As first published in Seattle Refined on January 19, 2023 It's a misty morning in the PNW as the Amtrak Cascades train rolls into the station. The sound of its whistle is heard first, moments before the outline of the big engine is seen coming down the tracks to a full stop. We're gathered with fellow travelers... Continue Reading →
La Conner and Edison, Two Towns in the Heart of Skagit Valley, Waiting for You.
If you are looking for the perfect Washington state weekend getaway then try these two, off-the-beaten-path, towns in the heart of the Skagit Valley. They can be combined in a single day trip or extended into a leisurely and fun-filled weekend. Skagit Valley is located just about half-way between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. This beautiful... Continue Reading →
When a Weekend Getaway is Wild, Wet, and Beautiful
A Pacific Northwest adventure of the normal kind Tiny droplets of ocean spray hit my face as I turn into the wind. I am bundled up warmly from head to toe; knit hat, quilted jacket, gloves, and warm socks inside my shiny red rubber boots. The sun is at a quarter slant in the sky, for... Continue Reading →
How I Prepared a 10-day Meal Plan for Our Sailing Vacation
Cruising out of lockdown on a 36-foot sailboat. I stand looking down at the piece of paper in my hand, on which I have scribbled my grocery list. I am in front of the potatoes in my local grocers produce aisle. I do not find potatoes on my list. Do we have potatoes? I don’t recall seeing... Continue Reading →