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Kessi World

Mindful travel around the Pacific Northwest.

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Botanical Gardens

Pacific Bonsai Museum — the beautiful twisted balance of nature

May 5, 2021 by Matthew

A beautiful pink flowering azalea is in full bloom on this miniature tree at the Pacific Bonsai Museum near Seattle, Washington.

Not far away from Seattle, along the busy Interstate 5 corridor, is a peaceful 22-acres of land wedged between two frantic freeways. The location is on the historic campus of forest-products giant Weyerhaeuser, long known for their iconic vegetation-covered building that seems to flow with the contour of the evergreen space. Just as the quiet corporate building seems to blend … [Read more...] about Pacific Bonsai Museum — the beautiful twisted balance of nature

Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden — a colorful velvety hidden jewel

April 28, 2021 by Matthew

There is something so comforting about a rhododendron in bloom — as if to say “Welcome to the Pacific Northwest.” The queen of Washington State forests grows freely in the wild (Deception Pass State Park and Point Defiance Park are just two examples) as well as quintessentially included in virtually every botanical garden in the area. It makes sense that a few miles down the … [Read more...] about Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden — a colorful velvety hidden jewel

Seattle in Spring — the best outdoor things to do

March 24, 2021 by Matthew

Seattle in Spring is a sight to be seen. It's as if the hibernation working feverishly under the surface of damp earth is finally ready to burst open into a display of color and textures. The race begins with fragrant daphne bushes and delicate hellebores opening up around the beginning of March (technically still Winter) and then kicks into full throttle after April Fool's … [Read more...] about Seattle in Spring — the best outdoor things to do

The most inspiring Japanese gardens in the Seattle area

March 3, 2021 by Matthew

Nothing seems to bring together the delicate balance between the serenity of nature and human touch better than a Japanese style garden. The history of the Pacific Northwest is rich with connections between Japan and Washington State -- two parts of the world steeped in an abundant variety of scenery where rich textures and colors contrast, any season of the year. Japanese … [Read more...] about The most inspiring Japanese gardens in the Seattle area

Seattle in Winter — the best outdoor things to do

November 27, 2020 by Matthew

Matthew Kessi stands along the banks of the Salish Sea in Seattle, Washington wearing a green rain jacket with the city in the background.

Seattle may be best known for our well-watered greenery, particularly during the darkest, dampest time of the year. Thoughts of moss practically growing underneath the shoes go hand in hand with brooding coffee shops and entire garment industries supporting waterproof everything. No, we don't use umbrellas -- thank you! And, while I've written about Spring flowers as a salve … [Read more...] about Seattle in Winter — the best outdoor things to do

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I would like to acknowledge that much of my inspiration comes from living on the traditional land of the first people of Seattle, the Duwamish People past and present and honor with gratitude the land itself and the Duwamish Tribe.

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