Washington State abounds with nature in every direction. While places like the expansive Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest keep a quiet existence in the Winter due to abundant snow, the Summer season offers an amazing diversity of colors and textures. Explosive berries and wildflowers framed in by proud fir trees under towering rocky peaks provide a captivating myriad of … [Read more...] about The exploding colors of Big Four Ice Caves
8 of the best things to do on Whidbey Island
In the heart of the magical Salish Sea lies an island steeped in rich history. Growing up in Oregon, I didn’t know much about Whidbey Island until my friend Jerry showed me photos of a visit to friends living in a tiny farmhouse amidst a flowing field of overgrown greens — sporadic flowers pushing their way through the noise to reach the sun. Since then, I’ve always had a rich … [Read more...] about 8 of the best things to do on Whidbey Island
Celebration and remembering this 4th of July
The watershed 1855 Point Elliott Treaty, signed near present day Mukilteo, Washington, drastically reduced Salish tribal lands. It was negotiated using about 300 Chinook Jargon words — which made nuances unclear to many of the signatories, who mostly spoke versions of Lushootseed. The Snohomish, Skykomish, Snoqualmie, and other ally tribes were combined into the area … [Read more...] about Celebration and remembering this 4th of July
Day trips from Seattle — 19 of the best getaways
Early morning day trips from Seattle can be the perfect salve to the soul. The stress of traffic is lulled away with the aspirations of exploring and experiencing all the magic the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Even thirty minutes into the voyage, the ratio of concrete to green vastly adjusts to fir trees and roadside patches of local shrubs. With a little more time, open … [Read more...] about Day trips from Seattle — 19 of the best getaways
Ranching reflections — guarding the gate of discovery and connection
When I was about ten years old I started learning about quiet contemplation in the world — from a cow trail in the middle of a vast expanse of ranch land. In the Summer, my dad would load my two younger brothers (Bobby and Patrick) and I up into his green Datsun pickup truck and take us out to the farm. It’s still unclear how crucial we were to these … [Read more...] about Ranching reflections — guarding the gate of discovery and connection
