The Woodmark Hotel's Bin Vivant has gone out on its own and moved upstairs to the space previously occupied by Yarrow Bay Grill  at 1270 Carillon Point.  The new wine bar and restaurant is called 'bin on the lake' and feels a bit more hip and relaxed (and also more affordable) than its predecessor.

Steve and I went to the opening party last week and enjoyed trying some of the food created by Chef Scott Lents (previously of The Barking Frog and Spazzo).  Be sure to try the Prawns & Peppernata and the Smoked Beef Brisket Sliders! You can still choose whether you'd like to order some small plates or select from their entrees.  Bin even moved their super cool wine dispensing display that they had before which allows them to offer over 80 wines by the glass.  There are two happy hours you should know about: 4-6pm and 9-close. Be sure to comment here after you've had a chance to try it........... ~j

Really, that's what it's called!  "The Best Kept Secret" has been hiding from me up at 503 6th Street South (just north of Google's new campus) for the past year and a half.   Despite its discreet location, the contents of this store should not go unnoticed.  Here's the deal: this is a SAMPLE store, which means people that rep certain clothing lines (that sell to dept stores, etc) have samples that they use to show their product, which they get for wholesale prices.  When they are done with them, they may bring them here to be sold. So, everything in the store is the wholesale price (which is marked) PLUS you add on15%. What a deal!
There's typically only one of each item- women's samples are a sz 2-12 and men's are from M-XL. You'll find brands such as PJ Salvage, Nike, Tribal, Habitat, Cutter & Buck, Tommy Bahama, Keen, and Brighton.   There's a cute little backroom with some children's sizes newborn to 12 mos too.  And don't forget accessories; jewelry, socks, handbags (I couldn't resist a cute patent one), hats, scarves, etc. New things arrive daily and they have four sales a year- the next one is the day after Thanksgiving. They are open on Wednesday thru Saturday 10am-6pm.  Be on the lookout for a "50% off one item" coupon in your upcoming issue of Kirkland's Hometown Values, scheduled to hit your mailbox by October 13th (or also find it online!). You can contact The Best Kept Secret by emailing bestkeptsecret1@comcast.net or calling 425-822-6600. ~j

Be sure to tune in to the Food Network THIS SUNDAY October 4th at 9pm for the premiere of The Next Iron Chef.  As if we didn't already love Excecutive Chef and Owner Holly Smith for her Cafe Juanita cuisine, now she's about to be sprung into super foodie stardom.  With many national accolades such as the Best Chef 2008 James Beard winner, and recognition in Gourmet Magazine, Top 50 restaurants and the Robb Report it's no surprise that they came knocking on her door.   She had passed on previous opportunities, but when this one came up she figured, "what the hell!"

She flew down to LA for an interview and ended up having an uncontrollable bloody nose that cut it short.  But the network clearly recognized her personality and skills as a great match for the show.  When I sat down with Holly yesterday I was delighted by how down-to-earth and funny she is.  It's a crack up to see those serious photos on Food Network's site because she is so positive and energetic in real life that you know she is doing everything she can to hold the shot without busting out laughing. 

We'll have to tune in on Sunday to see if she was laughing or not when she found out that her main ingredient was JELLYFISH.  This season is unlike others in that everyone will not have the same featured ingredient to make a dish with and compete.  All the chefs get something different- like grasshoppers, eel, egg yolks, or stinky tofu.  I'm not sure how they will adjust scores accordingly -- seems to me the yolks would be easier than jellyfish, but I'm no chef. 

Holly said the time constraints weren't a big issue for her as she's known for being speedy.  The challenge was definitely keeping focus in between all the waiting.  When filming the battle might be done but the presentation would be later.  So you had to be ready to have your game face on at any moment.  And she said you learn as you go--the chefs all judge each other in the first episode and she was really impressed with a soup that Jose made.  This gave them all a chance to size up the competition. Of course, she said there are things that will go wrong but she's sworn to secrecy.    Darn!

When I met Holly's son Oliver (photo left) I had to ask if there is a sort of stigma with being a chef when you are in your everyday life.  I mean, what do you pack for his lunch?  He was nibbling on a tunafish sandwich and an apple, so that was reassuring (even I can make that, whew).  But he already has a discerning palate too- all the kids at school know he's got the 'good' cheese (no cheese sticks!) and at his 5th birthday party they served beets and focaccia and hangar steak with chanterelles.  OK, maybe I've got some work to do on that part. Other fun facts from Holly:

Favorite Food and Wine Pairing:     Spit roasted goat and Barbaresco (or anything w/Barbaresco!)

Pet Peeve:     Knife tappers 

Fave Snack:     Cheese/crackers, or she'll whip up an easy and delicious soup

Fave Kirkland restaurant besides her own:     Izumi Sushi

You should head in to Cafe Juanita so that you can taste Holly's unique Northern Italian creations for yourself.  Don't worry, no jellyfish on the menu!   I have been there many times and never been disappointed.  Be sure to tune in on Sunday night to see Holly in action and cheer her on!  I was thinking.......maybe the Food Network should open up a location in Kirkland with all of our local talent.  Melissa D'Arabian just got picked up for a second season of her show. You go, girls!!! ~j 

Get out there and move it for your man!

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men and over 220,000 men in the US will be diagnosed this year.  Kirkland's PACE Race (PACE=Prostate Awareness & Cancer Education) will happen on October 25th at Marina Park.  There's an event for everyone with a 10K Run/Walk (9am, $35 early reg), 5K Run/Walk (9am, $25), 1 mile Family Fitness Walk (9:10am, $25)  and a 1/2 mile Kids Fun Run (10am, free $10 for tee) .  Same day registration starts at 7am but the fees go up by then, so register now. 
The post-party will include music, vendor booths, awards ceremony, survivor recognition and giveaways, plus a special post-race breakfast and beer garden at Wilde Rover. Nothing like a big beer after your run! Oh yeah! I have a friend that is a recent survivor of prostate cancer (thankfully detected early) so look for my butt out there walking with the whole family. Besides, that way if I'm walking I have my four year old as an excuse ;-). ~j

I know we're all super busy and time is of the essence.  So- this week I decided to find an hour in my day and make MY hour YOUR hour.  I walked the streets of downtown Kirkland to catch myself (and therefore you) up on what's coming and going and changing.  I've received some feedback that people like the 'down and dirty' format of some recent posts, so we'll go with that again.  Or maybe you just like it when I say DIRTY?  Either way. You guys are always great at letting me know what I missed too, so go ahead and add your own in the comments.....

Zoka Coffee- In the old Triple J spot at 129 Central Way, our newest coffee hot-spot is really hip.  Steve has always loved the one in Greenlake and after my visit I can see why.  Fabulous coffee, great open use of the space, good-looking desserts and sandwiches (but no time to try, this was all in an hour, you know!).  Love the giant wood table with little stools for the kiddos to gather around.  Sleek but comfy modern northwest feel.

Chalet Cadeau Christmas- 116 Central Way- Apparently Christmas is ALWAYS just around the corner! The concept that people buy holiday things all year around always confuses me ( I start rushing around in early Dec) but I am assured it is true. They say tourists especially love to buy holiday gifts, and I have to say, there's a certain sparkle about Christmas that you feel when you're in there.  Wendy Marshall at Chalet Cadeau has so many Christmas gifties that she couldn't squeeze them all in her other store a few doors east.  Collectors seek out brands such as Peggy Karr plates, Lolita glasses, Byers Choice and Hearts & Ivy carolers.  Cards, decorations, ornaments, stockings----it's all there except for St. Nick himself. And Christmas music- that seemed strangely missing but maybe it would drive the employees batty. 

Viridis Green Salon- moved from the corner of Park Lane to 118 Central.

Blooming Home-702 Market Street is moving to the U-Village area. Total bummer. I loved this store.  Especially since they sold my dining set for me and got as much as I paid for it. Always fun finds, we'll miss ya. Tomorrow is their last day in Kirkland, then they open again on Oct 1st in Seattle. They said 'they just needed a change.'

The Minus Shop- 114 Lake St.- Kemi Awosika (left) is a pharmacist and the owner of our new health supplement store.  She's been open for 3 weeks now and has products that help take away (hence, MINUS)  your ailments.......migraines, scar treatments, hair loss, cellulite, vein treatments and even body odor eliminators.  Trust me, you can find something you've thought you might need in here.  Even if it's not the latter, haha.  It feels like a hometown GNC in there and Kemi is more than glad to help you find what you need.

Linda Lu's- 9 Lake Street- Consignment shops seem to love Kirkland!  And why not in this economy? One person's fat clothes are another's treasure. This shop came to town about 3 months ago and had a good handful of people in there when I stuck my head in.  I like that they are putting displays in front of their store by the sidewalk to draw people in- good thinkin'.

Chez Chic- 127 Lake Street South- There's just a sign up now, but I'm very curious!  Rumor says they are opening in a month or so.  I'm hoping it's like the old Manhattan Boutique.  I'm still mourning that place.

Herban Wellness- 103 Lake St.-Owner Katya Difani studied herbal medicine and nutrition at Bastyr before opening her new place.  This shop feels like you're in somebody's house- it's open with dark hardwoods and bags of Katya's homemade tea blends on the shelves such as "energizing tonic tea" and "Get Sleepy." There's a wall of herbs and a table of oils and aromatherapy that you can check out.  Also books, herbal capsules, vitamins, classes, and even free massages on the day I popped in. Woohoo! 

Calabrisella-Calabria's new owner has decided to re-name it Calabrisella.  It sounds a bit like a  step-sister or maybe Calabria hooked up with Bride-zilla to make a Calabrisella.  But as far as I know the menu and the experience is the same as before.  So all is still good. Doesn't look like their website has caught up with the news yet.

The Bank of America site- It'll be a while before Bank of America moves back into the bottom space of these new apartments.  They're busy digging now-check out the size of this corkscrew (photo left).

Not bad for an old mom of 3 in an hour, eh?  ;-) j

American flags line our downtown flower pots and medians to honor the memory of those lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. A day that will never be forgotten. This is the first year I had to explain this tragic event to our children (six and four yr olds), which was no easy task. Each oversimplified answer I gave beckoned 3 more questions.  I finally had to tell them that it just didn't make that much sense to me either. ~j

PS- I promise tomorrow's downtown display will be much more light-hearted. ;-)

Touchstone Development's ParkPlace project, which has stirred much controversy in the past, is now in front of the Design Review Board (next mtg 9/21, 7pm , City Hall). For some reason I can't get the old camera flash cubes out of my mind. Here are the proposed plans.  If you have some ideas or feedback and can't attend the next meeting, send an email to Angela Ruggeri. Check 'em out and comment away....now is your chance to be heard............j

Alright, you got me--I'm attempting to empty my email inbox in one big post here.   Here's everything you need to know for the moment- quick and dirty style.  If you are savvy enough to be reading this blog, you're smart enough to pick which links you like. :-)

-KOMO News starts local blogging- check out their Kirkland site (are you cheating on me? haha) .

-Kirkland's New "Feet First" Walking Maps both north and south are here.  Pick up a hard copy at your neighborhood meetings (when are my nhood meetings?).

-New Roadway Markings for Cyclists (my kids get very upset when they see you w/o your helmet, btw)

-Second Annual Harvest Supper and Grape Stomp Weds 9/16. Proceeds benefit the Weds Market.

-Eat wings, watch football and win a man cave at The Wing Dome this season.  Why didn't we think of that before we remodeled?

-Kirkland Transit Center Community Open House Tues Sept 8th  5-7pm.

-Proposed Utility Tax Increase Information-  (Q2, page 3).

-7th Annual Phil Smart Kirkland Concours D'Elegance Sept 13th 9-4.

-Kirkland Triathalon Sept 20th @ 7am  (kids tri on the 19th). Register early to get a spot!

-Youth Eastside Services new Forbes House @ Juanita Park Location Celebration Sept 25th 4-6.

-Eastside's Month of Concern for the Hungry Sept 26- Oct 24th.

-Grand Opening of Hopelink's new Kirkland Center: one stop shopping w/grocery style foodbank.

-Bartell's is launching their flu vaccination program- be brave and get your shot now.

-Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound needs mentors for Kirkland kids. See how you can help.

-Shoreline Master Program- still a hot topic to find a balance for everyone- stay informed on the latest.

-7th Annual KITH dinner on Oct 3rd with guest speaker, author Robert Fulgham.

-Lake WA School District is back in session! Yahooo! Don't forget to add $ to your kids lunch cards, check out vacation dates, etc.

Everyone is asking if it was a pedestrian/crosswalk fatality over by Juanita Village....but it was not.  It was also definitely not a memorial laying to rest the extreme dysfunction of our city council.  That controversy is clearly in full throttle.
Sadly, there was a single car collision late last week where a man drove into a telephone pole (there are no brake marks) and died from his injuries the next day.  The driver was the only person in the car.  It is possible, but still undetermined, if this was an alcohol-related incident.

Chuck Morgan, aka "Mr. Kirkland", will be celebrating his 98th birthday on Saturday September 5th from 5-7pm at Merrill Gardens and you are invited.

He's back in town, so put on a party hat and go congratulate him! I can tell from the red boa (photo left) that this man is a lot of fun. :-)
Chuck is a local icon and longtime community activist.  He was the owner/publisher of the Eastside Journal and helped create the Kirkland Performance Center.  He also helped with the construction of projects such as Evergreen Hospital and the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge and has served on many committees. Chuck's history and love for Kirkland since he came here in 1946 has been our gain.  Happy Birthday Chuck!  ~j

Lately we've been watching many restaurants come and go in downtown Kirkland, but you should be sure to remember one of our favorite deliciously-reliable local spots,  The Third Floor Fish Cafe on Lake Street.  Always a solid choice.  With sweeping views, fabulous food and impeccable service, there's a reason they have been there so long.  Steve and I have always been fans of their happy hour (4-6 and 9-close) where you can score half price drinks and food, but recently experienced their NEW menu in the dining room where we had a refreshing reminder of what a dining gem we have right in downtown.

There are some cornerstones of the menu that we'll always find like the seared Alaskan sea scallops (which are to die for! ) and the grilled heart of romaine salad (an all-time favorite for me).  But we also got to taste some new things such as the Oregon shrimp tostada that was a tasty new discovery that I would highly recommend. It's on the 'little bites' menu which is all under $5. 

Here's another one you need to try- the carrot soup ($7).  I know it sounds kind of crazy, because it's not something I'd typically order either, but it was DELICIOUS.  Fresh and flavorful and really smooth with the side benefit of improving my eyesight.  Is that true? The roasted beets with brown butter are definitely not the canned beets my mom used to make me eat.  They were earthy and sweet. We both really enjoy the ahi tuna as well.  And I know it sometimes seems like sacrilege to order meat in a seafood restaurant, but if you're going to swing that way- do it at Third Floor and go for the Beef Tenderloin.  It was perfectly prepared and tender with a fabulous port wine butter.  Although I haven't tried it yet, I've also heard everyone raving about the "Joshinator" burger which is a famous staple of the happy hour menu and was inspired by Executive Chef Greg Campbell's son, Josh (photo left of the duo).  

When we were there on a Thursday night with a hot pink sunset, it wasn't over-crowded and had a nice constant hum of guests.    I think these are the people that realize sometimes you just have to 'go with what you know.'  And you know you'll always find a great experience at Third Floor. ~j

After a fun evening of cocktails, happy hour and appetizers with friends we suddenly noticed the new Golden Touch herbal foot massage shop was open right next to VoVina ( 15 Lake St. Mall Ste 104).  Perfect timing!  I could use a $25 one hour massage any day.  As Steve says, "that's only four lattes!"

Even though we arrived at 10pm which is their closing time, they still welcomed us to four open massage chairs. Your clothes stay on and you're in an open space with other clients. It's dimly lit with relaxing music and after your menu selection, they bring out a giant vat of hot tea/herbs for your feet to soak in (which is why the place smells like tea, I presume).  This may be marketed as a foot massage, but you actually get much more than that.  My guy started with my forehead, temples and eventually covered all of my limbs and back/shoulders, and lots of time on my feet.  He even did some stretching for me which my old bones appreciated.  Because we were there after hours, eventually, the loud thumping of the DJ from the bar above was a bit distracting but it helped keep me from snoring aloud.  The massage is a great overall relaxing rub (not deep-tissue, fyi) and it seems even longer than an hour because they cover so many areas. And anybody that is willing to touch my husband's feet (left) deserves some praise!

As we left with our friends we were all just delighted with this unexpected find of the evening.  OK,  there were also a few jokes about the skin-slapping noises that are inevitable. But that's the best $25 I've spent this week for sure.  This must be the new craze, as there's also one at Kirkland Park Place that seems to generate quite a bit of traffic.  I'm all for it. You can bet we'll be back.  Here's their number: 425-889-0100 ~j

About 15 mins ago my kids said they saw fire and lots of smoke.  So, as I began freaking out and searching our house, they then informed me that it was out the window.  If you live on the water in Juanita (north of Woodland Cove, but still visible to Juanita Bay) it might be a good idea to leave work early today.  Appears to be on the front part of the dock.  I thanked my kids for their assist and called 911.  Luckily, the rain picked up right when it started raging.    I took these pics- one is through our scope (rt)-I was surprised this actually worked. ~j

Get ready for the fun this Thursday night when the merchants of Park Lane host another "Second Thursday" celebration.  This means you should head on down there between 6-9pm for live music, artists, sidewalk sales and late-night shopping.  Park Lane closes to thru-traffic, so no cruising- park your car, get on out and take in some of the featured artists at Simplicity Decor (Diane Ahern, Bjorck Design, Global Daughter, A is For), Parklane Gallery with their exhibits ("The Wide, Wide West" and "Colors of Nature") and Lakeshore Gallery with Mary Gibbs's paintings of cats (%of proceeds benefit MEOW cat rescue in Houghton  Village).  Go ahead, please help fuel our local economy :-). ~j

Hats off to Kirkland's newest resident, Melissa D'Arabian, for taking the crown on "The Next Food Network Star."  Besides being the number one rated show on cable TV this past Sunday night with 4.7 million viewers,it was also the highest-rated most-watched telecast in food network history. Melissa won it all and will start her new show THIS Sunday August 9th at 12:30pm ET/PT: Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa D'Arabian.  She's on the fast track now (love the Kirkland shout-out )!  I've heard from a handful of people that have seen her around town so be sure to congratulate her if you see her . Don't worry, bubbly blondes with four small children are easy to spot.  Way to go, Melissa. BTW, can you bring your 4 kids over to play with my 3 kids and I'll help you make a $20 dinner?  ~j

Congratulations!   We have survived the hottest day here E-V-E-R.  We broke the record high temperature for Seattle today at 102 degrees at SeaTac.  I had to take a photo (left) of the thermometer reading as I was leaving the gym today- it says 109??!! (you didn't think you could use this as an excuse to skip your workout, did you?).  ~j

The Sterling Bank at 230 Main Street (next to Taco Del Mar) in downtown Kirkland just got robbed this morning.  That would explain the helicopters and sirens!!  The thug is about 6 feet tall, 185 pound white male wearing a hat, ski mask and white tee shirt.  He escaped on foot- so I just double-locked my door and put the garage down (amen for air-conditioning).  I wonder if they ever caught the serial robber from Chase Bank or is this the same guy branching out? 

The police are sending their robot into the bank now to check out a suspicious package that was left in there after the robbery.  Rumor has it that much of downtown is blocked off, so avoid if you can. ~j

 Let's rally to support a very new Kirkland resident (she just moved here this week!) named Melissa d'Arabian who is one of the remaining three finalists on season five of "The Next Food Network Star." (photo left courtesy of Food Network)

Wow-our city is really making it's mark on reality TV! Goodbye Jason , hello Melissa.  She and her husband and four daughters (yes, I said 4!!) just moved here from Texas.  They would love for you to join them at their viewing party  on Sunday July 26th from 5-8pm at Hector's where Chef Chris Nelson will be preparing a special appetizer dish inspired by one of Melissa's recipes.

Sunday's episode airs at 9pm on Food Network and you will get to see the remaining 3 finalists lunch with Emeril Lagasse and learn that they must create a three-course menu for a group of culinary elite inspired by a screening of Columbia Pictures' movie Julia & Julia.  One finalist will be eliminated, sending the other two on to the series finale on Sunday 8/2.  The winner receives a six-episode cooking show that will premiere in August. 

I checked out the videos of Melissa online and this woman has got some serious energy.  I thought I had lots of kids really close in age, but she has me trumped with 4 kids in 3 years AND she cooks.  AND moves across the country AND is about to have her own cooking show AND smiles/laughs a lot.  Darn it, you're making the rest of us look bad, Melissa!  But whatever-we love you anyway! Maybe you can share some of your secrets with us on Sunday night?  Welcome to Kirkland, Melissa. ~j

Check your mailbox this week for the latest issue of Kirkland Hometown Values.  This is one of my favorite coupon mailers because there are really useful ones that I use such as $3 off a Zeek's Pizza, 10% off classes at Northwest Aerials (you don't have to be a new customer), $2 off Chevron carwashes and lots of others.  The printed copy comes out quarterly. You'll even see the Kirkland Weblog this issue!

The thing I didn't realize is that you can also print lots of local coupons online here.  So, technically, you can print that Zeek's coupon every time you go to order that large pie. In addition to Kirkland savings, you can access coupons for wherever you might be heading.  There are over 30 different regions covered in Washington alone, and many out-of-state too.  Times are tough, so that means coupons must be in style!  Don't be scared- do it and save! ~j

Kirkland's first canine festival, "Go Dog, Go!" will be on July 25th at Crestwoods Park from 10-3.  The City of Kirkland, Kirkland Off Leash Dog Group (KDOG) and WOOFD2 are throwing this event to raise money for the Mutt Mitts in Kirkland parks and to help build awareness around the efforts to create a local off-leash dog park. There will be lots of fun activities such as 'flyball demonstrations' and 'bobbing for tennis balls'  and contests for things such as 'best tail wag' and 'best kiss.'  It sounds like a doggie carnival to me!

Other cities are hard at work on similar efforts.  Renton opened theirs a few weeks ago and places such as Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Bellevue, Mercer Island, Sammamish, Issaquah and Medina are all developing or recently opened new off-leash areas for their residents and furry friends. 

If you want to treat your dog to a fun day in the park and lend your support for a spot to un-leash in Kirkland, go check it out!   ~j

On a random drive-by the old Costco Home , we discovered a new wholesale store opened last week. For those of you that didn't already know, Costco Home that was located on 120th Ave NE, closed in early July.  Boooo!  But this new place looks and feels ever-so-mysteriously a lot like Costco Home.  Rugs to the right, art to the left, accessories up front and furniture all in the middle.  Some of the products looked familiar, so when I asked if they bought Costco Home's remaining inventory they told me that they had many of the same suppliers (and competitive pricing).  There is even a little coffee shop in the back so they must understand us!   My Home Wholesale (the spinning on their website makes me dizzy) is not a chain.  Membership is FREE-so no security guard checking your card at the door.  I bought a few things and just had to give them my standard contact info and I made them promise they wouldn't send me junk mail.  They are still getting more product in each day, and will be having a grand opening in September.  But there's plenty of product to check out right now. LMK what you think. ~j

Alrighty- even though I don't entirely get the phenomenon around Twitter, we are now tweeting.  Twittering? Twitting? So confusing.  One more thing to keep track of but I figure this builds my case for Steve to get me an iPhone.  Even though we're kinda lost, it's ok if you follow us, we promise not to bug you every day.  The ID is KirklandWeblog.

What a great day we had for the fourth! My kids decided they didn't want to ride their bikes in the parade because that would prohibit them from picking up candy - a very critical and strategic move on their part.  Instead, we decorated our razor-boards so we could hop off and scoop up treats on a moment's notice.  Penny Sweet, who leads the effort for making that amazing day happen said she thinks it may be the largest attendance we've had so far.  She's guesstimating there were 30,000 people!  LOVE the patriotic enthusiasm!

Next up?  Concerts in the park start this week- always a fave!  Due to some budget cuts they will be only be on Wednesday mornings at 10 (kids' shows) and Thursday evenings at 7.  No more Tuesday night, fyi. Don't forget to throw a few bucks in the basket when you attend so they can keep this program going.  You can check out who's playing at Marina Park by clicking here.  This Thursday will be City Knightz - shout-out to Mac on bass- we were in our Kirkland Citizen's Academy class together.

Two weeks from now you should be heading down to "Kirkland Uncorked."  It's all there- wine, food, music, boats, classic cars, art, grilling competitions and an amazing setting that is our own Lakeshore Plaza at Marina Park.  You can buy tickets for the 'Tasting and LifeStyle Garden' on-line or when you get there ($20-25).  The rest of the festival is open to the public and free!  Check out the website for all the details. The dates are Fri July 17 through Sun July 19th.

See you around town! ~j

I have been computer-less for about a month now.   I'm sorry if you haven't heard from me, but now you know why.   We THOUGHT my hard drive was fried. This is a little embarrassing, but I am going to take one for the team in order to save you a little money and a mountain of wasted time and frustration.  When I had the guys from Click Engineering pick-up my CPU and run diagnostics on it they discovered the inside was covered in dust.  And trust me, this is not from lack of use (ask my kids!).  Apparently every six months or so we should be cleaning the dust out of the inside of our computers.  Who knew?  PC users-there's a little screw in the back that loosens and allows the side wall of your hard drive to glide open.  You're then looking at the guts of your machine and an empty cavity which likely has a bunch of dust sitting on it.  A paper towel and can of air to blow it out should work just fine. Since I learned this lesson the hard way, I thought I would enlighten you too.

Now, onto better gossip.

WHAT IS WITH 2CH?!!! I saw they had a nice little write-up in the Kirkland Reporter this week, which is kind of ironic because about 2 days ago I stopped there to read the small barely legible handwritten note on their front door.  It said something about being on 'vacation' and therefore closed for the next 2 weeks.  As I was turning around in the parking lot I happened to look in the window and notice there is NOTHING in there.  No counter, no register, no nothing.  Someone bringing it out the back door and loading it into a truck. That's some vacation.  This place is like a bad boyfriend and I just can't figure it out.  Are you there for us or not??

There's some good news too: the sand volleyball court on Lake St (next to Beachhouse Grill) is being re-vamped.  It's a collaborative effort between local company Volleyball USA, some Eagle Scouts and the city.  Should be super cool when it's done in just a few weeks so hold onto your swim trunks til then.

Callahan Concierge just opened in downtown Kirkland if you're in the market for a personal assistant.  They offer services for individuals, families, corporate, high end residential and housekeeping.  It's $35/hr with a two hour minimum.  They even offer a drive-up service where you can pull up on your way home from work and they'll get your items right out to you. A girl can dream, right? 

And such a bummer about Farrah and Michael Jackson.  That's a lot of heavy retro sadness.  It got compounded yesterday when I mentioned Farrah Fawcett to a college-aged kid and he had never heard of her!  As I was explaining her sex symbol icon status and reminiscing over favorite Charlie's Angels episodes, I realized I sound an awful lot like my mom and I should just embrace my old age instead of fighting it. ~j

After teetering on the verge of not being able to pull the fireworks together for this year, things have really turned around for us.  Not only are the fireworks covered, but the fireworks company is kicking in an extra $2K towards our finale because they thought it was cool the way Kirkland rallied to make this happen.  Way to go!

It's one of the things everyone loves about our city- the lakeside!!  And with things heating up around here, I thought there were a few things you'd like to know ......

-What is with all those little dead fishies?  I've seen them too- the small silver ones that are at Marina Park, Waverly Beach Park and Houghton Beach to name a few.    Lots of people are noticing them and concerned, but the parks dept told me this is a natural occurrence that happens each year as the lake temperatures rises.  So nobody dropped their Clorox bottles overboard, it's just nature doing its thing.  Oddly enough, I happen to know a biologist that works for the government and studies local fish and he was delighted to enlighten me on the complicated ecology of Lake Washington.  So I'll net it out- with warmer temps come natural spring turnover which brings the de-oxygenated water up from the depths as surface water sinks and we lose some little guys in the process.  It's warmer than usual this year, so the turnover is probably bigger than in the past. Luckily, our problem does not look like this guy's (photo left).

-After listening to that lesson, you deserve a treat.  Go straight to Trellis at The Heathman and ask for the special peanut butter and chocolate cookies that aren't on the menu.  To die for. Thanks to the Rexs for sharing this secret with me.

-Agua Verde has arrived at Houghton Beach.  You may have visited this popular spot on Lake Union, but now we have one of our own in the waterside hut previously occupied by Jimmy's on Houghton. Smoothies and quick casual Mexican food is awfully convenient after some sunning and park play.

-Random thought:seems with each new arrival there's a departure too.  Farewell to Cafe Harlequin.  I never could afford to eat there, but I'm sure it was good.

-Waterski and wakeboard lessons are on their way to downtown Kirkland!  Being someone that waterskis a few times a week, I'm a bit biased, but I think this is a super cool idea.  My friend and coach, Mark Lord, owns Seattle Water Sports and will be offering lessons by appt Mon, Weds, Fri, Sat and Sun from 6am til noon starting this weekend until Sept 30th.  Additional hrs in the afternoon and evening may be available based on demand and you can also book group lessons in advance.  They will be operating out of the main Kirkland dock.  Half hour lessons are $50 and equipment rentals range from $5-25.  Mark is a great coach- he's patient (a requirement when working w/me, haha) and breaks things down so that you can build skills in a logical progression.   Whether you are a first timer or advanced, this is a great opportunity to hit the water with some know-how.  Seattle Water Sports will also be giving free tube rides this weekend as part of Kirkland's water event from 12-4  Saturday the 20th (there's also free sailing and kayaking and discounted para-sailing). Call 206-310-2628 to arrange a ski or boarding lesson.

-While we're talking about water sports,  I feel obligated to mention boating safety.  Here's a link to the Kirkland Boater's Guide (who knew?).  Always have a third person as a spotter on board when towing a tube, boarder,  skier or surfer.  When an emergency comes up, say....maybe one Janis waterskiier falls and takes her ski in the back of the head, that extra set of hands is critical in dealing with the situation.  Always have enough flotation devices on board too- and if someone goes overboard you throw it to them (don't go after them and jeopardize your own safety). I saw the sheriff stop a couple of kids on waverunners the other day that were crossing wakes just missing one another.  The water always seems so much less regulated (more drinking, no license) you just have to be careful out there.  Oh, and if you see a ski course that looks like a bunch of buoys in a formation (Kenmore, Yarrow Bay) please please stay away from it.  Bad etiquette. ;-)

-One more thing.  Did you know you could be learning how to play water polo?  And it's FREE.  There's a fun group of people that meet at Marsh Park EVERY Wednesday around 5:30/6pm and have extra equipment available for anyone that wants to join in the fun of kayak polo (don't worry, the boats aren't tippy).  No experience necessary.  And they do this year round.  Whoa.     ~j

Kirkland has just launched a free online business directory for Kirkland-based businesses in an effort to promote local spending.  You can check it out at www.kirklandfirst.org .  It's just like a hyper-local yellow pages getting underway, so if you or someone you know owns a local business you should get them hooked into this resource.  It's FREE.  And you know I love free.

Stop in opening weekend, June 6th and 7th, for some complimentary tastings and 10% off all wines.  The new tasting room is located at 11909 124th Avenue NE just across from the Ford dealership.  It will be open on Saturday and Sundays noon to 5pm and was designed as a unique and cozy space for wine lovers.  Northwest Cellars produces and distributes high quality, affordable wines which are often custom-labeled for business gifts, fundraisers, weddings and other events.  Wines available for purchase include merlots, petite sirah, pinot noir, chardonnay, Adagio and Intrigue (blends) and range from $14-$30.  So hop on in for a taste and report back---or say hello if you see us there.   ~j

There's a guy/girl team of purse snatchers that have been scoring some loot around the eastside lately.  Here's their M.O.- You're grocery shopping at QFC, Safeway or Fred Meyer, perhaps, with your purse in your cart.  Just as you go to check out the new arrival of fresh strawberries you turn around to your cart and your purse is gone.  It happens that fast!

Just kidding-there's no promise. Darn.  You've got to do the work yourself, but it's helpful to know that local chain establishments are giving us the information we need to make healthy choices.   Let's face it, kids like to eat at places like McDonalds, for example (and listen to their Kidz Bop CD's- you moms know what I"m talkin' bout!).   So I end up sitting next to a plastic indoor slide snitching french fries from a 4 year old a little more often than I like to admit.  

KA-BOOM!  I love that sound.  The deep rumblings, shrill screeches and explosive lights show that is Independence Day.  There's a big effort going on right now by Celebrate Kirkland to raise funding to save Kirkland's 4th of July fireworks.  This group is very high tech- they are on Facebook and Twitter (which I'm still trying to figure out in my non-existent spare time) and even have a blog. The theme this year is: 'Red, white, blue and GREEN all over- reduce, reuse and recycle'.  In past years, the parade and fireworks have always relied on contributions to supplement the community grant that funds this event, however, this year is more challenging than ever to pull together the donations needed to make it happen.  And the barge for the fireworks needs to be reserved by May 30th!!  So, if you love finishing off your evening  on 7/4 by kicking back in Marina Park with an amazing fireworks display, every bit helps, and you can contribute online here.  ~j

BTW- I have lots of things to catch you up on like the Kirkland Police Academy Class I finished recently (you should do this, what fun!) and our remodel completion (what the heck, you should do this too!).  But we just moved and I have boxes up to my ears.  Steve still hasn't set up my computer yet so hopefully by saying this publicly he will quickly get me connected again so I can get going on all of these posts that are swirling in my head without having to figure out his Mac...... ;-) 

Don't forget to pick up some local produce this Wednesday (and every Weds thru Oct 14th) at the Kirkland Wednesday Market which has MOVED to Marina Park this year and is open from 2-7pm.  Great venue- especially when the weather cooperates!  ~j

Kirkland author, Karen Burns, has recently published her first book, "The Amazing Adventures of working girl." It's a fabulous, quick and entertaining read with many work situations we can all relate to and practical career advice.  Her matter-of-fact humor and short chapters make it an easy page turner with lots of lessons learned and laughs along the way.    I really enjoyed the "Boss from Hell" chapter and the brutal honesty of "Fake It till You Make It."  Many of the chapters have a quote at the end from somebody exemplifying when a particular lesson applied to their working life.  This book would make a GREAT gift- especially for a recent graduate or a friend ready to make a career change.  Park Place Books hosted Karen's book release party and sold out all of their copies! (that was a few weeks ago, I'm sure they've re-stocked by now)

I had the pleasure of meeting with Karen recently because I wanted to sit and learn a little more about these 59 jobs she's had over the past 40 years in 22 cities.  It took  4 1/2 years to make this book a reality (with a team of supporters, an agent, a patient husband) and it started just by chance.  She was at the Richard Hugo House in Capitol Hill which is a center for writers when she started writing about a few of her past jobs.  Then she became gripped to figure out how many jobs she had really had and her teacher encouraged her to turn her content into a book.  She's been a nanny, a doughnut girl, a ditch digger in Czechoslovakia, an editor and a 'corporate minion' just to name a few. 

We met at the Urban Coffee Lounge and I had to coerce her to come out from behind the counter before she got herself a job there too (photo left).  She's a go-getter!  So I knew that since there are so many people out of work right now that she'd have some thoughtful advice to share.  She says there are 2 things you need to do.  First....... DO LESS.  Stop job hunting for a day and go somewhere you've never been.  Take a walk, evaluate what you've been doing and think unfamiliar thoughts (Kinda like this fact-checker turned race car driver).  Ask yourself, "Is what I'm doing working?"  Then........DO MORE.  Do whatever it takes because it's a numbers game.  Have you really tapped into your network? Are you cold calling?  Start doing more of the right things that will yield you results.  And then she adds, "....and don't forget to be near people that make you feel good about yourself." :-)

Karen Burns will be giving a talk about "The Most Important Thing You Need to Know to Get and Keep a Job," this Thursday May 7th at 7pm at Third Place Books.  You should go grab a signed copy and get it into the hands of your closest job seeker.  Maybe it will save them the angst (or enjoyment?) of 59 jobs.  ~j

Don't miss Ben & Jerry's "Free Cone Day" this Tuesday, April 21st, at 176 Lake Street South from 12-8pm.  Yes, it's true, you're not dreaming-FREE ICE CREAM.  It's Ben & Jerry's way of thanking its customers for 31 years.  You'll also have an opportunity to show your appreciation for your tasty treat by donating to KITH while you are there. Enjoy! ~j