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Kessi World

Mindful travel around the Pacific Northwest.

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Pacific Northwest

Connecting with nature where you are

January 15, 2023 by Matthew Leave a Comment

We are interdependent with nature. But what does that mean to you? How can Mother Earth assist you? My life calling to help others connect to the healing salve of nature comes from lived experience. When I deepened my connections to plants, trees, rocks, and water, I experienced profound transformations. Yet, when I share my passion with others, I'm often met with an … [Read more...] about Connecting with nature where you are

How to find magic at Oswald West State Park

January 4, 2023 by Matthew Leave a Comment

Matthew Kessi leans against an old growth sitka spruce tree on the Oregon Coast at Oswald West State Park. He's wearing black raingear head to toe that appears very wet, with a striped colored hat. There are roots from another smaller tree and green fir branches hanging down into the shot.

Oswald West State Park seems to have it all. Old-growth giants greet visitors, ushering them through a dramatic canopy of texture and light to a beach – an alchemy of sand, rocks, and drift logs. Creeks flow to the Pacific Ocean, and 14 trails meander the rugged topography. Most people rush directly to the iconic Short Sand Beach, but way more magic is possible. This … [Read more...] about How to find magic at Oswald West State Park

Point Defiance Park — the best day in Tacoma wilderness

January 4, 2023 by Matthew Leave a Comment

Beautiful pink blooms of a rhododendron are pushing out getting ready to splash on the scene. In the background are various trees in Point Defiance Park in Tacoma.

My mom and her siblings grew up on the edge of a vast green space, where old-growth timber hugged primitive deer trails, and a zoo served up elephants and bears in “old school” cages of concrete and iron. It was wilderness back then when Tacoma’s North End was largely undeveloped. Their log cabin overlooked the flowing lawns of Point Defiance Park and was just high enough in … [Read more...] about Point Defiance Park — the best day in Tacoma wilderness

10 Oregon Coast hikes to reclaim the soul

November 2, 2022 by Matthew

Waves crash along the path on a famous Oregon Coast Hike at Shore Acres State Park. The sky is a swirl of gray and blue and the water foamy as it crashes on the rock formations.

The Oregon Coast is a stellar example of nature's forces joining in inspiring the human heart to open. Majestic fir trees line steep foothills grounding the earth while different versions of moss grip forests floors like a cozy shag carpet. Rough waves churn their way through ornate rock stacks -- proudly standing as a testament to resiliency. Wide open beaches allow space … [Read more...] about 10 Oregon Coast hikes to reclaim the soul

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

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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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