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Kessi World

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Olympic Peninsula

Where to enjoy Seattle forest bathing in the rain

January 24, 2023 by Matthew

Forest bathing in Seattle is a delight when the light shines through the collection of fir trees like in this photo with a spruce and younger hemlock tree with moss dangling from the branches.

The wet season in Seattle can feel oppressive. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest and connecting with nature from an early age, I enjoy the healing and well-being that comes from forest bathing – rain or shine. But sometimes, this glee for mud puddles and wet cedar branches feels unique.   Now you might be looking outside your window, watching vast droplets of … [Read more...] about Where to enjoy Seattle forest bathing in the rain

25 Hidden Oregon and Washington hotels — unique places to stay

October 19, 2022 by Matthew

The Frenchglen hotel lights up the night with several windows shining bright as the stars in the sky above push out their light too. There are many cars parked in the front of the hotel, which is hidden under the brushy popular and cottonwood trees.

Some people consider lodging simple utility in a journey, but not me. The location, the spirit (or vibe), and access to nature are crucial to creating an inviting setting to unplug, unwind and open to new experiences -- with yourself, loved ones, and nature. It can be challenging to watch all the paid advertising when searching for Oregon and Washington hotels. I've … [Read more...] about 25 Hidden Oregon and Washington hotels — unique places to stay

Quinault Loop Trail — nature’s magic in an Olympic Peninsula rainforest

July 27, 2022 by Matthew

Matthew Kessi gazes up at a giant hemlock tree on the Quinault Loop Trail near Olympic National Park. The roots of the giant tree trickle down the dirt path toward another thick tree and the forest foliage is alive with shades of green and various textures.

Are you looking to get away to a magical place, where old growth douglas fir tower above canyons flowing with alpine water?  Is time limited on an epic journey around the Olympic Peninsula?  Do you want access to pristine nature just steps away from a cozy lodge?  If the answer is yes to any (or all) of these questions, head for the (Lake) Quinault Loop Trail in … [Read more...] about Quinault Loop Trail — nature’s magic in an Olympic Peninsula rainforest

Experience the rich Washington rainforest wonderland at Lake Quinault Lodge

July 6, 2022 by Matthew

The impressive view of Lake Quinault Lodge shows the cedar shake siding and green shutters contrasting with the blue sky above.

Are you looking for a place where you can get away from it all -- while still being within a reasonable drive from the population centers around Seattle and Portland? Does the thought of waterlogged goodness inside a temperate Washington State rainforest wonderland open your heart a little wider? Lake Quinault Lodge, in the Olympic National Forest, awaits to fulfill your … [Read more...] about Experience the rich Washington rainforest wonderland at Lake Quinault Lodge

Olympic Peninsula road trip — 3-day epic winter tour

November 10, 2021 by Matthew

Destinations of splendor. A beach scene of the Pacific Ocean waves crashing on the fine sandy beach with two large rocky islands in the background with fir trees growing on top.

This is an updated version of an article originally published January, 2020. Washington State is a diverse land with topography ranging from high desert to fierce waves crashing against soft agate beaches. In the northwest corner of the state is the majestic and remote feeling Olympic Peninsula. Often dubbed the rainiest place in the United States, this area is home to the … [Read more...] about Olympic Peninsula road trip — 3-day epic winter tour

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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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