Threads of Home: How Custom Fabrics Are Reimagining the Holiday Table
Some stories begin with a bold leap, and Cole’s started the day she boarded a plane for Seattle—a city she had never seen but somehow knew would change her life. Fresh out of Montana State University, she arrived in the Northwest cold, lonely, and utterly certain she was exactly where she needed to be. It was a conviction inherited from her parents, who always encouraged her to explore the world and trust her instincts.
That instinct—to wander with curiosity and create intentionally wherever she landed - has guided Cole through every chapter of her winding, joyfully creative career.
While working as a secretary at a law firm, she took a second job at a neighborhood kitchen store. When the owner moved on, Cole was unexpectedly offered the chance to reimagine the business as her own. She launched Culinary Concepts, designing cooking class programs
that tapped into the city’s rising culinary scene. She recruited chefs from iconic Seattle restaurants—including Jerry Traunfeld of The Herbfarm, Tom Douglas, Jonathan Sundstrom, Greg Atkinson, and food writer HsiaoChing Chou—to teach curious home cooks.
“The 1990s and early 2000s in Seattle were an amazing time in the culinary world, and I loved it,”
Cole said.
Laura Marie Rivera
Cole later took an early “retirement” when she adopted her children, but life had more creative chapters waiting. A chance encounter with the editor of Vanguard Seattle led to an unexpected invitation: would she consider serving as the magazine’s fashion and style editor? The role fit her naturally—she came from a long line of writers and creatives, had always loved fashion, and found joy in curating beauty and meaning. More importantly, it offered a rare balance: “It was a job where I could do something I loved and still be an involved mother and wife,” she said.
Then the world stood still.
During the quiet of Covid, Cole found herself back at the table - literally. She continued her lifelong love of entertaining by setting the table each night for her family, using the cloth napkins her mother had taught her to sew. What began as a personal ritual slowly rekindled her passion for craft and storytelling.
The Seattle Joy Guide: Everything Is Glitter and I Love You
Seattle in December doesn’t just sparkle - it vibrates. The clouds are mood lighting. The air smells like cedar and coffee grounds, the sidewalks glisten like someone sprinkled them with optimism, and the Space Needle’s halo hums with that quiet holiday electricity you can feel even from blocks away. Somewhere between your third peppermint mocha and your fifth spontaneous compliment to a stranger’s dog, you realize it: the holidays have absolutely won.
Somewhere between the gray skies and the glittering ferries, Seattle becomes a city that absolutely hums with holiday warmth - even if you can still see your breath. You’re not surviving December; you’re ascending.
STEP 1: OH MYLANTA, HAVE YOU SEEN THE LIGHTS?
They’re everywhere. Downtown glows like a jewel box. Fremont looks like an elf convention. Even the cranes have fairy lights - it’s industrial romance!
You don’t need a passport or plane ticket to feel transported Drift through the lights of downtown, hop on the Monorail, follow the scent of roasted nuts and sugar cookies toward the Seattle Christmas Market at the Armory.
It’s all there: handmade ornaments, Bavarian pretzels, the occasional Santa eating pierogi with spiritual conviction. Grab a mug of glühwein and let the band’s brass section convince you that you’ve made excellent life choices.
Bonus: You will 100% text someone “You have to see this” at least once.
STEP 2: COFFEE, COCOA, AND POSSIBLY TRANSCENDENCE
This city runs on caffeine, and December is its Super Bowl. Get a gingerbread latte from
Café Hagen, and suddenly your aura is cinnamon. Try Elm Coffee Roasters, and you’ll start believing espresso has emotional depth.
You could drink water, sure, but it doesn’t come with nutmeg.
Pro tip: Any café with fogged windows and Bing Crosby in the background is basically therapy.
STEP 3: LAYER UP, LOVE HARD
Bundle up like an overzealous snowman and walk through the Seattle Center Winterfest ice rink. You’ll fall. Everyone does. But you’ll laugh so hard it’ll echo off the Monorail tracks like holiday reverb.
Then wander over to the Seattle Christmas Market, grab a pretzel bigger than your face, and marvel at the fact that everyone seemsget this - happy.
That’s right. You’re in public, in December, in Seattle, and people are smiling. Take a deep breath. That’s joy in the air, not mist. (Okay, maybe a little mist.)
STEP 4: COZY CULTURE (NO BLANKET FORT REQUIRED)
Not every festive moment involves glitter. Sometimes it’s about stepping into warmth. Check out a candle-making workshop at Elm Candle Bar in Capitol Hill or a wreath class at The Works in Columbia City.
If theater’s your thing, Taproot Theatre’s annual Christmas production delivers nostalgia without the sugar crash. Or go small: an evening poetry open mic at Couth Buzzard Books, where the lights twinkle, the cocoa flows, and the applause sounds like home.
STEP 5: TASTE EVERYTHING, JUDGE NOTHING
The holidays are not the time for restraint.
• Enjoy a slice of Princess Cake from Byen Bakeri.
• Hop over to The Masonry for a slice and a sip from one of their fourteen taps.
Follow that with a late-night stack at Mecca Café, the kind of pancakes that practically beg you not to count calories afterward. Because calories are fictional in December. So are consequences. You’re basically Santa now.
STEP 6: SHOPPING? MORE LIKE EMOTIONAL FORAGING
Skip the malls. Go to the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall where everything feels handcrafted by someone slightly tipsy on cheer. Pick up a ceramic mushroom, a vintage brooch, and a sticker that says “Merryish.” Boom. You’re done.
Gift wrap optional. Love is implied.
STEP 7: REDEFINE “PEACE ON EARTH” It’s not about big parties or perfect gifts. It’s that weird moment when the rain slows, the city hums, and the Space Needle's lights slice through the gray like hope itself.
It’s your neighbor’s dog in a Santa hat. It’s that stranger who held the door at QFC and said, “Stay warm.” It’s the realization that you live in a place where the clouds sparkle sometimes.
So yeah, Seattle - you win. You’re damp and unpredictable and deliriously beautiful. And if loving you this much is wrong… I don’t want to be seasonally adjusted.
Wishing you Happiest Holidays & a Bright New Year!
We are endlessly grateful for our clients!
Join Teacher Amanda at Primrose and May’s Holiday Craft Workshop November 29, 30th or December 6th to make a special handmade keepsake gift.
Spafford Robbins, Eric Premo, & Gina Hasson
People Get Ready: What Other Countries’ Prep Can Teach Us
My ears always perk up when I come across preparedness stories, but one podcast ( “Inside the New Era of Emergency Readiness,” by the Wall Street Journal) was particularly intriguing. Prepping, a niche hobby often associated with bunker enthusiasts, is now taking center stage for some governments.
I decided to dive a little bit into what some regions are doing to prepare for disasters and other crises.
TAIWAN: GO BAGS GAIN MOMENTUM
The Taiwanese, it seems, are on high alert. Local interest in ‘go bags’ and other emergency prep topics surged in the spring after “repeated warnings from top U.S. officials in May and June of China’s intensive preparations for an invasion of Taiwan,” per a July issue of Focus Taiwan. A post by the American Institute in Taiwan this summer urging Taiwan’s U.S. residents to “pack your own Go Bag and be ready for anything” heightened local interest.
The government soon threw its hat in the ring, publishing a national public safety guide called “In Case of Crisis,” detailing how the public could prepare for challenges “from natural disasters and epidemics to extreme weather and the threat of aggression from China.”
The guide lists practical information for a go bag, including useful sections for “Elders” (including spare reading glasses), “Babies” (don’t forget pacifiers and small toys), and, of course, “Pets” (pack pet apparel—which sounds silly until you think about being on the move with Fido or Whiskers in rainy or cold weather).
I found many of the guide’s questions particularly thought-provoking, including these (my notes in parentheses):
How many days of medication do you have for any chronic conditions?
If the power goes out, is your home stocked with enough food, water, and necessities?
Do you have power banks? Are they kept charged?
If communications are interrupted, does your family have an agreed-upon meeting point? (Besides your family’s designated meeting point, which I hope you’ll discuss, I hope you’ll remember to visit the Madison Park Hub at the tennis courts to get and offer help to neighbors.)
recommend that you put a note to this effect on or near your portable radio. )
Do you know that ATMs may not work if there’s a power or internet outage? Do you always have some cash on hand?
How long could your family’s food supply last?
Do you have a portable radio? Do you know which [radio/tv] stations to tune in to during an emergency? (Per the Hubs, Seattle’s KIRO 710 AM radio is prepared to keep operating in an emergency; Hubs
An October 5 Wall Street Journal article, “What’s in Your Go-Bag? How Taiwan Packs for Disaster,” profiled several Taiwanese residents who have heeded the call to prep for the unexpected. One 60-year-old resident who lives with her 90-year-old mother plans to shelter in place during a disaster, stocking enough supplies to stay self-sufficient for two months. Yen Chin-chih has “radios and backup phones, power banks, generators and solar panels” as well as “radiation detectors, air-quality monitors and emergency lights,” per the article. Her go bag includes essential protection (like a mask and goggles) and the medicine she and her mother would need if forced out of their home.
I was especially moved by the homeschooling mom, Chang Hsin-yin, who engaged her 7-year-old son in prep by teaching
him that packing for a long hike is like preparing for an evacuation: “In the mountains, there’s no water, no electricity and no food.” She helped her son stock up for a recent outing with a sleeping bag, change of clothes, water, and rice. This tactic makes sense: warmth, water, and waste are needs we stress most at the Emergency Hub. These are threats even if you stay in place, but even more so if you are forced outside.
EUROPE: CONFRONTING ‘NEW THREATS AND CRISES’
In March of this year, the European Commission advised its residents to build a stockpile of essential supplies that could last for at least 72 hours. The kit should contain “water, canned or freeze-dried food, lighting, identity documents in a waterproof bag, medication and a radio,” per European Commissioner for Preparedness Hadja Lahbib.
Identity documents are easily overlooked. Some time ago, when renewing my passport, I threw an extra copy of my passport page into my go bag (and have since added family members’ pages). My aunt, who lives in hurricane country and is a veteran of public storm shelters, has kept copies of her home title, insurance information, and other key documents in a “shelter bag” that she brings with her during mandatory evacuations.
Per the EU’s fact sheet, the preparedness effort is motivated by four categories of threats:
Natural disasters: floods, wildfires, earthquakes, and extreme weather events.
Human-induced disasters: industrial accidents, technological failures, and pandemics.
Hybrid threats: cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns and FIMI (foreign information manipulation and interference), and sabotage of critical infrastructure.
Geopolitical crises: armed conflicts.
Seattle’s Hub system was primarily organized to focus on earthquakes, since relevant to our region. But in my mind, given our dependence on technology, cyberattacks and infrastructure threats in particular are more significant risks than they used to be, and it’s worth thinking about them.
DENMARK: RESIDENTS GET RESILIENT
Per the Wall Street Journal, drones in Denmark’s airspace in late September were a call to action for some residents of the Nordic country.
WSJ reporter Sandra Kilhof reported that since the drone incursion, her friends and family “have all stocked their kitchen pantries or sheds with the recommended water, canned food, and first aid kits.”
Denmark might have been ahead of the curve, per the WSJ podcast. In 2024,
“Remember that preparedness doesn’t have to be a concerted effort - or even expensive. ”
Denmark’s emergency management agency sent every resident a 72-hour prep recommendation, including guidelines very similar to lists we’ve seen here in the U.S. Less usual recommendations included iodine tablets (for people under 40 as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women) and physical payment cards (and a note to remember the PIN), as well as a common recommendation I’ve heard often: to keep cash in small denominations.
I like the community-mindedness of Denmark’s emphasis on personal responsibility. Per the Danish Minister for Resilience and Preparedness quoted on the podcast, “prepping is a way to make our society more resilient,” and to make sure that the country can focus on the real problem during a crisis “instead of bringing bottled water and toilet paper to the suburbs because people didn’t take the personal responsibility of following the guidelines from the authorities.”
Food for thought.
Remember that preparedness doesn’t have to be a concerted effort - or even expensive. Maybe add a few long-lasting canned goods to your pantry or have a headlamp near your bedside table. Or keep an old jacket and warm socks in the trunk of your car (or in a “go bag” by the door).
As always, this column is part of Madison Park Emergency Hub’s outreach effort. We’re an all-volunteer organization dedicated to helping neighbors help each other after a disaster. To be added to our mailing list, please contact us at madparkhub@gmail.com.
Dana Armstrong Emergency Prep
The Better End of the Deal
It isn’t smooth or easy, outpacing my fear today. But if there is one thing I’ve learned about fear, it’s that we cannot let it stop us or, at a very young age, we will stop. Consequently, there are days when I have to take my fear along for the ride or there would be too many days when I wouldn’t cycle anywhere. And that is not about to happen.
I’ve promised myself, double dared myself, not to catch up on news before bed. But last night I was between books, my phone was right there, and that was the end of that.
You know things are amiss when you find yourself thankful that your own father is no longer with us, but that was my first thought as I watched a clip of ICE agents making, what appeared to be, war right here at home. I felt as if the Earth had shifted on its axis, which is the right response when something feels so wrong, but I wasn’t sure I wanted that to happen because I knew I’d never fall sleep. That clip would have made my dad as afraid as it made me—I am sure of this. I think of his survival story as sort of a miracle. And once he was on his feet in this country, he became the proudest American I know, right down to his flag-bearing coffee mug.
And so, I have to retrain my fear when it lodges in like this, and I do this pretty much the same way one trains a dog. I establish rules
Mary Lou Sanelli Falling Awake
and offer rewards: Look, fear, you can ride with me but do not touch me. If you even lay a paw on me, no treats! I remain calm and confident: I know you are really good at jumping up and down and demanding attention, but I also know that if I pay you no mind, you’ll stop whining. I use strong commands to establish myself as the alpha: No! You are not allowed to speak! You are not even allowed to sneeze!
Today, I (well, we) ride out to my friend Sam’s to give her a copy of my last book, and seeing her all bundled up and working in her winter garden is enough to cheer me.
It’s enough to cheer anyone. More and more I love watching my friends do what they love to do. What a thing it is, to bring food into this world. And lucky for me, we are trading my book for a bag
“she named the largest slug in her beer trap after a certain president”
of it: curly kale, cabbage, squash and onions; even a jar of homemade kombucha.
I definitely got the better end of the deal.
The slugs and snails and rabbits have wreaked havoc on her garden, Sam says, and she named the
CUSTOM FABRICS
From page 1
She started sharing photos on Instagram, and the response grew. Friends asked for sets. She created custom gifts. Eventually, her son built her a website, and Set The Table Home officially came to life. The name was a nod to her childhood, when her mother would call out the nightly request: “Set the table.”
Every design reflects Cole’s attention to detail, her fashion sensibility, and her deep sense of place. She travels the world in search of fabrics that tell stories—prints that enchant her, spark a memory, or reflect a moment in time. “All of the fabrics I choose are prints that I would set my own table with,” she said. “Each season I look for fabrics that think outside the box of a conventional tablescape. I use my love of style to create napkins that show personal flair and interest.”
Her collections range from whimsical to sophisticated, from globally inspired motifs to deeply local patterns. She scours textile shops while traveling and often commissions custom fabrics—including original artwork by her brother, artist Kevin Astle. Her pieces have included illustrations pulled from children’s
largest slug in her beer trap after a certain president, and I said that calling the wrecker of her cabbage by an infamous one-syllable wasn’t fair to the slug. “The only thing left to do,” she sighed, “is hope that by some small miracle things get better.” When I asked if she meant in her garden or in general, and she said, “I just don’t get what is going on!” her reply didn’t answer my question, but it did console me. I felt like I was standing in a garden sanctuary, the sort of place you go to ask the universe, “are you feeling fear, too?” as you try to relieve your own by sharing it aloud. And the universe says back—to you alone, it feels like—hell yeah!
And maybe the best part of this little story is that talking to Sam grinds my fear down into dust and—poof—it blows away. And when I ride off, happily traveling solo, the kale stands up in my basket like regal green fans that bring such stature to my bike. They enhance it.
Before reaching home, I stow my bike between two trees and walk to where I like to sit on the beach. By now, I am much more accepting of the fact that I am going to be stunned by so many things happening in the world and that But I can’t help it, I keep doing this to myself: imagining what kind of country we could be if we thought big because we can no longer afford to think small. And by “big” I mean working together not to sharpen but to blur the lines between “us” and “them.”
When I find a place that I love, I try to visit it often. You learn these
books, personalized gift sets, and large-scale commissions for nonprofit organizations.
One of her most memorable projects came when the Woodland Park Zoo asked her to design the VIP table settings for The Jungle Party, their signature fundraising gala. Cole created an array of wildlife-themed napkins that brought the event to life—and guests were invited to take them home at the end of the night. “It was a moment of real joy and gratitude to see my work fill the space,” she said.
“Her designs have also supported important causes”
Her designs have also supported important causes: fundraising for Red Cross California Fire Relief, breast cancer awareness in honor of a friend, collaborations with a Ukrainian artist to raise money for World Central Kitchen, and donations to Seattle Art Museum Supporters, among many others.
Today, Cole’s work is more than decor—it is a celebration of craft, memory, and place. Each napkin carries a story: where the fabric was found, who inspired it, what moment it might help mark. And each table set with her designs becomes an invitation to slow down, look closely, and gather with intention.
What started as a quiet act of care in a time of uncertainty has grown into a joyful business rooted in heritage, artistry, and the belief that the table—whether in Seattle, Paris, or anywhere else—can be a place where stories live.
Set The Table Home will be popping up at several festive events this season. You can find them on Thursday, December 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Overlake Country Club Jingle & Mingle. On Friday, December 5, they'll be part of Queen Anne Holiday Magic from 5–8 p.m. at QA Gift and Frame. Then on Saturday, December 6, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Set The Table Home will be at the Alliance Française of Seattle’s Joyeux Bazaar at Washington Hall, 153 14th Avenue in Seattle.
Or to order napkins, just go to the website https://setthetable.online/ or email setthetablehome@gmail.com for custom requests.
kinds of things about yourself early on, the same way you learn what foods you can’t get enough of, and ones you hide under the romaine. You go with what works for you. So even on my worst days, even in the rain, I like to sit where I can see the ocean.
Today’s trade was the best. I’m exactly the right person to share homegrown produce with.
Writing this today has tired me, but in a good way. And did you know that kale is rich in magnesium and calcium that help
regulate sleep hormones? I didn’t know. Until Sam told me. Even so, sleep can be iffy for me when I’m overtired. And I’m overtired.
I’ve always been this way. If I sensed something was amiss in our household, I couldn’t sleep. If my parent’s argued, I couldn’t sleep. If the cat stayed out all night, I couldn’t sleep. Not like my sisters, they slept no matter what. I didn’t get their same DNA strands. I long for them.
Popeye the Sailor Would Have Loved this Spinach Pie
The centerpiece to this Greek holiday party spread is vegetarian and delightful
By Freida Mackleman
Why not change things up a bit this holiday season and serve Greek inspired food at one of your parties?
You are throwing multiple parties, right? The main dish could be eggplant casserole ( Moussaka) but that is very labor intensive and elaborate. Instead, try serving Spanikopita (spinach pie) instead. Make a food table buffet and surround your pie with various savory Greek sides like dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), hummus (chick pea dip), baba ganoush (eggplant dip), olives and a Greek salad. And of course, pita bread. A vegetarian feast! For the meat lovers, serve some kebabs made with beef, pork, chicken or … octopus!
so it doesn’t explode) until it is mushy. Peel and blend by hand in a bowl with lemon juice, garlic, tahini and spices of your choice.
Olives
Nobody grows and cures their own olives – a wide variety of olives are available for purchase.
Greek Salad
Everybody loves this salad made with romaine lettuce, feta, olives, red onion, tomatoes and cucumbers. Make a vinaigrette with red wine vinegar and olive oil that is heavy on the Kebabs
GREEK-INSPIRED SIDES:
Dolmas
Grape leaves stuffed with rice (and sometimes pork). Save the effort and buy these at the store. Fresh is good but the canned ones work too.
Hummus Again, store bought hummus is fine. Serve it at room temperature covered in olive oil and paprika.
Baba Ganoush
I like to make this from scratch. Bake some eggplant (remember to poke holes in it with a toothpick
If you can grill these marinated meat chunks over an open flame that would be great but it’s not necessary. Marinate your meats for an hour or two in a broth of olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt lots of dill. Fresh dill is available yearround at local Asian markets (like Mekong on Rainier) but the dried product works well too. Place meat on skewers and feel free to stick cherry tomatoes and onion slices in between.
There you have it - a party feast! Serve with the party beverages of your choice. Make things memorable by bringing out a bottle of Greek
- a wine made with
resin (for thousands of years!) that is the perfect digestif.
Ingredients:
• Filo pastry
(found in the frozen section of most supermarkets)
• 2 sticks of butter
• 5 pounds of fresh spinach
• 3 eggs
• 6-8 ounces of feta cheese.
Tools:
• A brush for the butter and a casserole pan.
Defrost your filo pastry and melt your butter. Blanch your spinach in boiling water for three minutes, cool in an ice bath and drain. I find it
helpful to squeeze every last bit of moisture out with my hands.
Grease a casserole dish. Mix your spinach, eggs and feta. Add spices like nutmeg and black pepper. Be careful with the salt – the cheese provides enough salinity.
Begin layering the dish with the pastry and paint each layer with liberal amounts of butter. Repeat the process until done. The top layer should be filo, and feel free to sprinkle to parmesan cheese on top.
Cook at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until you can see the butter on the sides of the pan sizzle.
Top with pickled red peppers!
FREIDA’S SPANIKOPITA
Serves 4-6
A Quiet Madison Park Landmark Still Doing Its Job
Staff Report
Madison Park has changed in countless ways over the past several decades, yet some small pieces of the neighborhood remain exactly as longtime residents remember them. One of those pieces stands at the corner of 43rd Avenue East and East Madison Street, where a cast iron pillar houses a working public drinking fountain that has become an unintentional touchstone for people who walk through the area every day.
A resident who has lived in
Madison Park since 1981 recently shared an experience that speaks to the fountain’s quiet charm. They watched a passerby lean down for a drink, look up in surprise, and say, “Amazing. It still works.” In a city where many older fixtures have been removed or decommissioned, the fountain stands like a patient guard at its corner, keeping watch as the neighborhood moves and changes around it.
The corner itself has grown busier as Madison Park has evolved. Families cross between the playground, the beach, the
preschool, and nearby businesses. With so many people moving through the space, the safety of the crossing has been a steady topic of discussion. That conversation received concrete support this year. The City of Seattle’s 2026 budget sets aside funding for pedestrian safety improvements in Madison Park, including crosswalk painting on 43rd Avenue East where people routinely cross between community gathering points. The funding aligns with broader work from the Seattle Department of Transportation, which has been
A Merry Little Juniper
By Steve Lorton
Ihave a list of classic Christmas movies I watch every season: Love Actually, It’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, White Christmas, and Meet Me in Saint Louis. Meet me in Saint Louis? Yes. I can’t miss Judy Garland singing Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. There’s great meaning in that song. It never fails to choke me up. But what does that have to do with gardening?
It was on an early December day last year. The holiday was in full splendor: lights, yard decorations, glittering trees in windows. I was walking along the east side of 41st Avenue in the 2300 block, thinking about that song. “Hum… merry little Christmas? What, beyond the bold and obvious, puts me in the seasonal spirit?” And right there, in an impeccable little cottage garden, was one perfect example. The brilliant, yellow- green juniper you see pictured here, seemed to be exploding from a grouping of retaining wall rocks. It glistened in the rain. It was Juniperus conferta ‘Golden Pacific’.
I went to the door and knocked. The gardener, an artist named Janet, welcomed me and gave me a garden tour followed by an invitation to return. Janet had chosen and placed that plant to cascade over those chunks of basalt. A perfect choice for a dry, west-facing, summer hot spot. The plant is beautiful year around, but especially eye catching in the overcast gray of our winters. This sprawling ground cover juniper gets no higher than 5 to 8 inches. In time it will spread 2 to 4 feet, forming a mat of bright, vibrantly colored, needle-like leaves on multiple branches. Janet allowed one of the branches to grow, arching up and over a rock, creating an Asian reference in a garden that she says is an amalgam of Japanese, English Cottage and Pacific Northwest Natural. She’s nailed the consolidation of styles!
That little juniper is on my Christmas list this year. I intend to grow it for a time in a tall, narrow, rustic looking container, allowing the branches to fill out and cascade down over the pottery. There are many plants that can work similar holiday magic. The glossy green leaves and plump red berries of Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) for one. It’s often for sale in 4-inch pots at Bert’s. Upright dwarf conifers are a perfect winter addition to rockeries or for terrace containers. Or consider any of the Cotoneasters or Pyracanthas for their vibrant red fruit clusters and green foliage. Look around, scout nurseries. The offerings are vast, with no need of tinsel to evoke holiday spirit.
That little juniper altered the way I think about Christmas. The discovery of that plant, amid the dazzle of what Christmas was doing all around me was a life lesson. I’d seen and celebrated something that wasn’t asking for attention. I’d knocked on a door and met a cheerful neighbor, I’d found something that I wanted to add to my garden, to my life, to cultivate and enjoy for years to come and share with others. And if that isn’t the essence of the holiday spirit, what is?
Have yourself a merry little Christmas!
refreshing worn crosswalk markings and upgrading pedestrian routes throughout the city as part of its levy-supported programs. Residents say that improvements at the corner feel long overdue. For years they have asked for stronger markings and clearer guidance for drivers ap proaching the intersec tion from both direc tions. Friends of Madison Park has also kept the issue in the spotlight, pairing their advocacy with volunteer projects that support plantings, traffic calming, and public-space maintenance in the surround ing blocks.
All of that modern work frames the role of the fountain in an in teresting way. While the neighbor hood has added new paint, new signage, and new landscaping, the cast iron fixture has simply remained in place. It has survived changes to the business district, changes to children’s programs at the park, and changes in how residents move around the area. The fact that it still flows makes it a small but meaningful landmark for anyone who passes by.
In a neighborhood known for its close ness to the lake and its walkable streets, the fountain continues to stand in the same spot it always has, offering
a drink to anyone who needs one. For many residents, it represents a reminder that even as Madison Park grows and modernizes, some longtime features still quietly anchor the character
MARY HENRY
Happiest Hours
By Richard Carl Lehman
During the 1950s, people searching for excitement and social connection often prioritized finding a place to live that offered reasonable rent in a desirable neighborhood. The presence of local taverns played a significant role in attracting singles and those hoping to make new friends. These establishments became popular gathering spots, especially for people who were single or aspired to be part of the vibrant social scene.
To appeal to the after-work crowd and encourage a lively atmosphere, taverns introduced the concept of happy hour. This special time was designed to draw in future romantics and those looking to relax after a long day. Happy hours typically ran from 4:00 to 6:00 PM and sometimes resumed from 7:00 to 9:00 PM, providing multiple opportunities for patrons to socialize and enjoy themselves.
During these hours, the prices were intentionally kept affordable. A pitcher of beer could be purchased for $1.25, and a glass of wine was available for just $1. These attractive deals made happy hour an essential part of the tavern experience in the fifties, contributing to the overall sense of community and fun.
NOTABLE TAVERNS AND COLORFUL CHARACTERS
Among the most celebrated taverns in Washington during the 1950s were the Red Onion and the Attic, both of which consistently ranked in the state’s top ten. Joining them on this distinguished list was the Lynwood Tavern, owned and operated by my uncle, John Swank. Uncle John had a keen sense for what attracted patrons—his tavern became famous for the girls in hotpants who served fresh, hot, and salty popcorn straight from a massive theater-style machine. This clever
combination of attractive servers and the irresistible aroma of popcorn helped ensure a steady flow of beer sales and lively crowds throughout the evenings.
In addition to the Lynwood Tavern, Uncle John briefly owned the Jungle, although this venture was short-lived. He may also have been the proprietor of the bar in the Jolly Roger, though I have yet to uncover historical records to confirm this connection.
THE PURPLE POODLE AND ITS SUNDAY SURPRISE
Closer to home, the park area featured the Purple Poodle, a tavern owned by Bert Lumsford, located where McGilvra’s stands today. The Purple Poodle was known for its “beer to go,” handed out in paper bags to thirsty customers. One memorable Sunday, Bert sold more beer than ever before, only to recall the restrictive Blues Law prohibiting alcohol sales on Sundays. Despite the oversight, the day passed without incident—no harm, no foul.
THE BROADMOOR TAVERN AND ITS NIGHTLIFE
Another notable establishment was the Broadmoor, located at the corner of Madison and 41st. This tavern was well known for its lively shuffleboard games, which attracted both regulars and newcomers eager for friendly competition. Winners of the shuffleboard matches often celebrated their victories in a unique fashion—by heading to the restroom to share straight whiskey, adding a spirited twist to the camaraderie among patrons.
Adjacent to the tavern stood the Broadmoor Café, a popular spot renowned for serving great burgers. The café complemented the tavern’s social atmosphere, making the area a favorite destination for an evening out.
When the Broadmoor and the neighboring Café closed for the night, the festivities did not end.
The Attic and the Red Onion filled
quickly with the overflow crowd, ensuring the energy and excitement continued well into the evening. On Friday nights, these venues were packed wall to wall with patrons. Visiting the restroom during these busy times came with its own risks—if you left your date unattended, there was a good chance someone else would whisk them away before you returned.
DOWNTOWN’S NEW HAPPY HOUR SCENE
As the nightlife in Seattle evolved, downtown began to host its own lively happy hour events. Stuart Anderson, well-known for owning the Embers on 7th and Union before launching Black Angus, was a pioneer in this new era—he even started the first TGIF Club. The dining area was filled with early diners enjoying the steak special for $2.95. The big feature was in the rear behind smoky glass doors where members with cards took advantage of the happy hour prices for just $0.90, making the Embers a popular destination. My good friend, Bruce Atterbury, served as bartender there, which drew many familiar faces from Madison Park and helped create a welcoming atmosphere for locals.
THE BIG LITTLE STEAK
HOUSE EXPERIENCE
When it came to food, the Big Little Steak House on 7th and Union (freeway replaced it) stood out as the top choice. The restaurant was famous for its bustling energy—people lined up, patiently waiting for one of the coveted 18 stools to open. The turnover was constant, with each stool quickly occupied as soon as it was vacated. The pace was brisk: there was no lingering over conversation or a second cup of coffee. Guests were encouraged to “Eat! Go!” without delay. For just $1.25, diners could enjoy a steak, a potato, and a salad, fueling up before heading out to explore more of the city’s hot spots.
SOCIAL LIFE AT THE 410
The 410 became a central gathering place, where people in suits and casual attire mingled in groups, often admiring the women in attendance. Some were bold enough to pursue a phone number for future plans. My own approach was to catch someone’s eye, raise my glass, and cheer, “Happy Friday Night!” The typical response was a friendly “You too!” followed by a comment like, “I’m busy with friends,” but always with a smile. Occasionally, if conversation developed, these encounters could lead to an actual dinner date, adding to the excitement and spontaneity of the downtown social scene.
LIQUOR LAWS AND THEIR IMPACT ON NIGHTLIFE
Some liquor laws began to influence the downtown scene, dampening the evening's lively atmosphere. Regulations prohibited women from sitting at the bar alone, and closing hours on Saturday nights meant that alcohol could not be served after 11 PM. As a result, those wishing to enjoy libations on Sunday had to make a quick trip to the only liquor store open until midnight on First and Cherry. There was always a line, and a liquor card was required for any purchase.
THE TOWN AND COUNTRY CLUB EXPERIENCE
The Town and Country Club, located on Pike and Boren, was a remarkable spot, though it has since been replaced by the freeway. One night, I found myself seated at the piano bar, listening to Bob Harvey perform at the keyboard. Bob had a gift for remembering everyone's name, which helped
create a very friendly and welcoming environment. During my visit, a young woman sat beside me, and noticing she wasn't wearing a ring, we ended up sharing several drinks together. Eventually, I excused myself to use the restroom, which was in the upstairs ballroom.
AN UNFORGETTABLE ENCOUNTER
While washing my hands, I was suddenly confronted by a "mechanic" who grabbed me, tightened my tie, and brought me to the floor with one hand while punching me in the gut with the other. He loudly declared, "She’s married!" and left me lying on the cool floor, which was oddly comforting. The drinks I had consumed seemed to have left my system; I was left sober and shaking from the experience. Never before had I come so close to blacking out or being winded without even attempting to defend myself. The man demonstrated impressive skill, making it clear that the situation could have ended much worse. As I gathered my coat to leave, I overheard a girl call out, "Don’t leave!" and something else as I walked west on Pike toward a liquor store.
MEMORABLE NIGHTLIFE DESTINATIONS
There were so many exciting venues in the city, each offering its own unique flavor and unforgettable memories.
Bob Kivos 605 Club stood out for its distinctive atmosphere. Patrons would bring their own bottles, concealed in brown paper bags, and discreetly pour their drinks under the table, adding an air of playful secrecy to the experience.
Another notable spot was the Black n Tan, located at 12th and Jackson. This club was renowned for its vibrant live music scene, boasting performances by talented musicians such as Bob Sunrise, Quincy Jones, and Dave Louise. The lively ambiance and exceptional talent made each visit truly special.
The Downbeat Club was also a favorite for those who loved to dance. It featured an impressive dance floor and was known for its energetic music, often provided by a Hammond Organ. The club's lively environment made it a prime destination for memorable nights out with friends.
Looking back, the nightlife of the 1950s was less about sophistication and more about surviving tietightening mechanics and sneaking cocktails past vigilant bartenders. Each venue offered a crash course in merriment. One thing’s certain: these spots guaranteed plenty of laughter, colorful stories, and, if you were lucky, enough dignity left to show up again the next night.
THE MAGICAL MONTH OF DECEMBER IN MADISON PARK
December is arriving in Madison Park with beautifully decorated shops, twinkling lights on the trees and the anticipation of holiday festivities. Friends of Madison Park has prepared a full array of events for the month and opportunities to extend this season of giving to the larger Seattle community.
THE GIFT OF GENEROSITY
There is still time, just barely, (until December 7) to drop off warm clothing and unwrapped new toys to the Wellspring Family Services bins at Bert’s, The Attic, Red Wagon Toys and Parkshore. Requested warm items include coats, sweaters, gloves, scarves, hats, and socks for all ages. The Wellspring annual Holiday Toy Drive will provide gifts for more than 1,200 children.
VISIT MCGILVRA- YOUR
NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL!
Take a tour of your neighborhood school on December 5th at 9 a.m.
Meet the school principal, Jolene Anderson, then tour the school with a McGilvra parent and see the classrooms in action. More information and to register- go to www. mcgilvrapta.org/visit. More toursJanuary 14th and February 6th.
LITTLE BEATS CONCERTS
Start the month with a Little Beats Concert on December 6th at Pioneer Hall 11-12. Tickets only $5 at the door. Alley Oop is back by popular demand!
Wreath Making Class Returns - At the Bathhouse Saturday, December 13th 10-12pm. Join our 3rd year of wreath making. No skills needed- Nicole Morgan will guide you in making your unique wreath with fresh greens. Bring cuttings from your yard and Nicole will provide a bounty of natural foliage. Complimentary tea and treats. Kiddos welcome to work with adults. Register at www. friendsofmadisonpark.com/wreathmaking. $100 per adult.
2 Days of Artisan Markets
Come peruse the booths of 14 vendors/artists and their handcrafted gifts. Pioneer Hall Saturday, December 13th 10-4. Second Market Day, Sunday December 14th at Parlour Wines 12-4.
Winter Wonderland - at the Bathhouse Saturday, December 13th 3-4:30 pm.
Madison Park Coop Preschool’s Winter Wonderland party returns!
Bring your kids to make arts, crafts, and take holiday pictures at their winter Photo Booth.
Tree Lighting and McGilvra School Carolers - in the Park on Saturday, December 13th 5-6 pm. Join us for the special lighting of the large cedar by the tennis courts and singing by the McGilvra Elementary School students. This is becoming a Madison Park tradition of joy and community. Cookies and cider to follow.
Santa Photos - at the Bathhouse Sunday, December 21st 6-9 pm. Sponsored by Windermere Madison Park and hosted by the Madison Park Co-op Preschool. Cookies and Hot Cocoa too!
Christmas Ships and Bonfire - Sunday, December 21 at the Madison Park Beach at 8:40 pm.
Argosy Ships and its decorated fleet return for this special holiday tradition (and likely some extra caroling too). Think starry night and crisp weather.
CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
As 2025 comes to close, Friends of Madison Park wants to thank the community for all the extraordinary support, and all the magical memories of events and gatherings- from the Easter Egg Hunt, the Garden Tour, Little Beats concerts to the Farmer’s Market, Children’s Parade and Picnic,
Music in the Park, Party for the Park and so much more. Please know, Friends could not put on these monthly events, keep the trees lit in the business area, care for the planters, pursue the renovation of the Bathhouse and Shoreline, be a voice with the city for public safety and the One Seattle Plan- without volunteers and your continued generosity.
When you are considering your end charitable donations, please say “Yes” to your community by going to www.friendsofmadisonpark. com/donate. And say “Yes” to your community by volunteering at www.friendsofmadisonpark.com/volunteer.
Our 2026 Calendar of Events will be posted in next month’s issue.
Shop Local! No need to get in a car and fight the crowds at the mall. Or abandon all creativity and buy from Amazon. Grab that perfect oneof-a-kind gift right here in Madison Park, Arboretum Court and Madison Valley and support our wonderful local businesses!
8:40PM
Seattle's 98112 Housing Market: Moderation Now, National Rebound Predicted for 2026
By Lisa Turnure
Data from the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) as of November 25, 2025, reveals a complex and moderating residential market in the high-value 98112 zip code, encompassing properties in Madison Park and surrounding neighborhoods. The local market is showing a cooling trend in pending sales against a backdrop of substantial high-end active inventory. This local moderation provides both buyers and sellers with unique opportunities as the year concludes, even as the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) predicts a strong national rebound for 2026.
PENDING SALES SHIFT: BUYERS GAIN GROUND IN 98112
Current pending sales data suggests a shift in market control:
• Pending Count and Price Drop: The current count of pending listings stands at 19.
The Median Unpublished Pending Price is $1,180,000, which is a dramatic -30.4% decrease compared to the year-to-date (YTD) median of $1,695,000.
• Negotiation Holding Firm: Despite the sharp drop in the median pending price, the average ratio of unpublished pending price to list price is 98%, which is only a
marginal - 1% decrease from the year-todate average of 99%. This indicates that the homes that do go under contract are still selling very close to their list price, but the mix of properties selling has shifted toward lower-priced homes.
INCREASE IN CONTINGENCY USAGE REFLECTS A MORE “NORMAL” MARKET
We have begun to see a rise in the use of contract contingencies based on NWMLS pending sale data for 98112:
• Inspections Return: The share of pending sales with an Inspection Addendum is now 58%. This is a substantial +25% increase compared to the year-to-date average of 33%, signaling a return to traditional due diligence.
• Financing Protections: Similarly, 58% of current pending listings include a Finance Addendum, a +12% increase over the yearto-date average of 46%.
• Reduced Competition: The rush to outbid has cooled, with only 26% of pending sales having Multiple Offers, a -4% drop from the YTD average of 30%. The use of an Escalation Addendum has plummeted by -13%, dropping to just 5% of current pending listings from the 18% YTD average.
CURRENT 98112 ACTIVE INVENTORY SNAPSHOT
The cooling in pending sales is occurring against a backdrop of significant and diverse active inventory within 98112.
As of November 25, 2025, there are 46 active residential properties for sale.
• Median Active Price: The median list price for active properties is $1,785,000.
• Price Spread: The inventory spans a significant price range spread, with the lowest list price at $680,000 and the highest list price reaching $75,000,000.
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• Market Time: Active listings are spending a longer period of time on the market, with an average of 113 Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM).
• Average Price: The average 98112 list price at present is $4,239,771. This is often skewed in 98112 by some very pricey significant homes and waterfront listings in the area.
NATIONAL OUTLOOK: NAR'S 2026
PREDICTIONS
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) is predicting a strong rebound for the national housing market in 2026, driven by several factors:
• Existing-Home Sales: Expected to increase by 14%.
• Home Prices: Expected to rise by 4%.
• New-Home Sales: Projected to grow by 5%.
• Driving Factors: This optimistic outlook is attributed to the expected easing of mortgage rates to around 6% and a steady job market.
DECEMBER SELLER AND BUYER MARKET
RECOMMENDATIONS
What does this information mean for you as a consumer? The current market data, coupled with typical seasonal dynamics, presents a window of opportunity for both buyers and sellers in December.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SELLERS
Many people de-list homes over the holidays thinking that the market is quiet. I am not
necessarily a fan of this practice and in fact often recommend that my sellers leave their homes listed over the holidays. While there may be fewer parties touring homes, those that do are serious, motivated buyers, a phenomenon I refer to as "quality versus quantity showings." Buyers who take the time to tour during the busy holiday season are typically those who truly want and need to find a home more imminently. With lowered inventory during the holidays, your home has a greater chance of being selected by these serious buyers than in more hectic selling seasons when competition is much greater and the ratio of serious buyers to “just curious about the market” type tourers is more favorable
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BUYERS
December can be a great time to buy a home, particularly this year due to the following:
1. Improved Interest Rates: Rates have improved significantly. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate as of November 25, 2025, is approximately 5.99% to 6.20%, a substantial drop from the approximately 7.04% average seen in January 2025.
2. Increased Negotiation Potential: Those sellers whose homes have been on the market longer and may have been priced more aggressively during the Spring market may be more motivated to negotiate with buyers at this time of year, making December a great time to secure favorable terms. Keep in mind that these are national predictions. Given the unique nature of our local market, it will be interesting to see how 98112 behaves in 2026.
Data sources: NWMLS Market Data, National Association of Realtors.
Clients Are Saying...
Seamlessly balances timeless charm with modern luxury. Exquisite original details have been painstakingly preserved in a “studs-out” renovation, enhancing an architecturally significant home of exceptionally warm character. Sun-drenched interior spaces are highlighted by views of Lake Washington and the Cascades.
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through three very unique transactions with us (two purchases, one listing). She is experienced, thorough, and has a razor sharp understanding of the market. Five stars, could not recommend Lisa enough!”
As the year closes, thank you for the trust you place in me as your
Estate Advisor. I look forward to assisting you in achieving your real estate goals throughout 2026. Wishing you a season filled with peace and joy.
Gifts for Plant-Lovers 2025
The holidays are right around the corner, and for gardeners, there’s nothing quite like unwrapping tools, kits, and experiences that nurture their green thumb. Whether you’re shopping for a longtime gardener or a curious beginner, here’s a roundup of gifts that will delight any plant lover in 2025.
THE CLASSICS
We’ve mentioned some of these in a previous holiday roundup, but some gifts never go out of style.
• Kneeling pad or bench Comfort counts in the garden – more than ever to keep it fun as we age – and a sturdy kneeling pad makes planting and weeding far more enjoyable. Upgrade to one that becomes a seat when flipped over for extra versatility – Fred Meyer carries the inexpensive GoGo Garden Bench Kneeler for $32.99 and Gardener’s Supply offers a double-thick version for $64.99.
• Flexible Tub
Durable, bendy, and easy to carry, these silicone tubs are perfect for hauling soil, compost, harvests or party beverages. They come in a range of sizes and colors, stack easily, and can be held in one hand if need be. When a handle finally broke on one of mine, I converted it into a planter. TubTrug and Gorilla Tubs are two brands to try.
• Hori Hori knife
My number one garden tool that’s a trowel and knife in one. Originally made for bonsai hunters in Japan, it’s a must-have for digging, cutting, and weeding, this multipurpose blade is a gardener’s pocket-sized workhorse.
• Garden classes gift certificate
Local workshops or online courses give gardeners new skills, from pruning techniques
to seasonal planting strategies. Some to check out: UW Botanic Gardens, Tilth Alliance, and Plant Amnesty (requires membership). Online: Garden Masterclass, Create Academy, and Learning with Experts.
• Membership to a botanical garden or plant society
A gift that keeps on giving with inspiration, community, and access to rare plants, garden tours and events. Local botanical gardens near Seattle include: the UW Botanic Gardens, Bellevue Botanical Garden, Kubota Garden, and The Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden. Societies to consider include the Northwest Horticultural Society, Pacific Horticulture, the Northwest Perennial Alliance, and Plant Amnesty.
• Nursery gift certificates
A great way to support your local nursery –your best source of plants and advice.
• Seeds for the stocking Flowers, veggies, or cover crops – always exciting to receive the promise of life. Note: For wildflower or lawn mixes seek out local ones that avoid potential invasives; Northwest Meadowscapes, Territorial Seed and the Xerces society offer Pacific Northwest blends online.
A LITTLE DIFFERENT
If you’ve covered the basics or want to surprise the gardener who seems to have it all, consider these unexpected gifts.
• Bee cups
Invite pollinators into the garden with colorful ceramic cups designed to provide habitat for solitary bees. Available at bee-cups.com; may be called Bee Watering Stations.
• Custom garden signs, stakes or markers
Copper, slate, or wood, you can find a host of custom options on Etsy.com.
• Tabletop light station for indoor plants
– Perfect for gardeners craving greenery indoors, these grow stations keep plants healthy during darker months.
• Indoor plant décor
Does your pothos need a snail or sloth friend? Perhaps some ceramic mushrooms
or crystal balls to dress up your pots? Sometimes called plant pals.
• Root Slayer
At first glance, this toothed shovel looks a bit medieval and intimidating, but they will be thanking you for years to come when digging recalcitrant roots or edging lawns; it makes both so much easier. Offered in full length or hand-held sizes.
• Microgreens kit
Quick-growing, easy for all beginners, edible greens bring a burst of freshness to kitchens and extend the joy of growing all year. Because they are harvested young, they don’t need a special light or even drainage. Taking the space of a cookie sheet, they deliver nutrition-packed flavorful diversity to your salads, soups and sandwiches in about 10 days.
• Folding planting station tarp
A table-sized tarp with standup corners makes messy sowing and transplanting easy,
portable, and cleanup-friendly. Available on Amazon or Etsy in various materials.
• Bouquet Bag
Whether you’re harvesting from your own garden or the farmer’s market, you want to keep those precious blooms safe. UncommonGoods.com offers a fun Fresh Cut Flowers Tote with a drawstring to secure those stems. Or, if you’re handy with a needle, you can upcycle one of the many tote bags in your stash.
• Cyanotype kit
For garden creatives, these photographic printing kits turn leaves, flowers, and ferns into striking blue-and-white prints. For an extra twist, try it on fabric to add accents to bandanas or overalls.
Whether you stick with a trusted classic or try something unexpected, the best garden gifts inspire more time outdoors, spark curiosity, and grow joy throughout the year.
ERICA BROWNE GRIVAS
Erica Browne Grivas Get Growing
A Holiday Season with Less Waste and More Intention
very year, before the first carol drifts ouwt of a speaker and before a single bow ends up on a gift, Seattle is already swimming in holiday waste. Not the usual paper and boxes, but
“Choosing items packaged in cardboard supports both responsible businesses and a functioning recycling system.”
the sparkly, glitter covered, mixed material clutter that never had a real chance of being recycled. It is a seasonal tradition that quietly fills garbage bins everywhere. The sad truth is that much of the holiday décor on store shelves is designed for the landfill from the moment it is made.
It doesn’t have to be this way. A greener holiday season does not require sacrifice. It simply requires attention.
GLITTER MAY LOOK CHEERFUL, BUT IT STAYS ON THE PLANET FOREVER
There is no polite way to describe glitter. It is microplastic in a festive costume. It clings to cards and wrapping paper in a way that delights shoppers and frustrates Seattle Public Utilities. Glittered paper cannot be recycled. Glittered gift bags cannot be recycled. Glittered decorations cannot be recycled.
To lower waste this season, the most powerful tool is saying no to products coated in sparklies. Plain paper, cloth wraps and simple gift bags look just as beautiful under a tree. Many look better.
HOLIDAY DÉCOR IS BECOMING MORE DISPOSABLE
Each year more décor arrives in stores wrapped in layered plastics or made from a mix of foam, wire and synthetic greenery. These materials cannot be separated later, which means they cannot be recycled even with effort. They become the kind of lingering garbage no one knows what to do with.
There is something refreshing about choosing decorations that are made from a single clear material. Wood. Paper. Fabric. Real greenery. These items last longer, clean up faster and feel more luxurious.
CONSCIOUS GIVING CAN CHANGE THE ENTIRE WASTE STREAM
Many people in already give with intention, but this season is a good moment to take that idea further. Conscious giving is not a trend. It is the antidote to holiday
clutter. It encourages gifts that do not generate waste or rely on single use plastics. It might be a homemade loaf of bread tied with a saved ribbon and placed in a pretty tea towel. An experience gift like a membership to the museum. A walk together at Kerry Park with hot cocoa and a conversation. A well-made tool that replaces years of flimsy ones. Even a simple donation in someone’s honor is a gift that sits lightly on the environment and heavily on the heart.
The goal is not to reduce joy. It is to reduce the kind of joy that comes wrapped in layers of plastic and ends in the garbage two hours later.
THOUGHTFUL SHOPPING CAN PREVENT THE JANUARY HEADACHE
Anyone who has tried to recycle toy packaging knows it is a losing battle. The clear shells that snap loudly when opened
cannot be recycled in Seattle. Plastic window gift boxes cannot be recycled. Many novelty gadgets stop working before the end of December and quickly land in the garbage. But shoppers have power. Choosing items packaged in cardboard supports both responsible businesses and a functioning recycling system. Buying from local makers often means reusable or compostable packaging. These small choices keep waste out of transfer stations and reduce stress during holiday cleanup.
REAL GREENERY BEATS SYNTHETIC REPLACEMENTS
A real wreath or tree can be composted as long as it contains no metal or plastic. This is not only more sustainable, it’s also more beautiful. Synthetic trees and wreaths are made from PVC and metal and must be thrown away eventually. Real greenery returns to the earth with far less impact.
A HOLIDAY SEASON THAT REFLECTS THE VALUES OF THIS NEIGHBORHOOD
Queen Anne has always been a place that balances charm, community and care for the environment. A lower waste holiday is an extension of that identity. It means noticing what we bring into our homes before it becomes a problem on the curb. It means remembering that everything we buy stays on the planet long after the season ends.
Most of all, it means choosing joy that does not create harm. The holidays are a time for connection and warmth, not glitter coated trash. If we give with intention and decorate with care, we can create a season that feels lighter in every sense.
Bassetti
