Follow for unique side trip options to get off the interstate — a Seattle to Portland drive road trip planner. My life is a tale of two cities. I was born and raised in the Portland area but my mom and a ton of family hailed from the Salish Sea, in Washington State. On Christmas Eve we’d have a celebration in my hometown of Scappoose with one side of relatives, then pile in … [Read more...] about Seattle to Portland drive — road trip planner to make the day unique
Federal Way
What kind of ancestors do we want to be?
On this Mother’s Day, among many things, I’m thankful to my mom, Maureen Kessi, for inspiring the love of nature and gardening within me — a gift that continues to provide peace, comfort, and balance in my life. In fact, we’ve spent many Mother’s Day outings together touring local gardens and exploring flowers, ferns, and mushrooms, amongst all other organic … [Read more...] about What kind of ancestors do we want to be?
Pacific Bonsai Museum — the beautiful twisted balance of nature
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
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
West Hylebos Wetlands Park — hidden treasure of suburban Seattle
Every now and then I stumble upon a hidden gem in the Seattle area that rocks my nature-loving world. It isn't always the physical attributes as much as the spirit, or feeling I get while amidst wise old trees and densely thick ground covers that usually hold an impassioned version of the color green. My connection, or internal "pop" is what endears me to a particular place … [Read more...] about West Hylebos Wetlands Park — hidden treasure of suburban Seattle
