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
Washington State
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
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
La Conner, Washington — the best of Skagit Valley
An hour north of the bustling metropolis of Seattle, Washington, lies the bucolic Skagit Valley, where Mt. Baker and the North Cascade Mountains keep command of the scenery and quaint red barns and farm stands offer fruit and local honey. While more visible towns like Mount Vernon and Burlington, WA, enjoy a symbiotic relationship with the steady vehicles of commerce along I5, … [Read more...] about La Conner, Washington — the best of Skagit Valley
7 innovative ways to use your gazillion Alaska Airlines miles
The pandemic has been pretty good to mileage balances with airline plans, especially if you use a loyalty credit card and have still been spending money on Amazon during the pandemic. While it might still be too soon to cash in six figures of points — and many exotic locations are still not available — there are several ways to whet your travel appetite and gently dip your toes … [Read more...] about 7 innovative ways to use your gazillion Alaska Airlines miles