Ferry over Puget Sound

July 9, 2015 by Beth Shepherd

I never get tired of riding the ferry. It is one of the things that makes Seattle and Puget Sound so unique, and I love that! Last weekend we rode the MV Hyak, built in 1967, from Bremerton to Seattle.

The Washington State ferry system has its origins in the “Mosquito Fleet,”a collection of small steamer lines serving the Puget Sound area during the later part of the nineteenth century and early part of the 20th century. By the beginning of the 1930s, two lines remained: the Puget Sound Navigation Company (known as the Black Ball) Line and Kitsap County Transportation Company.

A strike in 1935 forced the KCTC to close, leaving only the Black Ball Line. Toward the end of the 1940s the Black Ball Line wanted to increase its fares, to compensate for increased wage demands from the ferry worker unions, but the state refused to allow this, and so the Black Ball Line shut down. In 1951, the state bought nearly all of Black Ball’s ferry assets for $5 million (Black Ball retained five vessels of its fleet). The state intended to run ferry service only until cross-sound bridges could be built, but these were never approved, and the Washington State Department of Transportation runs the system to this day.

As of 2015, there are 24 ferries on Puget Sound operated by the state. The largest vessels in this fleet carry up to 2500 passengers and 202 vehicles. They are painted in a distinctive white and green trim paint scheme, and feature double-ended open vehicle decks and bridges at each end so that they do not need to turn around.

There are 10 routes serving 20 terminals located on Puget Sound and in the San Juan Islands, designated as part of the state highway system (hence WSDOT, Washington State Department of Transportation). The agency maintains the largest fleet of ferries in U.S. at 24 vessels, carrying 23 million passengers in 2014. As of 2014, it was the largest ferry operator in the United States, and the fourth-largest ferry system in the world.

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Take the road less traveled, Beth

Hop on over: Hopscotch in Seattle’s C.D.

June 4, 2015 by Beth Shepherd

1.8 miles of hopping fun–Saturday, June 6–in Seattle’s Central District! Hopscotch C.D. –in its 3rd year–has become a local tradition with hundreds of Seattlites hopscotching their way around my neighborhood. Join the action which starts at 10:00 a.m. and continues all the way up to 8:00 p.m.

The almost two-mile temporary path is placed on the sidewalk three days before the event, using giant stencils and a “chalks” made out of cornstarch, a dash of flour and sugar and bit of food coloring. After three or four rains, they disappear. I’m hoping for sunny weather over the next few weeks.

Here’s a map with this year’s route, which starts at 23rd and E. Union, heads down Union to 18th and turns south, and finishes on Jackson at 28th Ave. S.

When you legs feel like they’re ready to give out, head on over to Centerstone (18th and Cherry), between 3:30 to 8:00 p.m. for the carnival–and beer garden. Or visit the lemonade stands and yard sales that will spring up like dandelions throughout the day, all around the neighborhood.

Hopscotch C.D. also has a Facebook page. The weather forecast shows temperatures around 80-degrees and clear skies, so there are no excuses. Come join the fun!

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Take the road less traveled, Beth

The little house that could

April 13, 2015 by Beth Shepherd

As many of my reader’s know, I live in a very small, very old house, which is why I have a soft spot for one tiny 600-square-foot Ballard home. If any house could tell a story, it’s Edith Macefield’s house. In 2006, Edith made headlines around the world when she refused to sell her childhood home to developers, even as it was literally enveloped by commercial buildings on three sides. Rumor has it that she even refused a $1,000,000 offer on her humble abode and, as a result, one 84-year-old-woman and one 106-year-old bungalow became cult heroes.

As the construction swirled around her, Edith opera blared from inside Edith’s home and she regaled visitors with stories of edgier days in her life as European undercover agent during World War II. Edith had a lot of spunk and I admire that!

When Edith died two years later, a friend inherited her house, and then sold it to a real estate coaching firm called Reach Returns. Reach Returns announced a scheme to raise the house thirty feet in the air, inspired by the movie ‘Up,’ where a retired balloon salesman, and recent widower attaches balloons to his house to avoid moving to a retirement home and, instead tries to fly his home to Paradise Falls, South America. But in this real life story, Reach Returns investment scheme collapsed, investors lost a lot of money and the lender took Edith’s house back via foreclosure.

Enter Paul Thomas from Realty Brokers, Inc. in Seattle. He’s the listing agent for Macefield’s former home. Yes, that’s right, the tiny house is For Sale! My brain has been churning with ideas, even though my bank account couldn’t afford to by Edith’s former home, like turn the house into Edith’s Diner with a portion of meal proceeds to benefit low income senior housing.

But this sale isn’t typical. Thomas said there is no asking price. Buyers need to make an offer and the highest price offer may not be the winner. Thomas said the buyer needs to guarantee that the home or something will remain to honor Macefield’s memory.

In the meantime a ‘Memorial Balloon Wall’ has arisen out in front of Macefield’s house and when I went with Little Bird to get her hair cut (Sharkey’s is literally around the corner), I wanted to stop by and show her the house. I tried to explain how Edith loved this tiny old house, just like mama loves our tiny old house, but all Little Bird wanted to do was blow up a balloon.

So we did. She picked a balloon and we used the marker provided to draw a picture. Then we attached our balloon to Edith’s Memorial Balloon Wall.

And took a picture.

Interested in buying a slice of Seattle history? You have until April 20 to come up with an idea and make an offer. Personally–I’d like to see that happen.

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Take the road less traveled, Beth

Three iconic Seattle sites by twilight

January 14, 2015 by Beth Shepherd

When I think of Seattle–my city by the Sound–surrounded by mountains and water, three images always spring to mind: Mt. Rainer, The Space Needle, and ferries. This trifecta is always iconic and, by twilight, spectacular.

Mt. Rainier

Mt. Rainier, with a summit elevation of 14, 410 feet is the highest mountain in both the state of Washington and the Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest. An active volcano, Mt. Rainier is also the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States.

The Space Needle

Built in 1962 for the World’s Fair, the Space Needle defines the north end of Seattle’s skyline. At 605 feet, it was once the tallest structure west of the Mississippi River.

Ferry lights

The Washington State ferry system is the fourth largest ferry system in the world. 22 auto-passenger ferries crisscross Puget Sound taking travelers to islands near and far.

Take the road less traveled, Beth

Discovery Park: A winter walk to end the year

December 31, 2014 by Beth Shepherd

As the year winds down, Big Papa and I had the rare opportunity to go for a hike, sans child, in Discovery Park. Once Fort Lawton, a military facility, this city park is now the largest in Seattle. 534 acres of tidal beaches, meadow lands, sea cliffs, forest groves, sand dunes, thickets, streams, and an array of trails gives city folks–like us–a chance to escape.

Perched on Magnolia Bluff, the park offers breathtaking views of Puget Sound, which was one of our stops as we made our way along the 2.8 mile Loop Trail. The Loop Trail always amazes me, because as you hike the perimeter of the park, you find yourself in so many beautiful settings: beach, woods, and meadow.

Even in late December, with many of the trees and bushes stripped of their leaves, and few plants in bloom, there is so much color to be found. From chartreuse moss covering downed tree branches.

And Kelly green hanging ferns.

To the bright pop of burgundy on a dogwood.

Or clusters of tiny rose hip jewels.

Majestic shades of blue on wide-open Puget Sound.

And blue-gray mushrooms intimately nestled against a tree stump in the forest.

Our trip to the Discovery Park was made even more special–for Beth the bird lover–when we spotted a Pileated Woodpecker, decked out in his red cap and handlebar mustache. An uncommon siting for urban dwellers, watching him find an afternoon snack was a treat.

A winter walk was the perfect way to usher out the year. Farewell 2014.

Take the road less traveled, Beth

Backstage at PNB’s Nutcracker

December 23, 2014 by Beth Shepherd

2014 is the swan song for PNB’s distinctive Nutcracker. After 31 years, the brainchild of Founding Director Kent Stowell and beloved children’s author and illustrator Maurice Sendak, bids adieu to northwest audiences. Next year there will be a new take on Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Nutcracker.

I hadn’t been to a performance for many years, and though sad to see Stowell and Sendak’s Nutracker move on, I really wanted one last parting visit. So a babysitter was secured, tickets were purchased, and Big Papa and I made our way across town on a quintessentially rainy December Seattle night.

Our evening was going to be noteworthy for one other special reason: we were going to have a backstage tour care of our cousin Lauren, who works for PNB. This opportunity was extremely exciting for me, because one of the unique things about PNB’s Nutcracker are the fantastical sets and costumes designed by Maurice Sendak.

Lauren met us at the stage side door and off we went…past the canons that, when fired during the show, always make me jump a foot off my seat. The Mouse King’s tail hung on a hook, looking more like a fire hose than the hindquarters of a rat.

We made our way by the ropes and pulleys–112 of them to be exact–that allow stage hands to position pieces of the set on stage, some weighing hundreds of pounds. Each rope had a label with its specific function, like operating the “snow bags” which send a flurry of faux flakes onto the stage at key moments to give the impression of winter.

Next we headed up the stage elevator to the loading gallery. Exiting the elevator we were asked if either of us was afraid of heights. I said no. Big Papa paused for a moment, and echoed my no.

Then we took a look over the edge. It was a long way down to the stage below. Emphasis on long way.

The ropes and wires reminded me of the rigging on a sailing ship. When you take into account how each piece of the set has to move in and out, up and down, you realize that what you see on stage, as a member of the audience, is just the tip of the iceberg.

Back at stage level, we took a closer look at all things Nutcracker, like Clara’s famous bed, which looks pretty uncomfortable, a fact confirmed by our lovely tour guide. Or the trusty steeds ridden by young boys. I picked one up and estimate it weighed at least 40 pounds, which is a lot of weight to carry if you intend to prance about on a stage.

We wandered by exquisite masks, and the aforementioned snow. The myriad details that seamlessly fall into place during the show.

There was the birdcage, the dollhouse, toy guns and swords, an enormous Christmas tree that unfolds at the strike of midnight, growing taller and taller to dizzying heights.

Waves of amazement washed over me as we meandered past each piece of the set, all the individual elements that–when put together–tell E.T. A. Hoffman’s story of young girl, Clara, who, on Christmas Eve, falls asleep after a party at her home and dreams herself into a world where toys become larger than life. Her beloved Nutcracker, a gift from her godfather, comes to life to defend her from the evil Mouse King, and then is turned into a prince after Clara saves his life.

Finally we made our way back to our seats and settled ourselves to watch the performance. When the curtain rose, I was in awe. Having had a rare glimpse of the Herculean efforts and minutia of coordination that happen behind the scenes, the performance seemed even more spectacular. I had wondered if knowing a few secrets of the set might spoil the mystery of our theater experience. It did not. If anything, it made our evening at PNB’s Nutcraker even more magical!

PNB’s Nutcracker continues through December 28. Catch a show while you still can!

Take the road less traveled, Beth

And a huge thank you to Lauren for a wonderfully memorable tour!

A Sasquatch with a heart as big as his feet

November 18, 2014 by Beth Shepherd

This past weekend, Travel Portland visited Seattle’s Westlake Center and unveiled a magnificent cuckoo clock to let viewers know Portland is happening now. All the time.

I had an opportunity to check out all 24-feet of this nearly 7,000 pound chain-saw carved clock on Friday afternoon. When I heard there might be a sighting of the mythical —Santasquatch–Saturday morning, I knew I needed to get myself back downtown, Little Bird in tow.

On the hour, full-sized doors opened to reveal all sorts of entertainment and surprises from Portland’s infamous Naked Bike Riders, tea tasting, jewelry making, Charcuterie and more. Santasquatch was scheduled to arrive 11:00. We waited as the crowd grew.

Can I knock on the door Mama? When the ‘Squash’ coming out?

Finally, there he was in all his furry glory…Santasquatch. Little Bird looked terrified. She tucked her body closer to mine and whispered.

Mama, the Squash scary. Why is he scary sweetie? He’s got sharp teeth. He might eat me.

I spent the better part of the next hour cajoling and pleading with Little Bird to go sit herself down next to Santasquatch. We smiled at him. He smiled back. We waved. He waved back. Mama sat in his lap to prove he wasn’t angling to eat his Seattle guests.

Even Santasquatch–himself–and Robin (from Wieden & Kennedy), were patient and encouraging. They tried help Little Bird believe that under all that fur, and behind all those [sharp] teeth, lurked the soul of a Renaissance Sasquatch.

Mama, he’s not family, so I can’t hug him. Can I high-five him?

Little Bird was not moved, at least not enough to get within paw’s distance. Then the time came when Santasquatch announced he would be heading back to his hometown in Portland, Oregon.

Little Bird was sad. Even though she couldn’t muster the courage to get up close and personal, she didn’t want him to leave. That’s when we got the invitation to go behind the scenes for a private meeting with Mr. Squatch himself, where we were privy to a few Sasquatch secrets. Like, he does splits. Who knew? I’m sure agility helps this ‘squatch beat a hasty retreat deep into the forests of the Oregon Cascade Mountains.

I could tell Little Bird was slowly warming to the idea that this ‘Squatch was truly one-of-a-kind. Maybe a nice guy even. But it was time for us to bid adieu.

He’s an elusive beast. But should you happen to cross the path of Portland’s Sasquatch, this much I know: His heart is as big as his feet.

Find out more about what is happening in Portland. NOW! Right here. And thank you to all the sweet folks who helped one little girl overcome her fear of the unknown, at least where Santasquatch is concerned.

Mama, the Squash is pretty nice. I wasn’t scared. Maybe a little. At first.

Take the road less traveled, Beth

Autumn arrives at the Washington Park Arboretum

September 26, 2014 by Beth Shepherd

Washington Park Arboretum, resplendent as autumn arrives.

“The breezes taste
Of apple peel.
The air is full
Of smells to feel-
Ripe fruit, old footballs,
Burning brush,
New books, erasers,
Chalk, and such.
The bee, his hive,
Well-honeyed hum,
And Mother cuts
Chrysanthemums.
Like plates washed clean
With suds, the days
Are polished with
A morning haze.“

– John Updike, September

Take the road less traveled, Beth

Hopscotch CD!

August 22, 2014 by Beth Shepherd

Attention Seattleites (and visitors to the Emerald City this weekend): Hop on over to the CD (Central District) for the 2nd annual Hopscotch CD event. August 23, 2014 9-6. Between Jackson and Union.

2.9 miles of hopscotch fun! Yesterday I watched as the temporary path was laid down by volunteers before the event, using giant stencils and a “chalks” made out of mostly cornstarch, a dash of flour and sugar and bit of food coloring. It lasts 3-4 rains, so I am crossing my fingers Seattle’s lovely dry-weather streak continues.

And–drumroll–if you want to be part of a shot at the attempt to break the world record for most hopscotchers playing at the same time, come to Centerstone (18th and Cherry) at 1:00 p.m. to sign up (record-breaking attempt scheduled for ~2:00). I was there last year and we were just shy the number of attendees needed. Maybe this year?

Hopscotching aside, there will be all sorts of neighborhood fun: sidewalk sales, garage sales, games, story time in the park, live music, free gourmet hotdogs! And, after you hopscotch yourself silly, hop over the the after-party carnival sponsored by the CD Association: 4-8 pm featuring the incredible Garfield High School Jazz Band!I hear there will be a beer garden for adults and free ice cream for kids.

You can find more details on the Hopscotch CD website: http://www.hopscotchcd.com/. Or join the event on Facebook: Hopscotch CD2.

Hopscotch the road less traveled, Beth

Sippin’ on the dock of the bay: Kitsap Wine Festival

August 13, 2014 by Beth Shepherd

Wine, food, music, sun, and salt-water breeze. What’s not to like? Six years running, the Kitsap Wine Festival has proffered sips and nibbles alongside the Bremerton waterfront at the Harborside Fountain Park, literally a stone’s throw away from the Bremerton ferry dock.

Copper fountains, modeled after submarines, spouted water amidst lovely gardens overlooking Puget Sound. Festival-goers sampled wine and beer from over forty northwest wineries and breweries, along with tastes of food from local restaurants and purveyors.

We savored iridescent Bella Bella macaroons, beet salad, tapas, and a lovely array of cheeses. All tasty partners for belle of the ball –wine.

A few wineries we’ve been to, and enjoyed, were at the festival: Chandler Reach, Terra Blanca, and Forgeron Cellars (though sad to hear the news that Salsa, our favorite wine dog, had recently passed away). And we discovered new favorites like Laurelhurst Cellars, and Maryhill Winery, winner of the 2014 Winery of the Year at the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

Our own prize, for the most innovative grape varietal, goes to the Black Moosecat (okay, really Black Muscat) used in Stina’s Cellars Rebus Red. Our cat Maggie goes by the nickname ‘Moose’ and, on occasion, we call her Moosecat.

We drank. We ate. We looked and listened. And then we purchased. A few choice bottles, selected at the wine and retail shop on site, accompanied us as we made our way back across Puget Sound.

Hanging out at the Kitsap Wine Festival was a delicious way to while away an afternoon, but the best part–all proceeds went to a good cause: Harrison Medical Center Foundation. I’ll drink to that.

Take the road less traveled, Beth