One Day Vacation Nation

Woodinville Wineries

2010-03-04T19:47:00.000-08:00

There are now more than 45 wineries and tasting rooms in Woodinville. Even if you visited last summer, it is time to go again. Vintners from Walla Walla and the Tri-Cities continue to open new tasting rooms so you can sip from both sides of the state in one trip.

Grafitti Garages

2010-02-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

Vintage treasures aren't the only reason to visit Tacoma's Antique Row. The Grafitti Garages on Broadway are great, city-sanctioned parking bays where local grafitti artists practice their craft. You can see the artists at work most afternoons and the gallery is always changing.

Twelve Day(trip)s of Christmas

2009-12-09T07:12:00.000-08:00

This is the year to brighten your holidays by starting a new tradition. My suggestion is to add a new One Day Vacation to your December agenda. Here are twelve suggestions:

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – This children’s classic features the Herdmans: a troop of unruly kids who take over the Christmas pageant because they heard there’d be snacks. You won’t want to miss this funny and touching twist on a traditional holiday story. Dec 12, 13, 3:00 and 7:00 pm Black Box Theater at South Puget Sound Community College. Tickets $8 – 15. http://www.washingtoncenter.org/ 360-753-8586

Argosy Christmas Ship™ Festival – A Northwest favorite for 60 years, this flotilla of ships decorated for the season can be seen each night between November 28 and December 23rd. You can choose to buy a seat on the Christmas Ship, decorate your own boat and join the procession, or join the spectators around the bonfires on designated beaches. Each night a different local choir will provide a 20-minute performance on the Christmas Ship. To make a reservation on the Christmas ship or to follow with your boat call 206-622-8687. http://www.argosycruises.com/themecruises/xmasSchedule.cfm#09schedule

Reindeer Festival – This annual event at the Cougar Mountain Zoo in Issaquah offers daytime fun for the kids. They can visit with Santa, see his reindeer team, drop a letter to Santa in his personal mailbox, hear a story from an elf, watch candy cane makers, enjoy hot drinks and snacks, get their face painted and donate to Toys for Tots.
Festival runs December 1 – 23rd 10:00 am – 4:30 pm and December 26th – 30th 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. Admission ranges from $9.50 – $11.50. http://www.cougarmountainzoo.org/

Candlelight Victorian Home Tour On Friday, December 11 from 5:00 – 10:00 pm, ten homes in Puyallup plus the Meeker Mansion will open their doors for a southern-style parlor tour. Cost: $10 per person.
Call the mansion for details (253) 848-1770 or http://www.meekermansion.org

Santa Train 2009 – For 45 years this authentic, open-air logging train has been taking riders into the forest at the Camp 6 Logging Museum in Point Defiance Park. The train stops at a platform in the woods and picks up a sparkly, jolly St. Nick who visits with each child and delivers candy canes and good wishes to everyone on board. Dress warm and come early for this one. December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20
Train runs every 30-minutes between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Tickets are $1. Riders under 3 or over 99 ride for free. http://www.camp-6-museum.org/c6.html

Black Nativity – This Seattle holiday classic features the poetry of Langston Hughes, exquisite dancers, the voices of Pastor Patrinell Wright and her choir of gospel singers. and a foot-stompin’ live band. Come prepared to be on your feet singing, clapping and cheering. Dec 1 – 27. Tickets $15 - $45. http://www.intiman.org/

Teddy Bear Suite - The Fairmont Olympic Hotel’s Teddy Bear Suite features more than 130 stuffed bears, bear-themed children's books and photo opportunities. The hotel also features chestnut roasting Dec. 4, 11, and 18, and the 31st Annual Festival of Trees, Nov. 22 - Dec. 3. Teddy Bear Suite: Nov. 23 - Dec. 26, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
University St. between 4th Ave. and 5th Ave. http://www.downtownholidays.com/

Gingerbread Villages – There are at least three great places to see architectural and culinary collaboration rendered in gingerbread this season.
Sheraton Seattle Hotel
Seattle's top architectural firms partner with the Sheraton's culinary staff to design, bake and build gingerbread displays for the 17th annual Gingerbread Village.
Nov. 24 - Jan. 3; free admission.
6th Ave. between Pike St. and Union St.
http://www.downtownholidays.com/
Theo’s Chocolates
Logan's Hammer, a Fremont architecture company, has teamed with other Seattle architects to build, bake and create incredible gingerbread houses. This display is all for a good cause, as the house with the winning vote gives the creators $1,000 to give to the charity of their choice!
December 5 – 17; free admission.
3400 Phinney Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103
http://www.theochocolate.com/
Tacoma Art Museum
Celebrating Tacoma Landmarks: Past and Present. The gingerbread village will feature six amazing displays created by local designers, students, and artists from Affairs Chocolate & Desserts, BCRA, Bellarmine Preparatory School, Jonz Catering, Korsmo Construction, and local ceramic artist Stephanie Reidener.
December 2 – 13, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; free with museum admission.
http://www.tacomaartmuseum.org/

Snowflake Lane – Each night at 7:00 pm, snow falls on Bellevue Way while a parade of toy soldiers, musicians, and winter characters perform on the sidewalks. This is 15-minutes of Christmas as you’ve always imagined it.
November 27 – December 24
http://www.magicseason.com/

Confection Workshop - Spend the day with a Theo chocolatier participating in a hands-on confection making class. You will learn "behind the scenes" techniques for making ganache, tempering chocolate, and putting the finishing touches on confections. Best of all, you will walk away with your own chocolate creations for holiday gifts or just for fun. All materials are included. Space is limited.
Saturday, December 12th 2:00 – 5:00 pm
$125 per person (+tax), reservations are required.
Due to popular demand 7 days advance notice is required to cancel.
http://www.theochocolate.com/
3400 Phinney Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103 | 206 632.5100 phone | Tours daily $6

Candy Cane Lane – Since 1949, this Seattle neighborhood has picked a theme each year and decorated elaborately with lights, music, and robotic figures. One of the rules of participation is that the decorations must be made, not found in a store. The homes look like gingerbread houses on their own, the added lights and features turn this historic block into a winter wonderland. Dress warm and come ready to walk. Free.
Northeast Park Road, off Ravenna Boulevard
Seattle, WA 98105
Saturday, December 12, 2009 - Saturday, January 2, 2010

A Cathedral Christmas – If you are looking for a sacred observance of the season, consider this collaboration between the Bells of the Sound handbell ensemble and the Seattle Choral Company.
Friday, December 11, 2009 at 8 PM
Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 8 PM
St. Mark's Cathedral
1245 Tenth Avenue E
Seattle, WA
Tickets: (206) 363-1100 or tickets@seattlechoralcompany.org or http://www.bellsofthesound.org/

One Day Cruise

2009-10-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Did you know that you can get a one-night cruise from Seattle to Vancouver for just $50? Check out Norwegian cruiselines at the start and end of each season (September and April) to get in on these repositioning cruises. Its a great way to celebrate a special day. The challenge is to visit all 15 restaurants in just 20 hours on board!

Puyallup Powwow

2009-10-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

Chief Leschi school offers a great powwow one Saturday night a month. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a new tradition.

New Zoo Revue

2009-09-06T17:10:00.000-07:00

Have you discovered the Cougar Mountain Zoo yet? This gem is located off of I-90 just before you get into Issaquah. We spent a rainy Sunday there feeding the animals zoo-approved apples, oohing and ahhing about the bengal tiger cubs, and chatting with the friendly zoo staff. Visit www.cougarmountainzoo.com for more info. This is a new favorite!

2009-09-01T16:10:00.000-07:00

Just because school started doesn't mean its too late to get to the zoo. Point Defiance now has lemurs, budgies and meercats in addition to the sharks, tigers and elephants. Explore the wild side!

2009-09-01T16:02:00.000-07:00

Kelly's Custom Framing Company & Gallery
113 N Tacoma Ave
Tacoma, WA 98403-2631
(253) 627-2235
Stop by Kelly's for an afternoon of good conversation, a tour of a gallery filled with local masterpieces and great prices on framing. Kelly's wife owns the tea shop that is connected to his frame shop. Throw in a visit to the retro Ranko's Drugs on the same block and you have had some fun!

3 Art Shows by Local Artists

2009-07-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

While you are in downtown Puyallup, don't forget to visit the three free galleries which feature local artists: City Hall; the Premiere Gallery in the Activity Center (just off Pioneer, behind Forza coffee); and the Chamber office at 323 N. Meridian. Also, Puyallup Custom Art and Frame on Meridian features the vibrant works of our own Jake Hose (pictured).

If you read about this blog in today's Herald, please let me know by leaving a comment, emailing me at sallyzeigerhanson@gmail or using the icon on your right to leave me a message.

Happy Puget Sound Travels!

Tenino: Wine Festival This Weekend

2009-07-21T19:41:00.000-07:00

My dad tells me that 10-9-0 was the name of the train that ran this route so, of course, they named the town Tenino (pronounced 10-9-0). Whether or not you believe that tale, consider visiting Tenino this weekend for the art and music festival. There is a small but good quality farmers market in town that runs Saturday until 3:00pm. If you are looking for the best $1 hotdog ever, stop by Ed's Sunset Grill on the south end of town. The bun is grilled and the $1 includes saurerkraut and onions. Yum!

Book Your Vacation

2009-06-24T14:57:00.001-07:00

Stop by your favorite bookstore and get all the tools you need for a great One Day Vacation on your porch.

Watershed Moments

2009-06-24T14:52:00.000-07:00

The acoustical water performance at the Cedar River Watershed near North Bend is continuously entertaining. The water dripping onto randomly placed drums thoughout the overgrown gardens creates some amazing rhythms. Bus tours into the 90,500 acre preserve start on July 10. Make your reservations early. www.cedarriverwatershed.org

Georgetown Rediscovered

2009-04-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

Who knew that Georgetown, south of Seattle, is reemerging as the funnest, funkiest neighborhood in the city? We spent all day there Saturday. We found some vintage treasures at Great Stuff (see photo - www.greatstuffseattle.com), had a great pizzas at Stellar's, and loved the giant boots in Oxbow park. I hear we missed the record shop, bookstore and lots of artists galleries. Georgetown is definitely worth another visit!

Winter Walks

2009-03-05T07:15:00.001-08:00

Now is a great time to get out to some our most famous waterfronts (Alki, Redondo, Ruston) for a long winter's walk. We spent Valentine's Day at Alki Beach and the bathing suit-clad volleyball players were already in action. Don't sit around waiting for Spring. Have your scenic field trip today.

Bainbridge / Brigadoon

2008-10-12T17:47:00.000-07:00

My friend came from NYC and so we had to find something unique to Seattle to impress this Big City Girl. We ended up taking the ferry to Bainbridge Island and it knocked her socks off. From the ferry we walked into the picturesque town of Winslow. We poked around the shops, bought books at Eagle Harbor Book Co. and ended up having a great dinner on the deck of San Carlos' Southwestern restaurant. Only 35 minutes away, this little town has a Brigadoon quality that always leaves me wondering if it can really be as good as I remember. Each time I am there, it confirms all my great memories. We can't wait to go back!

Local Artists Add Color to the Season

2008-10-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the upcoming East Pierce County Open Studio Tour. This chance to visit 14 local studios to see more than 27 artists at work is priceless. I have spent all year regretting the art that I didn't buy last year. It is fun to meet the artist and have a story about the art in your home. This event is being held Friday, Saturday and Sunday Oct 31, Nov. 1 and Nov 2 from 10:00 - 4:00 pm. Pick up maps at your local library, the Chamber or at the Fred Oldfield Western Heritage Center (pictured) at the Fairgrounds. For more information, check http://www.openstudiotour.homestead.com

Serene Saturday in Steilacoom

2008-06-30T22:09:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun relaxing and dining in Steilacoom last weekend. If you are looking for a beautiful waterfront, perfect yards that you don't have to care for, and a lot of history - Steilacoom is your town. Boasting the first post office, library, brewery and jail in Washington Territory, Steilacoom has several great museums to explore and miles of waterfront for picnics.

Dan Klennert is Living the Dream

2008-06-03T16:39:00.000-07:00

It is time to make plans to visit Dan Klennert's sculpture garden on the road to Paradise. The four acres of recycled metal pieces recreated into lovable, fascinating sculptures is breathtaking. Head south on Meridian for about 40 miles (from downtown Puyallup). Go three miles past Elbe and the scuplture garden is on your right. It is always open and its free. This is a unique opportunity to witness an artist who is following his bliss. Surrounded by his art and enough scrap metal to fill another four acres, Dan is in paradise. This is the quintessential NW field trip. Don't miss out! http://www.danklennert.com

100th Monkey Changes Everything

2008-06-01T17:07:00.000-07:00

So this year's Art Gala in Puyallup was another wild success. I was the lucky bidder on Lynn Nino's 100th monkey statue. Do you know the lore of the 100th monkey? Apparently, if you start teaching a few monkeys a new skill, you end up with a few monkeys with a new skill. However, by the time you teach the 100th monkey the skill, you've got a culture change in the monkey community. I love this parable that has a Tipping Point message. The trick is that you never know who the 100th monkey is in your circle. Maybe it is you....

Crashing Cars for Fun

2008-05-09T18:36:00.001-07:00

I love the Puyallup Spring Fair because it's low-key and you can get in on the new ideas they are testing for the Fall Fair. This Spring, we got in on the first ever Demolition Derby at the Fair. Based on the packed grandstand, I bet we'll see more of this in years to come. I think my sister and I laughed for the whole two hours. The cars are so crashed up and held together with duct tape and sheer force of will. The stunts and events are a marvel and the culminating derby is a smoke filled, car crashing disaster. It seems so naughty to intentionally run into other cars. We were horrified and amazed at the same time. We think the carbon footprint of such an event may not be what we wish for but the visual spectacle and the roar of the crowd will keep us coming back for more.

Brunch with the Best

2008-04-29T06:41:00.000-07:00

We spent a recent Sunday at Endolyne (pronounced End-o-line, the trolley used to stop here) Joes in West Seattle. Set in that great little neighborhood just above the Fauntleroy Ferry, this restaurant offers breakfasts that make it worth driving out of the suburbs on a weekend morning. In addition to the endless mimosas, we had amazing coffee cakes and fabulous omelettes. Endolyne Joes is part of the restaurant group that includes the Five Spot Diner and the Beeliner Diner. Each month their menu and interior decor change to reflect a different region. We happened to be there during Brooklyn days. That seems right now that baseball season is in full swing.

Olympia Adventures

2008-04-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

Have you seen our state's original capitol building? We just spent an action packed day in Olympia. I think I may have to write a book about all the fun things there are to do. We walked around Capitol Lake, ate at The Spar, poked around Fireside Books and just generally had a good time. Julie, from the Thurston County Visitors Bureau, sent me a list of fun outings including a visit to the Mima Mounds. Has anyone been there? Between the great outdoor adventures, the boutique shopping, the historical sites and the great restaurants, it is not possible to do Olympia justice in just one day. I know we'll be back soon.

Inn at Port Hadlock

2008-04-15T18:55:00.000-07:00

Has anyone heard of this great place? For Spring Break last week we enjoyed a More-than-One-Day-Vacation near Port Townsend. We stayed at the Inn at Port Hadlock which features great rooms with fire places, three art galleries and a great chef. What more do I need? This piece: The Mothership. Sometimes I feel like this...

Call of the Wild

2008-04-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

We made our first trip to the Olympic Game Farm in Sequim last week. It proved to us how safety-focused we are as a family. When you enter the park they say things like, "Don't stop near the bison. They'll surround your car and you won't be able to get away." Yikes! We obeyed all the rules and primly kept our fingers and toes in the car. Meanwhile, the truck in front of us was letting the three years olds hang out the window from their waists up and offer bread directly to the bears and bison. We made it through safely and so did they. This is a great addition to any trek to the peninsula. We gave it a thumbs up!

Celebrate Spring

2008-03-06T06:09:00.000-08:00

This weekend we get to change our clocks already. The days will be longer and already the sun is warm enough to bring on early flowers. We've decided to celebrate Spring by visiting all of the local, professional gardens and nurseries here in the valley. Not one of them will ask you to pull weeds or haul brush. However, they do ask that you come outside and spend some time paying attention to the growth and changes that are happening all around us. Happy Spring!

Van Lierop Garden Market www.vanlierops.com (There are 2 great sites - the Garden Market on Ryan Ave. in Sumner and the actual farm/bulb fields/giftshop on Pioneer in Puyallup)

Watson's Greenhouse www.wastonsgreenhouse.com

Windmill Gardens www.windmillgarden.com

Don't forget Vassey's and the WSU Master Gardener Demonstration Garden

Coffee Bar: Acoustic Song Circle Saturdays

2008-02-17T12:23:00.000-08:00

Puyallup is a great town in which to be an art appreciator. You don't have to go far to find great visual or performing arts. The talent is good and the price is right. In the case of the Coffee Bar's Acoustic Song Circles: Free. We stopped by last night after dinner and loved the range of guitarists, vocalists and one harmonica player who were waiting their turn to get into the circle. Our son spent time alternating between watching the musicians and drawing in his notebook. This outing was a great alternative to sitting on our couch as usual. There was a creative ambiance in the room and we felt like we were in a beatnik coffee shop. And I mean that in a good way. It is fun to be around people who have a passion for their art and are willing to share their talents.
Acoustic Song Circle - 1st & 3rd Saturdays 8:00 pm - midnight. Coffee Bar 208 S. Meridian Downtown Puyallup.

New Date Idea

2008-01-14T06:10:00.001-08:00

I need to let everyone know about the Martini Club held at 21 Commerce every third Thursday from 5:00 - 8:00 pm. It costs $10 to get into the Martini Club. Membership includes all you can eat from the satay bar, premium liquor samples, $5 signature martinis and a chance to win door prizes. www.21martinis.com or 253-272-6278.

I am updating my One Day Vacation Date Destination section. Where do you like to go?

Book Club Field Trips

2008-01-03T06:38:00.000-08:00

Is your book club headed toward becoming a supper club? Are less people reading? Do they say they couldn't find the book? You and your reading buddies might consider taking a field trip to get reinspired to read again. Mickey from Sumner let me know about Baker Street Books in Black Diamond. This eclectic bookshop offers living room areas to sit and explore all the new, rare and used books that you might pull off the shelfs. Also, the Black Diamond Bakery next door provides a great venue for narrowing down your book choices for the next few months. Make sure everyone has their copy of the book before you leave town and you are more likely to have a lively book chat next time you meet.

I would also recommend King's Books in Tacoma, Fireside Books in Olympia or Elliott Bay Books in Seattle when its time for another outing with your reading pals.

Where are your favorite bookstores?

Shh... Best Latte in Seattle

2007-12-06T16:57:00.000-08:00

Julie wants to know who makes the Best Latte in Seattle. It is a bit hard to imagine the distinction going to anyone other than Starbucks. Who would dare name anyone else? Seattle Food Tours guides claim that Cherry Street coffee wins this hard-earned prize. There are 4 locations in the city and each one is decorated to reflect the neighborhood it serves. This Belltown location is sort of groovy while the one in the business district is much more buttoned-up. They say its the mellow, customized roast of coffee they use that sets their lattes above the competition. Here's an address for more information:
http://cherrystreetcoffeehouse.com/

Friends & Food for Your Soul

2007-11-30T18:26:00.000-08:00

In an effort to not lose momentum on our holiday eating, we set out for the big city last Friday to participate in the Seattle Food Tour with our friends Amy and Jim. There is nothing like a sparkling city, fun friends and fabulous food samples to get your spirit prepared for the upcoming holidays. All four of us gave this tour a thumbs up. We liked the way it introduced us locals to some hidden gems in Pike Place Market and reminded of us of some old favorites that have been too long neglected. I took this photo of Amy and Jim at the Frontier Room with their sample of Southern BBQ because this is the place I most wanted to stay. I imagined installing myself in one of the cowhide-decorated booths and ordering whiskey for the remainder of the afternoon. Fortunately, the tour guide enticed me to stay with the group. Otherwise, I might have missed the city's best latte, the world's best chowder and Tom Douglas' famous coconut cream pie. Try this adventure yourself: www.seattlefoodtours.com.

Things to be thankful for

2007-11-22T07:02:00.000-08:00

Today is the holiday that is specifically designed for us to get in touch with our grateful selves. I maintain that being grateful on a daily basis is at the core of a One Day Vacation mindset. My second grader spent yesterday creating a list of the Top 10 things he is thankful for. I was so glad to see that Food and Music made his list. This week I am thinking about and thanking about our dear friend, artist and role model - Deb Munson. She taught me that our life is our art. It is up to us to add the color and the design and to enjoy the results of our work. Debbie's spirit will live on in the lives of all of us that she touched in the short time she was here.

Open Art Studio Tour - One More Day

2007-10-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

We spent a heavenly Saturday morning touring the studios of 6 working artists in the Puyallup area. You have time to get in on the fun if you make plans to participate tomorrow. This event, organized by Valley Arts United, is an opprtunity to see local artists at work in their studios, buy original art directly from the artists, and to celebrate the creativity that is alive and well right here in our neighborhoods. Studio maps can be found at any of the participating studios or at valleyartsunited.com. Studios are open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sunday and the whole event culminates in a reception with the artists at the Fred Oldfield Western Art Center (just inside the Red Gate on the Fairgrounds) at 5:00 on Sunday. We had our passports stamped from the studios we visited today. We'll enter the passport in a drawing at the reception tomorrow and hope to win a piece of art donated by the participating artists. My son has his eye on a black and white stipled elephant created by Becci Crowe. I can't tell you which one I am hoping to win. I hope we see you there!

Upcoming Fun - Sunday Oct. 14

2007-10-09T16:09:00.000-07:00

Empty Bowls Here's the scoop: on Sunday, October 14 between 2:00 - 5:00 pm you can purchase a handmade bowl for $10 and enjoy a free bowl of soup with bread. The Art Center at Manitou is offering this great event to benefit the Emergency Food Network and arts scholarships for kids. The bowls are handmade glass, pottery and wood crafted by local artists. Empty Bowls is being held at South Park Community Center 4851 South Tacoma Way For more info: www.efoodnet.org

Art for the Soul

2007-10-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

We spent a great day in Tacoma visiting the big museums and small galleries. Our favorite was The Helm on Broadway. Their show "Kindness of Strangers" is open until October 10. Don't miss out! http://www.thehelmgallery.com

Governor Closes The Fair in Style

2007-09-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

The grand finale to our One Day Vacation 17 Days in a Row came today when we were invited to be part of the Governor's entourage as she "Did the Puyallup." I didn't realize that she is from Auburn. She also got Fair going tips from her mom. She had quite the tour today including serving scones, meeting the 10 year old girl who grew the prize-winning giant pumpkin, and getting on board with the chicken mascot as part of the Fair's daily parade. We are sad the the festivities are over already.
Here are the highlights from The Fair 2007:
* Driving a Toyota Tundra on the dirt track behind the Green Gate

*Sponsoring a child in Africa after visiting World Vision's African Experience

*Figuring out to buy our water from the Mountain Mist and Crystal Springs booths rather than the food vendors

*Seeing the Governor "Do the Puyallup"

*Discovering that eating Fair food every day can be done without having to buy bigger pants

*Getting box seats at the rodeo

*Hearing from readers about their best Fair Experiences

*Finding out for sure that Happy is Good

Thanks for sharing the fun with us!

Packing in all the fun we can take

2007-09-22T15:19:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the Dock Dogs on TV yet? We saw them "in person" at the Fair today. They run down a 40 foot dock and jump into a pool. The dog with the longest jump wins. Yeah!
We went into Toonzville finally. The Let's Pretend Circus is lots of fun because it gets the kids up on stage and into costume. Thanks to Karen Quest for getting information about this show to us.
We rode the ferris wheel in an attempt to get through every last activity on our fun list. When did the ferris wheel lose its safety bar that goes across the lap? It added an element of excitement, I tell you.
We saw a family having a birthday party at a picnic table on a big grassy area between the kiddie rides. Who knew there was a big grassy area? It helps to get up high in the rides to find these hidden sections of the Fair.

Sprint to the Finish Line - Readers Tell Us What Not To Miss

2007-09-21T18:13:00.000-07:00

So many great readers and Fair-goers have written to me this week to tell us what not to miss in these final two days of the Fair. This is what is still on our list: rootbeer floats, Dock Dogs (Dogs run down a 40 foot ramp and jump into a pool. Longest jump wins. What's not to like about this event?), visit Toonville, and ride the ferris wheel. Here's what some readers had to say this week:
Here are my observations on what has changed, what has remained the same:
Scones are the same, wonderful. The raspberry jam is probably coming from Oregon these days (I checked at the scone stand a couple years ago and it was), which I regard as a mini-scandal, because scones came to the Fair in the early 1900s because Mr. Paulhamus (sp?) was looking for an outlet for all the raspberries Puyallup Valley farmers were producing, and scones with raspberry jam were part of the solution.)
Hamburgers seem to have down in quality, and up in price. Though I only tried two different producers. Maybe our hamburger standards have gone up since we started eating McDonald's and Burger King burgers. I was not happy paying $4.50 for a distinctly mediocre hamburger this year.
Enjoyed watching kids and their parents enjoy the Hobby Hall, as I enjoyed exhibiting my matchbook collection there.
Loved the Mutton Bustin'. Great fun, free fun.
Roller Coaster is the same, and still fun. I miss the Old Mill.
Games of chance seem cheesier. My brother and I are tall, 6'2" and 6'3", and we could lean out at the dime-throwing booth, leaning past the "foul line" when we could, and we won lots of panda bears for our sisters and girlfriends. No more dime-throwing booth, and the prizes don't seem as good.
Glad the taffy booth is still in the same place, and a bargain, 75 cents for a bar of peppermint taffy, which I enjoyed after the Fair last night, when I walked over to see the second half of the Puyallup-Bethel football game. Puyallup won. On, Puyallup! The student rooting section was in good voice.
Good addition: Churros with hot chocolate, just like I had in Barcelona.
"Killer Kielbasa." I ate one in the beer garden last night, while listening to the Smilin' Scandinavians polka band. The sausage was the size of a geoduck or a fire hose. Darn near killed me, but I can't say the Kielbasa didn't warn me, with its name.
Photo exhibit: Excellent. Some of the photos were of extremely high quality, National Geographic level.
Cordially,
Michael Mowrer
I enjoyed reading your column in today's Herald. You mentioned you will be focusing on live entertainment at The Fair. May I suggest that you take in one of my shows at the Fountain Plaza stage near the Gold Gate? My name is Karen Quest and I perform the Cowgirl Tricks show three times each day: 12:30PM, 2:45PM and 5:00PM. I have had the good fortune to be on that stage since 2002. It's a comedy cowgirl show complete with trick roping, whip cracking and kooky cowgirl shenanigans. I happen to be staying with one of your high school classmates - Elisa Hays, née Sullivan, who not so coincidentally, has a great program for children ages 4 to 12 in the red, yellow and blue tent aka Toonsville in Sillyville (that's a lot of "villes") - her showtimes are Friday at 2, 4, 6 and 8 PM, Saturday and Sunday at 12, 2, 4, 6, and 8 PM.

I haven’t been to the Fair, but looking at your blog, I FEEL like I have been to the Fair! Thanks so much for making me feel like I have been having little 3-minute vacations!!Photography is great, too! Julie

Keep those comments coming!

Musical Fun & Young Life

2007-09-20T06:43:00.000-07:00

We are having good luck not only finding performers on the stages but also along the walkways. The Konzelman family (family of 7 from Puyallup) is performing several times a day on the Showplace stage near the Blue Gate. Their homebrew mix of bluegrass, family warmth and clog dancing keeps the crowd clapping and cheering the whole time. I get the feeling that maybe the same audience is sitting through show after show and buying up all those new Konzelman CDs.
Hey! I finally know what all the Young Life fuss is about. I had a roast beef sandwich yesterday. Dinner foods at the Fair have always been a mystery to me. I could lead a tour of the snack foods blindfolded but I've never known what to pick for a meal. It turns out that the hype is right: the Young Life BBQ is great!

Live Entertainment - What's your pick?

2007-09-18T18:15:00.000-07:00

This week we are taking in as much live entertainment around the fairgrounds as we can find. What acts do you recommend? My son loves the marionettes in Sillyville. Today we caught the Gotdrummers.com performance, the juggler and the Cowgirl Tricks. We saw Travis Fox the hypnotist but I need to see it several more times to find out if I saw what I think I saw during his show. Stay tuned for more reports from the entertainment frontlines...

Showcase of Odd Exhibits

2007-09-17T22:04:00.000-07:00

So I am throwing out a challenge to all readers: what it the oddest, most noteworthy exhibit you've seen at The Fair? It is Day 11 and we are still finding whole sections of The Fair that we haven't seen yet. Today we explored the area near the Blue Gate and, to our great relief, found the chainsaw artists. It just wouldn't be The Fair without them.

Sight and Sound Sensation

2007-09-16T18:06:00.000-07:00

We spent today in Sillville enjoying the rides for the 10 and under crowd. We think the kid size food with kid sized prices in Sillyville are great. We also got the chance to see the reservist Army band play. This week we'll be focusing on the live entertainment on the various stages and the food options. If you have ideas to share, post them here.

What do you think The Fair will be like in 30 years?

2007-09-15T11:19:00.000-07:00

Today Cy asked me what I think the Fair will be like when he is a grown-up. It is hard to imagine what will change and what will be the same. I assume that the core animal and agriculture purpose of The Fair will remain in place. I know I have been enjoying these Grange arrangements for 30 years and hope to for at least 30 more years. We speculated that maybe the products sold and the rides would be different because of all the advancements in technology. I know the Fair changes a little bit each year but it happens so gradually that it is now hard for me to say exactly what is different. The only big thing I remember is the one year when the Green Gate area was a Disney section. It was kind of like New Coke - short lived. Does anyone want to take a shot at predicting what the Fair will be like in the future?

Showplex Vendors - What did you buy?

2007-09-14T15:28:00.000-07:00

We committed to tour the vendors in the Showplex this week for review in the Puyallup Herald on Thursday. I now realize that its not smart to carry a credit card through the vendors' aisles. Who doesn't need that super-absorbent sponge that lasts five years? With only a $50 down payment, I can get the night sky from a particular date painted on my ceiling. The artist from the Nickolodeon show "Magic with Marvin" sold me the greatest set of blendy-markers in my first 10 minutes in the building. There are three more rows for us to peruse and I'm not sure I can make it. How I have survived without all these great products that I now know I need? Which are the demonstrators that pull you in and get you to make a purchase?

Which games can you win?

2007-09-13T21:46:00.000-07:00

We started our exploration of the Midway today. We found a fishing game that guarantees everyone will win. We now have a whole collection of differently colored plush frogs. Has anybody had any luck at any of the other games? We've been tossing rings, tossing dimes, throwing balls and squirting water at ballons. We don't have a single award to show for it. I see people carrying around animals that are three times as big as me. How did they win those? My son decided that he prefers to spin the wheel that the gemologists have in the Hobby Hall. Everyone walks away a winner, with a polished rock in their pocket. Any tips on how to win an oversized bulldog out on the Midway?

Day 6 Progress Report

2007-09-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

These are my questions: 1) How fat will we be after eating scones 17 days in a row? 2) Will we be able to afford to finish this project? 3) Is it possible to max out your personal Fun-o-meter? It is Day 6 of 17 days and here are my answers so far: 1) Chubby, but not so that strangers will notice. On the upside, I will have built up good tolerance for holiday eating. (NOTE: We probably won't be playing the Fool the Guesser game after about Day 10). 2) One friendly reader has already offered to pledge money towards this project. I think a One Day Vacation telethon may be in order. Another reader suggested that we might bring in our own food and cut costs that way. Hello?? Its the Fair. I'm not sure it actually counts as Fair time if you pack your own lunch. Does anyone have a ruling on this? Good thing the Fair offered us season passes. I am left to my own devices to manage my spending. 3) I think our Fun-o-meters are in good shape. When ever we feel overwhelmed with the joy of it all, we find a place to sit down and remember that it will be raining soon.

What is your favorite ride?

2007-09-11T15:34:00.000-07:00

I've declared the Foot Jiggler to be my favorite ride. Its cheap (.50), there are no lines, and they are available all over the fairgrounds. My son thinks my choice might be a little too tame. He likes the SkyRide and the Giant Slide, also tame choices. My work friend loves the "slingshot" ride. He claims it reminds him of the scary landings on aircraft carriers that he did when he was in the Navy. I'm not sure that's a sensation that I'd work to replicate. What are your favorite rides?

Favorite New Exhibit - What is yours?

2007-09-10T21:08:00.000-07:00

We have awarded the World Vision African Village exhibit our Favorite New Exhibit Award of 2007. The experiential display in a bamboo-lined tent walks visitors through the day in a life of a 2-year old in Niger. You can sit on her bed, try on her shoes made of tires, see the tanks of dirty water her family has access to, and see the 3 tablespoons of food that feeds her family each week. There is a place for kids to play on traditional musical instruments, grind corn into meal, and pump water. The story ends by showing the difference that World Vision has been able to make in the little girl's village. We were so impacted by the exhibit that we ended up commiting to sponsor a child with a monthly donation. I can't think of another exhibit at The Fair that has resulted in so much interesting conversation around our dinner table.

What are your favorite new exhibits?

Pro Rodeo at The Fair - Have you gone yet?

2007-09-09T13:18:00.000-07:00

Cy and I are big rodeo fans but we'd never seen the rodeo at the Fair before yesterday. We got lucky that the friendly staff at the Green River Community College offered us box seats for the 1:00 rodeo. Needless to say, our spot in the sun was a glorious place to spend our One Day Vacation. The cowboys, the stock, and the arena are impressive. We saw some of the best competitors in the world complete with playbacks on the big screen on either side of the stage. Eight seconds is never quite long enough to take in the whole spectacle. I am definitely going to make plans to buy my tickets early next year to be sure we're in the arena when the fun begins.
Have you been to this rodeo yet? What tips do you have for spectators who are new to this sport?

Finding New Favorites

2007-09-08T22:45:00.000-07:00

Cy and I returned to The Fair again today for more fun. There are some things that we do EVERY time we go to The Fair. I think coming in the Red Gate and starting with one hot scone from the booth under the grandstands offically tells our brains that it is now time to have some fun. Today we discovered lots of new exhibits that are great. The carver-of-giant-pumpkins outside the Pavillion is a hoot. He will custom carve one of these 500 lb. beauties for your next special event. Also, we loved the high school art exhibit on the ground floor of the Pavillion. Cy can't believe that it is possible to draw Jack Sparrow so well.

What new things have you found on the fairgrounds this year?

Fair Going Tips - What are yours?

2007-09-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some things I learned from my mom about the art of Doin' the Puyallup:
1) Start out early in the day to avoid the crowds.
2) The only scones that count are the ones you buy at the booth under the grandstands.
3) It IS possible to park for free.
4) Nobody with a lick of sense needs to go on more than 3 rides.

My son and I got our season passes, complete with photos, at the Gold Gate today. We are serious about our Fair and will be reporting back here each day and look forward to hearing about your Fair experiences over the next 17 days.

Here's the tip I would add to my mom's list:
1) Take off your watch.
This is a major tenet of the One Day Vacation state of mind. There's nowhere else you need to be. Let yourself be absorbed by the sight and sound sensation that is The Fair.

What are your ideas for making the most of your One Day Vacation at the The Fair?

One Day Vacation 17 Days in a Row

2007-09-05T21:08:00.000-07:00

The count down is almost over. The 2008 Western Washington Fair finally opens on Friday. The One Day Vacation team will be at The Fair for each day of its 17 day run. We'll be testing out the new trans-fat-free cooking oils, visiting the World Vision exhibit, checking on the new piglets and trying to get in on lots of the free concerts offered on various stages all over the fair grounds. Check back often to read about our new finds and old favorites. I hope you'll add to the conversation by posting your experiences at The Fair on this blog.

You can also send me photos and comments via e-mail. I can be reached at - sallyzeigerhanson@gmail.com. I will post your comments here. Also check out The Herald each Thursday for an article that showcases our experiences for the week.

Find out about Fair tickets and schedules by visiting http://www.thefair.com

Roar of the Sunday Crowd

2007-09-03T22:10:00.000-07:00

If you like cowboys, days in the sun, $2 hamburgers, and small town adventures, Roy Pioneer Rodeo is not to be missed. On the professional circuit, this rodeo features wooden stands from days gone by, some of the best ranch stock in the country, food made by the locals and some very competitive cowboys. We've taken to spending one day each Labor Day weekend at the Roy Rodeo and I always find that it is a great way to end the summer. Don't miss out next year when the Roy Rodeo gets underway next year both in June and on Labor Day. http://www.royrodeo.com

Are you Good To Go?

2007-08-12T21:34:00.000-07:00

Its time to brave that new bridge and get yourself back to Gig Harbor. For the rest of the summer there are outdoor movies on Saturday nights, live music on Tuesdays at Java and Clay, 15 unique fish sculptures around town, and of course, the Tides Tavern. The first Saturday of every month there is an art walk featuring lots of local artists. We spent a great day in Gig Harbor this week and wish the same adventures for you. Does anyone know a great place to have dinner in Gig Harbor?

Pork & Pie Daze - Don't miss out!

2007-08-02T20:13:00.000-07:00

Alert One Day Vacationer Teri E. has notified me about this upcoming festival in Pe Ell, WA. I am passing along this information so that not one more year goes by without us properly celebrating the Pork & Pie Daze of August.

On August 4 & 5, a trip to Pe Ell will take you to a festival that features a hog calling contest, a pie eating contest, a piggy pinata, greased pig wrestling, and piggy back races among many other festivities. Now that's what I call fun! For more information: http://www.townofpeell.com/events.htm

Fun @ HG Bistro

2007-07-30T21:10:00.000-07:00

The HG Bistro, formerly known as the Hungy Goose, in Puyallup is a great place to meet your friends for lunch. On a recent outing there with my family, we solved most of the world's problems and had spectacular coconut cream pie to boot.

Harstine Island Lavender Festival

2007-07-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

I don't even like the smell of lavender and yet I loved this festival. Who knew that lavender could be used to make tea, cookies, spice for lamb, and make your drawers smell good? Or at least, make your drawers smell like lavender. This lovely little festival happens each July and is worth the trip just to have a day on a remote flower farm.
Arts & Flowers Nursery, Shelton 360-426-0797

Everyday Celebrations - Trackside Pizza

2007-07-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

We have decided that Trackside Pizza is an ideal place to celebrate. In our case, we were celebrating that it was Monday night. Any occasion will do. Its not easy to find great pizza, creative salads and a decent beer list all on one menu. Trackside Pizza offers all this in a friendly, warm environment enhanced by the trains rumbling by on the tracks that are 10 feet away.
201 N Meridian St, Puyallup 253-845-7437

Fremont - The Art of Celebration and Vice-Versa

2007-07-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

Fremont has declared itself the Center of the Universe and after spending a blissful Sunday there, I think I might be persuaded to agree. The funky Sunday flea market is fun and the art all around the neighborhood brightens the brunching and browsing that needs to be done when you are there. Don't miss Theo Chocolate (3400 Phinney Ave), the only independently owned organic and Fair Trade chocolate maker in the country. Tours daily at 1:00 and 3:00. Free samples available the rest of the day.

Wilkeson or Bedrock Quarry?

2007-07-09T22:54:00.000-07:00

If you are in the mood for a Wild West relic, head to Wilkeson for the day. Just 15 miles beyond Orting, this picturesque mining town boasts the state's oldest operational elementary school and the sandstone quarry that provided all the stone for our state's capital building. Lunch is great at the Pick n' Shovel and don't forget to drive 4 miles beyond town to see the state's highest bridge, an impressive, arched structure over an even more impressive wooded canyon. Stop by city hall to pick up the map that provides a walking tour of the nine historic buildings in town. City hall also has some ghosts so its worth getting permission to check out the creepy basement. Just tell them you'd like to see the old firetruck that is parked down there. Don't miss Wilkeson Days on July 21 featuring handcar races on the railroad tracks.

Sip City Wines

2007-06-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

This hip new wine bar in an unlikely location next to the QFC in Enumclaw is worth a visit soon. Jill, the owner and her colleague Susan, create a fun atmosphere and act like they have more to learn about wines than you do. They day I stopped by, a customer was filling them in on the new wines coming from Prague. They promised to investigate. Sip City Wines features fine wines from around the world. On Friday and Saturday nights, they host a wine tasting from 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm. $5 buys you a flight of wine samples from the region they are showcasing that weekend. They will be offering some food and selling wine by the glass in the near future. Their website offers Wine of the Month clubs and home delivery of special orders. Sip City Wines 1040 Stevenson Ave., Suite A 360-825-1695 http://www.sipcitywines.com

New Life for Book Clubs

2007-06-27T16:14:00.000-07:00

Has your Book Club turned into a Supper Club? This must be a developmental phase that almost all reading groups go through. You meet a great group of friends. Someone proposes a Book Club. Everyone cheers, commits, suggests books. Someone offers to host. The next six months are filled with good reads, good conversations, and good meals. Then, one by one, people have trouble finding the books, someone has a new baby, someone objects to the book so they don't read it. Pretty soon you find yourself having dinner with this great group and then having to find other people to talk to about your books. I think a good Book Club One Day Vacation might be just the thing to reenergize your group.

My Book Club has loved having the Pierce College lecture series here in our back yard. We saw Arthur Golden speak soon after we read Memoirs of a Geisha. I got a note in the mail from Mickey in Sumner. She suggests that Book Clubs visit Baker Street Books in Black Diamond (http://www.bakerstreetbooks.com).

Another group I read with had a local author attend one of our meetings after we read her book, "Eating Heaven" by Jennie Shortridge. She has kept in touch and kept us thinking about the relationship between writers and readers.

If your Book Club has taken a One Day Vacation in order to revive itself, please tell us where you went and what you suggest. I will compile a list of One Day Vacations for Book Clubs and post it here. I look forward to hearing your ideas! - Sally

Enumclaw - Center for the Arts

2007-06-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for immersion in the arts, head for the hills. The new Arts Alive! Center for the Arts on the plateau in Enumclaw has something for everyone. It's part collaborative gallery, part studio and classroom, and part community gathering space. Arts Alive! offers watercolor, oil, acrylic, bookbinding and carving classes. Open studio times are available on Tuesday afternoons. Each Friday you can participate in open studios, poetry jams, artists' salons, and play readings. My son loved the huge "bonging" instruments (pictured) throughout the gallery and was invited by the volunteer working on Saturday to hit each one, creating quite a commotion throughout their great new space.

Arts Alive! Center for the Arts
1429 Cole St. Enumclaw
360-802-6787
http://www.plateauartsalive.org

Ben & Jerry's - Now in our neighborhood

2007-06-11T21:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I'll go almost anywhere for good ice cream so even if this shop were in Walla Walla, I would probably try to say it was "in our neighborhood". Fortunately, you only have to go to Lake Tapps Parkway to get some Ben & Jerry's flavored fun. We got a 2 for 1 coupon from the Hometown Values magazine that came in the mail. The coupon is only good for cones with two or three scoops on them. Luckily, we adhere to May West's thought that "Too much of a good thing can be wonderful".
1410 Lake Tapps Parkway, Ste. H104 253-333-8555
http://www.benandjerrys.com/laketapps

Summer Sittin' - the new summer hobby

2007-06-09T08:32:00.000-07:00

The year that we added a deck to our house, my son coined a new phrase: "Summer Sittin'" He declared that it was his favorite summer pasttime. Since then we've spent a lot of time perfecting the art of Summer Sittin' and we've determined that the premier place to get in some great Summer Sittin' is at a Tacoma Rainiers game. Last Tuesday, I took a vacation day and caught the 11:30 am game with a girlfriend. The clouds cleared up just in time. We splurged $14 for box seats and spent some of the game worried that we might get called into the game because it seemed like our seats were actually IN the Rainiers dugout. I don't golf or fish or any of those other activities that call people away from the office on a sunny day. But I do need a day here and there to get caught up on my Summer Sittin'.

Secret Garden - Without the yard work

2007-06-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

Have you been to The Secret Garden Tea Room in Sumner? What a great find! My aunt dragged us there on Saturday afternoon. We tried to talk her into meeting us at Kent Station so we could sneak in some shopping at Ann Taylor but she insisted that we head to Sumner. I'm so glad. This historic home is the site of the much beloved Secret Garden Tea Room which was at Factoria Square for 15 years. While you need to make reservations to get an official High Tea served complete with cucumber sandwiches, we had an excellent lunch and still got in on the scones and tea for dessert. Don't miss the Orzo Pea salad and the chilled gazpacho I had was excellent on the hot day we were there. Come early so you have time to hang around in the lovely, shaded gardens. Secret Garden Gift Shop and Tea Room 1711 Elm St. E. Sumner (253) 826-4479

Welcome to June - Don't forget doughnut day!

2007-05-31T21:41:00.000-07:00

It has recently come to my attention that people are sadly unaware of all the great holidays that fall in June. In an effort to help ensure that you always have something to celebrate, I am listing all the events and holidays that are coming your way this month.

June gets off to a fast start - June 1 is National Doughnut Day. I'm sure the traditions surrounding this holiday need no further explanation.

June is National Dairy Month and also National Accordian Awareness Month. My suggestion is that you frame this year's festivites around one of these themes and then next year focus on the other theme. That way dairy and accordions will get equal billing at your house, as they should.

(Holidays of special interest at the Zeiger Hanson house this year are in bold.)

June 2 - National Rocky Road Day, June 3 - 1st US spacewalk anniversary (1965) June 4 - Cheese Day, June 5 - St. Boniface's Day (patron saint of brewers), June 6 - Festival of Chiu Hsien (Taoist spirit of wine), June 7 - Daniel Boone Day, June 8 - Best Friend Day, June 9 - Donald Duck Day, June 10 - Yo-yo Day, June 11 - King Kamehameha Day (Hawaii), June 12 - Peanut Butter Cookie Day, June 13 - Feast of Epona (Celtic horse goddess), June 14 - Flag Day, June 15 - Pioneer Day, June 16 - Feast of the Madonna (Italy), June 17 - Watergate Day (Its also Father's Day, maybe you can tape all the proceedings), June 18 - National Splurge Day, June 19 - National Martini Day, June 20 - Loch Ness Day, June 21 - Summer Solstice, June 22 - Choclate Eclair Day, June 23 - Take your dog to work day, June 24 - National Music Day (UK), June 25 - Log Cabin Day, June 26 Feast of the Shepherds (Spain), June 27 - Helen Keller's Birthday, June 28 - Paul Bunyan Day, June 29 - Waffle Iron Day, June 30 - Meteor Day

Whew! Let's hope next month is "Water and Vegetables Month" so we can get a breather from all this celebratin'!

Today's Quote

2007-05-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

The most revolutionary act one can commit in our world is to be happy. - Patch Adams, American Physician

New - Coffee Bar Opens Today

2007-05-25T14:14:00.000-07:00

Randy and I planned our day around the 9:00 am opening of The Coffee Bar, the newest coffee shop in town. It is on Meridian, in the space vacated by NW Vintage. When we arrived, we found that it was only open to friends and family, pending final health department approvals. I managed to convince them that I was their new friend and in we went. It still has a great Italian vibe - tiles, warm yellows, fireplace, etc. and lots of friendly service. Even though we crashed their party, we were warmly welcomed in. The co-owners, Shaun and Wes, seem like they'll make this a fun place to hang out. Anyone who plays obscure Cure tunes is my friend:) They will be offering sandwiches soon. Check in hourly this weekend - they are sure to be in full operation anytime now.

Summer - Season of Festivals

2007-05-21T21:11:00.000-07:00

Ahhh...summer. The season of festivals and just generally whiling away the sunny afternoons. In addition to my usual stops at the Taste of Tacoma (this is the last year for that event so don't miss it), the Folklife Festival, and Professional Bullriding Championships on July 15 at the Puyallup Fairgrounds, I've added the Pacific NW Scottish Highland Games and Clan Gathering to my "must do" list for the summer. Who can resist the Celtic dog show, the pipe bands from all over the northwest and the burly guys in man-skirts competing in the mysterious professional Scottish sports? Complete your day with a stop at the beer garden featuring Full Sail Ales and you have the makings of a new tradition on your hands.

Details - July 28,29 at the King County Fairgrounds in Enumclaw. Tickets are available onsite or on the web at http://www.sshga.org
(photos courtesy of Reinis Ritelis)

Infusing fun into your daily life

2007-05-16T11:39:00.000-07:00

I've been doing some serious thinking about fun. It seems to me that, in the long run, whatever makes you happy will make you healthy. On the many days when it is not possible to take a One Day Vacation, I intentionally find ways to sprinkle fun into my day. Here are some initial thoughts on Everyday Fun:

Pick A Friend - I will often pick one friend to focus on for the day. If its one of those crazy days where I don't even have time to make a call, I think about how long we've known each other, what we've laughed about, and I send good thoughts to that friend throughout the day. I usually find that within the week, that friend has gotten in touch with me. I believe that this One Friend A Day focus helps to strengthen our connection. I know it makes me feel better just to think about that friend. (Exhibit A: This photo of Kelly, on right, and I. We have lots of fun times for me to reminisce about.)

Set an end time - Do you have that "To Do" list in your head that could keep you running all day and still never be completed? On my funnest days, I declare an end time for that list. By telling myself that I will stop at 7:00 pm no matter how much or how little progress I've made, I have more energy through the day and I enjoy the evening off. After 7:00, I don't pressure myself to be productive or useful in any way. Talk about fun!

Select a Soundtrack - There's nothing like a good tune to lift your spirits even in the worst traffic. On my way out the door each day, I pick a few CDs that contain my anthems for the day. Nobody needs to know that you still listen to Billy Squier:)

Silent Movie Mondays

2007-05-10T21:22:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! I wanted to alert you that Silent Movie Mondays are back at the Paramount Theater in Seattle. Want to have an evening out that is a step beyond your average "dinner and a movie"? Try these silent movies accompanied by live Wurlitzer organ music. Makes me wish the Dog House was still open.

http://www.theparamount.com/artists/artist.asp?key=508

Today's Quote

2007-05-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

I don't believe people are looking for the meaning of life as much as they are looking for the experience of being alive.
Joseph Campbell

More Fun at the Market

2007-05-06T12:42:00.000-07:00

The Puyallup Farmers' Market opened in its full glory this weekend. On Saturday, there were over 100 vendors and so many people that it seemed the whole town was there. While the Sunday market is mellower, it is not without its charms. The Tacoma Astonomical Society was on hand to teach the kids to make "stomp rockets" (see photo) and the Sound Credit Union team was there filming a video depicting the bank's commitment to this community (see photo of film crew and the CEO, Richard C. Bransma).

Puyallup's Outdoor Art Gallery

2007-05-03T08:11:00.000-07:00

"The practice of art isn't to make a living, It's to make your soul grow." Kurt Vonnegut

Here's another great piece from the Arts Downtown gallery in Puyallup.

If you are having trouble posting to this blog, please send me a message directly (sallyzeigerhanson@gmail.com) and I can add your thoughts to this conversation or respond to you directly.

Have an artful day! ~ Sally

There are a thousand miracles

2007-04-30T17:10:00.000-07:00

On a road trip to Ellensburg yesterday, we came across a restaurant that had the One Day Vacation attitude painted on its wall and baked into its Heavenly Bread - "In an ordinary day, there are a thousand miracles." If your travels take you to the middle of the state, don't miss the Yellow Church Cafe on Pearl St. (http://www.yellowchurchcafe.com). Founded as a church in 1923, it now serves "The best breakfast in Kittitas County."

Today's Quote

2007-04-28T19:38:00.000-07:00

Life is much too important to be taken seriously. Oscar Wilde

2007-04-28T19:19:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, Cy and I made a trip to Olympia to visit the Capital. It has been beautifully restored since the earthquake. All of the post-911 security restrictions have been dismantled so visitors are now able to roam freely. We sat in the Senate Gallery, saw the Governor's office and explored the basement where the entrances to the underground tunnels are visible. Spring is a beautiful time to be in Olympia. Add a trip to the Farmers' Market ( http://www.farmers-market.org/) and a stop at the nearby Batdorf & Bronson roastery ( http://www.batdorf.com/) for a coffee tasting to create a full day adventure.

Today's Quote

2007-04-22T16:13:00.000-07:00

There is no duty we so underrate as the duty of being happy. By being happy we sow anonymous benefits upon the world.
Robert Louis Stevenson

Puyallup's Outdoor Art Gallery

2007-04-21T14:42:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to come to Puyallup to see the new art collection installed in March. You can pick up maps at the library and take a self-guided tour through the gallery. The gallery features a range of artists, media, and styles. From whimsical to serious, there is something for everyone. For more information: http://www.artsdowntown.org/

Run, don't walk to the Spring Fair

2007-04-19T21:25:00.000-07:00

Cy and I spent a blissful two hours at the Spring Fair today. I think The Fair uses this event to try out new ideas for the main event in September. This year they have lots of great ideas in the works. We enjoyed the Festiva Mexicana section near the Blue Gate. It featured lots of great food booths, picnic tables with plenty of seating and a selection of handmade and imported goods for sale. We liked the hand shaved ice with fresh fruit juice over the top for just $2. We also had fun at Intel's Play Free PC area. Its a computer lab stocked with the latest equipment, enthusiastic teachers are on hand and good games are loaded and ready to be played. The PCUs have plexiglass covers so you can see the computers at work. Inside the garden show area, there is a wine garden featuring Washington wines and a beer garden elsewhere on the grounds. Parking is free and the crowds are small. Hurry! It's only open until Sunday.

2007-04-18T21:38:00.000-07:00

Since I've been asked to make suggestions about places to go for weekend getaways, I am adding the Alderbrook Resort on Hood Canal to my list of recommended spots. In operation as a resort since 1913, the Alderbrook was recently bought and upgraded by the same company that owns the Willows Lodge in Woodinville. Every room has a great view of Hood Canal, there are cabins that are great for families or large groups, the restaurant is yummy and the pool in the glass building on the water front is a great treat. Add this one to your list of places to try. Its only 75 minutes from Tacoma and winter and spring packages were available for a decent price.

http://www.alderbrookresort.com/

2007-04-12T16:58:00.000-07:00

In February 2007, the Hansons took a One Day Vacation of Longer Duration. Here's a snap of Randy and Cy passing the time at the Tacoma Amtrak station. We rode the train to the city so we could start feeling like we were far from home right away. To make our reservations, we went to Priceline.com and bid on a 4 star hotel in Seattle. We ended up with a fabulous room at the Westin for only $120 (average hotel rooms in Seattle are $147!). We watched the Academy Awards from our Heavenly beds and enjoyed the pool in the atrium when it was pouring with rain outside.

For your next trip to Seattle, whether it is One Day or longer, don't miss Top Pot Donuts on 5th Avenue or Beecher's Handmade Cheese in Pike Place Market. They serve, hands down, the best comfort mac n' cheese in the city!

New Restaurant Opens in Puyallup

2007-04-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

DeCaterina's opened yesterday in the great spot that was previously occupied by From the Bayou. Not ones to let a new restaurant get by us, we stopped there for dinner tonight. In addition to the food being great, we got several signs that this is going to be a good addition to our town: 1) When we ordered a salad and entree to split, the waitress declared this a "fun" idea and didn't seem to think we were being cheap, and 2) when Randy thought he might have been served the wrong beer, the bartender came out with samples of the beer he requested and the beer he thought he got. The samples were offered up with great style and in the end he decided that he'd gotten the beer he requested. Make plans to visit DeCaterina's and let us know what you think!

One Day Vacation Conversation

2007-04-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone - Today is the day that we get serious about having fun. Expanding on the articles in The Herald, I will be posting ideas for One Day Vacations in the Puget Sound area along with a range of ideas about how to incorporate fun into your daily life.

Please join in by sharing your ideas for everyday fun and for fieldtrips that you recommend. I am building the 10 Principles of Everyday Fun (see below). I've posted seven as food for thought. What would you add to this list?

I can't wait to hear your thoughts!

Sally

Holiday Fieldtrip

2007-03-30T16:52:00.000-07:00

I told Cy that he had five minutes to find his warmest coat, gloves and a hat. “We’re going on a field trip.” It has become something of a battle cry at the Zeiger Hanson homestead. Cy’s face took on a look of urgency as he shuttled around the house looking for a stray glove here and a hooded jacket there. As he quickly hopped into the car he said, “This is fun. Now, what are we doing?” We have been field tripping for so long in our family that my six year old son knows to get ready first and ask questions later. While I plan fun outings, I don’t often give much notice to the participants.

My goal is to find fun adventures that are close to home and yet have that vacation feel. Our outings are absorbing, engaging and mindless. And by that I mean, nothing is at stake. There is no way to do it wrong: there won’t be a test later. Sometimes just putting ourselves out on the road, adventures unfold on their own. As my husband says, “We either have a good time or a good story. Either way, we come out ahead.”

Last Friday night, the coat-required event was the annual holiday bridge lighting in Sumner. It got us in the holiday spirit to walk across the bridge, under the cascade of white lights with our hard earned shortbread cookie in hand. We were given a coupon for a ¼ pound of free fudge from The Old Cannery. My son was undeterred by the line that was 100 people deep. Fudge – if it’s chocolate he is going to like it. By the time we made it to the front of the line, the only flavors left were pumpkin, espresso and eggnog fudge. He gamely selected eggnog. As we sat on a display couch swinging our legs and checking out the fabric options, my son declared it, “horrible!” “Why would they even bother to make it if it’s not chocolate?” he wondered over and over again.

After fully partaking in the festivities offered by the Old Cannery, we hopped in our car, drove over the bedecked bridge and headed to the Dairy Freeze in Sumner for dinner. After extensive research last summer, we’ve declared Dairy Freeze the overall winner of our “Best Milkshake Award”. Plus the burgers and fries are real, fresh and hot. And the music is good. What else do I need to say to get you to put on your shoes right now and start looking for your coat and keys?

We asked for directions to the Windmill Gardens because I read in the paper that they had some festive doings that started at 6:00. As we zoomed over there, Cy was in the back seat complaining because we forgot to see Santa at The Old Cannery. This complaining was quickly drowned out by oohs and ahhs as we came into sight of the twinkling windmill and all its surrounding trees and shrubs. The cold clear night was warmed by a REAL outdoor fire on a fabulous patio. I looked everywhere for a switch, a smoke generator but it appears that the Windmill Gardens went all out for this occasion, dusting off those quaint fire building skills that aren’t much called for anymore. We hopped into each shop and headed for the main nursery with steaming samples of Market Spice Tea in our hands. Actually, it was something more modern with many health benefits but traveling with a six year old doesn’t allow me time to gather all the details of the sights, sounds and tastes that we encounter along the way. In the main nursery, who should appear but Santa and Mrs. Claus. For some reason, Santa was toting an empty toy sack that Cy is still puzzling over. Had he come to the nursery to get plants for his sack? In any case, he was handing out blue candy canes. While wandering among the twinkling lights and tropically sized poinsettias, Cy had an overwhelming feeling of dejavu. He thinks we’ve been here before, to this place, on this day, during this season. I assure him that it’s not the place that is familiar, it’s the feeling. We’re having fun, we’ve seen some new things, we’ve laughed, and we smell like smoke and candy canes. This evening we’ve gotten lucky: we have both a good time and a good story.