neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s can make daily dental care more difficult. More frequent visits, specialized treatments to prevent decay, and in-office support can help maintain oral health during these progressive diseases.
Women also frequently ask about home care tools—from electric toothbrushes to water flossers—and personalized recommendations during dental visits can make a big difference. Cosmetic and preventive options like whitening and clear aligners are now more accessible and comfortable for patients of all ages, including older adults looking to improve both function and appearance.
With more women entering the dental field, patients often appreciate the attention to both clinical care and emotional well-being. “We’re treating the whole person, not just the teeth,” one provider shared.
Sedona, Napa and Santa Barbara
Luxury Getaways for Women Who Travel Well
For women who travel well, luxury isn’t just about five-star accommodations—it’s about curated experiences that rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.
ARTICLE BY BRENDA EL-GHAZZAWY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUXXE TRAVEL
Sedona: Desert Retreat with a Spiritual Touch
Sedona is an oasis of red rock beauty, luxury spas, and spiritual rejuvenation. It’s ideal for women seeking relaxation, adventure, and a bit of soul-searching. The Enchantment Resort, nestled within Boynton Canyon, has panoramic views that set the stage for hiking, meditation and mindfulness. Within the resort is Mii amo, an award-winning spa offering immersive, all-inclusive wellness retreats. Guests at Mii amo stay in exclusive spa casitas and experience tailored programs focusing on mindfulness, renewal, and healing. Booking a transformative retreat at Mii amo or a luxury stay at Enchantment Resort, Sedona delivers a one-of-a-kind experience with vortex energy, holistic treatments, and starlit dinners by the canyon.
Napa Valley: Wine Country Elegance
A Napa Valley getaway is synonymous with luxury, offering exceptional wine, Michelin-starred dining, and impeccable hospitality. Stay at Auberge du Soleil, a French-inspired retreat perched on a hillside with breathtaking vineyard views, or indulge in the opulence of Stanly Ranch, where holistic wellness meets modern luxury. Spend the day wine tasting at iconic estates like Opus One or Quintessa, followed by a private spa experience at Meadowood Napa Valley. For an unforgettable evening, book a chef’s tasting menu at The French Laundry, one of the most celebrated restaurants in the world.
Santa Barbara: Coastal Chic and Vineyard Bliss
Santa Barbara is the ultimate destination for women who love the sea, wine country, and boutique luxury. Rosewood Miramar Beach, offers a beachfront sanctuary of laid-back glamour and world-class dining at Caruso’s. San Ysidro Ranch has secluded cottages in the Montecito foothills, where Hollywood royalty has found refuge for decades, including John F. and Jacqueline Kennedy for their honeymoon in 1953. Spend the day exploring the Santa Ynez wine region, indulging in a private yacht charter, or relaxing at a cliffside spa with Pacific Ocean views. These destinations redefine luxury, focusing on wellness, wine, and wanderlust.
Learn more at Luxxe Travel your VIP Travel Concierge @ luxxe.travel
Napa Stanly Ranch Wellness Fieldhouse
Santa Barbara Rosewood Miramar Beach
Sedona Mii amo pool
HEALTHY DELICIOUS DINNER
ingredients:
• 1 1/2 pounds Sablefish (4 x 6-oz portions)
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 1/4 cup sake
• 4 tbsp white miso paste
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 4 tbsp sesame oil
directions:
Marinade:
• Bring mirin and sake to boil for 30 seconds.
• Turn heat to low, add miso paste and sugar, whisk until completely dissolved.
Premier Catch’s Nobu Inspired
Miso-Marinated Black Cod
• Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
• Place fish in ziploc and pour cooled marinade over. Refrigerate for 2-3 days.
Cook:
• Preheat oven to 425.
• Pour sesame oil in oven-proof skillet on high heat.
• Place fish skin side up and cook until flesh side is browned (3-5 min).
• Flip fish and place skillet in oven to bake until opaque and flakes easily (8-10 min).
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY BESECKER, REGISTERED DIETITION NUTRITIONIST
PHOTOGRAPHY
Premier Catch’s Miso-Marinated Black Cod Dinner
Rosemary Lemon Enchantress
ARTICLE BY NORTHWEST SPIRITS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNEMARIE ZARBA
A bold blend of flavors for those who own their power and their palate
Some cocktails are sipped - this one is savored. The Rosemary Lemon Enchantress elevates the Lemon Drop with wild rosemary, an orange-sugared rim, and SavorSpear Gin. Bright, herbal, and effortlessly refined.
ingredients:
• 1 1/2 shots Savor Spear Gin
• 1/2 shot Orange Curaçao
• 3/4 shot Citrus Rosemary Syrup
• 1/2 shot Lemon Juice
directions:
Step 1. Rim coupe glass with orange sugar
Step 2. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, clipped to the glass
Step 3. Add Savor Spear Gin, Orange Curaçao, Citrus Rosemary Syrup, lemon juice, and ice to a shaker tin.
Step 4. Shake vigorously until well chilled
Step 5. Strain into the prepared coupe glass
Step 6. Enjoy!
Pro-tip: lightly torch the rosemary before garnishing for an aromatic experience that lingers with every sip.
An enchanting cocktail for spring evenings
ARTICLE BY SHARON PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY MERCER ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE
Contemporary QuiltArt Association: Vibrant
Visual Art
As a professional photographer, I merge my passion for images with quilting—digitally painting photos and printing them on fabric. This process brings freedom and reminds me of the joy of discovery. Tashaowenquilts.com
Come walk the line! Using obvious lines—curved, straight, vertical, diagonal—I celebrate the forms of plants and people. Inspired by Kandinsky, my work invites energy, rest, and joy as lines fall in pleasant places.
Known for bold, abstract, and colorful compositions in textile form. Her work often uses strong geometric forms and layered stitching to create movement and texture. Gabrielle McIntosh is a featured artist with Studio Art Quilt Associates
The PNW inspires my quilt art with its natural beauty. Using only fabric, thread, and occasional texture, I transform my photos into quilts through collage, appliqué, thread painting, and free-motion quilting. Artquiltsbysuzanne.com
Light reaches our eyes through diffuse reflection, often distorting what we see. This piece explores perception versus reality, using hand-dyed fabrics, machine piecing, and hand quilting to reflect how things may appear similar, yet differ.
tistSuzanne Uschol
etDarcher with hand
ics
ist Gabrielle McInto
Tasha Owen’s “Bu
Tasha Owen
Suzanne Uschold
Janet Darcher
Gabrielle McIntosh
Kristine Herman
ontemporaryQuiltArtAssociation Artists atFirstFridayArt Walk
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings. As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Flower Frogs
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
CONTINUED >
“Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.”
Florals and Fruit
“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keetp the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
Hanging Florals
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
“They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.”
12 Angry Jurors
Mercer Island High School
Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
Twelve Angry Jurors contemplates the huge responsibility of 12 ordinary people who must decide the guilt or innocence of a teenager accused of murder. It looks like an open-and-shut case - until one voice casts doubts and challenges a deeper examination of the facts. Suggested 13+
Closing weekend May 1-3 at 7pm. Saturday, May 3 shows 2pm and 7pm. hwww.misdb.org
Cinco de Mayo at The Crawlspace Gastropub
The Crawlspace Gastropub 3041 78th Ave SE | 11:00 AM
Crawlspace Cinco de Mayo Extravaganza Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with an all-day fiesta at Crawlspace! Enjoy juicy carne asada, happy hour tequila specials all day, and a variety of Mexican-themed dishes. The fun kicks off at 11 am and runs until 9 pm. Come enjoy great food, drinks, and a festive atmosphere with your neighbors and friends.
Mom’s Night Out at Barrels Wine Bar
7605 SE 27th St. Suite 107 | 5:30 PM
Barrels welcomes back the MI Moms for a night away from the house. Warning: This night is loud but always fun! Reservations required. We have low chairs, three larger tables that seat 6-8 each, and 10 seats at the bar. Outdoor seating available in warmer months. For groups of 8+, please call (206) 268-0588. Cancellation requires 48 hours notice. @barrelswinebar. com/reservations-at-barrels
MAY 11TH
Mother’s Day Brunch at Elsom Cellars
Elsom Cellars 2960 4th Ave S. Seattle | 11:00 AM
Treat the special women in your life to an unforgettable Mother’s Day Brunch at Elsom Cellars, featuring guest chef, Erica Lent. Sip on breakfast Vermouth cocktails, glasses of Albariño, Rosé and Elsom-crafted non-alcoholic shrubs as we honor all the special women in our lives. 11a – 1p (first seating) | 1:30p – 3:30p (second seating). Info and reservations @ www.elsomcellars.com/ourevents
MAY 13TH
Living Alone
Group Meet Up
Mercer Island Community & Events Center | 1:30 PM
MI Youth & Family Services hosts meetings the second Tuesday of each month 1:30-3:30 at MICEC for seniors living alone to come together to discuss ideas, concerns and questions about daily life; provide and receive neighborly support; and gather information and resources from MIYFS staff. For more information and to join, call MIYFS at 206-275-7657 or email miyfs@mercerisland.gov
MAY 20TH
MIHS Spring Orchestra Concert
Mercer Island High School Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
Hear the MIHS Orchestra, fresh off their tour and performance at Carnegie Hall in New York, at the very accessible MIHS performing arts center. Conducted by MIHS Conductor Bryan Kolk and featuring students in Symphonic Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra and Full Symphonic Orchestra.
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DIY DAY
INSPIRATION FOR A MOTHER/ DAUGHTER DIY DAY
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
WITH MOM
An afternoon spent together is priceless with today’s busy schedules. Instead of going out, staying in can provide quaint, quiet one-on-one time for a mother and daughter (or multiple daughters). Finding time on calendars is the hard part, and filling that time is all fun from there. Here are a few favorite ideas for inspiration that may spark excitement for planning those special times together.
01 Charm Necklaces
Custom DIY charm necklaces and bracelets are trending. Gather a theme idea: birthstones, family initials, travels or even favorite hobbies, and procure charms from your local craft store or online shop. Selecting charms for each other also could be a fun way to bring delight to the crafting occasion. Necklaces and bracelets can be made for each other, or as future gifts for upcoming occasions such as a family wedding, a birthday milestone or an anniversary.
02 Interview Journaling
Storytelling makes for the best memories. Structure memory recall by filming or journaling interview-style question-and-answer sessions, cataloging information for future generations. Videos and notes with detailed family adventures are priceless, and we all always wish we had more of them.
03 Meal Prep
Text conversations around kitchen tips or ingredient procurement seem endless. Spend some time together in the kitchen preparing favorite family recipes, sharing Mom’s best tips and tricks. Choosing freezer-friendly meals is a great way to walk away with meals for upcoming busy days. There’s nothing like Mom’s recipes!
Kelly was amazing from the first email and in every way possible through the entire process. Kelly's deep involvement in the Mercer Island market meant she had an overwhelming attendance at the broker open house. The next day we had three offers! Kelly negotiated perfectly but fairly and we were supremely pleased with every interaction with her and her team. Highly recommend!” - S.D., Mercer Island