It's been a schizophrenic mix of warm (ish) sunny days followed by hours and hours of pouring down rain here in Western Washington. It's been a joy to look out on the yard and see flowers blooming and a burst of color as we head into the middle part of Spring.
We headed off to the Skagit Valley for the annual month-long Tulip Festival. Fortunately, both days we were there the weather was great. Such vivid swaths of color as we took in row and row of blooms.
Despite growing up in Skagit County, this was my first time to the Tulip Festival. It didn't exist when I was a kid, and it was long after I'd moved from the area before it developed into a tourism event. It spans the month of April each year and it's worth putting on your calendar for April 2025.
We spent the night in La Conner, another destination it's been years (and years) since we've visited. Lots of relaxing exploring that will likely find a way into some upcoming stories.
Till next time --
Mary Jo & Tony
Have You Read:
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Things to Do in the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia)
Located in the Pacific Ocean, the Marquesas Islands are known for their natural beauty and island culture. Part of French Polynesia, this volcanic archipelago is located 932 miles northeast of Tahiti, and 2400 miles southeast of Hawaii, seemingly in the middle of nowhere.
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Visit These 10 Amazing Museums in Little Rock, Arkansas
Delve into history, fire up your curiosity, explore creative works of art! You can do it all – and more – in the museums in Little Rock, Arkansas. Whether you’re a history buff, a budding scientist, or an art enthusiast, Little Rock’s museums have plenty to keep you engaged.
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Magical Mono Lake Tufa Tower Formations
Turquoise waters and pristine beaches, coral reefs and the rhythmic sway of palm trees, lilting patois and new discoveries – the diversity of the Caribbean islands make for a diverse Caribbean cruise experience. Try a tall ship sailing experience onboard the Royal Clipper. We loved it!
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Here's what else is going on:
Traveling: Cruising the Great Lakes
We'll be heading off on a Viking cruise on the Great Lakes. The itinerary, on the expedition ship Octantis, sails from Toronto to Milwaukee. Although we've been to some of the spots on this itinerary, there are plenty of new destinations, including Mackinac Island (which has been on my bucket list). It's also the first time on one of Viking's expedition ships, so I'm curious to see what's the same and what's different.
Reading: Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
Although Violet’s body might be weaker and frailer than everyone else’s, she still has her wits—and a will of iron. And leadership is forgetting the most important lesson Basgiath has taught her: Dragon riders make their own rules.
I'm excited to burrow in and read this sequel to the mega-hit Fourth Wing. The first book was a best seller on so many lists that I've lost count, and has been optioned for television by Amazon, so I'm hoping this book delivers as well.
If you missed the link to my 7th annual travel reading challenge, here's another chance. The list of new prompts, 30 in total - 24 basic and 6 advanced - can be found here. Join in! This is also where I keep track of what I've read for the year.
This book likely doesn't fit into any of the prompts, but we'll see after I finish it.
Watching: Sugar (Netflix)
This 8-part mystery series star Collin Farrell as private detective John Sugar. Set in Los Angeles, it follows the search for a missing woman. I love the casting, there are some interesting plot twists, but I'm really a fan of the film noir turns the show takes into Old Hollywood. Worth a watch.
Listening: The Tortured Poets Department (Taylor Swift)
I couldn't be the only one not listening to this. I'm neither a Swiftie fan nor a detractor, I'm just here for the music.
In the Glass: 2018 Baileyana La Entrada Pinot Noir (California)
A couple of years ago, we planned at trip to San Luis Obispo for a wine and spa getaway.
One of the wineries we visited was Baileyana Wines, located in the heart of Edna Valley in California's Central Coast. The tasting room is in a former schoolhouse and the tasting ws on the outdoor patio.
We bought a couple of bottles of this 2018 Baileyana La Entrada Pinot Noir, and recently opened one up.
Cherry on the nose with a hint of woodsy spice. Red fruit on the first sip, with a touch of spice on the finish. Medium body, silky tannins, nice acidity.
We served this with a classically prepared roast turkey breast. It was a wonderful choice as we much prefer red wine to white. Pinot Noir and roasted poultry is a classic pairing for good reason.
$38 (although it may be hard to find)
Heads in Beds: La Conner Channel Lodge (La Conner, Washington)
La Conner's only waterfront hotel boasts Northwest styling, water views, and has a great location for exploring the town (much within walking distance), and close by to numerous tulip gardens and fields. Our ground level Queen room looked out on the channel; next stay we'll try to get one on the second floor.
Rate included wine tasting and continental breakfast. Learn more about the hotel and pricing here.
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