Views of Sequim, the Olympic Peninsula. . .and beyond
Last spring it was announced that Sequim would have a couple of new retail chain outlets: A Michael’s and Ulta, a beauty and cosmetics outlet. The site spent a long time looking just like this. I heard recently that progress was being made and dropped by for an update. Walls! Workers! It’s coming along.
A queen and four princesses are chosen each year to preside over our Irrigation Festival. They ride and wave in the parade. And they show up in full royal regalia at other local events, classing up the small town atmosphere. Really. Who can resist pretty girls in tiaras?
There is a three day street fair as part of the Sequim Lavender Festival. Several blocks downtown become a pedestrian thoroughfare, lined with vendor booths. Lavender in every form is sold. And dozens of vendors also sell arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, candles, you name it. The fair is always a big draw and last Friday, the first day, was no exception.
This was one of the more clever tee shirts for sale.
And this was the day’s winner in the “my sentiments exactly!” category.
This horse caught my eye at Over the Fence. They weren’t yet open, so it’s a photo through the fence.
I read recently that this business is for sale as the owners are ready to retire. This is a wonderful place to shop. I hope it stays as great in the future.
I recently had lunch with friends at Alder Wood Bistro. It was one of the first perfect weather days we’ve had this summer and the outdoor patio was ideal. Lunch was great. Dessert was better still. Bliss, in fact. Chocolate bliss, one of their signature sweets.
Shaker lemon pie was also on the menu, also a winner.
The patio area is shaded by two enormous cherry trees and landscaped with edibles that are used in the kitchen. A wonderful spot for a good time with friends.
The temporary former location of the Sequim Farmer’s Market has taken on a new life. “Whimsy Park” is something of a popup park that has transformed a previously bare lot on Washington Street. A mural that was incomplete several months ago is now enhancing a space with picnic tables, a small stage, and straw bale seating.
Landscaping has been installed and wood chips soften the look of formerly bare soil. The space is inviting, colorful, and far more welcoming than it previously was.
Today is the second and last day of the Dungeness Bonsai Society annual bonsai fest, its 41st. If you’re local and would like to walk through a miniature forest of trees as art, it’s worth a trip to the Sequim Pioneer Park. The Satsuki Azalea above, over 20 years old, is one of the showiest examples of the art.
Bonsai artists confine trees in small pots and manipulate them through pruning and shaping. The effect, over time, is to create a gorgeous miniature tree.
This Japanese garden juniper is from 20 to 25 years old. Its owner began training its growth habits in 1994. This is a discipline of great patience.
There are more than 50 trees on display today, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The park is located at 387 East Washington Street.