January is nearly over.  Incredible! I hope you have had a great start to 2022 and are looking forward to an amazing year.  It’s never too late to send greetings of health, happiness, and thankfulness for my clients, colleagues, friends, and family.

It’s been a little chilly in Seattle. Winter is a great time to be a local.  Lots to do and it doesn’t last forever!. Below we are sharing some tips on adventuring in the great Pacific Northwest as well as some yummy recipes to keep you warm.

Snow Tubing:

Looking for a quick and inexpensive day trip to enjoy the snow? The Summit at Snoqualmie offers tubing Fridays through Sundays and on some holidays. Tickets must be purchased in advance and a tube is included in the cost of the ticket. Small children are welcome to enjoy as long as they are accompanied by a fare-paying adult.

Leavenworth:

Take a day trip to the Bavarian town just over the mountains in Eastern Washington. It’s a quick 2-hour drive and there is almost always snow on the ground. Winter Karneval starts this month with beautiful lights twinkling all around town. Everyone can enjoy a little something: from the eclectic food scene, to wine and cider tasting, to unique shopping and outdoor recreation. Stay for the day or settle in for a long weekend.

Twin Falls, Franklin Falls, Gold Creek Pond

Take a winter hike. These three hikes are all located between North Bend and Snoqualmie Pass. They are accessible, easy, and modest in length. You will feel in touch with the beautiful winter scenery and still be home in time to cozy up by the fireplace. Just be sure to check the trip conditions with the Washington Trails Association. Parking and pass requirements are noted using the links immediately above.

After enjoying these fun winter options consider preparing some homemade hot chocolate. Click here for a few recipe ideas. Another way to warm up at home is to enjoy a delightful bowl of soup. Check out this collection of wonderful classic soup recipes.

January Home Tip:

January and February bring in the coldest evening temperatures of the year. To protect from the unexpected frozen pipe, and the damage it could cause, follow these ideas. First, be sure exposed pipes are insulated. You can purchase inexpensive foam pipe insulation at a local hardware store to cover pipes in areas like your garage. Outdoor faucet covers are wonderful for your hose spigot. If you go out of town, be sure to keep your home warm by leaving the furnace on at a low temperature and opening cabinet doors under every sink as well as bedroom doors. If you are a renter, make sure you have a solid renter’s insurance policy to cover damage to your belongings in the event of any home-based disaster.