Well, we didn't make it to Harvest House for my mom's birthday like I had planned, so Adam and I decided we would go by ourselves the following weekend. It was the perfect way to wind down after a week of back-to-school meetings and classroom preparation and an excellent jump-start to our favorite weekend in Waterville... fair weekend!
As soon as we stepped on the property we were greeted eagerly by Chef Valerie and Keith, the proprietor, "Welcome! Come in, come in, let me show you around!" The old farmhouse has been beautifully renovated and is packed full of beautiful paintings by featured artists Don Nutt and Michelle Soderstrom and stunning photography by Keith himself.
The dining atmosphere was cozy and social. While we were there we met some awesome people and had great conversations over local wine and a fantastic fall-off-the-bone rib dinner. We were absolutely stuffed to the brim when we left and were thrilled to have found such a gem mere blocks from our home.
We spent most of the rest of the weekend at the fair, browsing the exhibits, petting the animals, cheering excitedly at the rodeo/horse races and eating way too much fair food. Pronto pups, Wheat Wives cinnamon rolls, elephant ears and nacho supremes; I'm going to have to eat nothing but carrots and celery for a week to make up for it!
My favorite quote of the weekend: "Well, uh... It looks like we've got a no-score for the tractor driver."
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Harvest House
I know I've said it before, but seriously, in a town this small, you'd think I would know just about everything, but It is amazing how much I miss!
One day in June, when Adam and I were in the middle of our Couch to 5k running program, I decided to alter my usual "perimeter of town" route and headed down Rainier for a little change of scenery. I passed a home, which I had admired many times for its secluded yard and rosy hedge, but for the first time I noticed a sign that read "Harvest House Art Gallery and Supper Club." I found it a little curious because, honestly, I could have sworn that sign wasn't there before! I remember thinking, "What is a supper club? There's an art gallery there? How on Earth did I miss that? I wonder if the people who live there are artists. I wonder if it's a restaurant or a members only club." I made a mental note to ask someone about it and then completely forgot.
Last week, a Wenatchee friend called me, wondering about a restaurant in Waterville that some of her friends had visited. They said they had sat out on a lovely porch and were served warm bread. Confused, I asked, "Are you sure they were in Waterville? I mean, there are some really awesome restaurants up here but the porch thing has me stumped..."
The next day an idea dawned on me, "What if she was talking about that house down the street?" and a with a quick "fine dining Waterville, WA" google search, I had my answer.
The website I found answered all of the questions I had forgotten I wanted to ask: "Housed in a century-old farmhouse located just within the town limits, Chef Valerie Gray will serve you a feast of true down-home style cooking with a gourmet flare... Treat yourself to a changing art exhibit and music from respected artists while you dine family-style in our main dining hall or privately in one of two smaller dining rooms. Reserve the entire house for your special occasion or the main dining room or the yard!"
I am excited to check this place out! I'll admit, I'm a little ashamed that I didn't know it was there, especially since someone in Wenatchee had to tip me off! This weekend my mom is visiting for her birthday. I think we'll take her to Harvest House!
One day in June, when Adam and I were in the middle of our Couch to 5k running program, I decided to alter my usual "perimeter of town" route and headed down Rainier for a little change of scenery. I passed a home, which I had admired many times for its secluded yard and rosy hedge, but for the first time I noticed a sign that read "Harvest House Art Gallery and Supper Club." I found it a little curious because, honestly, I could have sworn that sign wasn't there before! I remember thinking, "What is a supper club? There's an art gallery there? How on Earth did I miss that? I wonder if the people who live there are artists. I wonder if it's a restaurant or a members only club." I made a mental note to ask someone about it and then completely forgot.
Last week, a Wenatchee friend called me, wondering about a restaurant in Waterville that some of her friends had visited. They said they had sat out on a lovely porch and were served warm bread. Confused, I asked, "Are you sure they were in Waterville? I mean, there are some really awesome restaurants up here but the porch thing has me stumped..."
The next day an idea dawned on me, "What if she was talking about that house down the street?" and a with a quick "fine dining Waterville, WA" google search, I had my answer.
The website I found answered all of the questions I had forgotten I wanted to ask: "Housed in a century-old farmhouse located just within the town limits, Chef Valerie Gray will serve you a feast of true down-home style cooking with a gourmet flare... Treat yourself to a changing art exhibit and music from respected artists while you dine family-style in our main dining hall or privately in one of two smaller dining rooms. Reserve the entire house for your special occasion or the main dining room or the yard!"
I am excited to check this place out! I'll admit, I'm a little ashamed that I didn't know it was there, especially since someone in Wenatchee had to tip me off! This weekend my mom is visiting for her birthday. I think we'll take her to Harvest House!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Kayaking Fun!
Adam and I learned recently that boat launch fees only actually apply to those who actually have to launch their boats from trailers. It seemed like that should be the case but we weren't completely sure. We've always been careful to find places with shallow shorelines to launch our kayaks because we couldn't justify paying a fee just to walk our boats into the water.
Yesterday we launched from the park in Orondo for the first time. What a gorgeous place to kayak! The water is nice and still if you're looking for a slow, leisurely paddle and there are a lot of shallow areas, perfect for cooling your feet or taking a swim.
The mouth of the Entiat River is a really fun place to explore. There are several small inlets which are inaccessible to larger boats and filled with wildlife. We saw herons, ducks, fish and thousands of colorful dragonflies. We saw two snakes, one swimming and the other dangling from a hawk's talons, and a painted turtle which we tried, unsuccessfully, to sneak up on. Unfortunately, we didn't catch a glimpse of any furry creatures this time. I was really hoping to run into a river otter. We suspect that it may have been a little too hot for them to be out and about. Maybe next time!
Yesterday we launched from the park in Orondo for the first time. What a gorgeous place to kayak! The water is nice and still if you're looking for a slow, leisurely paddle and there are a lot of shallow areas, perfect for cooling your feet or taking a swim.
The mouth of the Entiat River is a really fun place to explore. There are several small inlets which are inaccessible to larger boats and filled with wildlife. We saw herons, ducks, fish and thousands of colorful dragonflies. We saw two snakes, one swimming and the other dangling from a hawk's talons, and a painted turtle which we tried, unsuccessfully, to sneak up on. Unfortunately, we didn't catch a glimpse of any furry creatures this time. I was really hoping to run into a river otter. We suspect that it may have been a little too hot for them to be out and about. Maybe next time!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Remember the Quiet
The other day I realized that I've become so accustomed to my Waterville surroundings that I've nearly forgotten what "noisy" really is. I feel pestered when the little neighbor dog has a barking fit and I become grumpy when a car drives by brandishing an obnoxious muffler modification.
I'm not sure what brought me to my senses, but I was compelled to recall what it was like to live on one of the busiest intersections in the middle of Wenatchee; the constant buzz of traffic noise, the booming music from the club next door or being startled awake from the sound of a Chelan Avenue street race.
Then I remembered our first night here in Waterville. The quiet was deafening. For the first time in years, the only thing distracting me from falling sleep was the ringing in my ears.
Living here has really helped me to learn to "stop and smell the roses." Now I just need to remind myself to stop and listen to the quiet.
I'm not sure what brought me to my senses, but I was compelled to recall what it was like to live on one of the busiest intersections in the middle of Wenatchee; the constant buzz of traffic noise, the booming music from the club next door or being startled awake from the sound of a Chelan Avenue street race.
Then I remembered our first night here in Waterville. The quiet was deafening. For the first time in years, the only thing distracting me from falling sleep was the ringing in my ears.
Living here has really helped me to learn to "stop and smell the roses." Now I just need to remind myself to stop and listen to the quiet.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Demolition Derby 2011
Once again, the long awaited Waterville Demolition Derby and Fireworks Celebration, an event I look forward to every year, didn't disappoint, although the crowd was uncharacteristically slow to enliven. It may have had something to do with a lack of cheesy jokes coming from the announcer's booth or perhaps it was the fact that the evening began with a semi-enthusiastic "yee-haw" contest, which all of the contestants ended up winning.
The overall enthusiasm around us increased only slightly during the "Best Lookin' Car" contest. I always get a kick out of this event because none of the cars are necessarily what you would call "appealing." This year's hilarity was intensified, though, by the flagman who had dressed himself to the hilt in a pink three-piece suit, complete with a matching pink bowler hat adorned with a feather.
The orange 76 team usually dominates this contest, however, this year, the 76 car was looking especially battered. As it, and the other derby-worn adversaries, proudly limped onto the track, two new competitors stole the stage. Number 111 was brightly painted in a Grape Crush theme and Number 3 was navy blue with fancy breast cancer awareness decorations. Both cars really stood out, but the Grape Crush team managed to lure the crowd with its shiny purpleness and successfully bribed its way, with purple tee shirts and cans of Grape Crush, to an easy upset win.
The racing portion of the derby seemed to run much more smoothly this year, with a lot less down time, between races which I think really helped to wake up the crowd. The track wasn't lacking in mishaps, however.
Right off the bat, Whisker Biscuit was deemed DOA and had to be hauled off the track by the front-loader. Number 12, whose team struggled with overheating issues last year, was violently eliminated in the third race by a massive station wagon. Number 3, the breast cancer awareness car was forcefully rear-ended in race number five after having stalled itself out of the lead, and the 0 car created its own front-bumper obstacle course in race number six.
After several races, huge ruts had formed on the corners which was hurling the cars into comical, uncontrolled bouncing fits. One of my favorites, the big green Blazer, Number 84, was especially silly looking as its tiny rear tires caused it to hobble around the corners like a frightened three-legged dog.
Overall the racing seemed much more agressive this year. I'm not sure everyone was following the rules but it was exciting! People were broadsiding left and right, pushing their victims sideways into the tire piles. Sparks were flying, smoke was billowing, cars were spinning out and stalling everywhere. Even the powder puff race, which is usually a little more demure, was intense. I was beginning to wonder if any of the cars would survive for the final derby.
Not only did they survive, but it was the longest demolition derby I've seen yet! The first big hit was fantastic, although catastrophic for the breast cancer awareness car. The collision wiped out its trunk with a crowd-rousing crunch and hilariously pug-faced the rear-end of the car that hit it. Whisker Biscuit was eliminated in the first 30 seconds and number 214 began precariously coughing flames. Somehow, number 85 managed to flip number 222, one of the huge wagons, on its side, which prompted a red flag and wild cheers from the crowd. Once emergency personnel had determined that the driver was ok, the derby was on again, this time with only a few cars, barely hanging on. In the end it was 711 and 214 who, after playing a short game of cat and mouse and attempting a few feeble hits, finally had to call it a tie.
The finale, of course, was the fireworks celebration which was wonderful as always. Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA" was the musical highlight for me. I know that some people say that it is overplayed and has become cliché, but it brings tears to my eyes whenever I hear it and it will always be one of my favorite patriotic songs.
Thanks again, Waterville, for a fun and entertaining July 3rd.
The overall enthusiasm around us increased only slightly during the "Best Lookin' Car" contest. I always get a kick out of this event because none of the cars are necessarily what you would call "appealing." This year's hilarity was intensified, though, by the flagman who had dressed himself to the hilt in a pink three-piece suit, complete with a matching pink bowler hat adorned with a feather.
The orange 76 team usually dominates this contest, however, this year, the 76 car was looking especially battered. As it, and the other derby-worn adversaries, proudly limped onto the track, two new competitors stole the stage. Number 111 was brightly painted in a Grape Crush theme and Number 3 was navy blue with fancy breast cancer awareness decorations. Both cars really stood out, but the Grape Crush team managed to lure the crowd with its shiny purpleness and successfully bribed its way, with purple tee shirts and cans of Grape Crush, to an easy upset win.
The racing portion of the derby seemed to run much more smoothly this year, with a lot less down time, between races which I think really helped to wake up the crowd. The track wasn't lacking in mishaps, however.
Right off the bat, Whisker Biscuit was deemed DOA and had to be hauled off the track by the front-loader. Number 12, whose team struggled with overheating issues last year, was violently eliminated in the third race by a massive station wagon. Number 3, the breast cancer awareness car was forcefully rear-ended in race number five after having stalled itself out of the lead, and the 0 car created its own front-bumper obstacle course in race number six.
After several races, huge ruts had formed on the corners which was hurling the cars into comical, uncontrolled bouncing fits. One of my favorites, the big green Blazer, Number 84, was especially silly looking as its tiny rear tires caused it to hobble around the corners like a frightened three-legged dog.
Overall the racing seemed much more agressive this year. I'm not sure everyone was following the rules but it was exciting! People were broadsiding left and right, pushing their victims sideways into the tire piles. Sparks were flying, smoke was billowing, cars were spinning out and stalling everywhere. Even the powder puff race, which is usually a little more demure, was intense. I was beginning to wonder if any of the cars would survive for the final derby.
Not only did they survive, but it was the longest demolition derby I've seen yet! The first big hit was fantastic, although catastrophic for the breast cancer awareness car. The collision wiped out its trunk with a crowd-rousing crunch and hilariously pug-faced the rear-end of the car that hit it. Whisker Biscuit was eliminated in the first 30 seconds and number 214 began precariously coughing flames. Somehow, number 85 managed to flip number 222, one of the huge wagons, on its side, which prompted a red flag and wild cheers from the crowd. Once emergency personnel had determined that the driver was ok, the derby was on again, this time with only a few cars, barely hanging on. In the end it was 711 and 214 who, after playing a short game of cat and mouse and attempting a few feeble hits, finally had to call it a tie.
The finale, of course, was the fireworks celebration which was wonderful as always. Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA" was the musical highlight for me. I know that some people say that it is overplayed and has become cliché, but it brings tears to my eyes whenever I hear it and it will always be one of my favorite patriotic songs.
Thanks again, Waterville, for a fun and entertaining July 3rd.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Runners in Waterville
Recreational running. I could never see the point of it. Why on Earth would someone want to run, just to run?!
Now, running to catch a Frisbee, running in a soccer game, running to get away from someone; these I understood, but running for... running?
Seven weeks ago, I made a spontaneous and out of character decision to start a nine week running program called Couch to 5k. I don't know what possessed me. Perhaps it was the fact that many of my friends were, or were becoming, avid runners, or that my sister kept triumphantly boasting about successful 10+ mile runs on Facebook. Whatever the reason, I had resolved that it was time for me to overcome my distaste for running, and over the past seven weeks, something miraculous has happened. I have become a runner. Adam still can't believe it.
I actually look forward to our run days. I enjoy greeting various neighborhood animals, waving back to friendly drivers and, as our distance increases, discovering roads and homes in Waterville that we haven't seen before (even after 3+ years!)
It is funny that it only takes about 25 minutes for me to lap the entire town. It won't be long before we'll need to venture outside of the city limits in order to get a change of scenery.
Now, running to catch a Frisbee, running in a soccer game, running to get away from someone; these I understood, but running for... running?
Seven weeks ago, I made a spontaneous and out of character decision to start a nine week running program called Couch to 5k. I don't know what possessed me. Perhaps it was the fact that many of my friends were, or were becoming, avid runners, or that my sister kept triumphantly boasting about successful 10+ mile runs on Facebook. Whatever the reason, I had resolved that it was time for me to overcome my distaste for running, and over the past seven weeks, something miraculous has happened. I have become a runner. Adam still can't believe it.
I actually look forward to our run days. I enjoy greeting various neighborhood animals, waving back to friendly drivers and, as our distance increases, discovering roads and homes in Waterville that we haven't seen before (even after 3+ years!)
It is funny that it only takes about 25 minutes for me to lap the entire town. It won't be long before we'll need to venture outside of the city limits in order to get a change of scenery.
Spring!
Spring has sprung at last, although it seemed as if it took a little longer this year for the plateau to get the message. I'm always amazed at the difference in climate between Waterville and Wenatchee, despite the fact that the towns are so close together.
In March, as I waited for the final patches of snow to melt away from my garden, my friends in Wenatchee were already tilling and preparing to plant. In early May, Wenatchee's trees were leafy and green and the Spring flowers had fully bloomed but in Waterville the trees and gardens were still relatively bare. The delayed transition makes for a fascinating drive through Pine Canyon, where you can experience a virtual season change in a matter of minutes.
I'm happy to finally be able to kiss Winter goodbye. My vegetable garden is planted and has begun to sprout. My lilies have spread, my roses are growing and most of my lilacs actually survived the snow! (and the snowmobiles!)
In March, as I waited for the final patches of snow to melt away from my garden, my friends in Wenatchee were already tilling and preparing to plant. In early May, Wenatchee's trees were leafy and green and the Spring flowers had fully bloomed but in Waterville the trees and gardens were still relatively bare. The delayed transition makes for a fascinating drive through Pine Canyon, where you can experience a virtual season change in a matter of minutes.
I'm happy to finally be able to kiss Winter goodbye. My vegetable garden is planted and has begun to sprout. My lilies have spread, my roses are growing and most of my lilacs actually survived the snow! (and the snowmobiles!)
The Blue Rooster Bakery
Last month, Adam and I took a lazy Saturday walk to the Blue Rooster Bakery to get some coffee and try out their breakfast. When we arrived there were no other customers in the building so everything was very quiet except for some very nice finger style guitar music playing in the background.
I entered tentatively, hoping that they were, indeed, open and failed miserably in trying to act like I knew what I was doing. I was worrying about silly things like, "Do we sit down or order first?" and "Do we pay when we order or wait until we're done eating?" so I'm sure I came across as a real dufus. Nevertheless, we managed to order coffee and a couple of Country Breakfast Panini from Cathy before we awkwardly retreated to the west wall to view the fantastic artwork which was on display.
The panini were so yummy! They came to us so hot that we could barely handle them and they were made with light, fluffy homemade bread that melted in our mouths. The coffee was fantastic too! I can honestly say that it is the best cup of coffee I've had since I switched to decaf two years ago. Bruce told me that he makes all of the decaf with something called an Aeropress, which according to him can make even ordinary coffee taste great.
As we were leaving, for some reason, I felt compelled to try one of their 'famous' maple bars. (Not that I needed one after the huge sandwich I had just inhaled.)
Now, before I continue I should make something clear: I have never liked maple bars. They're the only item in a doughnut box that I won't touch unless they're all that's left and I'm feeling particularly desperate. I think in this particular instance I must have been inspired by another customer who came in and quickly bought out all of the maple bars in the display case. Cathy had just begun frosting a new batch as we were finishing our coffee and I couldn't resist.
I planned to save the bar for later, but as we walked down the street, I made the mistake of tasting just a little corner of the frosting. The next thing I knew, the entire bar was gone and I was licking my fingers, wishing I had another! It was nothing like any maple bar I'd had before. The doughnut itself was not greasy at all! The frosting had a smooth, buttery texture and a light, vanilla-like flavor which was quite different from the hard, fake-o maple flavored frosting I was used to choking down.
I tell you what, Adam's going to have to hold me back next time we visit so I don't make a complete pig of myself.
I entered tentatively, hoping that they were, indeed, open and failed miserably in trying to act like I knew what I was doing. I was worrying about silly things like, "Do we sit down or order first?" and "Do we pay when we order or wait until we're done eating?" so I'm sure I came across as a real dufus. Nevertheless, we managed to order coffee and a couple of Country Breakfast Panini from Cathy before we awkwardly retreated to the west wall to view the fantastic artwork which was on display.
The panini were so yummy! They came to us so hot that we could barely handle them and they were made with light, fluffy homemade bread that melted in our mouths. The coffee was fantastic too! I can honestly say that it is the best cup of coffee I've had since I switched to decaf two years ago. Bruce told me that he makes all of the decaf with something called an Aeropress, which according to him can make even ordinary coffee taste great.
As we were leaving, for some reason, I felt compelled to try one of their 'famous' maple bars. (Not that I needed one after the huge sandwich I had just inhaled.)
Now, before I continue I should make something clear: I have never liked maple bars. They're the only item in a doughnut box that I won't touch unless they're all that's left and I'm feeling particularly desperate. I think in this particular instance I must have been inspired by another customer who came in and quickly bought out all of the maple bars in the display case. Cathy had just begun frosting a new batch as we were finishing our coffee and I couldn't resist.
I planned to save the bar for later, but as we walked down the street, I made the mistake of tasting just a little corner of the frosting. The next thing I knew, the entire bar was gone and I was licking my fingers, wishing I had another! It was nothing like any maple bar I'd had before. The doughnut itself was not greasy at all! The frosting had a smooth, buttery texture and a light, vanilla-like flavor which was quite different from the hard, fake-o maple flavored frosting I was used to choking down.
I tell you what, Adam's going to have to hold me back next time we visit so I don't make a complete pig of myself.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Waterville Online
Being a teacher, one of my primary curiosities upon moving to Waterville, of course, was the school. I remember Googling "Waterville School" and finding numerous listings for a school in Maine but it took a bit of searching to finally happen upon a website for the "Waterville School" in Waterville, WA. The website was very dated in appearance and I noticed that nothing new had been posted since 2002! (We moved to Waterville in 2007.)
I immediately contacted the superintendent to offer my services to redesign and maintain the school website and I was told that my timing was perfect because they had just been discussing their need for an up-to-date website. I have been the school webmaster ever since!
It didn't take long before I was contacted by a local man, Harold Badten, who had his own website in dyer need of a webmaster. I have been maintaining and slowly redesigning his website since 2008. "Waterville School Alumni Memories" is a fascinating collection of historic (and some not-so-historic) photographs and stories about the Waterville School and school alumni. Take a look if you've never seen it! http://waterville-alumni.com.
If you're already familiar with the alumni site, check out the new "Historic Waterville" file ( http://waterville-alumni.com/historicwaterville) which includes photographs from the personal album of Chester (C.M.) Lockwood, whose photos you may have seen in the local museum.
I immediately contacted the superintendent to offer my services to redesign and maintain the school website and I was told that my timing was perfect because they had just been discussing their need for an up-to-date website. I have been the school webmaster ever since!
It didn't take long before I was contacted by a local man, Harold Badten, who had his own website in dyer need of a webmaster. I have been maintaining and slowly redesigning his website since 2008. "Waterville School Alumni Memories" is a fascinating collection of historic (and some not-so-historic) photographs and stories about the Waterville School and school alumni. Take a look if you've never seen it! http://waterville-alumni.com.
If you're already familiar with the alumni site, check out the new "Historic Waterville" file ( http://waterville-alumni.com/historicwaterville) which includes photographs from the personal album of Chester (C.M.) Lockwood, whose photos you may have seen in the local museum.
Lights Out!
As many of you know, with an old home comes many quirks. One of the more annoying ones Adam and I deal with regularly is the fact that the upstairs bedrooms, the bathroom and the kitchen are wired to the same circuit breaker. We learned quickly which appliances can and cannot be used simultaneously.
For example: computer, microwave and toaster... poof! TV, microwave and hair dryer... poof!
Once, in a daring trial, we decided to use the toaster while the dishwasher was running! We turned the portable heater off and we made sure nothing was running upstairs. It seemed to be working fine! Then the refrigerator cycled on... poof!
Monday evening Adam was working on his computer and I was making a piece of toast when... poof! For a second I stood in the kitchen perplexed. "Seriously? Nothing else was turned on!"
It wasn't until I opened the circuit breaker panel, for the 100th time, and found that none of the switches had been tripped, that I realized it was an actual power outage. I heard on the radio that it was fairly widespread, but we were only without power for about 45 minutes.
A sincere thank you to our on-call power workers. I hope you know that you are appreciated.
For example: computer, microwave and toaster... poof! TV, microwave and hair dryer... poof!
Once, in a daring trial, we decided to use the toaster while the dishwasher was running! We turned the portable heater off and we made sure nothing was running upstairs. It seemed to be working fine! Then the refrigerator cycled on... poof!
Monday evening Adam was working on his computer and I was making a piece of toast when... poof! For a second I stood in the kitchen perplexed. "Seriously? Nothing else was turned on!"
It wasn't until I opened the circuit breaker panel, for the 100th time, and found that none of the switches had been tripped, that I realized it was an actual power outage. I heard on the radio that it was fairly widespread, but we were only without power for about 45 minutes.
A sincere thank you to our on-call power workers. I hope you know that you are appreciated.
Post Office Social Networking
I've been told that if you live in Waterville long enough, at some point you will run into every local resident in the post office. Three and a half years is not long enough to accomplish such a feat, but I have noticed that many faces are beginning to become familiar.
In Wenatchee, visiting the post office was never something I would have considered to be a warm and neighborly experience. The atmosphere there is cold and impersonal. Visitors rarely speak to one another and most seem to take care not to even look at the people around them.
In Waterville, though, the post office is essentially the social hub. It is the one place that everyone has to visit on a regular basis, which makes it far more than just a place to process mail. It is a place one can get the latest news on friends, family, politics and wheat farming. I think it's funny to see people standing together on the sidewalk, mail in hand, immersed in conversation with their cars still running beside them; evidence that they thought it was going be a quick trip in and out.
If you want to find out what's happening in Waterville, you need not go any further than the local post office!
In Wenatchee, visiting the post office was never something I would have considered to be a warm and neighborly experience. The atmosphere there is cold and impersonal. Visitors rarely speak to one another and most seem to take care not to even look at the people around them.
In Waterville, though, the post office is essentially the social hub. It is the one place that everyone has to visit on a regular basis, which makes it far more than just a place to process mail. It is a place one can get the latest news on friends, family, politics and wheat farming. I think it's funny to see people standing together on the sidewalk, mail in hand, immersed in conversation with their cars still running beside them; evidence that they thought it was going be a quick trip in and out.
If you want to find out what's happening in Waterville, you need not go any further than the local post office!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Sharing the Road
Spring is coming! Last week I wasn't too sure because the weather seemed a little confused, but the truth was confirmed upon my first encounter of the year with two Pine Canyon bicyclists.
I have to admit, I'm not a huge fan of bicyclists on the highway, (please, forgive me if you're one of them) especially a 60mph highway with twisting, blind corners. It's rather startling to round a corner and suddenly find that you're sharing a lane with a group of slow-moving pedalers.
I can't help but think that anyone choosing to ride that stretch of roadway must be a little crazy. Most Pine Canyon commuters are pretty sensible drivers, but I've witnessed a few corner cutters that would scare their reflectors off. Furthermore, I'm amazed that anyone would want to ride UP that hill! I appreciate the determination and perseverance that is required to accomplish such a feat. I, being a proud, over the shoulder, mountain, hike-a-biker, absolutely loathe the burn that accompanies the climb.
I want to wish all of you crazy bicyclists a happy spring. Here's to the beginning of the road-sharing season. May the motorists you encounter, including myself, be patient and polite and may the shoulders you ride upon be smooth.
I have to admit, I'm not a huge fan of bicyclists on the highway, (please, forgive me if you're one of them) especially a 60mph highway with twisting, blind corners. It's rather startling to round a corner and suddenly find that you're sharing a lane with a group of slow-moving pedalers.
I can't help but think that anyone choosing to ride that stretch of roadway must be a little crazy. Most Pine Canyon commuters are pretty sensible drivers, but I've witnessed a few corner cutters that would scare their reflectors off. Furthermore, I'm amazed that anyone would want to ride UP that hill! I appreciate the determination and perseverance that is required to accomplish such a feat. I, being a proud, over the shoulder, mountain, hike-a-biker, absolutely loathe the burn that accompanies the climb.
I want to wish all of you crazy bicyclists a happy spring. Here's to the beginning of the road-sharing season. May the motorists you encounter, including myself, be patient and polite and may the shoulders you ride upon be smooth.
College Memory
Yesterday I was digging around in my memory banks to recall the first time I heard about the little town of Waterville. I finally remembered that it was in 2001 or 2002, my final year at Central Washington University. I was browsing the internet, searching for music teaching jobs, and at that time the only opening listed in the state of Washington was a K-12 position in Waterville, WA.
Of course, I had never heard of the place so I asked around and managed to find three or four people who were "familiar" with Waterville. They informed me that it was a tiny town in the middle of nowhere and all of them said, in a nutshell, "Trust me, you do NOT want to live there." I took their advice and continued my job search elsewhere.
It wasn't very long before my dream job found me! I was hired by the Wenatchee School District in 2002 and I made my home in Wenatchee.
Four years later, Adam and I moved out to that "town in the middle of nowhere" which turned out to be closer to "somewhere" than we thought!
Of course, I had never heard of the place so I asked around and managed to find three or four people who were "familiar" with Waterville. They informed me that it was a tiny town in the middle of nowhere and all of them said, in a nutshell, "Trust me, you do NOT want to live there." I took their advice and continued my job search elsewhere.
It wasn't very long before my dream job found me! I was hired by the Wenatchee School District in 2002 and I made my home in Wenatchee.
Four years later, Adam and I moved out to that "town in the middle of nowhere" which turned out to be closer to "somewhere" than we thought!
Business Pondering
Adam and I talk a lot about the possibility of opening a business in Waterville. What kind of business might attract people to our town? What could the town could really use? What kind of business could benefit the outer-lying communities too? We don't take our discussions very seriously, though, because neither of us really feels like an entrepreneur and we have no idea where we'd find the time or the money to embark on such an endeavor.
Yesterday, we were excited to discover that someone else has jumped at the opportunity. According to the sign, Paradise Pizza is coming soon! I wonder if they'll be in direct competition with Knemeyers' pizza or if it will be something completely different?
I guess Adam and I can cross "u-bake pizza joint" off of our "business ponderings" list.
Yesterday, we were excited to discover that someone else has jumped at the opportunity. According to the sign, Paradise Pizza is coming soon! I wonder if they'll be in direct competition with Knemeyers' pizza or if it will be something completely different?
I guess Adam and I can cross "u-bake pizza joint" off of our "business ponderings" list.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Letter Response
I'd like to take the opportunity to respond to a letter I received this week and hopefully clarify my mission and purpose for writing this column.
The letter expressed concern that I have indicated a reluctance to explore Waterville assets such as the ski hill, grocery store, and restaurant options. This is certainly not the case, and I truly hope that nobody else has interpreted any of my column articles in that way.
First of all, for those of you who may be new to my column, I am writing from the perspective of someone who is living in a small town for the first time. One who never thought she'd move to a town so small and who brought with her many preconceived notions and misconceptions about small-town life.
Since moving to Waterville more than three years ago, I've developed a pride in this town and my hope is that, through this column, I can share with the locals my experiences and discoveries in a humorous way, while breaking down the assumptions and stereotypes, which I once held, for the benefit of readers living outside of Waterville.
In my article about the Waterville Family Grocer, I described how, at first, we avoided the store, having made poor assumptions based on small-town stereotypes, but we discovered that it was a actually a really great place to shop. Adam and I shop there frequently because it has just about everything we need and we love the fact that it is so close to home.
In my article about the Badger Mountain Ski hill, I expressed a fear of getting on skis after so many years, which is the primary reason I have avoided any and all ski areas. The intent of the article was to highlight the fact that we have such a fun recreational opportunity so close to home and to lament the fact that I've waited so long to try it out.
I've only written about one dining experience, the Shell Station, but that's not the only great restaurant meal we've enjoyed here in Waterville. Rest assured, there are more eating stories to be told.
There are so many things I have yet to discover about Waterville, not because I am reluctant to get involved or hesitant to support local business, but rather because of time restrictions. We live in Waterville but work in Wenatchee. We wake at 3am and try to be in bed by 7pm.
Nevertheless, I'll continue to write about my experiences and musings as I have them and I'll do my best to represent Waterville well. If you are a new "New Local" reader, I invite you to visit my blog and read about my journey from the beginning.
The letter expressed concern that I have indicated a reluctance to explore Waterville assets such as the ski hill, grocery store, and restaurant options. This is certainly not the case, and I truly hope that nobody else has interpreted any of my column articles in that way.
First of all, for those of you who may be new to my column, I am writing from the perspective of someone who is living in a small town for the first time. One who never thought she'd move to a town so small and who brought with her many preconceived notions and misconceptions about small-town life.
Since moving to Waterville more than three years ago, I've developed a pride in this town and my hope is that, through this column, I can share with the locals my experiences and discoveries in a humorous way, while breaking down the assumptions and stereotypes, which I once held, for the benefit of readers living outside of Waterville.
In my article about the Waterville Family Grocer, I described how, at first, we avoided the store, having made poor assumptions based on small-town stereotypes, but we discovered that it was a actually a really great place to shop. Adam and I shop there frequently because it has just about everything we need and we love the fact that it is so close to home.
In my article about the Badger Mountain Ski hill, I expressed a fear of getting on skis after so many years, which is the primary reason I have avoided any and all ski areas. The intent of the article was to highlight the fact that we have such a fun recreational opportunity so close to home and to lament the fact that I've waited so long to try it out.
I've only written about one dining experience, the Shell Station, but that's not the only great restaurant meal we've enjoyed here in Waterville. Rest assured, there are more eating stories to be told.
There are so many things I have yet to discover about Waterville, not because I am reluctant to get involved or hesitant to support local business, but rather because of time restrictions. We live in Waterville but work in Wenatchee. We wake at 3am and try to be in bed by 7pm.
Nevertheless, I'll continue to write about my experiences and musings as I have them and I'll do my best to represent Waterville well. If you are a new "New Local" reader, I invite you to visit my blog and read about my journey from the beginning.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Have you been to the Waterville Hotel?
It was three years before I visited the Waterville Hotel, despite the fact that it is less than a block from my home.
My mom and my grandparents planned a trip to Waterville for my birthday in October. "GM" and "GP" knew that Adam and I only had one guest room so after I assured them that it wasn't, dirty, roach-filled or creepy, they decided to give the old hotel a try.
What a fascinating old building! Walking up the front porch steps felt like stepping back in time. The lobby is filled with historical photos, period pieces, antique furniture, and original wood doors and trim. There are old radiators, wood floors, live plants and a huge fig tree in the upper stairwell.
All of the rooms are uniquely decorated, including old iron bed frames (with comfy modern mattresses), '30s style sinks in the bedroom areas and claw-foot bathtubs. There's even a "shower down the hall," which I thought was pretty hilarious.
The place is so authentically old looking that it's almost surprising that they accept credit cards and have WIFI access. We were especially thankful for the WIFI because GM had to be able to play her iPad Scrabble games!
It's nice to know that if we happen to have extra guests, we don't have to offer them the couch or send them to Wenatchee. If you haven't been inside, I think it is about time you take a look!
My mom and my grandparents planned a trip to Waterville for my birthday in October. "GM" and "GP" knew that Adam and I only had one guest room so after I assured them that it wasn't, dirty, roach-filled or creepy, they decided to give the old hotel a try.
What a fascinating old building! Walking up the front porch steps felt like stepping back in time. The lobby is filled with historical photos, period pieces, antique furniture, and original wood doors and trim. There are old radiators, wood floors, live plants and a huge fig tree in the upper stairwell.
All of the rooms are uniquely decorated, including old iron bed frames (with comfy modern mattresses), '30s style sinks in the bedroom areas and claw-foot bathtubs. There's even a "shower down the hall," which I thought was pretty hilarious.
The place is so authentically old looking that it's almost surprising that they accept credit cards and have WIFI access. We were especially thankful for the WIFI because GM had to be able to play her iPad Scrabble games!
It's nice to know that if we happen to have extra guests, we don't have to offer them the couch or send them to Wenatchee. If you haven't been inside, I think it is about time you take a look!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Badger Mountain Treasure
Adam and I talk about hitting the ski slopes every year but, for some reason we never manage to get ourselves up to the Ridge. He has never skied or snowboarded and I haven't been on a pair of skis since I was 15. We've been considering learning how to snowboard together but getting started is a little intimidating.
We were aware that there was a little ski area on Badger Mountain but we didn't give it much consideration. We made the assumption that skiers had to hike their gear up the hill and we couldn't imagine that all that work would be worth a five-second downhill run.
Two summers ago, out of curiosity, we took a bike ride to the ski area to see just how small it really was and we were surprised to discover that it isn't just a bunny slope! There's actually a pretty good sized hill with rope-tows and even a little lodge! It looked like a great place for us to get started and we decided that we should definitely give it a try.
A year and a half later, we still haven't visited the Badger Mountain Ski Hill.
A few weeks ago, my dad called from Westport to tell me that he had heard about this great little ski area near Waterville. He had seen it on King 5's Evening Magazine and went on and on about how even he might consider skiing there. (He had a bad "human luge" incident at White Pass in the early '90s.)
As he described what he had just watched, I started feeling a little sheepish. Here we have a quaint, home-town, mini ski "resort," worthy of mention on the Seattle news, sitting practially in our back yard and we've never bothered to try it out! Unfortunately, the snow melted, prompting the closure of the ski area. It doesn't look like we're going to get anymore snow, so we'll probably have to chalk this up as another missed opportunity. Maybe next year!
You can watch the Evening Magazine feature on the King 5 website:
http://www.king5.com/on-tv/evening-magazine/Badger-Mountain-113078914.html
We were aware that there was a little ski area on Badger Mountain but we didn't give it much consideration. We made the assumption that skiers had to hike their gear up the hill and we couldn't imagine that all that work would be worth a five-second downhill run.
Two summers ago, out of curiosity, we took a bike ride to the ski area to see just how small it really was and we were surprised to discover that it isn't just a bunny slope! There's actually a pretty good sized hill with rope-tows and even a little lodge! It looked like a great place for us to get started and we decided that we should definitely give it a try.
A year and a half later, we still haven't visited the Badger Mountain Ski Hill.
A few weeks ago, my dad called from Westport to tell me that he had heard about this great little ski area near Waterville. He had seen it on King 5's Evening Magazine and went on and on about how even he might consider skiing there. (He had a bad "human luge" incident at White Pass in the early '90s.)
As he described what he had just watched, I started feeling a little sheepish. Here we have a quaint, home-town, mini ski "resort," worthy of mention on the Seattle news, sitting practially in our back yard and we've never bothered to try it out! Unfortunately, the snow melted, prompting the closure of the ski area. It doesn't look like we're going to get anymore snow, so we'll probably have to chalk this up as another missed opportunity. Maybe next year!
You can watch the Evening Magazine feature on the King 5 website:
http://www.king5.com/on-tv/evening-magazine/Badger-Mountain-113078914.html
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Plan ahead or suffer the gas bill!
Something I've learned since moving to Waterville: 40 minutes is a long drive when you forget something. It doesn't happen very often but that doesn't make it any less frustrating. I have implemented some strategies in an effort to counteract my absent-mindedness, such as sending myself e-mail reminders, creating electronic calendar alarms, writing notes on my hand and even placing things I need to remember in the middle of the doorway. Somehow, though, I still manage to forget important things and usually, by the time I notice, it is too late to go back home.
I've gone to work without my computer, had to attend rehearsals without my clarinet and/or music, driven all the way to Wenatchee without my purse and on more than one occasion, I've forgotten to unplug the iron.
Last week I had a completely new forgetful experience. Adam and I were kicking back at home, enjoying a lazy day off. We had a friend over for some computer games when I received a call. Caller: "Hi Angela! Are you coming?" Me: "Uh... what time is it?" (stalling) Caller: "It's about 4:10." At that moment it dawned on me. I had a rehearsal at 4:00! I was already late! Me: "Oh my gosh, I'm still in Waterville!! I'll be there in... uh... about 40 minutes!"
I can only assume that there are other commuters out there who can relate to this situation. I can't be the only one who's had to make a "quick" trip home from Wenatchee to grab something. Thank goodness Adam is nothing like me or there would most definitely be a lot more unnecessary commutes. Even this morning he had to remind me to grab my instrument so I could teach a lesson this afternoon. I think I'm hopeless.
I've gone to work without my computer, had to attend rehearsals without my clarinet and/or music, driven all the way to Wenatchee without my purse and on more than one occasion, I've forgotten to unplug the iron.
Last week I had a completely new forgetful experience. Adam and I were kicking back at home, enjoying a lazy day off. We had a friend over for some computer games when I received a call. Caller: "Hi Angela! Are you coming?" Me: "Uh... what time is it?" (stalling) Caller: "It's about 4:10." At that moment it dawned on me. I had a rehearsal at 4:00! I was already late! Me: "Oh my gosh, I'm still in Waterville!! I'll be there in... uh... about 40 minutes!"
I can only assume that there are other commuters out there who can relate to this situation. I can't be the only one who's had to make a "quick" trip home from Wenatchee to grab something. Thank goodness Adam is nothing like me or there would most definitely be a lot more unnecessary commutes. Even this morning he had to remind me to grab my instrument so I could teach a lesson this afternoon. I think I'm hopeless.
Where's my snow?
I'm a little bummed out that the beautiful two feet of snow which had been covering Waterville since November, has dwindled so much so quickly! It is beginning to look like Spring and I'm not quite ready to let go of Winter.
I look at weather websites every day, hoping to see a glimmer of snow in the distance, but it really doesn't seem like it's going to happen. An old-timer told me recently not to worry. This is apparently referred to as "the January thaw" and it doesn't mean that winter is over. He said confidently, "there will be more snow."
I sure hope he's right. The warm weather has been very nice, I'll admit, but I could use just one more good snow.
Anyone with me? I bet those snowmobilers are!
I look at weather websites every day, hoping to see a glimmer of snow in the distance, but it really doesn't seem like it's going to happen. An old-timer told me recently not to worry. This is apparently referred to as "the January thaw" and it doesn't mean that winter is over. He said confidently, "there will be more snow."
I sure hope he's right. The warm weather has been very nice, I'll admit, but I could use just one more good snow.
Anyone with me? I bet those snowmobilers are!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Starry Night
A couple of weeks ago, a friend of mine told me that she just recently saw the Milky Way for the first time. It was a late-night trip over Highway 2 and she pulled over somewhere near Waterville to catch a glimpse of the stars away from the city lights. It is something I realize I take for granted having lived most of my life "out of town," but her story reminded me that I need to remember to look up when the sky is clear.
Last Friday night was one of the clearest evenings we've had in a long time. The view of the stars was breathtaking, especially as we drove through pitch-black Pine Canyon. When we reached the top, the sky looked huge, unobstructed by clouds or mountains, and the moon was just a sliver near the horizon.
It was too frigid that night to stay out and look for satellites and constellations, but summer will be here before we know it. I love the snow, and I'm not ready for winter to leave us yet, but I have to admit, I am starting to look forward to some long, warm summer evenings under the big, starry sky of Waterville.
Last Friday night was one of the clearest evenings we've had in a long time. The view of the stars was breathtaking, especially as we drove through pitch-black Pine Canyon. When we reached the top, the sky looked huge, unobstructed by clouds or mountains, and the moon was just a sliver near the horizon.
It was too frigid that night to stay out and look for satellites and constellations, but summer will be here before we know it. I love the snow, and I'm not ready for winter to leave us yet, but I have to admit, I am starting to look forward to some long, warm summer evenings under the big, starry sky of Waterville.
Small-Town Store
For such a tiny town, we have a pretty excellent grocery store. When we first moved to Waterville, we were careful to do all of our shopping in Wenatchee. We avoided the local store for quite some time, assuming that the prices would be unreasonably jacked-up and that the selection would be meager. I was also harboring bad memories of a rancid box of Cheez-Its I once purchased from a small-town convenience store.
One day out of desperation (I think I forgot to buy eggs) Adam and I took the grueling two-block walk to the Waterville Family Grocer. We were actually amazed at how large the store was; it looks so much smaller from the outside. We were also surprised at the large selection. They have a little bit of everything and all of the food, including the crackers, is nice and fresh! The store is clean, the staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable.
They recently modernized, adding scanners to the check stands, but I love how they maintain an old fashioned, rural store feel, maintaining individual charge accounts on hand-written manila cards.
We're so glad we finally gave our local store a chance. Just another reminder to us that not all small-town stereotypes apply to Waterville.
One day out of desperation (I think I forgot to buy eggs) Adam and I took the grueling two-block walk to the Waterville Family Grocer. We were actually amazed at how large the store was; it looks so much smaller from the outside. We were also surprised at the large selection. They have a little bit of everything and all of the food, including the crackers, is nice and fresh! The store is clean, the staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable.
They recently modernized, adding scanners to the check stands, but I love how they maintain an old fashioned, rural store feel, maintaining individual charge accounts on hand-written manila cards.
We're so glad we finally gave our local store a chance. Just another reminder to us that not all small-town stereotypes apply to Waterville.
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