Kombi Converse

I’m sure its way too late to add this to my Christmas list. But as I love Kombis and Converse, I can’t imagine a better combo. Hmm…a kombi combo? Ah….

A Writer’s Evening At Everett’s Black Lab Gallery

It was a lovely day, hitting the Edmonds’ Holiday Market (with Thanksgiving coming, there were cranberries to acquire), getting lumpia for lunch there at 88 Cues (anything that brings me back to the Philippines is a good thing). Then I went to this writing seminar in Everett.

Spending time with fellow writers always feels good. Though a small group, we created lively and delightful company. Led by Richard Porter, an Everett based freelance writer and copy editor, who also writes regularly for LiveInEverett.com. Also there: Deb Fox, the creator of the graphic novel “The Everett Massacre” and Andrea (sadly, her last name escaped me, so no links…sorry). Experienced writers all, we covered the basics quickly and cleanly (Richard’s excellent preparation worked well). Then I enjoyed discussing the craft, and the larger world of writing in the internet age, one of my passions.

This reminded me of the Seattle PI’s Big Blog Meet Ups that Moinca Guzman would host.

At The Big Blog Meet Up January 20, 2010
A group of Seattle bloggers at a Big Blog Meetup at Seattle’s Zeitgeist coffee.

Pulling together bloggers from around Seattle, where we talked blogging, Seattle, politics, and tools of the trade. A few years ago I thought about holding a reunion, which then fizzled into the oblivion of busyness. I still believe pulling the blogger, and extended writer communities together valuable and worthwhile. I think that means I need to get to work.

My mind full of ideas, a few new friends to explore online, and reinforcement of the value of blogging filled me with energy and I look forward to my next steps.

Watch “I Just Want To Ride – Lael Wilcox and the 2019 Tour Divide” on YouTube

I adore cycling. Its been key part of my life since my mid-tweens. I’ve ridden in many states (Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Florida amongst others). For most of my twenties I refused to own a car. At one point my bike was the most important thing in my life. Now, things have changed. But I still love life with two wheels.

As a younger chap, a two week ride from Canada to Mexico would’ve seemed awesome. So, discovering Tour Divide captivated me. Discovering Lael Wilcox, the star of the video below, also delights me. I’m looking forward to exploring more of her riding life.

So, this is a great story and ride. I recommend the video below. And I’ll have more to say I’ve watched her other stuff. But go ahead and started. Don’t wait for me! Oh, and let me know what you think, any other riders out there you think I should check out, any suggestions would be very welcome.

Local Musician: Sydney Day

In my non-ceasing efforts to discover and promote local musicians, here a cover of Pink’s “What About Us?” done by local artist Sydney Day. She’s most active on Facebook. Give her a listen on all her channels. It’s well worth your time.

And here’s her Soundcloud account. It’s been a bit since she’s posted here, but I enjoyed what’s here.

YouTube Discovery: “What to do with ONE DAY in Seattle!”

Friday my son spent the afternoon and evening bulldozed by some virus. Yesterday the wretched microbes fought with my wife. Last night they came for me. Today’s itinerary thus changed to drinking tea while couch surfing with YouTube.

The best part of such (I always look for the positives)? Discovering new talent. Today I found Claire McAdams, photographer and explorer. Her journey through China a few months ago charmed me. I enjoy her energy and quirky sensibilities.

Back in October she posted a video of a day on Seattle (I expect her actual visit here occurred in summer, though. Anyway, I inserted the video below for your convenience and edification).

I liked her choices for her Seattle excursion:

Pike Place Market including:

  • The gum wall
  • Food tour (she didn’t mention which tour company she used. There are plenty of options, though).

Underground Tour

Cupcake Royale

Seattle Center

Kerry Park

Dim Tai Fung. They opted for Bellevue, though Pacific Place is significantly closer to Pike Place.

Now, as a life-long Seattleite, what suggestions do I offer?

Hmmm…

Favorite Foods at Pike Place:

And Seattle Center:

I like her venue choices with some additions. If you like music, add MPop. And the Wing Luke Museum offers great insight into the Asian Pacific American experience. If nothing else, their Bruce Lee exhibit garnered high praise.

So, Seattle fans, what recommendations come to mind? And check out her video.

Views From The Road In Kirkland

The brutality of traffic: my journey home impacted. Made my way through Kirkland, though extremely slowly. The upside? These great photos taken from my car. Right off Lake Washington, the light felt perfect. The cold air, though, presented another challenge. One solved with rolled up windows, I suppose.

Halloween Is Coming!!! Here’s My List Of Spooktacular Fun

Halloween Jack O'Lanterns

It’s upon us, the end of October and all the Halloween fun for the kids! Here’s my collection of fun, family events for the south Snohomish County region.

Have a fun, safe and delightful Halloween!

 

Saturday, October 26th: 
Sunday, October 27: 
On Halloween Night:
Lynnwood:
Edmonds:
Mountlake Terrace:
Mill Creek: