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Tofino Love Letters
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| Spring 2022
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Features
20 PHOTO ESSAY Birds in the San Juans. 34 I DO...ISLAND STYLE Discover the best wedding venues, photographers, and florists in the San Juans. 40 MAGIC AT THE END OF THE ROAD Immerse your soul in the pristine beauty of Tofino. 46 STAYCATION IN THE EMERALD CITY Discover the joy of playing tourist in your own city, with an overnight stay in one of Seattle’s premier hotels.
Departments
10 PRESIDENT’S LETTER 13 EDITOR’S LETTER 16 A CLOSER LOOK Meet the Kenmore Air family! 18 PHOTO CONTEST Congratulations to David Lee for winning this issue’s photo contest. 26 ITINERARY & SHORT HOPS Meet an island artist, explore a museum, sample the best bread in Washington, and more! 30 CROSSWORD PUZZLE 32 GEAR GUIDE Get ready to explore with a carefully curated collection of travel-tested gear.
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ABOUT THE COVER On the rocky shores of Pebble Cove Farm, a couple takes a moment to themselves. Photo by Satya Curcio Photography (p. 34).
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Immersive Staycation
Immerse yourself in Seattle’s rich culture and plethora of fun things to do with a staycation (p. 46). ROBERT RITCHIE PHOTO
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From Where I Sit I Like What I See
jorge cavello photo
Todd Banks, President
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adhere to their guidelines. As we’ve learned the past two years, this topic can be a moving target. I take a look at the coming would suggest you look to our website for the latest year and what lies ahead for our airline. From where updates on Kenmore Air’s health and safety guideI sit, I like what I see. lines. We’ll keep the site updated as we learn more. One thing the pandemic For starters, the thought of travel opentaught us as a company was to appreing back up to Canada puts a smile on ciate and embrace new opportunities. my face. Just knowing we are inching our Last year we added a Pilatus PC-12 to way back to some semblance of normalcy our charter fleet, which has opened up is a step in the right direction for our pasnew and exciting flying possibilities. sengers and our Canadian partners. is 8-seat turboprop is not only fast, Kenmore Air remains committed to a it’s roomy and quiet. I liken it to a modhigh level of safety and we’ll continue to ern-day time machine that can take you sanitize all commonly touched surfaces places few other airlines can. ere’s a in our facilities and aboard our aircraft. lot to be said for rising above the clouds As long as the FAA requires masks to be and flying through blue skies to vacaworn onboard aircraft, we’ll ask that you tion destinations such as Palm Springs, 10
ITHOUT FAIL AS WINTER COMES to a close I like to
explore:NW | The Official Magazine for kenmore air
Tahoe, Napa Valley and Tofino — all of which sound inviting no matter what season you’re flying. e Pilatus PC-12 also gets regular use from our business partners when getting to a meeting and back in a couple hours is in order. For a company like Kenmore Air, having this aircraft at our disposal just adds to the growing list of potential destinations. It’s an opportunity to let your imagination take you places you might not have thought of before. Along with new opportunities the pandemic enabled us to strengthen other facets of our company including our parts department. is speaks to the company’s diversity and commitment to excellence. While we have many people to thank for that, most notably Eric Johanson’s leadership has been remarkable. Eric started working for Kenmore Air 37 years ago and for the past three decades he’s been running the parts department. I marvel at people like Eric, who I’m convinced has a photographic memory. In particular, he’s responsible for our Parts Manufacturing Authority (PMA) certification. e certification allows us to be one of a handful of companies that can manufacture airplane parts for the de Havilland Beavers and Otters, making us an asset to aircraft owners. It is an involved process, one that requires FAA approval. Eric’s forward-thinking and determination have allowed us to supply over 300 FAA certified parts. In the airplane industry, that’s saying something. Now that our days are getting longer and the skies a little more blue, I’m excited to see more and more passengers vacationing in the San Juan Islands. e archipelago has been called one of Washington’s Seven Wonders. It’s hard to argue with that. It’s where memories are made every day with a laid-back island vibe that rejuvenates the mind, body and soul. And after the past two years, I can’t think of a better place to be.
Contemporary Art, Jewelry and Functional Art Inspired by the Pacific Northwest
explore:NW Kenmore Air’s In-Flight Magazine Your Complimentary Copy Spring 2022, Volume 7, Issue 1 PUBLISHER Pat Hoglund EDITOR Mikaela Judd ART DIRECTOR Ken Cook CONTRIBUTING WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sara Satterlee, Lisette Wolter-McKinley, En Vie, Ryan Stone, Pete Nuij, Keith Luke, Steve Harvey, James Lee, Mathew Schwartz, Chris Leboutillier, Steve Smith, Birdiegal717, Ondřej Prosický, Sophia Granchinho, Charlotte Chevalier, San Juan Brewing, Sara Parsons Photography, Satya Curcio Photography, La Vie Photography, and Robert Ritchie BROOKWOOD PRESS, INC.
3439 NE Sandy Blvd., No. 108 Portland, OR 97232-1959 Office: 503-284-4383 Fax: 503-287-7210 www.brookwoodpress.com KENMORE AIR’S CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
Kenmore Air Harbor, Inc. 6321 NE 175th Street Kenmore, WA 98208 Office: 425-486-1257 Toll Free: 866-435-9524 Fax: 425-485-4774
EDITORIAL INQUIRIES
Mikaela Judd, 425-466-3514 mikaela@makinglanguagecount.com ADVERTISING
Pat Hoglund, 503-702-1868 pathoglund@comcast.net Katherine Kjaer, 250-592-5331 katherinekjaer@gmail.com MORE INFO
www.explorenorthwestmagazine.com Follow Kenmore Air on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
Explore:NW magazine, the official inflight magazine for Kenmore Air, is published by Brookwood Press, Inc., at 3439 NE Sandy Blvd., No. 108, Portland, Oregon 97232-1959. Copyright © 2022 by Brookwood Press, Inc. Published three times annually (Spring, Summer, Fall). Explore:NW is distributed free to Kenmore Air passengers. Along with free copies distributed during flight, the magazine is distributed at hotels and flight terminals. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. Printed in the United States of America. The owners, stockholders, employees, writers, editors, and/or other person(s) associated with, but not limited to, any and all creation of editorial, printing, writing and/ or distribution of Explore:NW does not in any manner whatsoever assume any liability from loss to persons or property which may be an indirect or direct result of participating in any of the activities described in this magazine. Explore:NW is provided to the public for information, education and entertainment purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever qualify any activity based on merits of safety to person or property. Any activities described in this in this magazine are exclusively taken at the reader’s sole risk. Printed in the U.S.A.
A BROOKWOOD PRESS, INC. PUBLICATION
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A Dreamer’s Sparkplug
rick takagi photo
Mikaela Judd, Editor
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our goals had changed and reveled at how our sense of AVE YOU EVER MADE fun had evolved. A bucket list? Recently, my Even after we closed the husband and I put together time capsule and tucked the bucket list away for a small time capsule. It was a future date, we kept nothing elaborate, just a jar And I was struck filled with memories and dreams. e mem- dreaming. at how much creating and ories we wrote independently and together. reading this magazine is Our favorite date. Top TV shows. Small idiolike creating a bucket list. It’s a dreamer’s spark plug. syncrasies we wish we could change about Because there’s so much the other person. e classic stuff. to see right here in the Pacific Northwest. Even when you’re from Seattle the city offers But the dreams, a bucket list really, we epic views, inspiring museums, and fun scribed as a couple. We laughed and things to do. Really want to dive in? Try kibitzed over it. We lamented about how a staycation. Book yourself a hotel room
with a view of the water like Lisette Wolter-McKinley did with her family and watch the sun set over Elliot Bay as the Seattle Great Wheel spins (page 46). During your Seattle meanderings, making sure to stop by MOHAI, the Museum of History and Industry. e 50,000 square-foot space chronicles the evolution of Seattle from a wild, untouched frontier land to a hub for tech (page 27). Or head to the end of the road and learn to surf (page 40). At the northern tip of Vancouver Island, Tofino offers some of the best surfing year-round. Just don’t forget to check out the Wickaninnish Inn — the exquisite three-star resort tucked among 100 acres of oldgrowth forest is an experience in and of itself. Because whether you’re planning a trip to sleepy Lopez Island to sample some of the best bread in all of America (page 27) or geeking out over your love of literature on Orcas (page 27), there’s a lot to savor. Along with being surrounded by beauty, you’re sure to be inspired to keep dreaming of new experiences and destinations — close to home and a little further. At least, that’s my hope. at you read this magazine and are fueled with the passion to explore more.
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Anchoring In the Sucia Islands
Among the northernmost of the San Juan Islands, the Sucia Islands are shaped like the palm of a hand. e petite grouping — this archipelago subset spans just 814 acres — is comprised of a main island surrounded by picturesque rocks and smaller islands. Accessible only by boat, the highly-prized campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. In fact, many visitors tend to bunk where they drop anchor. But regardless of where you choose to rest your head, the islands’ emerald waters, forested trails, magnificent sunsets and stunning sandstone formations are sure to dazzle. EN VIE PHOTO
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Meet Chief Pilot Jay Todhunter
Chief Pilot Jay Todhunter set out to fly for Kenmore in 2013. But the path to his stripes wasn’t direct.
QUICK FACTS Commercial Pilot’s License: 2005 Seaplane Rating: October 2014 Years Working for Kenmore: 9 First Job at Kenmore: Line Crew
Supervisor
Favorite Destination: Desolation
Sound
Favorite Airplane: de Havilland Otter
LIKE MANY OF KENMORE AIR’S flight
crew, Jay started on the dock, splashing planes and washing windows. e job let him get his foot in the door. It also gave him access to Kenmore Air’s flight instruction department, where he earned his seaplane rating. Jay had gotten his pilot’s license while earning his Bachelor of Science in Flight Technology at Central Washington University. He knew he wanted to fly, be home with his family every night, and work for a family-oriented company. e criteria was a tall order, but Kenmore Air fit the bill. “is place is really unique. I get to see my wife and kids daily as a pilot. But it’s also a good company to work for. A lot of companies say they have a family atmosphere. Here it’s actually true,” said Jay. Climbing the ranks, he became a
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Flight Instructor, Line Pilot and Assistant Chief Pilot. In February of 2022, Jay was named Chief Pilot. Nowadays, he may fuel an Otter or pump some Beaver floats — but most of his job is making each flight as safe, comfortable, and fun as possible. “ere’s an incredible energy to flying aboard a seaplane. You’re going to unique destinations with killer views. Seeing people really enjoy travel is special,” said Jay. As the Chief Pilot, flying didn’t become any cushier. And that’s just the way Jay likes it. “I get to actually fly the airplane. I’m not just pushing buttons,”
Jay explained. Plus, every day is different. Whether it’s Friday Harbor or Fisherman’s Bay, the wind, currents, and dock conditions are always changing. “Landing and docking changes from day to day and hour to hour, which keeps things interesting,” said Jay. At home, Jay loves to spend time with his wife, Mellissa, and their two boys Kasen (7) and Carter (4). e three gents have become avid RC car racers, though Carter’s still getting the hang of steering. “I’m kind of a homebody. Being with my family is the best,” said Jay.
Favorite Destination Anywhere in Desolation Sound because it’s beautiful, remote, and difficult to reach without a seaplane.
explore:NW P H O T O
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Congratulations to David Lee for his photo of
Lake Union Park as a seaplane taxied to the dock. It was captured through the bubble window of a de Havilland Otter. In addition to his photo being featured in the magazine, David received a $500 flight voucher from Kenmore Air. David captured this photo while aboard a scenic flight tour using a mirrorless Fujifilm X-H1.
Entrants
PHOTOGRAPHER:
PHOTOGRAPHER:
PHOTOGRAPHER:
TITLE: Happy Pup
TITLE: Seattle Scenic
TITLE: Seattle On A Sunny Day
Todd Tomlinson
If you have a photo to enter,
we want to see it. You can send it to us at the email provided below, post it on Kenmore Air’s Facebook page or tag it on Instagram with #kenmoreair.
Brie
In the next issue (Summer 2022), we’ll publish the best images, including the winners who will also receive a $500 flight voucher from Kenmore Air. e Summer 2022
K.ondr
winner will be notified by the medium in which they made their submission. e grand prize will be judged on composition, image quality and uniqueness.
SEND IMAGES VIA EMAIL TO Mikaela@MakingLanguageCount.com POST IMAGES ON Facebook at facebook.com/KenmoreAir.
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SITUATED WITHIN THE PACIFIC COAST Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes for birds, more than 200 species of migratory and non-migratory birds can be found in the San Juan Islands. This is thanks in large part to the archipelago’s diverse collection of habitats, including more than 400 miles of rocky shoreline, sweeping grasslands, and lush old-growth forests. The region’s largest concentration of bald eagles can be found here, as can the much rarer golden eagle. Rufous hummingbirds are most easily spotted in the spring as they flirt among wildflowers. The great horned owls are known to nest in the San Juan Island National Historical Park, among many other common and hard-to-find feathered friends.
explore:NW | The Official Magazine for kenmore air
shunya koide photo
ondřej prosický photo
BIRDING IN THE SAN JUANS A PHOTO ESSAY
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keith luke photo
james lee photo
sophia granchinho photo
birdiegal717 photo
chris leboutillier photo
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steve smith photo
steve harvey photo
ryan stone photo
northern harrier photo
mathew schwartz photo
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Lisa Lamoreaux, San Juan Island Fine Artist Lisa Lamoreaux didn’t plan to become an artist. But in many ways, she just always was.
Bee 4 by Lisa Lamoreaux.
trons undertook the hunt for her. She’s received handmade papers from all over the world — including an Italian one that’s so beautiful it’s somehow never made its way onto a canvas. “I have four rolls of it that I’ve been coveting. I just can’t bring myself to use it,” said Lisa.
Making a Home on San Juan Island HER PASSION FOR MIXING AND
matching designs began as just a little girl. Obsessed with buying greeting cards, Lisa Lamoreaux spent hours rearranging them on the wall of her bedroom. Tired of the pinholes, her mother turned the entire wall into cork giving Lisa the freedom to easily create new designs as her collection grew and her vision expanded. Today, her work is rooted in the same collage-style techniques she began honing in her early years. A mixed-media fine artist, many of her pieces begin with a layer of found paper. Lisa then adds a layer of acrylic modeling paste, maneuvering the plastic-like material while it’s still pliable. Speaking to the creative process, Lamoreaux doesn’t know what any single piece will be until she’s well into the design process. Once dried, the canvas receives layers
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and layers of acrylic paint. Subjects are then painted in water-mixable oil. Lisa’s final step is a glaze that gives her work an eye-catching shine. e process is time-intensive, requiring long dry times and an extensive amount of exploring.
Using Found Paper
Over time, Lamoreaux’s passion for finding greeting cards morphed into a hunt for old paper. In her early days as a professional artist, she’d scour hidden places, like flea markets and rummage sales. She’d find old books, scores of music, and handmade paper — each uniquely beautiful and full of character. In order for her pieces to be sold professionally, the paper she uses must be under the public domain. As Lamoreaux’s work developed a following, passionate pa-
Born and raised in Bellingham, Lamoreaux spent the first 20 years as a young adult in the greater Seattle area. Moving to the San Juans wasn’t part of the plan, but it also didn’t surprise her that the islands called to her. “It’s always been a lifelong dream to live somewhere on an island with a western exposure,” Lamoreaux explained. In 2017, she came to San Juan Island to housesit and she never left. Lamoreaux was captivated by the western-facing view of Andrews Bay and Haro Strait. She still is. It’s the view she sees daily from her island home and studio. You too can see the view during the annual San Juan Island Artists’ Studio Tour, June 4 - 5, 2022. Lisa is also happy to welcome visitors by appointment. Lisalamoreaux.com 206-660-6759
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Learning Made Fun at MOHAI
SAMPLE THE BEST BREAD IN WASHINGTON From crop to oven, Barn Owl Bakery’s crunchy-crusted baked goods have earned national attention.
Lopez Island’s Barn Owl Bakery recently received a highly-coveted award from Food & Wine’s 2022 review of ‘e Best Bread in Every State’ joing three other Washington powerhouses: Sea Wolf Bakery, Breadfarm, and Macrina Bakery. Unarguably the most remote on the list, this craft bakery on sleepy Lopez makes magic with island-grown goods. e bread relies on a wild leaven, rich in bacteria and yeasts that imbue flavor and nutrition. e grain comes from Horse Drawn Farm, where the land is actually tilled by horses (another Lopez purveyor). And, the flour is milled at Island Grist, a Lopez mill using historic milling equipment. You can find Barn Owl Bakery breads year-round at Blossom Grocery, the Southend General Store, and the Orcas Co-op. During the summer months, you can find a full complement of bread and pastries at the Lopez Island Farmer’s Market. barnowlbakery.com
CALLING ALL BOOK LOVERS
e annual Orcas Island Lit Festival is returning June 3-4. is three-day festival features panels, readings, and events highlighting the vibrant literary culture of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Authors range from Pulitzer Prize winners to gifted new voices. ey herald from throughout the country, in a rich mix of local and national voices. Take full advantage of this uniquely intimate setting to engage with world-class writers, ask questions and explore their work. kenmoreair.com/OrcasLitFest
HOW DID SEATTLE GET ESTABLISHED?
What were the first neighborhoods like? What’s the deal with the big red R? And have seaplanes always landed on Lake Union? e Museum of History and Industry, aka MOHAI, offers a deep dive into how Seattle evolved from its earliest days to now. A mix of pictures, artifacts and hands-on exhibits make this indoor museum fascinating for those of all ages. And, a fun thing to do in Seattle — no matter the weather. e Grand Atrium is a breathtaking introduction. From its rafters a Boeing B-1 is suspended. One of the first seaplanes to regularly land and take off from Lake Union, it was used to fly mail from Seattle to Victoria, British Columbia from 1920 to 1927. Glowing behind the plane’s tail is the 12-foot tall Rainier ‘R.’ e iconic sign was originally at the Old Rainier Brewery in Seattle’s Industrial District, where it could be seen from I-5. At its nose, a 165-foot wooden sculpture rises from the ground to the ceiling. Carved from the salvaged wood of a schooner built in 1896, visitors can walk the half-moon interior, finding a skylight at its tip and a window at the floor, peering down to the sculpture’s base where it dips into
the waters of Lake Union. A suggested path can be found on the museum’s floor by following a series of orange dots and arrows. ese helpful markers allow you to explore the museum’s collection of permanent and rotating exhibits in chronological order. From the Grand Atrium, the guided path takes you to the second floor on the northern edge of the building. A series of extensive permanent exhibits have been engagingly constructed in several spaces. e displays are speckled with window views of Lake Union. A variety of interactive displays invite visitors to try their luck at an ancient slot machine, move logs through a sawmill, help boats pass through the Ballard Locks and more! e second-floor displays continue, wrapping around the entire Grand Atrium along a terrace walkway. e third floor features the Kids Construction Zone, a large play space filled with learning toys and small windows to Lake Union. e top story is the Maritime exhibit — a beautiful space generously filled with daylight and views. A captain’s wheel marks the space’s helm and at the room’s core is a submarine periscope. kenmoreair.com
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Built, Brewed & Poured By Locals
san juan brewing photo
The specious patio at San Jun Brewing offers the ideal setting for relaxing over a pint with friends and family.
By Charlotte Chevalier BRINGING BACK CRAFT SINCE 2017,
The Dalles Chamber 404 W 2nd Street The Dalles, Oregon 541-296-2231 ExploreTheDalles.com
SCAN ME FOR MORE ES!! ADVENTUR
#ExploreTheDalles
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San Juan Island Brewing Company is an award-winning brewery set in the beautiful and awe-inspiring San Juan Islands. Based in Friday Harbor, the brewery is known for highly sessionable, true-tostyle beers, specializing in old world ales and lagers that are all unified in being flavor balanced and pairing well with food. Sean and Tim Aylward, two brothers who grew up on San Juan Island and later moved away, started visiting craft breweries on the mainland over a decade ago. Jesse Visciglia, a long-time science teacher at the high school, aspired to put his home brewing talents toward establishing a brewery in the community. Today, he is the head brewer. Common interests would ultimately bring the brothers and Jesse together to start a brewery on the Island. On July 27, 2017, San Juan Island Brewing Company opened its doors to an anxious crowd and sold its first pint. e team used local contractors throughout its construction and relied on supplies and labor from the Island. Many involved are now regulars, proud to drink a fresh beer in the place they
helped build with their own hands. e space they created provides a relaxed atmosphere, complete with a green space for children to play and a patio with communal tables to bring people together. e owners, Sean, Tim, and Jesse, set out to establish a place for islanders to enjoy family dinners, meet up with loved ones, gather the team after practice, and connect with the community, all while enjoying beer brewed on the island. San Juan Island Brewing Company is that place. sanjuanbrew.com
ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD PUZZLE ON PAGE 30.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD PUZZLE FOUND ON PAGE 28.
28. Jeff ___, founder of 8 across 29. Seattle ___ Wheel (large Ferris wheel)
Down
Across
1. Seattle airport 7. Kenmore Air and others 8. World’s largest retailer outside of China, founded in Seattle 9. Elliott ___ (part of Puget Sound) 12. “at hurt!” 14. One of the colors in the Seattle Storm logo 30
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15. Seattle’s state borders this country 19. Gather, as funds 20. Seattle NFL team 22. row at T-Mobile Park perhaps 24. Goods in transit 25. Word in a simile 26. Jeopardy! champion ___ Jennings (born in nearby Edmonds)
1. Coffee chain founded in Seattle 2. Brand of tea once owned by 1 down 3. Lake Washington Ship ___ (connects Lake Washington to Puget Sound) 4. Sitcom whose title card features the Seattle Space Needle 5. ___ 57 (tourist attraction in Downtown Seattle) 6. ___ City (nickname for Seattle based on Boeing) 10. Over there, to a bard 11. Hello, in Spanish 13. Seattle’s state (abbr.) 16. Seattle XFL team 17. Seattle is situated on one (geographic feature) 18. Common winter activity in Seattle 21. Clear of data 22. ___ Place Market 23. Camping shelter 24. Hired ride 27. Video game company that once had offices in Seattle, abbr.
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Gear Worthy of Adventure Whether you’re casting for salmon, exploring a new destination or visiting a beloved getaway, make sure you’re prepared for what’s to come. From staying fueled to keeping warm, this carefully curated collection of travel-tested gear will keep up with you (and your littles) no matter what Mother Nature sends your way.
Superfeet’s ADAPT Run Insoles
ese lightly-structured cushioned running orthotics upgrade the classic running those with added comfort and support. Designed to flex and adapt to your foot’s natural motion, they are a great fit for everyone from the daily walker to the running enthusiast. $44.99 superfeet.com
Filson’s Rugged Twill Tote Bag
Ditch the flimsy tote. Constructed out of Filson’s exclusive Rugged Twill, this generously-sized tote is built to last — and looks good to boot! e water-repellent body is accented with bridle leather handles for an elegant accent whether you’re headed to the backcountry or taking your kids on their next adventure. Made in the USA, it features a roomy interior for bulky items and four exterior pockets for smaller essentials. Plus, it has a key clip lanyard so you never lose your keys. $195 filson.com
Orvis’ Men’s Pro Wader
Grab your tackle and hit the water. ese waders are built to keep up. Featuring an extremely durable proprietary 4-layer Cordura fabric shell, they aren’t easily punctured by sticks and rocks. e external storage pocket is outfitted with a water-resistant zipper, giving you a secure space to store items. And as a luxurious bonus, the bibs come outfitted with Kangaroo-style fleece-lined handwarmer pockets, perfect for those chilly days in the PNW. $598 orvis.com 32
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Namuk’s Eon Backpack 14 HydroFlask’s 28 oz Insulated Food Jar
Warm soup. Perfectly chilled (un-smashed) fruit salad. Steamy granola. ere’s a lot to love about keeping warm foods warm and cold foods chilled. HydroFlask’s double-wall vacuum insulated jars with leak-proof lids do just that. Available in four convenient sizes and multiple fun colors, these easily-transportable jars allow you to pack in advance, so you’re never hungry on the go! $44.95 hydroflask.com
Voormi’s Women’s Diversion Hoodie
Empower the young explorers in your life with a backpack that can keep up, even if it sees a bit of tough love. Built from textile fibers that are up to 15 times stronger than steel, this sturdy kid’s backpack is waterproof and nearly indestructible. Plus, the inner liner can easily be removed and washed if there’s an accident. Reflective drawcords add extra visibility and carrying capacity. And the generously-sized side pockets can easily accommodate a water bottle, snacks or your child’s latest treasure. $120 namuk.com
is versatile mid-layer makes layering up or down a breeze. Water-resistant, the generously-sized hood keeps your head and ears warm when the weather picks up. e integrated thumb holes easily give your hands extra warmth, while the full-zip front provides extra breathability when your adventures pick up steam. From trail to boat to casual strolls around town, this will quickly become a wardrobe staple. $269 voormi.com
Brook’s Levitate 5
Whether you’re putting in some miles or looking to comfortably explore for the day, these super springy shoes help return energy to your feet with each step. Designed in Seattle, they feature breathable fabric and an upper stretch technology that offers a more accommodating fit. Available in a variety of colors from neutrals to bright and spunky, these shoes are sure to put a pep in your step. $150 brooksrunning.com
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sara parsons photo
The extensive grounds at Roche Harbor offer a plethora of backdrops, creating unique opportunities to pose with bridal parties and loved ones. Below, Saltwater Farm’s beautifully designed ceremony site sits at the edge of the property’s ridge overlooking the mountains and ocean.
I Do... Island Style Top wedding venues, photographers & florists in the San Juans. By MIKAELA JUDD Rocky shorelines. e San Juan Islands are enchanting. Like a moment out of time, they seem to be almost untouched. e clean air. e 220 days with sunshine. e stunning views. It’s what makes the San Juans the ideal wedding destination for couples with adventurous souls. e following outlines some of the best wedding venues, florists, and photographers — all home based in the San Juan Islands. Whether you’re eloping, want an intimate gathering or are planning a soiree for the whole crew, there’s magic to be found in the San Juans.
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WEEPING GRASSLANDS. OLD-GROWTH FORESTS.
satya curcio photo
Sweet moments spent on the balcony of a Water Edge suite at Outlook Inn are exquisite.
Small touches, like a hammock thoughtfully hung by the water, make Pebble Cove Farm a wedding destination full of wonder.
Saltwater Farm Just outside of Friday Harbor, and less than a two-minute drive from the Friday Harbor Airport, is the newly-established and sustainably-conscious Saltwater Farm. is idyllic retreat grew out of a dream and a love for the land. e 162-acre property has been carefully crafted to offer couples a chance to spend a long weekend with loved ones, celebrate their big day, and preserve nature — all with a carbon negative footprint. Nestled along a ridge, the property can accommodate up to 40 overnight guests and parties of up to 249. Guests are treated to breathtaking views of the Salish Sea and the Olympic Mountains. Plus, the property is a budding animal rescue that’s currently home to a family of rescue goats, chickens, and a new puppy. Outlook Inn In the heart of Eastsound, Orcas
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Island’s quirky downtown, Outlook Inn rests perched beside the waters of Fishing Bay. Not quite big enough to be a resort and not quite small enough to be a Bed and Breakfast, the captivating destination was first founded in 1888. Refined and updated over the years, echoes of its historical charm can be felt in the handcrafted objects that grace its interior. In addition to its beachfront access, the inn features a full acre of flowers and trees in Sara’s Garden.
Pebble Cove For couples who love animals, you-pick organic gardens, bonfires, and kayaking, Pebble Cove Farm is a slice of paradise. e four-acre estate butts up against the water’s edge, offering private beach access to guests. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent. A vegan animal sanctuary, it’s home to a wide range of rescued animals, including a pony named Hank and two mini Juliana pigs. Five on-site accommodations are available, allowing the wedding party to home base at the farm for the weekend while guests visit for everything from rehearsal dinners to post-nuptial Sunday brunch. Pebble Cove Farm’s rustic elegance will make your unique wedding truly unforgettable. kenmoreair.com
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TOP WEDDING VENUES
Roche Harbor Resort At the northern edge of San Juan Island, tucked along 12 miles of glistening coastline, Roche Harbor Resort elevates old-world elegance with first-class amenities. More than 130-years-old, the 4,000-acre estate is steeped in history and surrounded by lush gardens. It offers a wide range of hotel rooms, cottages, and rental homes, providing lodging options for parties both large and small. Plus, many of the island’s top excursions depart from its docks, allowing adventurous couples to add some untraditional fun to their wedding getaway.
TOP FLORISTS
Robin’s Nest Located in Friday
Nest Flowers by Heather Saunders.
Harbor, Robin’s Nest is one of the oldest florists on San Juan Island. Specializing in intimate weddings and special occasion bouquets, owner and florist designer Robin Zemek leaves no detail overlooked.
Petal Hill Originally a wedding
cake designer, Jami Plummer wanted out of the kitchen and into the garden. Turning her front yard into flowerbeds, she began creating seasonal bouquets for local businesses, special occasions, and weddings. Her whimsical bouquets are heavily influenced by Orcas Island, where her flower studio and garden are located.
Camas Designs Erin Shackelford, founder of Camas Designs on San Juan Island, harnesses the simplicity and elegance of nature to create stunning floral displays. Specializing in weddings and events, she creates everything from whimsical bouquets and centerpieces to grand archways and flower arbors. Sourcing many of her flowers locally, Erin will often weave in a few final touches from her own cutting garden. Nest Flowers Cindy Morgan has been a florist since she was a little girl running into her mother’s garden to create arrangements for the kitchen table. In 2004, she founded Nest Flowers on Orcas Island. What began as a small operation blossomed over the years allowing Cindy to expand her love for creative designs into everything from large installations to simple bouquets. Apotheca Designs e whimsical
nature of Kara Navradszky’s artistic flower displays often feels as though it should be art. (She doubles as a living jewelry artist, creating stunning wearable arrangements on rings, necklaces, and headpieces.) From flowing bridal bouquets to enchanting tablescapes and large living walls, Kara’s eye for natural beauty seems to echo the very essence of love.
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Camas Designs flowers.
Flowers by Apotheca Designs.
Robin’s Nest flowers.
Flowers by Petal Hills.
Specializing in connecting people with unique coastal properties in British Columbia. Put over 40 years of combined experience in coastal real estate to work for you!
Ed Handja Personal Real Estate Corporation Shelley McKay Personal Real Estate Corporation 250.287.0011 edhandja@bcoceanfront.com
250.830.4435 shelleymckay@bcoceanfront.com
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sara parsons photo
TOP PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sara Parsons uses a slight breeze to add a touch of mystique to this beautiful couple.
la vie photo
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Kim Bamberg capitalizes on the sweeping landscape to give this new couple a moment alone that’s captured without intruding. Left, Satya Curcio uses the speckled sunlight in a lush forest to illuminate this sweet embrace.
Satya Curcio Photography Based on Orcas Island, Satya Curcio’s use of natural light allows her to capture realistic snapshots brimming with emotion. Using the natural beauty of lush forest beds, rocky cliffs, and sweeping views, Sara preserves couples and their story. She has a nimble eye for highlighting the mood of an event while making the day easy and seamless.
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Sara Parsons Photography Light and airy, Sara Parsons captures moments with an ethereal eye. Her focus on the little details and her use of movement creates images that feel as though they are alive. A San Juan Island local, she understands how to capitalize on the best lookouts and time sunset photos, while adding a dose of fun that makes taking pictures feel effortless.
La Vie Photography Vibrant and full of
life, Kim Bamberg catches love with an enchanting focus on color. Her use of natural structures creates a sense of closeness. Finding the seconds that make a lifetime, Kim allows you to stay immersed in the day by providing just enough direction to make getting a great shot a breeze. Plus, she offers overhead drone footage for those who want a bird’s-eye view of their big day.
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Nestled among the rocks and the trees, the Wickaninnish Inn feels as though it’s always been part of the landscape.
Magic at the End of the Road Rimmed with oldgrowth forests and studded with sandy beaches, Tofino’s pristine landscape beckons the heart in need of peace and adventure. By SARA SATTERLEE
I
’M A SUCKER FOR LOVE. For
an awkward attempt at a first kiss, a glance that takes a quick turn into a stare, and those butterflies. Yet I found myself traveling on Valentine’s Day without a date. By choice, to be sure. I didn’t go on a mission to find someone; rather my heart was seeking a wonderful and a self-reflective getaway. I feel a little sheepish admitting this, but when I was in Tofino, the town sent me love letters and sunsets. e four 40
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sara parsons photo
Watch as the weather turns and rolls, as the mist comes in and the waves pick up, from the warmth and comfort of a seaside window.
gorgeous sunsets left me enchanted still today. Tofino. It’s such a fun word to say and it’s even more fun to visit. It sits at the end of the road, on the west side of Vancouver Island. Known as Canada’s unofficial surf capital, people of all ages flock to the beach in their Canadian bikinis — 4mm wetsuits — and catch gorgeous green waves year-round. But while surfing might be the town’s biggest draw, it’s far from the only reason to visit. And after a few years of travel starvation, I was desperate to find a getaway that was close enough to Seattle, yet far enough away that I felt 42
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like I was actually getting away. Tofino seemed like an easy choice.
60-Minutes from Seattle
For many, the trek to Tofino involves a ferry boat ride and a three-hour drive along a two-lane highway. But for those in the know, it’s just a 60-minute charter flight from Seattle to Tofino aboard Kenmore Air’s Pilatus PC-12. e flight was easily one of the most beautiful and enjoyable I’ve taken. e approach over the coastline was breathtaking and over before I knew it. When I landed at Long Beach Airport, the town’s only taxi — Tofino Taxi — was busy.
More on this later. Part of the fun in traveling to new places is exploring the town’s food scene. It’s rumored there are no bad restaurants in Tofino, and I couldn’t agree more. What better way to put the rumor to the test than to grab a bite? My first stop: Shed, located in the heart of downtown (461 Campbell St.). , where hearty burgers and satisfying bowls were served with warmth. I tried the Soto Ayam bowl, an Indonesian chicken soup loaded with egg noodles and the jammy yolk of a six-minute egg. It was filling without being heavy, studded with just the right amount of
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Charles McDiarmid and the Wick’s resident carver, Feather George reminisce about the inn’s rich history. Below, the Wickaninnish Inn makes even the simplest of meals an experience.
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sara parsons photo
Brunch at the Wickaninnish Inn
chili pepper to encourage two refreshing cocktails rather than one.
Breakfast & Love Notes
e following day began with coffee in town at Rhino Coffee House, another great establishment in the heart of Tofino (430 Campbell St.). A fantastic coffee shop famous for its donuts. Make no mistake, the donuts were impressive but I’m a cookie girl and one look at those big, buttery cookies with perfectly crispy brown edges had me. As I meandered past the town’s storefronts, I saw handwritten valentine notes taped to the doors. e sweet
love letters were cut into hearts. I read as many as I could on the way back to meet my ride to brunch at e Wickaninnish Inn (known to the locals as ‘e Wick’). “Be brave,” one read. “Let all that you do be done with love,” said another. “One little word can light up someone’s day,” proclaimed a neon yellow heart. One of the draws of Tofino is its intimacy but it comes with limitations. In particular, it lacks a lot of taxis. But the one taxi driver, Mike, was a mountain of local knowledge. roughout the week Mike got to know me pretty well. He always had a suggestion of what I should do next, and for that I was grateful. On the way to brunch at e Wick he showed me points of interest and shared a little history about the town. It’s always fun to have a local perspective to draw from.
I felt prepared when I arrived, and I was thankful. e Wick was both stunning and understated, rustic and beautiful, built into the bluff without changing the landscape. Long thought of as the ‘Inn that built Tofino,’ travelers come for the experiences they’ve read about: surfing and storm watching. ey return because walking in feels like a
warm embrace. e beautifully carved doors were opened for me and warm greetings followed as I was led into a windowed dining room. It sat above the rocks and splashing waves. I could see the seals and the otters. I was told the whales would be coming by soon. I was dining with the Wick’s own Charles McDiarmid, managing director since 1996 when it opened. We ordered coffee. I read the menu like one reads a list of their favorite things, salivating one item after the next. Four kinds of Eggs Benedict. Crab fried rice. Carrot cake French toast. I had heard the Smoked Salmon Rosti was the signature dish and went with that. e crispy potatoes and poached eggs served with horseradish cream cheese and a dill hollandaise sauce is heavenly. Order it, kenmoreair.com
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Where the weak WiFi disappears and the water becomes glassy, there’s a quietness that overtakes you.
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You’ll want to wear a wetsuit year-round while surfing in Tofino. The water temperature stays relatively consistent, ranging from a brisk 48°F degrees in winter and a ‘toasty’ 59°F degrees in summer.
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Walking the beach is a beloved pastime for those who call Tofino home and those who visit.
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maybe two or three times. It’s too good to have just once. After brunch, Charles and I explored the inn. It was built next to his parent’s cabin, on the land where he played and explored as a kid. He cares deeply about preserving the land’s history and sharing its story. e tour took us on a visit to the Wick’s private library, showcasing the local history. e hotel’s awards were also given a special place of honor here. It’s a remarkable list of accolades that included many for Charles. It was clear his whole heart was invested in this place. I was lucky to witness his enthusiasm. Following our visit to the library, we visited the bar. No details were overlooked, right down to the heating elements Charles had installed under the bar so guests wouldn’t experience a chill when relaxing at the carved marble bar top. ere were similarly thoughtful designs threaded throughout the Wick. It’s been said that ‘the devil is in the details,’ and I would counter with ‘love is in the small details.’ e principles of rustic elegance, texture, and harmony with the land and sea are woven thoughtfully throughout each room. Maybe it was the glass of port waiting in my room. Or the respite I never knew I needed in the soaker tub with a view. For Charles, it is the beams and wooden
doors carved by Henry Nolla that adorn buildings throughout the property. Henry’s Carving Shed still stands nearby, where the forest meets the beach. Resident carver Feather George apprenticed with Nolla and keeps the tradition alive. Charles maintains the Carving Shed is the heart and soul of the Wick and it’s hard to argue with that.
Storm Watching, Wave Surfing & Sauna Floating
I woke up early the next morning to see if there were any dawn patrol surfers. e weather was foggy and misty, with no visible surf. I made a quick pivot. Based on the weather report, this was as close as I was going to get to storm
watching while I was there. So I embraced what Mother Nature was serving up outside the window and ordered room service. I had a latte and the Power Bowl, a wonderful medley of Elderflower and Chia yogurt topped with fresh berries, poached pear granola and bee pollen. I didn’t expect it to be as good as the signature dish I had a brunch the day before. I was wrong. It was fantastic. My latte even had an artful foam heart. (More love letters from Tofino.) After a little nourishment and attempted weather watching, I gave Mike a ring. Most people come for the surfing. e hippie vibe is strong here — amongst both those native to the area
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and those who now call the place home. After asking around about the best surf school, there were two main winners: Tofino Paddle Surf and Surf Sisters. While I love a good paddle session, I had a different thrill in mind — a floating sauna. e excursion is run by Black Rock Resort in nearby Ucluelet. It begins with a 30-minute boat ride from the marina in Tofino to a remote cove. As we reached the sauna, snowy mountain peaks could be seen rising through the water’s surface and disappearing into the air. e Floating Sauna barge was tucked into a cove. It felt a million miles away from everything. e experience was designed for a full day, off-line im-
mersion with nature, stoking the heat in the sauna, plunging into the chilly Clayoquot Sound, and paddling around wondering if this is heaven on earth. It was all of that and more. is was the middle of February and there we were laying in our swimsuits on a barge, keeping warm beside the sauna’s hot wood stove, and cooling off in hammocks. Or for those who have fire in their veins, a flying saltwater plunge into the sound’s icy waters offers a quick refresh. I do not have fire in my veins; the hammock was just fine. e only sound was our friendly chatter and the trees creaking in the light wind. Seals came by for a visit. It was peaceful, refreshing, and soul-filling.
Once we were feeling spiritually renewed, it was time to board the boat and head back to the marina. On the return, guests were invited to pull shrimp and crab pots. It was a delight to see them filled with morsels from the sea. e catch was prepared at 1909 Kitchen at the marina (634 Campbell St.). e meal was a deliciously-perfect-ending to a perfect day. Upon returning to the Wick, the sun was setting and the surf was up at Chesterman Beach. I walked the beach. Everyone walked the beach it seemed. Everyone smiled, locals and tourists alike. Tofino was little different like that. A little friendlier. And I loved every second of it. kenmoreair.com
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Staycationing in the Emerald City Exploring Seattle with kids gives you a fresh perspective on one of the most vibrant cities in the Pacific Northwest. By LISETTE WOLTER MCKINLEY
P
ICTURE BREATHTAKING MOUNTAINS, MOSS-LADEN forests, and fresh salty
air paired with mild weather and amazing year-round outdoor activities. Where is such a place you might ask? For those of us lucky enough to live in Seattle, it is called home. Often upon returning back from a trip, I am reminded I already live in one of the most spectacular places in the country. Although my family and I normally don’t take the time to vacation where we live, it only took a pandemic to realize how much there is to learn and explore in our city. And most importantly, we were reminded how rejuvenating a vacation can be without a long plane or car ride. In the past, our time spent in the city has always been punctuated by time constraints. ere was always parking about to expire, or a water taxi or a bus to catch. In the end, there was never enough time to do, taste, or experi-
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Seattle’s waterfront, with the Great Wheel, is a must-experience attraction that will delight kids ranging from 2- to 80-years-old.
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Exploring Seattle is never dull, when you get peak-a-boo views of iconic landmarks like the Space Needle.
ence everything we wanted to. is is where the beauty of the staycation lies, unadulterated time with people and in the city I love. Recently my husband and I decided to enjoy the city as someone from another city who vacations in the Emerald City. We were tourists in our own backyard. We booked a hotel in downtown, which gave us the option to do an early morning visit to the aquarium, an afternoon boat ride, a mid-day run 48
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to Dick’s, a fabulous dinner downtown, a late-night spin on the Seattle Great Wheel, and finally an ice cream pit stop to top off the day. It sounds like a full schedule, but it was completely doable.
Start With A Good Homebase
For our family, the key to a successful staycation is selecting the best possible home base. For us, proximity to the water, walking distance to attractions, a room with a view, great food, and an
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lisette wolter-mckinley photo
lisette wolter-mckinley photo
Below, there are few things as “Quintessential Seattle” as a Dick’s burger, no matter the time of day. And Seattle’s Electric Boat Company lets you get out on the water for an up-close view of Seattle’s Lake Union house boats, yachts, and more!
outdoor pool were high on our list. As a parent, I prefer to stay places I know my child will be treated well and not just an appendage to me. After careful consideration, we decided to stay at the Four Seasons. Upon arrival, it was clear our choice for our home base was spot on. Not only were we able to witness a stunning sunset from our hotel room, but my children let out literal squeals of delight as they gobbled up the brightly colored
With just the right amount of char and loaded with whimsy, s’mores are the fun finger foods that everyone will love.
treats laid out for them and played with the teddy bears lying on their beds patiently awaiting their arrival. Little touches like having perfectly sized bathrobes and slippers went a long way to make them feel like the VIPS they are. In our family, we have a weekly tradition of Friday night movie night, so our stay began in style with room service and a movie. What could be better than spending a Friday night wearing your pajamas eating chicken strips and mac and cheese off of a white tablecloth while watching television? If you are two- and seven-years-old there is nothing greater. As any parent to little ones can attest most children have no concept of sleeping in. However, when traveling this
works to our advantage because it means we get an early start to our day. A hearty breakfast from Goldfinch Tavern of towering pancakes, French toast, and freshsqueezed orange juice fueled a jam-packed day of fun.
Take Advantage of Seattle’s City PASS
e City PASS was a great starting point for being able to check off a variety of interests without too much planning required ahead of time. Recently, most Seattle attractions have adopted a reservation system that easily allows you to visit each attraction without the hassle
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lisette wolter-mckinley photo
Below, the breakfasts at Goldfinch Tavern range from savory to indulgent with options like Wild Mushroom Hash and hearty French toast.
or frustration of sold-out or overly busy venues. In my daughter’s first visit to the aquarium, she was delighted by the playful otters. e newly renovated Space Needle with its unobstructed glass viewing decks awed even us longtime Seattle residents and the Chihuly Garden and Glass encouraged us to look into taking a glassblowing class for a kenmoreair.com
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From your Deluxe Bay View Room at the Four Seasons you can watch the sunset on the Puget Sound as boats and ferries float by.
come to mind such as the baby gorilla doing handstands for us at the zoo, a seaplane buzzing overhead while we were out on an electric boat, or the kind woman at Fran’s who slipped some extra chocolates into our bag for the kids.
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Let Even the Smallest Moments Feel Big
future date night. A big part of traveling with little ones is sticking to their routine, so we loved being just blocks away from the Seattle library where we could spend a little downtime doing something we normally do or easily pop back to the hotel for a mid-day nap. Easy access to Pike Place Market meant we could pop over for all our pent-up market cravings. ink Le Panier macarons, Beecher’s cheese, Ellenos yogurt, and Piroshky Piroshky to name a few. 50
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Get Out On the Water
Hands down there is no better way to experience Seattle than by boat. Between the Argosy Harbor Cruise on Elliott Bay and the electric boat we rented on Lake Union, we spent hours taking on some of the best views of the city. Colorful houseboats and seaplanes reminded us of how exciting, dynamic, and photogenic a place Seattle is. For as much planning as you do on vacation, it is the unexpected moments that leave a lasting impression. Several
Dinner at Goldfinch Tavern was a celebration of all things PNW. I proudly witnessed my seven-year-old declare, “Salmon and Brussel sprouts are my favorite!” as he devoured his meal and my two-year-old single-handedly ate the entire cheese platter. After our meal, we were delighted by thoughtfully prepared tableside s’mores and a hot cocoa bar topped off our meal. You might think hot chocolate is no big deal, but like all things at the Four Seasons, it went above and beyond with white chocolate ganache, chocolate shavings, and homemade marshmallows. Food memories are often the strongest memories we hold because they utilize all five senses. I firmly believe we are going to be daydreaming about our family dinner at the Four Seasons for a long time to come. Because our home base was fantastic it actually made it hard to want to leave each day. At the hotel we spent countless hours swimming in the pool, watching it morph from purple to blue and then green all while keeping track of the ferries and boats that passed by. During our stay, we kept reveling in the fact we felt like we had the place to ourselves. If you are looking for a family trip that checks all the boxes from fresh air to interesting architecture, new experiences, and delicious food then a staycation in Seattle is just what your family needs. If you haven’t spent a day in the city with your family from sun up to sundown, then you haven’t experienced the true heart of the city. ere is so much to fall in love with about Seattle. Whether it’s the breathtaking scenery all around town to the diverse neighborhoods and the hard-working people who keep our city a vibrant and colorful place to live, it truly is a place where you will find an old friend or make a new one.
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