#historic home kitchen seattle

[puppixel]

Kitchen Seattle Open concept kitchen - large country l-shaped dark wood floor open concept kitchen idea with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, soapstone countertops, green backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

[marinelethellec]

Great Room Kitchen Seattle

Open concept kitchen - large country l-shaped dark wood floor open concept kitchen idea with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, soapstone countertops, green backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

[hometoursandotherstuff]

Welcome to the mystery mansion. The owners won't allow the whole house to be pictured, and won't disclose the address, except that it was built in 1914 and is in Seattle, Washington. It has 12bds, 15ba, and had a major restoration, paying complete attention to authentic details. Priced at $4.998M, but it's perfection.

Before you enter the grand entrance, there's a large foyer with benches.

Delicately beautiful stained glass window. Look at the detailed wood carving.

What an amazingly spacious entrance hall.

Beautiful library- love that corner chair right by the shelves.

Gorgeous dining room with stunning wood walls and a built-in cabinet.

The thing about these gorgeous historic homes is that unless you have furniture like this, it's not going to look the same.

Off the dining room is this wonderful sunroom.

In the kitchen they went with a completely modern look with a few older elements like the reproduction lighting and the built-in hutch.

Wow, look at the original closet in this room.

The grand staircase has such a big landing, there's room for 2 loveseats and a coffee table. Note the lovely leaded glass windows.

Very spacious main bedroom is one of 12.

What an elegant closet/dressing room. You can tell that the original floor was stripped and refinished.

Amazing. This is one of 15 baths, and it's completely modernized, but they used reproduction plumbing fixtures. It's very light and bright now, but it has Victorian style plumbing. Look at that rib shower.

The porch out front has a covered area, an open patio, and stairs to the garden.

Very large brick patio.

Plus, a porte cochere. The home sits on about 1/3 of an acre.

[scarlettgauthor]

[to the tune of Tom Cardy's Big Breakfast]

I don't regret ordering the BIG BATH TUB I know I'll feel so good when I'm... INSIDE THE BIG BATH TUB

OKAY SO if you've read anything I've ever written you might be aware that I have a deep and abiding love of a Big Bathtub. Tragically, this was something I did not have access to in my personal life, as the house we bought had a baby tub for babies who don't like baths. Seriously, this thing was 15" tall on the outside and maybe had 12" of soaking depth if you were lucky. I still took baths, but I complained about it the whole time.

No more.

Now I have Big Bathtub!!!! Look at it! LOOK AT IT!!! I can get my boobs AND my knees underwater at the same time! I'm gonna be making cauldrons of lady soup in there! My 6'1" wife is gonna be able to take baths and be comfortable!

If you can't find me, look for me in the Big Bathtub.

(Don't look for me.)

"Scarlett!" I hear you (a rhetorical device) saying, "I love that for you, but I am also jealous! How do I get a Big Bathtub of my very own?"

Well, my friend, if there's one thing I love more than Big Bathtub, it is oversharing about home improvement projects.

SPECIFIC MONEY TALK TO FOLLOW

Given how absolutely fucking impossible it is to find any guidance online about how much this shit costs when you're just starting the research, I'll start here: This cost us $11,466.16 and took two days to install. We live in a very high COL area, and from what other research I did and estimates we got, $10-12k was about what we could expect to pay for a new bathtub and shower surround that wasn't The Same Fiberglass Shit We Already Had, AND we would have had to bring in multiple contractors.

Some necessary background: My wife and I bought our house about eleven years ago, when house prices in Seattle were at a historic low. My mom gifted us money for the down payment, which was a huge privilege, but if she gifted us the same amount of money now it would buy us precisely jack and shit. We have the stability we have due to a rare combination of privilege and luck, and I am grateful for it literally every day.

The incredibly low price we bought this house at also allowed us to manage to stay afloat through our last seven-ish years of chronic under-employment. I won't get deeply into the details, but we spent a lot of time in a place where buying myself a package of nice butter was a luxury I had to plan for. A little over a year ago my wife got a really good job (after a year of unemployment) and this summer I got a much-overdue promotion at my day job and a significant raise! Between those two things, we've finally been in a place where we can save money for house projects instead of going into debt for them, which still seems like a fucking miracle! It hasn't gotten old yet! I don't know if it ever will!

Flush on that success, earlier this this fall I got quotes for an addition on the house (something we've wanted almost since we moved in, since it's 800 square feet and has just the one tiny bathroom) and learned it would cost AT LEAST 150% MORE than we paid for this house in the first place!!! Like we could buy a whole-ass house in a cheaper area for the cost of adding on to this one! HAHAHAHA NO!! 😭😬

After a couple days of crushing disappointment I decided this meant we could pursue smaller improvements to make the house we have into a house we love, and first on the list was Big Bathtub!

Being generally handy people (ask about the shed my wife built sometime) we looked at buying a nice tub at a showroom and having a plumber install it, but plumbers don't install shower surrounds. Okay, so we figured we could probably install a shower surround? And my dad (a retired general contractor) could help? But this isn't a kitchen counter, this is a bathroom, and in this house we don't fuck with stuff that need waterproofing. We decided we wanted someone who could handle the whole thing, so I requested quotes from remodel contractors but they all told me my project was too small!

Enter Bath Planet. They're a one-stop shop that does custom full bath surround installs with a ton of options. The sales guy who did the estimate had color and material samples with him and dug through all the options to get me the deepest bathtub possible. This sucker's 22" tall! The cost included wrapping the entire window so the sill would be waterproof! If there was damage to the subfloor, they'd repair it before installing the tub at no additional cost! The warranty is really good!

(Oh man I've become such an adult.)

Not gonna lie, the quoted price was 😬😬😬 when he was done, but we couldn't argue with the quality or convenience and we were looking at a cost of close to $7k if we bought a big tub, had a plumber installed it, and then DIYed the surround (with no guarantees about how long that would make our only bathroom unusable!) so we bit the bullet and put down a deposit.

In related news, my wife and I are giving each other very few presents this Christmas, since the tub was our main gift 😂 Our savings are... Very depleted right now, so we're gonna have to hunker down for a few months to rebuild before we can think about any other house projects or expensive fun stuff, but what we lack in money, we make up for in bathtub!

As far as the timeline went, we got the initial quote on 9/20, put down our deposit that day, and then the install happened over 12/6 and 12/7. The installer was great, the work happened exactly as it was supposed to, and now we have BIG BATHTUB.

This was a wall of text, I know! If anyone has questions I didn't answer here, though, I'm happy to answer them. It's so rough trying to find home reno information out on the wide internet, and contractor websites are worse than useless for the purpose.

Meanwhile, I will be in the Big Bathtub.

[bettie-may-page]

Yup, it happened again! Third times the charm? May 23rd. 2023

The mural of Bettie Page on the side of Jessica Baxter’s house is one of the few works of art you can see from Interstate 5 in Seattle. But it seems not everyone is happy about it: Earlier this week, vandals used red paint to deface the mural, which features the 1950s pinup model, with her signature black bangs, and John Waters’ drag queen muse Divine. Also severely damage was the unprotected Britney Spears/Laura Palmer mural by Two Thangs that was destroyed.

The mural, located at the intersection of Seventh Avenue Northeast and Northeast 59th Street, was attacked at 2 a.m. Sunday, Baxter said. The vandal wore a compressed air tank which was filled filled with a red oil-based paint, she reported, “slowly walking around the house, soaking the mural as well as coating a separate kitchen that helps feed the homeless, leaving a mess behind”.

She said the vandals also made off with a “Black Lives Matter” sign.

The attack happened so quickly, Baxter said, that by the time she’d woken up and gotten to the window, whoever had targeted Bettie and Divine was gone.

Baxter said she had no idea who was behind the nocturnal attack. They “didn’t leave a calling card or manifesto,” she said wryly. She reported the attack to the police.

The mural has been more positively received by others. This is also the third time the Baxter home was targeted.

A GoFundMe page set up to cover the expenses of the repainting had already exceeded its $4,000 fundraising goal as of Thursday afternoon. “That mural is tied to many good summer memories and it is a beautiful piece of art!” wrote one donor.

Originally painted in 2005 by artist John Green, the mural was previously attacked in 2016. Also in late June of that year, vandals threw gray paint on the mural and, reported The Seattle Times at the time, left a message — “Stop exploiting women’s bodies” — signed only “some feminists.”

Contemporaneous accounts and comments from those who knew or engaged with Page’s work would suggest this is a misreading.

As artist Olivia De Berardinis told the Los Angeles Times in a 2008 obituary of the model: “[I]t took me years to understand what I was looking at in the old photographs of her. Now I get it. There was a passion play unfolding in her mind. What some see as a bad-girl image was in fact a certain sensual freedom and playacting — it was part of the fun of being a woman.”

After the 2016 vandalism, artist Two Thangs repaired the damage to Page and added the second image, this one of drag queen Divine.

“The ladies became fast friends and we were so proud to have such incredible and unique art on our house to share with the I-5 passersby,” wrote Baxter on the GoFundMe page. “People tell us all the time that they love the painting and it makes us so happy to contribute to a sense of community that was once [a] hallmark in Seattle but has been on the decline.”

Baxter said Two Thangs would be returning this month to repair the work again. “We’re gonna keep putting it back up,” she said.

On her GoFundMe page, Baxter said that house painters she’d already hired for a different project “sprung into action” the morning the mural was defaced, using a pressure washer and paint thinner on a historically hot day to clean up most of the “oil-based red glop.” But Bettie and Divine “will still need touch ups.”

For that, Two Thangs will be flown in from Rhode Island to work his magic on the icons. “We just want our girls back and we want him to be well compensated for it,” said Baxter. Any donations over the goal will go to support the LGBTQ Youth organisation at Lambert House.

If you with to contribute i have added the link to the Baxters Go Fund Me page which includes further information on the destruction.

[pashterlengkap]

Electrified diversified: How Portland’s eco-conscious LGBTQ+ community thrives with Toyota

Making the world a better place for future generations is no small task, but big change often starts with little actions.  For people looking to impact the planet positively, it can be as simple as remembering a reusable grocery bag, ditching single-use water bottles, or considering the vehicle you get behind the wheel of. However, being eco-conscious doesn’t have to be restrictive or dull, thanks to Toyota, whose range of electrified powertrains is as diverse as the LGBTQ+ community.  With its Beyond Zero vision — which aims to reach carbon neutrality and help customers reduce their carbon footprint with more low — and zero-emission vehicles than any other automaker—Toyota is helping drivers feel confident in their choices and their effect on future generations. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today In Season 4 of On the Road, LGBTQ Nation and Toyota explore the ways that queer people are making a significant impact. We journeyed to Portland, where eco-consciousness and personal responsibility for nature are as engrained into the bustling community as gay bars, glitter, and Pride flags.  Michael Lindsay & Matthew Schueller Although Oregon has proven to be their most incredible adventure yet, Michael Lindsay and Matthew Schueller’s love story started long-distance. After meeting in 2014, Schueller left his home in Seattle for Nebraska, where Lindsay was finishing dental school, with a single condition: they’d ultimately return to the West Coast.  Not a tough sell! Since moving to Portland, the couple engulfed themselves in the experimental food scene, where buzzy, cutting-edge cuisines and trends transform from food carts to brick-and-mortar restaurants.  Still, their must-see spot — aside from signature gay bar Scandalous, which they dubbed the city’s queer “living room” — is Powell’s Books. “It’s a historic staple to downtown Portland,” Schueller explained. “It’s been there … since Portland existed.” Of course, they get around thanks to the Toyota RAV4 Prime, featuring an advanced gas and electric powertrain and a smooth, comfortable ride. “I love Toyota’s Beyond Zero initiative because I feel like they’ve been innovating in low-emission electric vehicles for so long that it’s just part of their brand at this point,” Lindsay added. Most importantly, it’s a choice they feel confident in as they begin planning their own family amidst the city’s cozy community. “It’s a fact of life: you have to be environmentally conscious,” Schueller explained. “We have to take care of the world for our kids and future generations.” Jenny Nguyen Sports Bra owner Jenny Nguyen stands before Toyota’s Bz4X all-electric powertrain. Photo by David Zimmerman for LGBTQ Nation. If anyone understands the power of small but powerful actions, it’s Jenny Nguyen, CEO and founder of The Sports Bra, a Portland-based bar that broadcasts female sports. “[At a sports bar], there’s this warmth, camaraderie, space for fandom and spectatorship to build community around sports,” she explained. “What if we just change the channel?” After an ACL injury in college threw off her professional basketball aspirations, Nguyen found a new passion in an unlikely place: the kitchen next to her dorm room. Later on, that knowledge allowed her to create The Sports Bra, where she married her love for food and sports while supporting local women-led businesses, including signature distillery Freeland Spirits.  “[We’re able to] promote women in the industry that are often overlooked, underrepresented, underinvested in, and underfunded — all of the same things that are happening to female athletes on TV and in sports,” Nguyen added During its first weekend, The Sports Bra attracted thousands of visitors, proving the impact of a small change — much like Nguyen’s decision to drive the all-electric Toyota bZ4X. “I think that the reason I bought an electric car,… http://dlvr.it/TCvPNk

[mdssamsung]

What makes Greenwood homes for sale stand out?

Greenwood, a charming neighborhood in Seattle, Washington, offers a distinctive blend of affordability, community spirit, and convenient amenities, making its homes for sale highly sought after among prospective buyers. One of the key factors that make Greenwood homes for sale stand out is the neighborhood's diverse range of housing options, from cozy bungalows and craftsman-style homes to modern townhouses and condominiums. Many Greenwood homes feature unique architectural details, hardwood floors, and updated kitchens and bathrooms, reflecting a mix of historic charm and contemporary design. Additionally, residents of Greenwood often enjoy spacious yards, mature trees, and quiet, tree-lined streets, creating a tranquil and inviting atmosphere that feels removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.

In addition to the individual features and character of Greenwood homes for sale, the neighborhood itself offers a strong sense of community and a vibrant local culture. Greenwood is known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as its annual events such as the Greenwood Car Show and the Greenwood Seafair Parade. The neighborhood also boasts several parks, playgrounds, and community centers, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure. With its central location, affordable housing options, and community-oriented atmosphere, Greenwood continues to attract a diverse range of homebuyers seeking a welcoming and dynamic neighborhood in Seattle. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, or looking to downsize, Greenwood offers a variety of housing choices and a quality of life that sets it apart from other neighborhoods in the area.

[amber-obrien]

Which amenities and features are commonly found in Ballard homes currently on the market?

A. Ballard homes for sale often come equipped with a range of amenities and features that cater to the preferences of modern homeowners. One prevalent characteristic is the incorporation of contemporary designs and open floor plans, providing a sense of spaciousness and fluidity between living spaces. Many Ballard homes boast stylish kitchens with high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and quartz or granite countertops, appealing to those who value both aesthetics and functionality. Additionally, properties in this Seattle neighborhood often showcase hardwood floors, large windows, and thoughtful details like built-in shelving or cozy fireplaces, contributing to a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Beyond the interiors, Ballard homes frequently include outdoor spaces that enhance the overall living experience. Private yards, decks, or patios offer residents opportunities for outdoor entertaining or relaxation, while some homes may feature views of the surrounding area. Proximity to local amenities, including the vibrant Ballard Avenue with its array of shops, restaurants, and breweries, adds to the appeal of these homes. With a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, Ballard homes for sale cater to a diverse range of preferences, making them an attractive option for those seeking a distinctive and well-appointed residence in the heart of Seattle.

[mattsboldyy]

the day when the real work begun | the umich hockey team

find part one of this series here !!

summary - you had your work cut out for you.

words - 629

warnings - fem!reader

authors note - eee!! this series is making me so happy. big shout out to @hockeyboysarehot for giving me this amazing series idea. <3 i love y’all a ton, enjoy this :)

—————————

“we select from the university of michigan, y/n l/n

“no way.” you gasp, jumping up and hugging all your friends and family.

“hey love bug, how are you feeling?” matty beniers said through the phone, “oh lord. i’m so nervous. how about you though?” you laughed, standing in the kitchen of your michigan home. “i’m all good.” matty said, laughing back. “i bet. yeah mom i’m coming! sorry matty, i gotta go. good luck today!” you said before hanging up the phone and heading over to the living room.

your whole family was basically there. all packed into your childhood home, where all of your dreams and hopes of playing hockey were born and came true. never in a million years did you ever think of being even eligible for the nhl draft. most guys nhl draft eligible always want to be up there in draft picks but it was completely different for you. you didn’t care if you were last. all that mattered to you was that you were becoming a role model for all those little girls out there who thought it was never possible for a girl to join the nhl. it gave them hope that maybe their dreams will come true one day, and they will be draft eligible.

“you got this baby.” your dad said, taking your hand in his. “yeah.” you said, taking a deep breath as the nhl draft was just about to start. after all of the introductions were over with, buffalo was on the clock. “on behalf of the buffalo sabres and all out great fans, we are proud to select from the university of michigan, owen power.” a smile immediately erupted on your face. owen deserved it he really did. you were so happy for him. he was one of your best friends this year and helped you a ton with everything. “aww owen!” you laughed, seeing him hug his family and friends. ‘i’m so proud of u, o.’ you texted him, before putting your phone away while seattle was on the clock.

next pick - seattle

“on behalf of our passionate fans, i am proud to make the historical first ever amateur draft selection for our team by choosing, from the university of michigan, matty beniers.”

next pick - anaheim

“the anaheim ducks are proud to select mason mctavish”

-

“…luke hughes”

-

“…kent johnson”

-

“…simon edvinsson”

-

you sat there patiently, waiting for the chance of your name to get called. smiling each time one of your teammates gets selected.

you had started zoning out around the 13th pick which belonged to calgary.

“buffalo is now on the clock for their second pick of the 2021 draft.”

“the buffalo sabres are pleased to select, making history, from the university of michigan, y/n l/n”

your eyes widened and your mouth dropped. “did they just say my name?” you mumbled, as your family started jumping up and down, crowding you with hugs and congratulations. “lets go baby!!” you high fived your old teammates while laughing.

later

“OWEN!” you yelled through facetime, smiling. “SMALLS!” he yelled back, laughing while running his hand through his hair. “ya know this whole professional nhl thing is going to be a lot easier now that i know i’ll have someone i’m close with along side me.” owen said, holding his phone. “yeah? i’m glad i have you too owen.” you said.

- draft interview -

“hey y/n. congratulations to you and your family on this historic moment. describe today in your own words.”

“the day when the real work began.”

—————————

tagging some friends!

@1-800-iluvhockey @owenpowersglasses @hockey-lover86 @bitchinbarzal @pierrelucduboiis

[nwbeerguide]

Back for their 5th edition, to support North Helpline, Watershed Pub & Kitchen and Hellbent Brewing Company release GateCity IPA.

Back in 2022 for their 5th year, Seattle’s Hellbent Brewing Company and the Watershed Pub & Kitchen have collaborated to support North Helpline, with the release of GateCity IPA. An award-winning india pale ale, the beer itself is a marriage of two neighborhoods in Northgate and Lake City, historically included in Seattle’s Northend. 

For every pint sold at participating locations, $1 will go towards North Helpline, which seeks to feed and prevent homelessness. For the uninitiated, here’s a bit of background about North Helpline and those who benefit from this non-profit service. 

North Helpline is a homelessness prevention and food bank service in North Seattle. Their essential work is summed up by their motto: “We believe that all deserve adequate food, housing, and respect. We assist our neighbors in obtaining basic needs that affirm their human dignity and worth."

Released this past Saturday, May 14th, you’re invited to stop by the following locations to support North Helpline and enjoy a fresh pint of Hellbent Brewing & Watershed Pub & Kitchen’s  GateCity IPA. Options include takeout or in-person consumption. 

In-person locations

Growler Guys

Fiddler’s Inn

Beer Authority

The Shambles

Angry Beaver

A1 Hop Shops

Watershed Pub & Kitchen

Take Home Sites:

Shoreline Town and Country

Bobs Liquors

Last Drop Bottle Shop

Ballinger Thriftway

Rising Sun Produce

A1 Hop Shops

Select Whole Foods

As a bonus, the sponsors and supporting business are putting together a fun raffle with an opportunity to relive the ‘90s with tickets to see New Kids on the Block featuring Salt-N-Pepa, Rick Astley, & En Vogue. For $20 per ticket, you will enter for a chance to attend this unique concert at Climate Pledge Arena, June 4th, 2022.

Finally, those interested in celebrating this unique release are welcome to visit Watershed Pub & Kitchen on May 21st from 4 pm - 7 pm. During this “closing ceremony” event, the pub & kitchen will pour pints of GateCity IPA, along with doling out prizes to those who attend. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/7461795837195687. 

Or, to support the North Helpline visit https://secure.givelively.org/.../buy-a-beer-support….

from Northwest Beer Guide - News - The Northwest Beer Guide https://bit.ly/3NfA3IK

[klaineccfanficlibrary]

Will there be a fic in which there is a socioeconomic difference between them and their love is prohibited?

Nothing Can Keep Us Apart by @teddyshoney

Blaine is a Prince...well, he used to be. Now, he's just a lowly Peasant living in the city of Hucal, a kingdom under the rule of the man who ordered his father to be killed. Unexpectedly, Blaine falls in love with a boy, a boy who should be far, far out of his reach. And just as he thinks that things are looking up for him, Hucal goes to war, and Blaine must fight. Will he make it home? Will he get to marry his soulmate? Will they have their happily ever after?

~~~~~

Gilded Cage by canarian

In the winter of 1895, Blaine Anderson, the son of a wealthy doctor, and Kurt Hummel, the son of a middle class mechanic, cross paths at a luxury hotel in the quiet seaside town of St. Augustine, Florida. With everyone and everything working to keep them apart, can they find a way to be together?

~~~~~

Westerville Abbey by @hkvoyage

Blaine is the second son of the earl of Westerville, and is considered the spare heir. After his 18th birthday, he attends the London Season to fulfill his duty of finding a wife. He soon realizes he is more attracted to the new footman. Kurt, who has just arrived at Westerville Abbey to work alongside his father, becomes equally as smitten with the earl’s youngest son. Will Blaine and Kurt be able to overcome their class differences in 1910s England? Will their forbidden love survive WW1? A Downton Abbey inspired historical Klaine AU.

Note: Part 1 of the Westerville Abbey series

~~~~~

The Prince and the Pâtissier by lovememadly

Blaine is a prince and heir to a kingdom when he meets Kurt, the pâtissier of the royal palace. Blaine is always popping into the kitchens when Kurt is baking and over time, their friendship develops. But both are a little oblivious to the fact that there may be something more. Filled for a prompt from the GKM.

Sequel: Cake Batter

~~~~~

How Things Should Be by Imogen_LeFay

Kurt Hummel's life is comfortable for a peasant with his work in the kitchen of Earl Anderson. It would be more comfortable, if he could rein in his feelings for the Earl's younger son, Blaine. But Kurt knows, life isn't a fairy tale. And lords marry ladies, they don't fall in love with kitchen servants.

~~~~~

Dandy and the Gutter Punk by @alilactree [PDF and EPUB]

 A Klaine Lady and the Tramp AU, set in Seattle. Originally a prompt on the glee-kink-meme.

[travel-voyages]

The Best Ways to Drive Across Country

During Covid, even driving vacations can get a little bumpy so we asked AAA trip-planning pros to suggest three foolproof routes (for now or after the pandemic) and a few tips for smoothing the way

By  Andrew Nelson  Feb. 2, 2021

FOR STIR-crazed Americans wrestling with the virus and its variants while awaiting the vaccine, the dream of roaming pedal-to-the-metal across the continent is a transfixing one. “In quarantine you’re not just stuck in a place physically, you’re stuck mentally, and travel opens up your thoughts,” said Chicago photographer Jasmin Shah who made several cross-country trips last year. Whatever the inspiration, be it Sacagawea, Kerouac or “Thelma & Louise,” it’s still possible to conduct an epic cross-country road trip during the pandemic. But do plenty of research before heading out the door. Think about “snacks, water, cleaning supplies and stops,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice-president of travel at the American Automobile Association (AAA), who ticked off a list of precautions to consider. “You need to plan ahead to have freedom and flexibility.” Covid-19 restrictions, quarantines, openings and closings change frequently so check them often. AAA, for example, posts such information on the organization’s travel planning site

��Ms. Twidale’s team of travel planners outline three memorable trips:

  New York to Seattle Shore to Shore

Crossing the continent via Interstates 80 and 90 would take 42 hours straight through, but Ms. Twidale cautions travelers not to rush the 2,852-mile-long route. Bisecting 11 states, the journey offers plenty to see and do. The route includes urban layovers in Cleveland, with a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and Chicago for its deep-dish pizza (locals like delivery from Lou Malnati’s) with a stop by Lake Michigan. In South Dakota, visit the town of Mitchell and its Corn Palace. From Montana, a short southern detour to Wyoming will deliver you to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, before finally ending by Puget Sound in Seattle and a visit to the Space Needle. (Amazon’s twin Spheres, however, are closed.)

 Chicago to Los AngelesTime Travel to the Old West  

Any list of cross-country trips should include Route 66, the country’s “Mother Road” between the Midwest and California before the Interstate Highway System. “It’s going back in time,” Ms. Twidale said about making the 2,448-mile-long drive. AAA’s recommended stops include iconic monuments like the St. Louis Gateway Arch and quirky roadside attractions like Illinois’s 1924 Ariston Café, or the Cadillac Ranch art installation in Amarillo, Tex. In Arizona slight detours will take you to Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest national parks and if you need a respite, sleep over in Holbrook’s Wigwam Motel. In California you’ll pass near the desert wilds of Joshua Tree and Death Valley national parks before concluding the trip in Los Angeles at the Santa Monica Pier on the Pacific Ocean. Order a celebratory takeout meal at nearby local favorite Chez Jay.

Washington, D.C. to DenverCivil Rights History Lesson

This 2,032-mile-long road trip features stops along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, a collection of destinations in 16 mostly southern states and Washington, D.C., that highlight Black Americans’ fight for justice, and concludes in Denver. Begin at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington near the Lincoln Memorial, location of his 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech. Stop in Greensboro, N.C., the city famous for its Woolworth lunch counter sit-ins. In Memphis, Tenn., see the Lorraine Motel, part of the National Civil Rights Museum, and site of Dr. King’s assassination. In Topeka, Kan., explore the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site commemorating the 1954 Supreme Court ruling that began the country’s desegregation efforts. In Colorado, visit the Black American West Museum (temporarily closed) and take a walking tour of Five Points, Denver’s historic Black neighborhood. Once the “Harlem of the West,” it’s now filled with galleries, restaurants and microbreweries.

DRIVERS ED / Practical tips from recent cross-country road warriors

Carry pandemic precautions including extra masks, hand sanitizer, disposable gloves for pumping gas, and check openings and closures before arrival.

Keep Reading

https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-best-ways-to-drive-across-country-11612298638?width=10&height=5

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[jazy3]

Thoughts on Grey’s Anatomy: 16X12

I watched the new episode of Grey’s Anatomy over the weekend. I liked it. It was a standalone that focused on some of the characters I'm less interested in so it wasn't as thrilling as it could have been but it was good. One thing I loved about this episode and last week’s was the humour! They’ve really brought the humour back to Grey’s Anatomy and I am here for it! We could all use a laugh these days. Meredith’s Voice Over this week is about secrets and how they all come out eventually. Very true. I loved her line, “The question is what are your body’s secrets? And are you ready to know?” We all fear the truth sometimes. Meredith Grey asking the real questions. 

Maggie and Jackson run into each other at the hospital. We find out that she took Richard’s advice and went to ask Koracick for her job back. He hasn’t decided yet. Jerk. Jackson proceeds to throw shade and Maggie throws it right back. That’s my girl! We find out that Maggie and Jackson have been invited to what they think is Richard and Catherine’s anniversary dinner. Next we see Catherine and Richard arguing. We find out the dinner is actually happening so they can tell their kids that they’re separating. Yikes! The other clue here is that judging by the promo Meredith does not attend. If it was a real anniversary dinner Meredith would absolutely be in attendance because Richard is like a father to her. 

Her absence really should have tipped Maggie off that something was wrong. That being said, Maggie’s been going through a tough time recently and got kinda drunk pretty soon after arriving and she is historically pretty oblivious sometimes so I guess I can’t blame her for that. Meanwhile Levi is at home recovering and Nico is there helping him. Awww they’re so cute! I love them together. I loved Levi’s line, “Except for the ball gag and jock strap were good.” LOL! 

We find out that Levi’s Great Uncle Saul is in hospice and he’s dying. According to Levi he was an ass to everyone else except him and he’s devastated that he’s dying. Poor Levi. Meanwhile, Maggie shows up for dinner at Richard and Catherine’s very nice house. She wishes them a happy anniversary and gifts them chocolates. Richard and Catherine are stunned. They completely forgot it was coming up. Oh boy. 

Jackson arrives next and wishes them the same and gifts them an Alice Mann painting all the way from South Africa. Maggie feels bad for only bringing them chocolates. Catherine tries to smooth things over. Richard wants to cut to the chase and tell them. Catherine wants to hold off and gets everybody wine. You can see where this is going. Then the doorbell rings. It’s Vic from Station 19! Jackson invited her because he thought it was a dinner party. And she brought Dean because she thought it was a party party, not a dinner party and as we later learn is trying to set Maggie and him up since he previously showed an interest in her. 

Meanwhile, Levi comes to visit Uncle Saul with Nico in tow. They banter and then Saul chastises him for still living in his mother’s basement. Levi beats around the bush and Uncle Saul is having none of it. “You think I’m getting on a roof with a bugle horn anytime soon?” Oh Uncle Saul! With that Levi introduces Nico as his boyfriend and comes out as gay to his uncle. Nico goes to shake his hand and Uncle Saul promptly dies right in front of them! Only on Grey’s! Which results in a stunned Levi uttering the phrase, “I killed him. I killed him with my gayness.” Oh my god! Interestingly Justin Chambers is still credited on this episode even though he does not appear. As with last week’s episode this is likely because he was away but still under contract and expected to return when this episode was shot last year. 

I think we’ll start to see more obvious storyline changes beginning with episode 13 as it would have been the first one filmed in the new year either during or after Justin decided to leave the show. It’s a shame we’ll never get to see the original storylines as they were planned, but Justin gave 15+ years to a show that nobody thought would make it past Season 1. So as much as I miss Alex as a character I get it. When it’s time to move on it’s time to move on. You have to do it when you feel ready and not by anyone else’s clock or timeframe. 

Back at the hospice Levi is doing his best to follow Jewish tradition with regards to Saul’s body. His Aunt shows up and then promptly peaces out! Oh man! Over at the dinner party Jackson is a complete ass and Maggie calls him on his crap completely! I’m so here for it! You tell him! You go Glen Coco! Catherine continues to be cold towards Vic and honestly I kind of love it! She asks Vic if she’s allergic to shrimp and in response Dean says, “Vic? No! She’ll put anything in her mouth!” Oh Dean. You are not helping. LOL! 

Dean and Maggie seem to get along well which is nice. Maybe there’s hope for them still. We find out from Vic that during her training the nickname first responders used to refer to Pac North was The Morgue! Oh boy. Back at the hospice Levi and Nico are playing cards. Nico still wants that sandwich. Levi’s a hard no. Then in walks a man who Levi doesn’t recognize but who clearly knows Saul. Then Levi introduces himself and the man recognizes him. He knows who he is because Saul talked about him all the time. My heart! 

He correctly identifies Nico as his boyfriend and Levi is confused. We find out that Uncle Saul was gay and this man was his partner. Twist! We find out that Saul and Daniel were the loves of each other’s lives and that Daniel is heartbroken at his passing. I guess Levi’s gayness didn’t kill Uncle Saul after all! That’s a relief! Back at dinner Maggie shares Catherine and Richard’s proposal story and then Jackson makes this lovely speech about how they’re the gold standard. Which would be wonderful if they weren’t separating. 

Catherine and Richard talk in the kitchen. Catherine gets emotional and says that maybe they’ve been too hasty with the separation. Richard agrees and says that if he wants things to move forward he needs her to apologize. He says he knows that doesn’t come easy for her, but to him he can’t move forward with her without it. I loved their exchange. “Richard I am sorry, but-” “Apologies don’t have the word ‘but’ after them.” Talk that truth Richard! Talk that truth! 

I’d really like it if we got more of an explanation of Catherine’s actions. They still haven’t explained why she didn’t stand up for Richard or didn’t apologize afterward or try to fix it. Back at the hospice Daniel and Levi lovingly prepare Saul’s body in accordance with the Jewish tradition. It’s very moving. I loved Daniel’s line, “Your generation takes for granted what is possible.” It’s heartbreaking but also true. There’s some really wonderful commentary here about how far social attitudes and legal rights have come for gay people in the U.S. and elsewhere in the last few decades. Like many things we, the younger generations, often take hard won victories and certain possibilities for granted. This scene made cry because as Daniel says the fact that our generation can even do that for a second is reason to hope for a better tomorrow. The acting was very well done.

Back at dinner Maggie and Jackson are arguing about his yacht when Richard gets a text that he’s very happy about. Catherine goes off because she thinks he’s talking to his girlfriend. He’s not. It turns out the text is from Alex. Richard has been talking to him about making Maggie an offer to run their Cardio Department and he’s approved it. Judging from this information and other info we’ve received Alex is still living in Seattle, still running Pac North, still married to Jo, and still spending time with Meredith. 

So does this mean their new plan is to off screen his character? Justin Chambers has moved on but the character of Alex will continue to exist off screen? Not sure how I feel about this yet. On the one hand I don’t want them to kill him off on the other I hate not seeing him and want him to get a proper send off. But this also leaves it open for him to come back on screen in the series finale which I would love. It’s clear to me that they had a storyline planned out for Alex’s character and Pac North prior to this. Obviously since the actor had moved on they are having to scrap and rework that plan. I’m sad we’ll never see the intended version. 

But at the same I also respect that an actor has the right to move on when they’re ready to do so especially after 15 years. It sucks for the character but it’s good for Justin Chambers so it’s a toss up as a fan. Also why is Catherine outraged? Koracick said he’d think about it when Maggie talked to him. You snooze you lose pal. Also why is Jackson such a patronizing entitled asshat these days? What’s up with that? 

Things finally come to a head at dinner and Catherine and Richard finally announce that they are separating. Poor Dean. He gets invited to what he thinks is a party and instead winds up at someone’s break up dinner. Fun! Catherine and Richard both leave the table and Jackson and Maggie follow them out. I’ll give Jackson one thing: he’s a wonderful and loving son. He’s there comforting his mom when Vic comes to drop off some plates. Catherine finally warms to her and offers her some cobbler. It’s a very sweet moment. 

Meanwhile Maggie and Richard talk outside. They have a heart to heart and then Maggie asks about the job offer. It’s a lot of money. She’s surprised Alex thinks she’s worth that much. Richard says he thinks so too. She accepts! It seems to me that the original storyline would have seen Maggie, Richard, Owen, and Alex working together at Pac North. But since Justin Chambers has moved on it looks like that will be happening off screen now. 

As everyone prepares to leave Vic and Maggie talk it out and clear the air. I’m glad they did. They’re issue is with Jackson not with each other. We cut to Levi and Nico. They’re back at home packing up his things. His mom comes downstairs. Levi explains that Uncle Saul is gone and that he’s moving out. Levi gives this great speech to his mom about how he’s super gay and that his mom saying she accepts him but not telling anyone isn’t really acceptance and he can’t do this anymore. Because Levi’s made a decision. He doesn’t want to wait until he’s old and dying to be free. He wants to be free and live openly now as a gay man and be happy. Levi’s mom thinks Nico put him up to this but as Levi explains he loves her but he has to do this. 

I’m so proud of Levi! Standing up to family is hard especially when you love them but you have to do it. Back at the house Catherine and Richard argue. Richard asks if Catherine was hoping he’d fail when he took the job at Pac North. She says she hoped he’d come to his senses and asks if Maggie turned down his absurd offer. Why does Catherine think the offer is absurd? It’s more than Grey Sloan was paying her clearly and they indicated they weren’t interested. Why wouldn’t she take it?

Richard has had enough. He calls Catherine out on her need to control everything and that the success of Pac North is because of him and that she had nothing to do with it and it’s killing her. I’m glad Richard is finally calling Catherine out on her need to control everything. It really is absurd. In response Catherine calls someone named Harry and asks them to find out how much it would cost to buy Pac North. Seriously? This woman would rather buy a struggling hospital than apologize to her husband? 

I saw the Catherine Fox Foundation buying Pac North as a likely resolution to the storyline but I pictured in a more positive way. This is just mean and spiteful. I figured Alex and Richard would turn Pac North around, make it a great hospital, and bring it up to Grey Sloan’s level. At which point Catherine and the other doctors would see the value in it and offer to make Pac North part of the Foundation. That way everyone would keep their jobs but we would see the doctors go back and forth. However, that plan obviously involves Alex being on screen as he’s the Chief. I’m wondering if Justin’s departure caused them to have to rewrite this storyline in a more negative way or if that was the plan all along. 

It’s impossible to say and we’ll never know for sure, but one thing that is evident to me is that the writers and showrunners didn’t think Justin would be leaving this season or this soon in the season. If they had known they would have written this storyline differently. That being said everyone has a right to move on when they’re ready to do so and it’s up to the writers to make it work now that the actor has moved on. 

Also did this woman just threaten to shut down an entire hospital that employs hundreds of people just to spite her husband for succeeding without her? WTF?!?! Where would those people go? Where would their patients go? Mercy West Medical Centre and Seattle Grace Hospital merged years ago, Dillard Medical Centre was shut down for obvious reasons, and the show has established that both Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital and Seattle Presbyterian Hospital run at capacity patient wise. Where would they go? 

I feel like Catherine’s line at the end about not being sorry was supposed to be empowering but to me it just felt cold, selfish, and cruel. Richard didn’t do anything to her. Richard stood up and stood alongside Meredith who he loves like a daughter and instead of trying to understand that Catherine is acting like he betrayed her. Next week’s promo seems to be more Station 19 oriented and doesn’t really tell us much so I guess we’ll just have to wait and see! 

Until next time!

[mdssamsung]

What amenities and features are commonly found in homes for sale in Ballard?

Ballard, located in Seattle, Washington, is a vibrant neighborhood known for its unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. When searching for Ballard homes for sale, prospective buyers can expect to find a variety of amenities and features that cater to both urban and suburban lifestyles. Many homes in Ballard offer open-concept floor plans, updated kitchens with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops, and spacious living areas ideal for entertaining. Additionally, properties often boast hardwood floors, cozy fireplaces, and private outdoor spaces such as patios or decks, perfect for enjoying the Pacific Northwest's mild climate.

In terms of community amenities, Ballard homes for sale are often situated within walking distance to trendy boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and local cafes. The neighborhood is also renowned for its numerous parks, waterfront activities, and cultural attractions, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure. Furthermore, Ballard's convenient location offers easy access to downtown Seattle and major transportation routes, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a balance between urban convenience and neighborhood charm. Whether you're looking for a historic craftsman bungalow or a contemporary townhouse, Ballard offers a diverse range of housing options to suit every taste and budget.

[myhouseidea]

Drawn to this historic Italianate residence, a landmark in Capitol Hill’s Harvard-Belmont Historical District, the new owners knew they needed a design firm that would respect the home’s historic exterior yet bring a modern sensibility to the interiors, which had long ago been compromised through a series of ill-conceived remodels. Photography: Andrew Giammarco

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The palazzo-style residence—built in 1910 (one year after the famed Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition and designed by Washington, D.C. architects Hornblower and Marshall)—had been commissioned by noted entrepreneur, lawyer, and railroad executive Samuel R. Hill. The five-story, 11,000-square-foot home is built entirely of cast-in-place concrete. Unique in construction, the house is thought to be the oldest of its kind on the west coast. Channeling the innovative spirit of the home’s original construction and owner, a strategy was devised to bring the home into the 21st century. The multi-phased approach involved preserving as much of the exterior of the house as possible while re-envisioning the floor plans of each of the five floors for contemporary living.

Occupying a one-acre site, the property provides expansive views across Lake Union to the Olympic Mountains. Despite numerous remodels since its original construction, the interiors were a rabbit warren of spaces that defied logic, were poorly connected to the gardens and views, and unsuited to contemporary living. “This was a large undertaking, consisting of five different phases that lasted over a period of eight years. Our clients appreciated our sensitivity to historic architecture, our love for modern design, and our willingness to weave them into a seamless expression,” notes architect Stuart Silk.

In response to the chaotic layout, main floor rooms were opened to create an interconnected plan that flows seamlessly from one space to another. Two large windows were inserted into the north side of the home to introduce views and light deep into the house. Each of the other floors were reorganized to better respond to the family’s specific needs and to take advantage of the sweeping vistas of lake Union, the city, and the Olympic Mountains from windows and terraces. “Given the hilltop location, views are everywhere, so framing those views and taking advantage of them was a critical element of the design,” notes Silk.

Important historic elements were retained and showcased, including the original fir beams in the basement and, notably, the four diamond-patterned structural iron columns, which feature rivets and webbing. The historic paneling and coffering is made of quarter sawn white oak. Custom chandeliers in the entry, dining room, and kitchen were designed by Stephen Hirt and Chico Raskey. An eighteen-foot- long island of Italian marble with burnished nickel legs is the focal point of the kitchen. Floor-to-ceiling sheets of blackened steel panels line the hallways, concealing doors to the powder room and laundry room. The door from the Diebold home safe was meticulously restored and re-purposed to become the door to the wine room. The family room features a custom-designed, hand-carved basalt coffee table.

The carriage house, originally below the house itself, was transformed to create an exercise space. Original board-formed concrete walls were left exposed and cleaned up while fir beams were repurposed for the cantilevered staircase, which was “carpeted” with blackened steel. The highlight of the exercise area is the glass-enclosed spa lined with Brazilian granite in emerald and blue hues that sparkle like a piece of jewelry.

The rooftop terrace provides 180-degree views of city, mountains and nearby St. Marks’s Cathedral (an iconic Seattle landmark). The terrace includes two fire pits and a glass covered trellis for use in less-than-perfect conditions.

Project team Architecture: Stuart Silk Architects Interior Design: Garrett Cord Warner Landscape: AHBL, Richard Hartlage Construction : Charter Construction Structural : Quantum Consulting Engineers Photography: Andrew Giammarco

Furnishings/Materials Furniture: Mike Danielson Studio, Claudio Bellini, Holly Hunt, Jean de Merry, Carpets: Driscoll Robbins Fine Carpets Custom Lighting Design: Stephen Hirt and Chico Raskey Appliances: Miele, Sub Zero, Plumbing Fixtures: Dornbach Art: Chuck Close, Guy Anderson, AV: Madrona Digital

Harvard-Belmont Residence Renovation by Stuart Silk Architects Drawn to this historic Italianate residence, a landmark in Capitol Hill’s Harvard-Belmont Historical District, the new owners knew they needed a design firm that would respect the home’s historic exterior yet bring a modern sensibility to the interiors, which had long ago been compromised through a series of ill-conceived remodels.

[runawaymusbus]

light of minimalist

“Have nothing in your homes that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” - William Morris

Buckets looked at me as she held a trinket she was fingering in the Grand Canyon gift shop. A overpriced dream catcher that was genetically a replica of the forty hanging along side it. Her bright baby blues glittered as she pouted her lips.

‘That is lovely baby girl. We had a good plan of what you wanted to purchase remember? A keychain for your collection or a magnet to start a new one in the bus. Let’s pause, slow down and think about this.’

‘But mommy it’s sooo pretty. Oh my goodness I die. I love it so much’

The influence of living the past seven years in the bubble of SoCal was showing greatly in buckets as we stood in a historic Native American replica. I watched her impulse control fly out the window to the expansive beauty of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim just steps away from the store. I wanted to drag her from dull renderings nick knacks to open her hands to hold the wonder of the world we were immersed in. I hated tourist traps but reluctantly agreed to visiting one half heartedly. Buckets had been given Christmas money and after mapping out a plan and a budget I took a deep breath to follow her bouncy steps into the lions den of consumerism.

I felt my intentional movement of a smile and lowered my height to hers to show empathetic compassion to the dilemma filling her peace. A technique I had perfected after hours of children development study and at risk children therapy practice. She was young and impressionable; after all. She was a joyful creature which adored everyone and everything; I reminded myself. I needed to not crush her excitement but direct it towards growth that would lift her spark and not strangle her glory. I loved her. Oh man how I loved her.

‘Remember what we talked about? About being minimalist?’

‘Yes mommy. It’s not having less but using what you have and taking what you truly need. It is the art of loving people over things.’

With the familiar reminder escaping her lovely self she hung the dream catcher back among its familiar friends to walk about the store with new focus for what she had decided prior to purchase before ever entering the store. I made note to remember later of how she did not protest or argue but instead made a game of hide and seek for a keychain that was just right to hang on her backpacking pack. This was a point to praise. I wanted her to feel seen with this internal battle to silent the frantic focus and listen in humble openness.

You see being a so called minimalist has crept into my life long before I had even heard the philosophy behind minimalism. It is a interesting title I half heartedly accept but see how it really is the simplest way to describe how I view stuff. The art of clean lines and less is more is an lifestyle I grasped onto once I became an adult and flew the nest of my childhood home. My parents are not of the same mindset. Their home full of decor and latest comforts. I admire how my parents purchase to give and not hoard but they truly own much more then I could ever imagine myself following suit with.

When I first moved into a one bedroom apartment in seattle which I shared with two other ballerinas. Being a minimalist was survival with a small personal privacy and even smaller source of income. Less saved money. Less saved space. But perhaps what was the most important was less stopped the anxiety that clutter seemed to rise within my gut. A classic example being how big box stores run havoc to me the more time I spend on them. I choose to shop at only one supermarket where I know every aisle with familiar comfort. When forced into a unfamiliar and massive super store eventually I unravel as I pace the aisles aimlessly.

Minimal living has also become a source of endless creativity for me. Creativity something I enjoy in as many ways as I can. The challenge of making more out of less space is ever present in our lifestyle of small spaces with big hearts. Our first home we bought in SoCal was a one bedroom condo by the beach. We blew out the walk in closet to build a three tier bunk bed in its place. We created a loft bed for the tall one and I as we curtained a well appointed closet underneath. Even with four adults and three children in only 600 square feet of living space we still had empty cabinets in the kitchen and empty shelving in the built in storage nooks. I love looking at an impossible corner to craft and reimagine new life with many purposes. Now I look at barely 150 square feet of ripe potential as I plan tables out of bike racks and showers out of sink faucets.

“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” - Confucious

Bring on the simple life. I enjoy it’s fullness.