Moving In? What To Do Now That You’re a Homeowner (and Tips to Make It Fun!)

Congratulations, you’re officially a homeowner! As exciting as this new chapter may be, we understand that moving itself can be a daunting task. But fear not, because we’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to help you settle into your new space and make the move a little more enjoyable. Moving in doesn’t have to be just another task on your to-do list. Let’s make it fun!

  1. Get Organized: Before you even start loading boxes, take some time to declutter and organize your belongings. Go through each room and determine what you actually need and what can be donated or thrown away. Not only will this make the move itself easier, but it will also give you a fresh start in your new home. Plus, you’ll save money on moving expenses by not relocating items that you don’t need.
  2. Personalize Your Home: One of the joys of having a home is the ability to decorate it in your own style. Take advantage of this by incorporating your personal touches throughout your new space. Add some color with accent pillows or hang up your favorite artwork. You can even create a gallery wall with family photos to add a warm touch to your new home. This is a great opportunity to showcase your creativity and make your space truly feel like your own.
  3. Think About Function and Flow: As you unpack and organize your belongings, keep in mind how you want your space to function. Consider the flow of the room and ensure that furniture is arranged in a way that makes sense for your day-to-day activities. Having a well-organized and functional space not only makes your life easier but can also reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  4. Meet Your Neighbors: Don’t forget to take a break from unpacking and meet your new neighbors! Introducing yourself and striking up a conversation with those who live around you can help create a sense of community and make you feel more at home. Plus, it’s always nice to have friendly faces to wave at when you’re coming home from a long day at work.
  5. Celebrate Your New Home: Finally, don’t forget to celebrate! Moving in isn’t just a series of exhausting tasks; it’s a new beginning and an opportunity to start fresh. Treat yourself to a dinner out, a bottle of wine, or a relaxing bubble bath. You’ve worked hard and you deserve it.

Moving in can be a stressful process, but with just a few simple steps, it can be fun and memorable as well. Take the time to organize your belongings, personalize your space, prioritize functionality, meet your new neighbors, and celebrate your new home. By doing so, you can create a happy and welcoming space in which to begin your new chapter, one that you will be proud to call your own. Congratulations again, and happy moving!

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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.

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!

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 🙂

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.

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!

The Best Dog-Friendly Trails in Thurston and Pierce County

Dogs make great hiking partners – here are some of the best dog-friendly trails in Thurston and Pierce County

Are you looking for a way to make your next hike even more fun? Why not bring your four-legged best friend along for the adventure? There are tons of great trails in the Thurston and Pierce County area that are perfect for canine companions. Here are just a few of our favorites.

Blog Body:  Nisqually Wildlife Refuge Trail – This two-mile loop trail is located at the Martin Way entrance to the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. It’s an easy, flat trail with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and birds. Plus, dogs must be leashed at all times so you don’t have to worry about them running off into the woods!

Chimacum Creek Trail – This moderate 3-mile loop takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. Start at the Chimacum Creek Park parking lot and follow the trail as it winds through lush forests and along sparkling creeks. Dogs must remain on a leash as there is livestock in some parts of this trail.

Mount Rainier National Park – Believe it or not, this iconic national park allows dogs on some of its trails! Leashed dogs are allowed on certain roads, meadows, campgrounds, picnic areas, and other developed areas throughout Mount Rainier National Park. Be sure to check out their website before planning your trip as only certain areas are open to canines.

Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a more challenging trek, there’s something for everyone—including our furry friends—in Thurston and Pierce County! Remember to always keep Fido safely leashed during your hike and pay attention to posted signs regarding pet restrictions in various parks and trails. So lace up those hiking boots and hit one of these great dog-friendly trails today!   

Here’s hoping for clear skies and lots of tail-wagging fun ahead!

10 Olympia Valentine’s Day Adventures

It’s that time of year again! Time to start thinking about what you’re going to do for your special someone on Valentine’s Day. If you’re stuck for ideas, never fear! We’ve put together a list of 10 fun things to do in Olympia this Valentine’s Day. So whether you’re looking for something active, romantic, or just plain fun, we’ve got you covered.

  1. Take a hike! What could be more romantic than exploring the great outdoors with your special someone? Puget Sound is full of beautiful hiking trails, and Olympia is lucky to have some great options right in its backyard. Check out Priest Point Park, Percival Landing, or one of the many other trails in the area for a Valentine’s Day hike you’ll both love.
  2. Visit a winery. Washington state is well-known for its wine, and there are plenty of great wineries to choose from right here in Olympia. Spend an afternoon touring a winery and tasting some of the best wines the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Cheers!
  3. Get crafty at a painting class. Unleash your inner artist with a painting class at one of Olympia’s many local art studios. Whether you consider yourself a master painter or have never picked up a brush before, you’re sure to have a blast (and maybe even end up with a masterpiece).
  4. Go stargazing. There’s nothing quite like looking up at the night sky and admiring the stars with the one you love. For an extra-romantic experience, head to Tumwater Falls Park where you can view the falls lit up at night while you stargaze. Perfection!
  5. Attend a comedy show. Laughing is said to be good for relationships, so why not double up on the love this Valentine’s Day with a trip to a comedy show? Check out what’s playing at The Capitol Theater or one of Olympia’s other great venues and get ready to laugh until your sides hurt.
  6. Make it a movie night. Sometimes the simplest things are the best things, and that definitely applies to movie nights! Curl up on the couch with some popcorn and your favorite person and enjoy a classic film or something new that you’ve been dying to see. Happy viewing!
  7. Treat yourselves to dessert. Who doesn’t love dessert? And what could be more romantic than sharing a decadent treat with your Valentine? Indulge your sweet tooth at one of Olympia’s many amazing bakeries or cafes. Yum!
  8. Get moving at an indoor rock climbing gym. For couples who like to keep things active, an afternoon of indoor rock climbing is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to overcome any fears of heights together!
  9. Browse through a local bookstore. What could be more romantic than spending an afternoon browsing through your favorite bookstore with your partner? If you need some help finding the perfect book, just ask one of the knowledgeable staff members – they’ll be happy to help!
  10. Plan a picnic lunch. Pack up some sandwiches, fruit, drinks, and whatever else sounds good, then head out to one of Olympia’s many lovely parks for a picnic lunch. This is definitely an activity that can be tailored to suit any couple’s taste – so go ahead and get creative!

Whatever your taste, there’s sure to be an activity on this list that will make your Valentine’s Day extra special this year! So get planning and enjoy all that Olympia has to offer this month of love.

15 Romantic Date Night Ideas to Spice Up Your Love Life in the Puget Sound

If you’re looking for romantic date night ideas around the Puget Sound area, look no further! Whether you’re a Thurston County resident or a Pierce County native, there are plenty of activities to choose from. From outdoor adventures to cozy indoor excursions, we’ve got 15 fun and romantic date night ideas that will help spice up your love life. Let’s get started!

Visit the Tacoma Glass Museum – Located in downtown Tacoma, the Tacoma Glass Museum is home to some of the most unique glass art in the Pacific Northwest. Take a tour together and explore hundreds of beautiful pieces of glasswork from artists around the world. And don’t forget to take a selfie with one of their famous Dale Chihuly sculptures in front of the museum!

Take an evening boat ride – Climb aboard one of Washington State Ferries’ vessels for an evening boat ride across Puget Sound. Enjoy a romantic sunset while taking in views of Seattle’s skyline, Mount Rainier, and other stunning sites along the way. You can even bring snacks or drinks on board for the perfect evening out on the water.

Go stargazing – Get away from city lights and head out to one of Thurston County’s dark sky preserves for some quality stargazing time. Pack some blankets, hot cocoa, and snacks for a romantic night under the stars – it’s sure to make your date extra special!

Have dinner at Rhein Haus – This German-inspired restaurant located near Tacoma Dome Station is known for its delicious food and lively atmosphere. With its Bavarian beer hall vibe and communal seating style, it’s sure to be a memorable experience!

Take part in an escape room challenge – Put your problem-solving skills to the test by taking part in an escape room challenge together! It’s an exciting way to bond as you work together towards completing puzzles and finding clues to help you “escape”. Escape rooms are popping up all over Thurston County – so go ahead and give it a try!


Visit one of Olympia’s breweries – Olympia has become quite well-known for its craft beer scene – so why not take advantage? Visit one (or more!) of Olympia’s local breweries for some samples (and maybe even take home a growler). Be sure to check their websites first as many have limited hours or require online reservations due to Covid-19 restrictions.


Go on a hike – There are plenty of hiking trails around Thurston county that offer breathtaking views and incredible landscapes perfect for couples who love nature walks or are just looking for something different than your typical dinner-and-a-movie kind of date night!

Explore Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge – If you’re looking for something outdoorsy but less intense than hiking, try exploring Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge together instead! This wildlife refuge is home to several species of animals such as bald eagles, seals, otters, and more – all waiting to be discovered by you two lovebirds!

Attend an outdoor concert – With our lovely spring weather here comes lots of opportunities for outdoor concerts around Thurston county – so grab your tickets early before they sell out! Live music makes everything better – plus dancing with your significant other under twinkling stars is always an added bonus when it comes to romance…

Visit Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium– What better way to show off your animal knowledge than by visiting Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium? Learn about fascinating creatures from all over the world while also spending quality time with each other? It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for something fun yet an educational activity that both you AND your partner can enjoy!

Go wine tasting at The Northwood Winery– Located in Olympia near Tumwater Falls Park, The Northwood Winery offers wine tastings throughout the year — making it the perfect destination if both you & your partner are fans of vino

Take salsa lesson– Looking to add a little bit of spice into the relationship? Try taking salsa lessons together at El Centro de la Raza! Not only will these classes teach two how to dance beautiful Latin dances like salsa cha cha, bachata , also great way to spend quality time with each other

Check out local farmer’s market– Visiting local farmer’s markets like Olympia Farmers Market and Franklin Farmers Market great way to support the community while enjoying fresh produce

Play mini golf course– Grab a putter and head over to one Thurston county mini golf courses like Sprinker Recreation Center Fun Forest Arcade Mini Golf and enjoy game friendly competition

Head beach and watch the sunset – To end your day on a high note, visit the beach and witness the sun slowly sinking beneath the horizon. As you marvel at this majestic sight, take pleasure in listening to the sound of waves crashing onto the shoreline.

As you plan your romantic date night in the Puget Sound region, look no further than these 15 activities! From outdoor expeditions to cozy bedtime stories shared indoors—there is something special for everyone. Don’t forget that having fun and creating memories is of utmost importance. Here’s to happy dating!

Dog-Friendly Activities in Thurston County – The Ultimate Guide

Whether you’re a Thurston county resident or just visiting, Thurston county is a great place to bring your furry friend for some fun activities. From the parks and trails, to the dog-friendly restaurants, there are plenty of places that welcome your pup with open arms. Let’s take a look at some of the best activities for you and your pup in Thurston county!

Hiking Trails

Thurston County is home to several beautiful hiking trails that you can explore with Fido. One of the most popular destinations is Budd Inlet Trail, located along the shores of Budd Inlet in Olympia. This moderate trail offers incredible views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound. If you’re looking for something a bit more strenuous, try out Capitol Forest near Shelton. This trail offers several routes ranging from easy to difficult, with plenty of wildlife sightings along the way.

Dog Parks

Are you looking for an off-leash area where your pup can run free? Thurston County has several dog parks that allow your pup to roam leash-free and make friends with other pups. Some of our favorites include Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area (NRCA) near Olympia and Chehalis Riverfront Park in Centralia. Both parks offer plenty of space for playtime and exploration.

Restaurants & Breweries

Looking for a delicious meal or beverage after a long day out? Look no further than one of Thurston county’s many dog-friendly restaurants and breweries. From seafood spots like Oyster House at Point Defiance to craft breweries like Top Rung Brewing Co., you can find plenty of delicious options for you and Fido alike! Just be sure to keep an eye on your pup while dining outdoors – no one likes an unruly pup!

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or delicious food, Thurston County is sure to have an activity that will both entertain you and give Fido some much-needed exercise! With its wide variety of dog-friendly trails, parks, restaurants, and breweries, there’s something here everyone can enjoy – two-legged friends included! So, grab those leashes and get out there – there are plenty of adventures waiting just outside your door!