Month: March 2023

Posted on

My Top 5 Favorite Parks in Lacey Washington

If you’re looking for some fun, fresh air, and adventure in Thurston County, you absolutely must check out the city of Lacey’s parks. With miles of gorgeous hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and splash pads, there’s no shortage of activities for individuals or families. I’ve always said that if I won the lottery, I’d spend every day in Lacey’s parks. Read on to find out which are my top 5 favorites.

1. Woodland Creek Community Park

This park is an absolute gem, with a vast array of activities for all ages. The walking paths are perfect for jogging, biking, or just a relaxing stroll, and the large, grassy fields are ideal for picnics, tossing a frisbee, or playing catch. The playground itself is massive, with swings, slides, climbing areas, and a splash pad that’s perfect for cooling off in the summer. The park also features several picnic areas, a basketball court, and even a disc golf course – making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Pattison Lake

If you’re looking for a serene, peaceful spot to unwind after a long day, Pattison Lake is perfect. This idyllic location is surrounded by towering trees, and the gentle waves of the lake make it an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, or picnicking on its scenic shores. While there is no playground to keep kids occupied, the beautiful surroundings are guaranteed to keep them mesmerized.

3. Long Lake Park

If you’re a water baby at heart, Long Lake Park is the perfect spot for you. This stunning park offers miles of sandy beachfront and crystal blue waters to swim, boat, paddleboard or even go fishing. There’s also a fantastic playground, tennis and basketball courts, and several picnic areas to enjoy lunch with friends and family. It’s also one of the few parks in Lacey with a boat launch, so bring your boat with you, and soak in the beautiful lake.

4. Rainier Vista Community Park

Another popular destination, this park features a beautiful, large playground right next to a small and safe lake with plenty of ducks and other waterfowl. The ample grassy area is perfect for running around or playing games like ultimate frisbee or soccer. They also have a sheltered picnic area, a skate park, and quiet walking paths, making it an ideal location for birthday parties and other group gatherings.

5. Fun Forest Park

Perfect for the younger crowd, this park features a fantastic playground that offers a variety of slides, swings, and climbing equipment. There’s also a skate park and basketball court for the older kids and a picnic area, making it an ideal spot for families with kids of all ages.

Lacey’s parks offer something for everyone, no matter what age or interest, and they’re the perfect spot for a day of fun, relaxation or activity. Whether you’re an outdoors enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful spot to picnic, Lacey’s parks are a must-visit destination in Thurston County. Check out my top 5 picks, and make sure to let me know which one is your favorite.

Posted on

Get Ready to List Your Home This Spring with These 8 Tips

Spring is here and so is the prime time for selling homes. Are you planning to list yours this season? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some tips from the real estate guru, Guy Duvall, to make the process a breeze. From preparation to staging, these 8 tips will help you sell your home quickly and at a great price.

  1. Tidy it up: First impressions are everything, make sure your home is clean and decluttered. Clean up all the little details, shine those windows, organize those closets, and make sure everything looks attractive to potential buyers.
  2. Get some fresh air: Air out your home and let the natural light in by opening windows, cleaning ventilations, and turning on the lights. If your home is especially dark or outdated, consider repainting with a lighter, neutral color to make it feel bright and open.
  3. ‘Lawn’ and Order: Curb appeal is key: make sure your lawn is mowed, colorful flowers and plants are evident, and that the outside of your home is inviting. It might seem small, but a fresh coat of paint, new shutters, or even an eye-catching doormat can make a huge difference.
  4. Depersonalize: Make sure to store away all of the family portraits, personal photographs, and prized possessions that your potential buyers won’t care about. Instead of a personal touch, think impersonal hospitality like fresh flowers, lightly scented candles, or soft, fluffy pillows.
  5. Make closet space: Potential buyers love ample closet space-so, make sure that your closet is well-organized and clutter-free, making it appear extra pristine.
  6. Fix what’s broken: From electrical and plumbing to the leaky faucet and peeling paint, anything that is broken will discourage potential buyers. Make sure any repairs necessary are addressed so that the buyers don’t have to worry about it.
  7. Stage it : Arrange your furniture to create the most open space to show off your homes design potential. Diffuse harsh lighting and think of home staging as creating and setting up vignettes to highlight rooms’ most appealing features.
  8. Seek help: Look into hiring professionals, such as a real estate agent or a professional stager. Real estate agents will assist in creating an ideal price range for your house, while staging and redesigning services will find ways to highlight the best features of your home.

We understand that listing your home can be stressful, but by taking these eight tips into consideration you’ll be able to relieve some of that stress and feel confident about what you’re offering buyers. You want someone to fall in love with your home; so, make sure it represents well, and with little effort and maybe even help, you can have your home certain to show well, sell well, and not linger on the market. From decluttering to staging, these tips will help you get started and be successful in listing your home this spring. Happy selling!

Posted on

Barking Up the Right Tree – The Top 5 Dog-Friendly Places to Visit

If you live in the Thurston and Pierce County area, then you know that there’s a lot of doggo-friendly fun to be had! In this blog post, we’ll be going through our top 5 spots for you and your pup to visit—from dog parks to hiking trails. So grab your pup and let’s get started!

1. Dog Parks: Let’s start off with the obvious one—dog parks! There are a bunch of dog parks throughout both counties that are great for pups of all sizes, activity levels, and ages. Take them out for some playtime with their furry friends or give them a chance to just run around and let off some steam. Either way, it’s a great way to get out of the house and enjoy some fresh air with your pup.

2. Hiking Trails: If you want to explore nature with your fur baby by your side, then head on over to any one of the numerous hiking trails in Thurston or Pierce Counties! From easy walks along riverside paths with beautiful views to more challenging mountain hikes, there is something for everyone here. Just make sure that you bring plenty of water for both yourself and your pup!

3. Paddle Boarding: After an intense hike or two, why not cool off by taking a paddle board trip? Some areas offer rentals specifically designed for pups—so they can join in on the fun as well! Whether it’s kayaking down rivers or stand-up paddle boarding along lakeside beaches, it’s definitely something worth checking out if you’re looking for an adventure with your four-legged best friend.

4. Coffee Shops: Who says dogs aren’t welcome at coffee shops? While some may not be pet friendly (for sanitary reasons), there are still plenty that will welcome pups into their establishments with open arms—and even provide treats sometimes too! So take them out for a cappuccino or latte (remember not to actually give them any coffee!) and enjoy quality time together while sipping on delicious drinks.  

5. Doggy Daycare Facilities: Last but certainly not least are doggy daycare facilities! A lot of these places offer activities such as agility courses, swimming pools (for when it gets hot!), interactive toys and games, plus much more—all of which are designed specifically for pups! This is a great way to get them physical exercise while also having fun at the same time (and giving yourself a break!).  

There you have it folks – our top 5 picks for dog-friendly spots! Whether you’re looking for somewhere new to take your pup on an adventure or simply need something different than the standard dog park routine, these spots should definitely do the trick. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore all that these communities have to offer! Happy trails everybody 🙂

Posted on

Discovering Dog-Friendly Camping Sites in Washington State

Are you tired of leaving your furry best friend behind every time you go on a camping trip? Look no further because Washington State has some of the best dog-friendly campsites in the country. From hiking trails boasting stunning views to lakeside campsites with plenty of room for your pooch to run around, there’s something for every pup and its owner. So pack your gear, stock up on treats, and get ready for an adventure with your four-legged buddy!

First, we suggest exploring the stunning Orcas Island. Moran State Park, the largest park on Orcas Island, is one of the most dog-friendly campsites in Washington. Nestled in the lush greenery of the forest, the camping area is peaceful and serene. The park boasts of 38 miles of hiking trails, and you can spend hours hiking with your pup. The Must-Do activity on this island is to hike Mount Constitution, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Do not forget to pack a picnic and plenty of water for your pup.

If you are looking for lakefront camping with your pup, Deception Pass State Park is the place for you. Located on the Island of Whidbey, the park spans nearly 4,000 acres, and it is an ideal spot to soak in the serene nature. It offers more than 100 camping options, including cabins, yurts or you can pitch a tent. The park has miles of hiking trails, and it has two off-leash beaches that allow your furry friend to cool off and play. Bring ponchos and towels in case an unexpected splash happens, which most likely will.

Next, stop at Grand Coulee Dam Area. Located on the Columbia River, this area offers an exceptional camping experience. The park has over 300 campsites; your pup will adore the spaciousness and freedom that comes along with them. Explore the dam while taking leisure walks along the river shores. The dam offers tour options from April to September, where a park ranger will lead the visitors to the adventure. The panoramic views of the river and Washington landscapes from high atop the dam are the highlight of the tour. However, it’s recommended to keep your dog leashed because the platform does get crowded.

Are you looking for a unique camping experience? Check out the Olympic National Park. The park offers diverse ecosystems and glorious mountain ranges, and it’s spread over 1,400 square miles with over 600 miles of hiking trails. The Kah Tai Nature Reserve Trail is specifically dog-friendly, and your pup will enjoy chasing scents, rolling in the grass and admiring the beautiful wildflowers. You can camp at one of the five campgrounds and enjoy watching the sunsets around the park’s shorelines.

Finally, the flowery Methow Valley is another highly recommended destination for dog-friendly camping in Washington State. The area offers pet-friendly cabins and lodgings in the heart of the valley. You can witness the frosty fir trees, starry skies, and snow-capped slopes. The Methow valley offers many off-leash dog parks where your canines can mingle while you explore the beautiful forests.

In conclusion, Washington State offers an array of fantastic dog-friendly camping sites that provide an adrenaline rush for both you and your furry friend. Explore your outdoor adventure with your pooch, hike through the best of nature, enjoy the scenic beauty, and make memories that will surely last a lifetime. With the wide range of options, Washington State has something for every pup and its owner. So pack your bags, grab your leashes, and get ready to embark on an adventure with your faithful companion.

Posted on

Thurston County’s Best Parks for Outdoor Adventure

If you’re a resident of Thurston County, chances are you’ve been to a park or two. But, have you found the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure yet? If not, then this blog post is for you! We’ve rounded up the top five parks in Thurston County that offer something special for everyone. So grab your walking shoes and let’s explore!

#1 – Chehalis Western Trail: This 11-mile-long paved trail offers a flat, easy route through some of the most beautiful areas in Thurston County. You can bike, rollerblade, jog or walk along this path and take in all the beautiful scenery. Along the way, you’ll pass by wetlands, farmland, and wooded areas. And if you need to take a break from the exercise, there are plenty of benches and picnic tables available to rest your legs!

#2 – Black Lake Park: For those who prefer water activities over land-based ones, Black Lake Park is an ideal spot for kayaking and fishing. The lake is also surrounded by trails that offer great views of nature at its best. Whether you want to go on a peaceful stroll or test your skills with some more intense hiking trails, there’s something here for everyone!

#3– Tolmie State Park: This park is perfect for beach lovers! Spend an afternoon sunbathing on the sandy beach or take a dip in one of the two freshwater lakes. Afterward, explore some of the park’s hiking trails that lead through dense forests and meadows where you may even catch sight of some wildlife. Tolmie State Park also has camping sites available if you want to stay longer than just one day!

#4 – Tumwater Falls Park: For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without leaving town, Tumwater Falls Park is a great option. Take in stunning views of cascading waterfalls while enjoying some peace and quiet away from it all. There are plenty of paths here to wander down so don’t forget your camera!

#5 – Percival Landing Park: Last but certainly not least is Percival Landing Park located right next to Olympia’s downtown area. Here you will find an entertaining mix of sculpture gardens, boardwalks, and waterfront views that make this park one of Thurston County’s hidden gems! Have fun exploring all this park has to offer – from biking paths and fishing piers to playgrounds perfect for kids – there’s something here for everyone!

From scenic hikes to relaxing days spent at the beach (or lake!), there are so many amazing parks in Thurston County waiting to be explored by locals like us! So why not get out there today and start planning your next outdoor adventure? With these top five parks as our guide, we’re sure we won’t be disappointed with what we find along our journey. Happy exploring everyone!

%d bloggers like this: