Coffee and Strawberries- Renton, WA 2010

*Another Post borrowed from my "other" blog
 
Mixed matched bedfellows, it might seem, to have coffee, strawberries and cream.
Ah, but if these were in different drinks or settings, they would simply be divine. Common Grounds Coffee Shop in Renton, Washington mixes these together in just the right blend.

Tables scattered randomly, a hobby horse or two, and some comfy chairs make up a cozy coffee shop. When you enter, you can't help but say, "Oh how ...." (and whatever wonderful word comes to your head) ...cute, sweet, eccentric, adorable, cozy...etc" There is no time to feel awkward, you are already 'at home.'

The selection of drinks, cold or hot, are diverse. The cupcakes tantalize both with whimsical names and appealing designs. You can't leave without ordering something.

May I give my suggestion for the best item on the menu? Strawberry Short Cup!

Is it a Lake?- Lake Chelan, Washington 2010

(Today's Blog update was inspired by a comment left by Anil on a previous post I did)


  I do love Western Washington, but I must admit there is a place in Central Washington which entices me. Lake Chelan boasts of being 50.5 miles around, according to the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce. Is this really a lake? Yes, it is!

  Take a boat across the widest section of the Lake and you will be going 1.5 miles. Do you want to try and dive down to the bottom of the lake? You will have to dive 1486 Ft. down. 

  The breath taking view surrounds you no matter where you are on the lake. You see majestic snow capped Mountains peeking down. The hills nearby used to be filled with apple orchards, they now overflow with grape vines.
 
   Swimming in the clear waters of the lake is very appealing. Water skiing across the surface of the lake is exhilarating. In fact, it is difficult to leave the Chelan Valley with all its beauty. When you are there you  start dreaming about selling your house and moving to this tranquil location. However, when you price the houses near the lake reality sets in as you discover most of the houses right on the lake run a cool one million dollars. Ouch!

  Whether you spend one day enjoying Lake Chelan or one week, you will enjoy every moment of your time there. Unfortunately, all good things do come to an end and then you clamber back into your vehicle and head down the road back to your real life. Remember, the same road which takes you away from Lake Chelan can just as easily bring you back!

Bothell, Washington- Dec 29th 2009

Tea has always held a special place in my heart. If someone is crying..."would you like a cup of tea?"...If someone is sick..."shall I make you a cup of tea?"...it is the cureall of everything. Maybe growing up in a former British colony helped solidify my love of tea....especially the afternoon tea- but tea at any time will do!

Today, Katrina and I discovered the most delightful tea room in Bothell, Washington. "Elizabeth & Alexander's Tea Room" embodies everything you would ever want in a tea room. Those waiting on you make you feel as though you have come to their house for tea. Each item is freshly brewed, baked or cooked. Can you say, "Pampered"...there is no other word to describe the experience.

*pictures courtesy of Katrina Ong