Sip of Spokane

Art Matters...

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 14:20:06 +0000

Collecting ART can be addictive but not regrettable. With ART, the regret I do have is from the pieces I talked myself out of. I have a few sad stories of inexpensive ART I passed on and now the artist's work is rightfully expensive. Buying ART is not extravagant or reserved for the wealthy. I just have my priorities straight. Think about how much ART you could own if you didn't have cable, cancelled that unused landline and you limited the times a barista made your coffee.

When embarking on collecting art - start small. Buying student art is an inexpensive way to get original art. Its like listening to a talented, yet unsigned musician in a dive bar prior to making it it big. You very well could be investing in and therefore encouraging the ART world's next big thing. Buying local art enriches your community and supports the local ART scene. Incorporating original ART in your home adds an unmatched warmth, texture and depth to your space.

ART MATTERS. I know my life is richer because of the ART I own and cherish. Thank you once again, Neicy Frey, Artist. I adore this elegant floral work you created. It hangs in our entry way and when I look at it, I'm happy💛

It's true, money can't buy happiness, but it can buy ART and it's kinda the same thing.

FALL in love.

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 14:18:22 +0000

"...and all at once, summer collapsed into fall" Oscar Wilde

#fall #autumn #quote

Shop Small Spotlight: The Tin Roof...a legacy of STYLE

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 14:25:00 +0000

SHOP SMALL. SHOP LOCAL

Photo courtesy of The Tine Roof

The talented Heather Hanley
 is the owner and the creative director of three family-owned home furnishing stores with distinct personalities. Heather’s parents, Jim and Susan Hanley remain active in the family business and are trusted advisors for the forward thinking Heather. As for me, I’m not only a long-time customer but consider myself a friend of the family. As with many locally owned businesses this is not unique. Friends become clients and clients become friends. They have a way of making you feel not only welcome but special when you walk through their doors. 

The Tin Roof
 literally took over Hanley’s family-owned, second-generation appliance store, which was housed in a sustainable building just east of downtown Spokane in what is now coined as the Sprague Union District at 1727 E Sprague. The family’s ACME electronic & appliance store transformed into The Tin Roof, a beloved 35,000-square-foot showroom of carefully selected home furniture lines and thoughtful accessories. The stylish store features every style, from traditional to modern and carries top furniture lines such as including Bernhardt, Vanguard, LEE Upholstery, Flexsteel, Lexington, Stylus to name drop a few.

Photo courtesy of The Tine Roof

The firmly grounded Hanley family didn’t have to look far to find for their newest store. Despite there being a global pandemic, they recently opened BideandBurgeon
 which  is housed on the street level of the historic Framingham Building at 1730 E. Sprague Ave.  This new endeavor features trendy home furniture, as well as décor at accessible prices. The 4,000-square-foot showroom will have rotating inventory to ensure a constant selection of new items. 
This store should encourage you to stop ordering sight unseen furniture on-line often based primarily on price. Instead come in, touch the table, sit on the sofa and take it home. Bide & Burgeon’s location holds special meaning for Hanley family as it’s where Heather’s grandfather, Arch, opened the original electronics shop Acme Electric 75 years ago.  Its literally across the street from The Tin Roof. The modern feel of the furnishings provides a stunning contrast to the reclaimed building. Don’t take my word for it, stop by and check it out. 

The third store is reSkued is nestled behind The Tin Roof. It accepts select used furniture and acts as clearance center for the other stores. Many of those vintage pieces are restyled and given new life in an effort to find them a home. As a designer, Hanley uses heirlooms and antiques to give a reference point and sense of history to her projects. Just the other day before even walking through the shop, I decided on three oversized accent pillows that literally sparked JOY for a fraction of the suggested retail price. Go check it out and score on some great pieces at a fraction of the regular price. 

My “Spark JOY” find at ReSkued

It’s highly recommended you tap into one of the readily available designers to transform your space into something remarkable. With a staff of designers of varying backgrounds and personal styles with access to the inventory of all three stores, no project is out of reach. If you’ve toured the Spokane Home Builder’s Fall Festival of Homes, you’ve undoubtedly have been emerged in award winning home furnishings staged by this talented group. 

We love that the Hanley family businesses are continuously involved with community causes that make a significant difference in the lives of others in our community. This  now third generation, family owned and operated small business has been a part of the community since 1945 and is dedicated to making Spokane a great place to shop. 

This holiday season is a great time to shop local. Honestly, local businesses are counting on it. Okay, maybe a sectional or dining room set  isn’t an on your Christmas gift list. Although that would be awesome. Home furnishings such as wall art, lamps, rugs, accent pillows and other accessories make great gifts, as does a store gift certificate. 

Photo by Young Kwak

My Writing Room

Photo by Young Kwak, Inlander

We made the cover!

“I am going to make everything around me beautiful - that will be my life”.

Elise de Wolfe

#ShopSmall. #ShopLocal #SupportSmallBusinesses￼
LA 2020 

The link is from a magazine article showcasing Heather’s talent in making our space “very us” 

The Loft Life designed by Heather & The Tin Roof

Urban Living - Spokane Style

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 14:25:00 +0000

This was fun! Our story and loft was featured in the Inlander Health & Home magazine. Thank you to Blythe Thimsen, writer and Young Kwak, photographer. We are also very grateful to Heather Hanley of the Tin Roof for helping us design our space. Our ensuite coffee lounge even made the cover. Additionally, the other featured urban space was one of my downtown listings. ♥️

Laurie and James Allen’s new home in Kendall Yards offers lots of light and quick access to all that downtown Spokane has to offer.

A Vibrant Downtown Lifestyle is Luring Residents Back to Spokane's City Center.
"A chicken in every pot and a car in every garage!" Used in the 1928 presidential campaign, and attributed to President Herbert Hoover, the idea of a car in every garage planted a seed that took root. Over the years, along with it came the idea of the spacious house with a yard, the white picket fence and the happy, quiet life in suburban America.
Fast forward to 2018, and nowadays trading in that house/yard combo for something geared toward urban living is gaining appeal.

Spokane currently boasts a 92 percent occupancy rate for all housing units, according to a recent survey, meaning finding housing is a challenge. Now some people are looking beyond traditional dwellings.
After selling urban condos as a local realtor specializing in urban living, Laurie Ross Allen and her husband, James, were won over by the trend, and the newlyweds recently moved into a downtown loft in Kendall Yards.
"For nearly 20 years, I lived on the South Hill in a traditional suburban development," says Laurie. "Prior to being in Spokane, I lived in the West Seattle area and worked downtown. James lived and worked in downtown Seattle, too, so we've both always been intrigued with downtown living."
Fellow downtowner Tim Westerhaus, the director of choirs and vocal studies at Gonzaga University, recently made the commitment to urban living when he bought a condo in the First and Washington building.
The Allens and Westerhaus realize urban living in Spokane is less about cramped apartments and compressed masses of humanity, and more about creative spaces that offer new opportunities to enjoy the city.
"We’ve both always been intrigued with downtown living," says Laurie Allen, who along with her new husband James and dog Coco are settling into an urban lifestyle.

"The panoramic view is what really got us," says Laurie, "from the mist coming up off of the river in the morning, to spectacular sunsets at night. The purposeful design of large windowed walls really capture the views west to downtown and south to river, and the tall ceilings and open living concept is proving to be great for us for entertaining."

While the Allens' loft has a sleek modern feel, Westerhaus' is quite different. "I like the inspiring blend of historic with modern architecture; the original red bricks connect me with Spokane's past and modern design," he says. "The floors are made of bamboo, and in addition to the visual appeal, it's important to me that bamboo has a positive environmental impact. The large number of windows allow ample light in, which is important for energy, especially in the winter months, and I get a clear view of some beautiful buildings on one side and trains on the other."
For Westerhaus, living downtown actually expanded his opportunities to be outdoors. "I enjoy an active and artistic lifestyle where I live," he says. "I'm able to catch a morning run on the Centennial Trail, walk to yoga, or bike to the YMCA. I prefer to bike commute whenever weather permits, and it is often faster than driving from where I live because I don't have to search for parking."
While cities like Portland and Seattle are flush with urban living options, Spokane is slowly catching up.
"I can tell by the increased interest in my downtown condo listings and the amount of buyers seeking an urban lifestyle, that we're finally ready to embrace it," says Laurie. "A city thrives when people live in it. We're a little behind other cities, but Spokane is finally warming up to urban living."
As Spokane continues to embrace urban living, the livability of the area is catching up.
"Some aspects of urban living in Spokane are set up well," says Westerhaus, noting that both Main Market and My Fresh Basket are within walking distance. He says coffee shops and dining options are expanding, as are the hours those businesses are open, so there are options for after-work socializing, but he sees room for improvement. "Increasing bike lanes and creating safe crossings along the Spokane River will support bike safety and increase bike commuting, which is favorable for urban living," he says. "We lag significantly behind Portland and Seattle in downtown bike infrastructure."
Tim Westerhaus enjoys observing the busy streetscape from his soundproofed, third-floor condo on First Avenue.

Both Westerhaus and the Allens have experienced more manageable commutes since moving downtown, which translates to better health.

"There's definitely less driving,," says Laurie, "and we've had fun getting to know our neighbors and are impressed by the number of people exercising and dog walking, even with the chilly weather. The Centennial Trail provides easy walking access."
"I like being able to walk to local businesses for everyday needs," adds Westerhaus. "I spend far more time out with friends in the downtown area now that I live central to the city; I am more apt to go out and be social. I take greater advantage of the city's cultural offerings -- art walks -- and social settings. In addition, I'm walking distance from the STA hub station, so I take the bus more frequently.
Gonzaga’s choir director by day, Tim Westerhaus has even installed a grand piano in his new condo.

"One of the things I lamented when I moved from Boston to Spokane was having to get a car to navigate; living downtown brings me closer to being able to live without a car," he continues. "Living downtown has positively transformed my experience of living in Spokane: I am more active in the community, I connect more with others, and I feel like I am a greater part of an innovating community."
Gone are the dreams of a car in every garage; now the dream may be a condo in every downtown building.
Article by Blythe Thimsen, Inlander Heath & Home 2018, Photos by Young Kwak
After years of wrangling, the Ridpath is back on track

Want to Move Downtown?
Developers are racing to offer more downtown living options, according to Lars Gilberts, CEO of the University District, located just east of downtown. "The thing... that I'm hearing the most talk about," he says, "is bringing residential downtown."
The Ridpath In 2017, after nearly a decade of legal disputes, Spokane developer Ron Wells was able to finally start construction to transform the historic hotel into a new Ridpath apartment complex.
The M This mixed-use complex in the former Macy's building owned by the Cowles Company will include more than 100 apartment units. In April 2017, more than a half-dozen new apartments in the company's Chronicle building also came on the market.
The Falls Developer Larry Stone wants to turn the old YWCA property into hundreds of swanky apartments, hotel rooms and condos in a two-tower building with ultra-easy access to the redeveloped Riverfront Park.
Kendall Yards In addition to projects to the west of downtown, developer Greenstone is preparing to construct another 120 new apartments in a multi-use complex near their new My Fresh Basket grocery store off Monroe Street.
Downtown living update by DANIEL WALTERS, Inlander Health & Home, 2018

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 17:21:00 +0000

Working from home can be quite blissful. 💛

#TheWritingRoom #WorkFromHome #CreateYourSpace

Local Artist Spotlight : Neicy Frey

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:21:00 +0000

I'm in LOVE. After fan-girling her work for no less than a decade, I finally commissioned a painting from the oh so talented Neicy Frey. We met twice at coffee shops this summer and she gave me a rough sketch of what she intended to create. I adored that sketch and proudly hung it on my refrigerator. This afternoon she delivered the remarkable finished work to my teary eyes. It's perfect! Merci Beaucoup Neicy Frey visual arts. I am in awe of your talent.

Art Matters - Christy Branson

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 15:25:00 +0000

Life is short, buy the ART! We bought a "Baby Branson" at Marmot Art Space in Kendall Yards

"Flowers In The Garden 2" is one of the smaller pieces - 12" x 12" - by encaustics artist Christy Branson Art. There are much larger pieces available - Heart ♥️ be still.

Christy Branson is a passionate local artist whose creates encaustic and mixed media art. Encaustic art is a rarely used process involving beeswax, resin, pigment and oil. Branson’s take on this ancient art form is distinctly modern. I adore this new addition to our local art collection. Thank you Christy!

#LOVE #fangirling #buylocal #ARTisonMyBucketList

Okay, I’m in LOVE....with a chair.

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 03:45:00 +0000

Do you believe at LOVE at first sight? I do. It took me about one breath to decide this was THE chair for The Writing Room. Like my dear friend Tami
 says- it looks like a HUG. 

#TheWritingRoom #HomeDecor #loveatfirstsight Thank you At Home

EAT LOCAL : 2026 Farmers Markets

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Wed, 27 May 2026 00:40:42 +0000

BUY LOCAL. EAT FRESH.

2026 Farmers Markets in and around Spokane

🥗 Tuesday 3-7pm

Fairwood Market

(North Spokane)

319 W Hastings Rd Spokane 99218

May 12 through October 6

🌽 Tuesday 4-8pm

Garland Summer Market

(North Spokane)

Garland District

733 W Garland Ave Spokane

Parking lot south of The Gathering House

May 24 to September 13

🥬 Wednesday 5-9pm

Kendall Yards Night Market

(Just North of Downtown)

1335 W. Summit Pkwy 99201

May 20 through September 16

🍓 Wednesday 3-7pm

Millwood Farmer’s Market

(Millwood)

Millwood City Park

9300 E Fredrick Ave Spokane 99206

May 27 through October

🥒 Thursday 3-7pm

South Perry Thursday Market

(Lower South Hill)

Perry District

924 S Perry St Spokane 99202

May through October

🍒 Friday 3-7pm

Emerson Garfield Market

(North Spokane)

Monroe Antique District

2310 N Monroe St Spokane 99205

June 5 through September 25

🌽 Friday 4-8pm

Spokane Valley Farmer’s Market & Beyond

(Spokane Valley)

2426 N Discovery Place Spokane Valley 99216

Mirabeau Point Park

June 3 through September 16

🍅 Saturday 8am-1pm

Spokane Farmer’s Market

(Browne’s Addition - West of downtown)

2nd Ave & Chestnut St. Spokane 99202

May 9 through November 21

🥗 Saturday 9am-1pm

Liberty Lake Market

(Liberty Lake)

1421 N Meadowwood Ln, Liberty Lake 99019

Mid May through Mid October

🥕 Saturday 9:00 am-1:00pm

Wonder Market

(Just North of Downtown)

835 N Post St Spokane 99201

May 14 through October 22

🥒 Friday 4:00 pm -7:00pm

Spokane Valley Farmers Market

(Spokane Valley at The Scale House Market)

835 N Post St Spokane 99201

June 5 through August 28

🍓 Saturday 4-8pm

Indian Trail Night Market

(North Spokane)

9025 N Indian Trail Rd, Spokane 99208

May 21st through September 30

🍏 Saturday 9am-4pm & Sunday 11am-4pm

Greenbluff Farmers Market!

High Country Orchard

(Just North of Spokane)

8518 E Greenbluff Rd Colbert 99005

June 18 - Oct 23

🌳 Greenbluff, WA. is our original market with over 30 farms that are all independently owned and operated. From u-pick to grab-and-go there’s something fresh for everyone.

Farms have various hours and events. Check out www.greenbluffgrowers.com for hours, offerings and what’s in season.

Owen Farms is located just south of Spokane at 7205 E Palouse Highway. They raise Piedmontese Feedstock Cattle. The beef is naturally lean, low in fat and calories, yet high in protein. You can schedule a tour on their website owenfarms.com

Laurie Allen

#Spokane #Summer #EatLocal #BuyLocal #WhyWeLiveHere #FarmersMarkets

Maryhill ZINfinGAL - Spokane Tasting Room

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Thu, 21 May 2026 00:30:00 +0000

About last night: Kendall Yards Night Market is in full swing. We scored a sunny table at Maryhill Winery Spokane for some really remarkable wine. What can I say, I’m a ZinfinGAL 🍷

Life's fast, sip slow. Discovering Local Wine 🍷

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Mon, 04 May 2026 12:49:00 +0000

One sip and you’ll understand why opting to pour local is trending. Spokane is currently home to 20 diverse wineries. Local wineries are complimented by several out-of-area satellite downtown Spokane tasting rooms such as Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Helix Wine and Va Piano Vineyards. Additionally, Maryhill Winery, whose collected over 3,000 accolades for their wines opened a spacious off-site tasting room in the thriving Kendall Yards neighborhood. The new 5000 sq ft structure was designed to take advantage of a spectacular view of the river and downtown skyline. North Idaho contributes Coeur d’Alene Cellars and Pend d’Orielle Winery to the established yet still emerging wine scene. Pend d'Oreille Winery, located in the restored Belwood Building in Sandpoint, Idaho has become a gathering place for wine and the perfect pairings of food and music. Jim Bopp and Kylie Presta are carrying out the legacy of the winery which was established by Steve and Julie Meyer in 1995. Besides making great wine, winemaker Jim Bopp and Kylie have created an an event based winery with live music most nights and memorable events, such as BYOB which stands for Blend Your Own Bistro. This is a hands-on class that includes wine tasting to create 1.5L of your Bistro Rouge Personal Blend, wine and appetizers.

Most of the grapes for Washington’s 970+ wineries are grown in the 509 area code in American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) which tastefully surround Spokane. Yes, its true Spokane isn’t known for growing grapes, however winemakers don’t have to venture too far to get them. The best way to experience local wine is at the wineries themselves. True that area wineries have diverse personalities but are similar by being intimate, often providing the opportunities to taste directly with the winemaker.

Latah Creek Wine Cellars, established in 1982 by Mike and Ellena Conway, is a pioneer in Washington State’s wine scene. Truly a family-owned and operated winery, the Conway’s only daughter, Natalie Conway-Barnes is now a winemaker along side her father. Although, Latah Creek is historically best know for their signature whites, they also produced outstanding reds. The local artist labeled Monarch Series are small lot productions of reserve reds are consistently outstanding. If you attend an event at Latah Creek, you most likely been treated to cuisine. Ellena has published several cookbooks from years of wine pairing and cooking demonstrations.

Award winning Barrister Winery is nestled in a downtown alley in a historic brick building. Greg Lipsker and Michael White, two local attorneys that became winemakers on impulse, after purchasing home wine making kit in 1997. Mainly because they outgrew their garages, Barrister Winery was launched in 2001. Barrister Winery’s 100 year-old historic tasting room is an ideal venue for a soiree. The tall exposed brick walls, uneven hardwood floors and the aroma of the wine provide an ambiance that’s rustically elegant and timelessly romantic. Behind the tasting bar, there’s a window to the railroad tracks allowing wine tasters to watch and feel the trains pass by. Lipsker teases that the Barrister secret is the wine barrels are gently train rocked on a regular schedule. As the winery grew, they added Tyler Walters started as an assistant and became part owner, impacting all aspects of the winery. Barrister opened a second tasting room across the street from the Davenport Grand Hotel nestled by Aunties Bookstore. Primarily a house of red, Barrister is best known for their remarkable Cab Franc and Rough Justice, a popular red blend. The wines have received accolades across the board, having some thinking there’s something to that train rocked wine thing.

Arbor Crest was the 29th Washington winery established in 1982. The historic Cliff House is perched high atop cliffs overlooking the Spokane River. Arbor Crest boasts one of the most spectacular settings of any winery in Washington State and is worth visiting for this reason alone. At Arbor Crest wine making is a family tradition. Arbor Crest's winemaker, Kristina Mielke-van Löbel Sels, is a second-generation winemaker. Daughter of founders Harold and Marcia. Mielke-van Löbel Sels and her husband Jim; a viticulturist joined the Arbor Crest Wine Cellars staff. Arbor Crest produces a wide variety of reds and wines. Dionysus, a Meritage blend is a definite standout red. Back in 1969, Jim’s family released the original (and long-dormant) van Löben Sels label in California. Jim and Kristina renewed the label and have received rave reviews with the remarkable Bona Dea Red Blend being a notable standout. The summer concert series is an ideal way to experience Arbor Crest but music is a year-round draw as they offer fireside music in the tasting room as the weather cools down.

Robert Karl Cellars was founded in 1999 and is located in a 1912 fire station in downtown Spokane’s historic warehouse district. Physician winemaker, Joe Gunselman and his wife Rebecca handcraft world-class wines with grapes exclusively from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Robert Karl isn’t the name of an actual person. It’s a combined name from Joe and Rebecca’s families, which they thought was easier to say, therefore more marketable than Gunselman. Although they produce a Cabernet that’s always in demand, thir Claret and more recently a get it before it’s gone, dry Cab Franc Rosé. Robert Karl’s Wine Club is e label is best known for thereferred to as the Robert Karl Health Club. The doctor/winemaker is convincing that daily wine is beneficial to you.

Sizzle magazine Winter 2019

Be an adventurer and visit a winery. Discover why the Spokane, Coeur d’Alene and surrounding areas have become a destination for wine.

Washington State CHEESE (EAST vs. WEST)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 04 May 2026 12:40:00 +0000

"Wine and cheese are ageless companions, like aspirin and aches, or June and moon or good people and noble ventures" M.F.K. Fisher, Vin et Formage.

So….what’s your ultimate comfort food?

Okay, I’ll go first.

Mac ‘n Cheese! 🧀

No, not your kid’s Mac ‘n Cheese.

A more gourmet baked type of goodness paired with wine 🍷

Check out my two favorite recipes for with either the Westside’s Beecher's Handmade Cheese or the East’s WSU Creamery’s Cougar Gold.

Washington State is not yet necessarily known for cheese. But the culinary landscape of Washington is dotted with well-known and well-anointed cheeses and cheese makers having Washingtonians take pride in their products. It seams only appropriate that the nation's second largest wine producing region, have a handle on cheese as well. Though there are other notable cheese makers in Washington State, a good EAST vs.WEST rivalry is represented by Cougar Gold and Beecher's.

First a few basics about Wine and Cheese, that may just be the dynamic duo of the culinary world. The just go so well together and even though it really comes down to personal taste, certain guidelines have been proven favorable in pairing this iconic food couple.

Here are some of those basic truths:

• White wines match best with soft cheeses and stronger flavors.

• Red wines match best with hard cheeses and milder flavors.

• Fruity and sweet white wines (not dry) and dessert wines work best with a wider range of cheeses.

• The more pungent the cheese you choose, the sweeter the wine should be.

Similar to to the Apple Cup or any other State rivalry, Washington has outstanding cheese from both sides of the State.

EAST: Well, around here, what we really want to know is what pairs best with Cougar Gold®? According to the WSU website, sixteen artisan cheese makers and wine producers from the Northwest got together and agreed - Cougar Gold pairs best with Viognier, Savignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Merlot.

The Pullman Creamery currently produces almost 300,000 cans of cheese each year, 80% of which is Cougar Gold®. Cougar Cheeses come in the following flavors: Cougar Gold®, American Cheddar, Smoky Cheddar, Viking, Dill Garlic, Sweet Basil, Hot Pepper and Crimson Fire.

Visit the creamery to see how Cougar Gold® Cheese is made and have a sample and maybe even indulge in an ice cream cone or milkshake at adjacent Ferdinand's Ice Cream Shoppe, which features old-fashioned ice cream and soda fountain treats, exclusive ice cream flavors, gourmet coffee and espresso drinks and of course, award winning Cougar Cheese®.

If you have now decided you are headed to Pullman, I suggest you take the opportunity to visit some wineries and even a new brew pub while you're in the Pullman area.

Sip Tip: Cougar Gold® cheese is consistently available at area Rosauers or at the Cougar Bookstore. There is a significant savings for buying it at the factory in Pullman. We're thinking that you pour local. Sauvignon Blanc from Arbor Crest or a Coeur d'Alene Cellars Viognier

WEST: Beecher's is an oh-so tasty artisan cheese maker located in Seattle's famed Pike Place Market. I believe the market is one of the nation’s culinary landmarks and not to be missed when visiting the Seattle area. Though this is always a good choice for a bite, Beecher's is especially perfect on a grey Seattle day, because this may be the ultimate in comfort food, as well as, one of the best homemade cheeses EVER. It has a smoother texture than your conventional cheddar. Slightly sweet, salty and delightfully nutty and sharp, it is well on its way to becoming a classic. Perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwiches, creamy tomato soup, and to-die-for grown up macaroni and cheese are all found on a busy corner in the heart the Market.

Write off lunch as educational as Beecher's milk jug bar stools face an observation area for cheese making. I suggest you order up, grab a stool and watch the cheese makers slowly create bliss in an open vat.

The best news for out of towners is Beecher's ship their delectable Flagship Cheese and that World's Best Mac 'n Cheese anywhere in the country. This superbly Seattle eating experience won't disappoint and will have you thinking about how soon you can get back there or if you should just place and order to meet you back home.

Beecher's cheese varieties include their famed Flagship, Jamaican flavored No Woman, creamy Just Jack, Madagascar Marco Polo as well as, Smoked Flagship.

Sip Tip: Medium and Full bodied Reds work well with sharper more flavorful cheeses such Beecher's Flagship cheese. I recommend a Merlot from either Winescape or Maryhill. I also felt Syrah was a good match and suggest Syrahs from either Barrister or Robert Karl.

There are Cheese 101: Introduction to Artisan Cheese classes which include sampling and wine pairings is offered at their Bennett's Pure Food Bistro on Mercer Island. As always, it's your palette that counts, so having your own tasting is the best way to pair food and wine.

Around here in the Inland Northwest, Beecher's can be found at Huckleberries, The Rocket Market and occasionally at Rosauers, Safeway and Yokes. Beecher's Handmade Cheese is at 1600 Pike Place Seattle, Washington 98101 206.956.1964 and recently opened a store in Manhattan.

Who wins in the Washington State cheese bowl?
Tastefully, we all do.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beecher's World Famous Mac & Cheese

6 ounces penne pasta
2 cups Beecher's Flagship Sauce (recipe follows)
1 ounce cheddar, grated ( 1/4 cup)
1 ounce Gruyere cheese, grated ( 1/4 cup)
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chile powder

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Oil or butter an 8-inch baking dish.
Cook the penne 2 minutes less than package directions. (It will finish cooking in the oven.) Rinse pasta in cold water and set aside.
Combine cooked pasta and Flagship Sauce in a medium bowl and mix carefully but thoroughly. Scrape the pasta into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the cheeses and then the chile powder. Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

NOTE: If you double the recipe to make a main dish, bake in a 9-by-13-inch pan for 30 minutes.

BEECHER'S FLAGSHIP CHEESE SAUCE

MAKES ABOUT 4 CUPS
1/4 cup ( 1/2 stick) unsalted butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
14 ounces semihard cheese, such as Beecher's Flagship, grated (about 3 1/2 cups)
2 ounces grated semisoft cheese, such as Beecher's Just Jack
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chile powder
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

Melt the butter in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat and whisk in the flour. Continue whisking and cooking for 2 minutes. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from the heat. Add the cheese, salt, chile powder and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is melted and all ingredients are incorporated, about 3 minutes. Use immediately, or refrigerate for up to three days.

NOTE: A single batch of sauce makes enough for a double recipe of macaroni and cheese.
This does not last long around our house :)

Wine Pairing: Beacher's suggusts Syrah with their Flagship cheese. Hmm...I’m not sure about that. There is some Cheddar and Jack cheese in it, so I think Zin.
Beer Pairings: India Pale Ale; Hefweisen - perfect.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

COUGAR GOLD Classic Baked Macaroni & Cheese

Cougar Gold® elevates this timeless comfort food to a new level!

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 1 ½ quart baking dish.
6 cups water
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 cups (8 ounces) corkscrew pasta
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups milk
2 1/2 cups grated Cougar Gold®
1 Tbsp butter
1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
ground black pepper, to taste

Bring the water, salt and pasta to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Cook just until tender. Drain pasta, put into prepared baking dish and set aside. Meanwhile prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. While whisking, gradually add the flour. Whisk for about 2 minutes or until golden and bubbling. Very slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid developing lumps. Simmer for 15 minutes until thickened, stirring often to prevent mixture from burning. Remove from heat and stir in Cougar Gold® and black pepper to taste. Pour sauce onto cooked pasta (do not stir). Melt 1 tablespoon butter and toss with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle on top of casserole and bake for 30 minutes or until the crumbs are golden.

Wine Pairing: According to the Washington State University website, sixteen culinary experts agreed - Cougar Gold® pairs best with Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Merlot. I suggest Arbor Crest Sauvignon Blanc or K Vintner’s Golden West Pinot Noir

Auntie's Bookstore - Spokane, WA.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:26:00 +0000

Long live the independent bookstore!
Aunties, an oasis of books in downtown Spokane is the kind of Bookstore you can get lost in for days and if you're a book lover, you'd be totally content.

It's tradition for me to meander through the stacks with no real agenda and next thing I know the afternoon is gone.

Author signings and regular readings take place on a weekly basis and they have one of the best magazine selections in town. It's important we support local, independent bookstores if we want them to stay in our community. After one visit you'll know Aunties is a worth investing in and you'll make a point to give them your business.

I read REAL BOOKS 📚...like the words are on actual paper kind of books. * April 29 is independent bookseller day. Support your local bookstore. READ LOCAL

(Downtown Spokane)

402 W Main Ave

Spokane, WA 99201

For the love of Washington Wine

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:51:00 +0000

*Note: This article was originally published in 2014. Besides the growing number of Washington Wineries (now well over 950) having to be edited this article still rings true. Wine is the answer, What was the question?

For the LOVE of Washington Wine

by Laurie Allen

Wine is more than a liquid libation. Most locapours (lovers of local wine) will claim Washington wine has meaning, depth and even truth in every glass. Wine is an experience, sometimes even a ritual that’s meant to be shared and from there the truth often flows. Vino Veritas is a Latin phrase that translates "in wine [there is the] truth."

Wine, wine, and more wine. Lucky for residents and visitors alike, Washington has numerous opportunities to partake in the fermented juice. The local wine scene exploded in the mid 90s making Washington the second largest wine region in the United States. Compared to 1981, when there were only 19 official wineries, Washington State is now drenched in wine boasting more than 970 official wineries. To put this into perceptive, there are currently 757 (20% less) Starbucks sprinkled throughout Washington.

Wine has a story. With the onslaught of wine production comes the stories behind the wine that are ultimately expressed in your glass. From the people who work the vineyards to the winemakers, even seemingly little decisions all have an impact on the direction, outcome and personality that consumers taste. The range of possible combinations of these factors can result in vast differences among wines and influence the fermentation, finishing, and aging processes. Though winemaking sounds très romantique, if you venture in you’d better be more than just passionate about it. Most winemakers will tell you that being in the wine business requires hard work and even more money. Not to burst the view from your rosé colored glasses but we have it on good authority that winemaking involves a massive amount of cleaning.

Wine can convey history. Wine has a rich history dating back thousands of years and each vintage tells a tale about that specific year. You may have heard wine enthusiasts refer to terroir [ter-wahr], the French word for land. Terroir can be loosely translated as "a sense of place," which is embodied in certain characteristic qualities. This combination of factors including soil, climate, and environment give wine its distinctive character. In a vertical tasting, different vintages of the same wine type from the same vineyard are tasted. This emphasizes differences between various vintages. Explore what makes a "good year," and you can learn a lot about a particular wine. The specific conditions under which the grapes were grown and harvested also impact how the finished product tastes. Temperature fluctuations and the amount of rain or sunshine affect grape varieties differently. When it’s decided that harvest commences and extraordinary occurrences like extreme weather or insect swarms also leave their mark. Craig Leuthold, owner of Maryhill Winery says weather isn’t as much of a factor, especially in Eastern Washington, but rather his concern is the composition of the soil and who is tending to the vineyard. Washington State has been recognized as having ideal geography and conditions for growing premium vinifera wine grapes. The state claims on average 16 hours per day of sunshine and annual rainfall of eight inches (20.32 cm) in Eastern Washington (the major grape growing region) and 48 inches (121.92 cm) in Western Washington. The 350+ grape growers in Washington focus on Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, but the region officially produces over 30 varieties of white and red wines.

Wine tasting includes ambience. Where you are and whom you’re with can enhance the experience and bring greater enjoyment from the wine. Let’s be honest, wine tastes better at picturesque places, with people you adore or while listening to great music or indulging in delicious food. These wine moments often happen at the wineries. Taking in an outdoor amphitheater-style concert at Maryhill Winery in Goldendale or at Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery in Woodinville creates a memorable evening that pairs well with the host’s wine. But putting down a picnic blanket on the grass at Arbor Crest Cliff house perched above the Spokane Valley while listening to the best local musicians or participating in open-mic night at Sapolil Cellars in Walla Walla is just as special. Even hearing Classic Rock vinyl spun at Sleight of Hand’s tasting room in Walla Walla while you taste through the line up can enhance wine’s flavor. Washington wineries are plentiful but as unique and diverse as the wine itself. Lavish and over the top to intimate and even quirky, there’s a favorite Washington winery for everyone. Food, of course is the natural pairing for wine. Cave B Estate Winery in Quincy invites you to their on-winery restaurant, Tendrils, which has seasonal fare perfectly paired with the estate’s wines and complimented by a commanding view of the Columbia River Gorge. Sorrento’s Ristorante at Tsillian Winery in Lake Chelan offers authentic Italian cuisine precisely paired with the estate’s wine in a Tuscan style setting with arguably the grandest view of Lake Chelan. At Tsillian Cellars you can dine al fresco with sound of a piano player tickling the ivories at a backdrop. Diverse, yes, but despite the rapid growth, Washington wineries are still very intimate and often provide the opportunity to taste with the winemaker. If they’re not pouring they are usually close by and eager to answer any questions about their liquid art. Washington State has truly become a destination for wine. Visit a winery and taste why.

Wine is the answer. What was the question? According once again to locapours, its always the right time for wine. Wine is the perfect gift; one size fits all and duplicates welcome. With the wine being, well, everywhere, Washingtonians have adapted a casual approach to wine. It’s become for many, a daily indulgence. The benefit of so much quality wine being produced is that one doesn’t need to break the bank to enjoy a great glass of wine. Wine attempts to reclaim the lost ritual of gathering, conversing and lingering. Whether it’s a significant celebration and time to break out the 1995 Leonetti Merlot or a daily indulgence of 2011 Maryhill Winemaker’s Red blend, wine is designed to be pleasurable and easily incorporated into one’s life. It’s true; the bottled magic can even turn around a less than stellar day. Vino Veritas.

Laurie L Allen is a consistently published freelance writer who usually writes about the important things in life; fine wine, creative cuisine, spectacular spas, regional art, and unique boutiques. Allen has a popular wine blog www.sipofspokane.com. Weekdays she can be found as a Washington state Realtor.

(Original article)

Still Smitten by Sorella, Spokane, WA.

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 18:40:00 +0000

Dearest Sorella,

We randomly drove by on one of the first nights that you were open. As we approached the unfamiliar but attention getting corner space, I abruptly started pointing, "There, I want to go there!" My husband kindly obliged.

First impressions really do matter in life and with restaurants. I was instantly enchanted by the timeless style that had the perfect juxtaposition of modern and vintage. Oh lovely Sorella, with you, it was love at first sight.

As we ordered what ended up being the most remarkably crafted cocktail, the writer in me started asking our server rapid questions, "Is this local, who owns it?"

A few minutes later, Lauren, the charming proprietor sat with us and told her passionate story about opening her very first restaurant. All I could say, soundly slightly like I was her mother, "You got it right. I am so proud of you."

We've been back many times. The creative cuisine is just as good as that first libation. Sorella is nestled in the "it" neighborhood of Kendall Yards, just north of downtown Spokane. Not surprisingly, we're not alone in falling for this new gathering place. I strongly suggest making reservations to ensure you can get in.

Oh and as if I wasn't already smitten, the tab came nestled in a vintage book. Bravo Lauren! You didn't just get the big things right but paid attention to the nuances that truly captures one’s heart.

Find true love at 1122 W Summit Parkway in Kendall Yards.

BTW Sorella means sister in Italian. Naturally, the owner's brother came up with the name. ♥️

@SorellaSpokane, I believe we have embarked on a long term relationship.

Arrivederci, Sip of Spokane xo

Wine Lingo - Words 4 Wine.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:26:00 +0000

The reason wine “lingo” was created was to assist in the description and discussion of wine. Or maybe it was created to sound pretentious or part of a secret society. Either way, using these words helps others understand your interpretation of the wine. Keep in mind, it is not necessary to use any prescribed language. You can describe a wine in any terms you want. As you may have noticed, SIP makes up wine words all the time. Think of wine tasting terms as those that describe how the wine smells and those that describe how it tastes or feels.

The following are a few basic tasting terms you may have heard:

Acidic: A sharp, tart taste. Strict like SIP's 5th grade teacher, Mrs Pepper.

Aftertaste: Do we really need to tell you what that means?

Aromatic: A term used to describe the wine’s bouquet. The smell. It's fun to compare what you think you smell and to the winemaker's notes to discover what you should smell. Hmm...really?

Bitter: This describes a taste not how you feel. Usually associated with younger wines, therefore a good term to remember when describing the Beaujolais nouveau or how Sip feels about women younger than me. Not all the time, just sometimes :)

Body: How the wine feels in the mouth. Light, medium or full depending on the wine’s alcohol and extract. Wine can be as thin like water or thick like milk.

Clean: A wine that doesn’t taste funny, which is a good thing.

Closed: Used to describe the taste of a wine that’s been opened before it’s time. The flavor is somewhat incomplete. With wine often a dose of patience is required.

Dry: A less sweet white, the opposite of brut.

Fruity: Used to describe a flavorful, bouquet of fully ripened grapes.

Legs: Ring around the collar for wine. The liquid residue left on the side of the glass, when tilted back and forth. Thicker, slower moving legs denote higher alcohol content or residual sugar.

Musty: Wine that smells like grandma’s hope chest or the wet beach bag you forgot to unpack. Usually denotes dirty barrels. Yuk.

Nose: A pretentious way to describe how the wine smells. Sounds snobby, doesn't it?

Soft: Much like cashmere, soft is always good. For wine it denotes a well-rounded flavor derived from mature tannins.

Tannic: A dry, astringent taste and mouth-feel from the skins, pits and stalks.

Keep tasting and remember, you are the only wine critic that really matters.
Drink what you like.
SIP XXOO

(Art Credit: Joe Holland)

Marys & Mimosas - Booze for Breakfast

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 03:32:00 +0000

Bringing Back The Breakfast Drink

Marys and Mimosas

Both the Bloody Marys and Mimosas make it socially acceptable to drink before noon. While this can be problematic if the drinking continues all day but a Mary or a Mimosa morning can be a beautiful thing.

The Bloody Mary can be a meal in itself - a healthy sounding drink at that with a slightly morbid name. Bloody Marys traditionally are made with vodka and tomato juice which is then heavily spiced and garnished. Some say this drink was conceived in Paris in the roaring 20's. Others trace it back to the 30's as a cure to the dreaded hangover. Either way, this breakfast cocktail has evolved with many twists being added along the way.

The Mimosa, on the other hand, is a mainstay of the classy champagne brunch with a straightforward recipe: champagne and orange juice. Yes, this is a drink you can make yourself. It was supposedly invented in back in 1925 at a Parisian Hotel. As with most cocktails, there are Mimosa variations such as switching up the juice variety. Adding to the elegance is that this breakfast cocktail is usually served in a champagne flute.

Bubbly Side Note: All champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is champagne. Yes, you read that right. It “should” only be called champagne if it’s origins are from the region of Champagne, France. In addition, the French also insist that champagne be made exclusively from pinot meunier, pinot noir and chardonnay grapes using the méthode champenoise, the traditional method of producing champagne. Although champagne a legally protected name, there are some loopholes to this1891 law thanks to World War I and the United States not signing the Treaty of Versailles in 1917. Signing this treaty would have prohibited the United States from using the name Champagne. Besides a few, mostly Californian wineries calling their bubbly, champagne in the United States it’s referred to as Sparkling wine. Spain refers to their most popular bubbly as Cava. The Spaniards use the méthode champenoise for production but legally can only refer to the process as traditionelle. Then there’s Prosecco that comes the Venetian region of northwestern Italy. Some Italian producers do use the méthode champenoise butrefer to it as metodo classico and other Italian producers stray from tradition using glera grapes and having the secondary fermentation occur in tanks rather than in individual bottles. They refer to this method as charmet. Typically, Procecco tends to be sweeter, milder and fruitier than Champagne or Cava. A lower price point could also be a factor but Procecco outsells champagne worldwide.

You can find both Marys and Mimosas at a number of regional establishments where drinking at breakfast locally is not only allowed but encouraged. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Davenport Hotel (10 South Post in downtown Spokane)

Pre-Covid the timelessly elegant hotel featured a Bloody Mary Bar during their decadent Sunday Brunch. This is a place where you can get your Mary precisely the way you like at the build-your-own Bloody Mary Bar. It was a $10 trip with or without brunch and includes specialty libations including Salmon, Jalapeño, and Bacon infused vodkas. You then choose either V8 or Clamato juice and garnish it the way you want with pickled asparagus, blue cheese stuffed olives, celery and carrots. In addition, you had a bevy of hot sauces to spice it up to your liking. It happened every Sunday from 10am to 1pm with brunch being optional. We’re hoping for a triumphant comeback in both the lavish brunch and the popular Bloody Mary Bar. In the meantime, the Davenport’s Palm Court offers a remarkable substitute with the Ultimate Bloody Mary which includes vodka, house-made mary mix and wild gulf prawns for $13.

Satellite Lounge and Diner (425 West Sprague in downtown Spokane) invites you to dive in after a big night out as the full menu is available from 7am-1am nightly. Pony up to the bar stool for not only immediate but friendly service for a traditional breakfast and an award-winning Bloody Mary or a pretty perfect Mimosa. It is not only a good option with good food and drinks but possibly one of the few options after midnight.

Italia Trattoria (144 South Cannon Street in Spokane) Italia is a fabulous stop any time but brunch is served Saturday or Sunday from 9am-2pm. The Italia Bloody Mary is made with vodka, scratch mary mix and pickled asparagus for $9. Also on the menu is an Italia Mimosa made with fresh orange juice and Prosecco by the glass for $8.50 or the pitcher for $40. Italia also offers a Pomegranate Bellini made with pomegranate, St.Germain elderflower liqueur and Prosecco for $13. It’s so good that it may have you abandon the traditional morning mimosa.

Coeur d'Alene Resort (115 South 2nd Street in Coeur d'Alene) Dockside features the Signature Sunday Brunch on holidays which includes enough options to satisfying everyone in your party. Traditional Bloody Marys and Mimosa are featured. Stunning lake views are included at no charge. Then there is the seasonal option of breakfast at taking the complimentary wooden boat ride around Tubbs Hill to The Floating Green Restaurant. Their Bloody Mary is concocted with Absolut vodka, house made mary mix and complete with all the goodies including bacon for $14

A previous version of this article by Laurie Allen was published in Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living magazine

Life’s fast, sip slow.

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 23:12:00 +0000

#BC WINE 🇨🇦 🍷

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 23:11:00 +0000

While in Canada, I strongly suggest you sip local, as British Columbia has barrels full of remarkable wine.

However, for the most part they keep it for themselves, not even sharing (exporting) with their neighbors just across the border. Additionally, there’s also a strict limit on how much one can bring home.

Cheers to #BCwine and our slow collection adding 1-2 bottles at a time.

Pictured are Blasted Church Vineyards, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards and Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery & Distillery to name drop just a few.

Liquid Libations - Some like it HOT!

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 20:51:00 +0000

Some Like It HOT
Something to take the chill off

HBR: Photo Credit Beyond Wonder

As the weather is icy and the breeze carries a chill, a steaming-hot boozy beverage can warm you up from the inside out. Here are some places to slip into something hot and cozy. In fact, simply embracing the mug of one of these suggestions instantly add a warmth that will chase the chills away.

Latah Creek's Mulled Wine
Mulled Wine is a cold weather tradition at Latah Creek Winery. For quick and easy mulled wine, heat Latah Creek Maywine with a cinnamon stick. Latah Creek Maywine is white blend of premium Washington wines (usually Johannisberg Riesling of Gewurztraminer). Its fragrant woodruff herbs and natural strawberry concentrate heat up nicely into a flavorful warm drink.

Downriver's Blueberry Tea
A liquored up hot tea can be found at Downriver Grill in North Spokane's Audubon Park Neighborhood. Downriver provides a unique warm drink simply called Blueberry Tea. It consists of Blueberry and Earl Grey teas with Grand Marnier and Amaretto liqueurs.

HBR @Clinkerdagger, The Davenport or Steelhead Bar & Grille
Care to drink your dessert by indulging in Hot Buttered Rum (HBR)? This blissful drink is classically made with sugar, brown sugar, butter, vanilla ice cream, rum, hot water and nutmeg. You can discover noteworthy house-made HBRs at Clinkerdagger in the historic Flour Mill or in The Davenport's swanky Peacock Room. For a twist on this cold weather classic, duck into the Steelhead Bar & Grille for a Buttered Filbert by the fireplace. The barkeepers at Steelhead use their scrumptious HBR recipe but mix it with Kahlua and hazelnut liqueur and float whip cream on top.

Spokane Club's Tom & Jerry
The Spokane Club is famous for their tradition of Tom and Jerry's. Essentially, this drink is composed of eggs, baking spices, sugar, cognac, dark rum and milk. An annual party celebrating partaking in the cold weather tradition is a popular event. Sans the alcohol, this is a drink the whole family can enjoy. The batter makes an excellent topping for alcoholic beverages as well as hot cocoa, eggnog or warm milk for the kids.

Apple Cider @ Greenbluff or The Elk
Hot Apple Cider is another non-alcoholic way to warm up. We suggest a quick trip to Greenbluff for locally made Cider from Walter's Fruit Ranch or a visit to The Elk in Browne's Addition, where Hot Apple Cider is a popular pour when the temperature drops.

Hot Chocolate Concoctions @ Steelhead and Bardenay
Here is a childhood favorite that growns up fast with the proper additions. The Steelhead Bar and Grille serves Sticky Stuff, which is blissful concoction for chattering sweet teeth. The Steelhead bartenders mix amaretto, Malibu Coconut Rum into Hot Chocolate topped with whipped cream. Bardenany Restaurant and Distillery in Coeur d'Alene offers another take. The Bardenay bartenders serve up a Peppermint Patty by their fireplace, which is comprised of Rumplemintz liqueur, Godiva Chocolate liqueur, hot chocolate and fresh cream.

Amped Coffee @ Luna and the Peacock Room
Mexican Coffee is a popular warm drink at South Hill's Luna. It is created with coffee, goldschlagger, tequila, Godiva liqueur and a dash of cayenne to add some heat. Another coffee with a kick can be found at The Davenport in the Peacock Room. Warm up and get a bit of a buzz with their Coffee Nudge that doctors up the java with creme de cacao, brandy (the kick), and Kahlua topped with whipped cream.

The Hot Toddy @ The Coeur d'Alene Resort or Bardenay
Finally, a practically perfect nightcap is a Hot Toddy, which can be found at Beverly's or Whisper's Lounge at the Coeur d'Alene Resort. The Resort's snuggly Hot Toddy is made with Maker Mark bourbon, lemon, nutmeg and cinnamon. Bardenay features this well recognized drink with a twist by adding Chambord and creating a Raspberry Hot Toddy.

By Laurie Allen

The first version of this article was originally published in the November 2012 issue of Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living magazine.

Renaissance Revival : Beauty from Ashes

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Fri, 02 May 2025 12:55:00 +0000

*Originally written during the Covid pandemic (2021)

As you may know, The Renaissance was an impassioned period of European culture, artistic, political and economic “rebirth” following the Middle Ages generally described as taking place from the 14th century to the 17th century. The Renaissance promoted the rediscovery of classical philosophy, literature and Art. Some of the greatest thinkers, authors, leaders, scientists and artists in human history thrived during this Beauty from Ashes era.

Right now, we should be expecting greatness to emerge.

As you may know, the time prior to this gloriously creative era was considered the “Dark Ages” which is often referred to as a time as war, ignorance, famine and pandemics.

Sound a little familiar? There’s no doubt that post pandemic, our world has been relentless in chaos, division and tragedy. But just like the poppies that grew in Flanders Field, beauty can be found. Amongst the rubble, we have witnessed some goodness. For some, there has been some awakening of humanism and a clarity of what or who is really important, as well as what may be frivolous or even meaningless. Can you feel it? We are primed for a revival.

During this highly creative time of the Renaissance - Art, Architecture and Science were closely linked. In fact, it was a unique time when these fields of study fused together seamlessly. For instant, artists like da Vinci incorporated scientific principles such as anatomy to their work so they could re-create the human body with extraordinary accuracy. Some of the most iconic artistic works were produced during the Renaissance. The Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, Vitruvian Man (da Vinci), The Creation of Adam and the Statue of David (Michelangelo) and the Birth of Venus (Bocelli) to name drop just a few.

Anticipate remarkable art to materialize.

Vitruvius Man (da Vinci) proportions of the human body.

Architects such as Filippo Brunelleschi utilized mathematics to accurately engineer and design immense buildings with expansive domes. Scientific discoveries lead to major shifts of thinking. Galileo and Descartes presented a new view of astrology and mathematics, while Copernicus proposed that the sun, not the earth was the center of the solar system.

Expect revolutionary thought that leads to invention.

Brunelleschi’s Dome.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence, Italy
Photo Credit: Britannica Karel

During this time there emerged a unifying musical language, in particular the polyphonic style. The development of printing made the distribution of music possible on a wide scale. Demand for music as entertainment and it’s an activity for educated amateurs increased within the emergence of the bourgeois (middle class). Dissemination of chansons, motets and masses throughout Europe coincided with the unification of the polyphonic practice into a fluid style that cumulated in the second half of the 16th century with the works of great composers such as Palestrina, Lassus, Victoria and William Byrd.

Music is the universal language of mankind. As Plato so brilliantly stated, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything” It’s commonplace for great music to surface from immense struggle. Listen for it.

Additionally, during this time of rebirth famous journeys were taken by Ferdinand Magellan, Christopher Columbus, Amerigo Vespucci, Marco Polo, Ponce de Leon, Vasco Nunez de Balboa, Hernando De Soto and other explorers.

It’s been said Space is once again the new frontier. The space race is reigniting and although that’s exciting, discovery is just outside your front door, in your own country and in around the globe. Let’s be adventurers.

The renaissance had a profound effect on contemporary theology, particularly in the way perceive the relationship between man and God. Many of the period’s foremost theologians were followers of the humanist method, including Erasmus, Thomas More, Martin Luther and John Calvin.

In this hurried world, be still and ponder your thoughts, establish your beliefs and seek wisdom. Often used as an image to represent philosophy, the thinker (Le Penseur) is a bronze sculpture by Auguste Rodin. The work shows a nude male figure of heroic size sitting on a rock resting with his chin in his hand in deep thought. Allow yourself to be still and know.

Rodin’s Le Penseur (The Thinker)

What’s your role in all this? There’s a popular gospel song of unknown origin that is sung all over the world entitled “This little light of mine” The world needs you to let it SHINE. Don’t dismiss the significance of your little light. Yes, you have one. It’s time to discover it, share it and expected greatness not just from others but from ourselves.

“Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine”

“Give light, and darkness will disappear of itself” Erasmus

The Power of ONE

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Fri, 02 May 2025 12:50:00 +0000

Sometimes we find ourself thinking, “I’m already really busy, and how much of a difference can I really make?” I think this is especially true when we’re talking about addressing massive social problems like tackling world hunger or finding a cure for cancer, but it pops up all of the time in our everyday lives, as well. Like me thinking how am I going to send kids to climb mountains in Canada by selling an $8.99 Journal about courage on Amazon? The answer lies in the power of ONE. We’re selling ONE journal at a time for ONE camper at a time. ONE can makes a difference.

This last Summer, I debuted “BEE BRAVE : a journal to inspire courage” and today I’m making a donation to Beyond Malibu - A Young Life Camp.

Thank you so very much to all those who without hesitation quickly purchased ONE...or 12 to make a difference. I’m excited for that ONE student to summit a mountain and have a life changing experience.

Photo Credit: Young Life Beyond Malibu

It reminds me of The Star Thrower story.

Do you know it? It’s powerful. It’s very true that we can’t help everybody but the good news is everybody can help somebody.

The Star Thrower

Once upon a time, there was an old man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach every morning before he began his work. Early one morning, he was walking along the shore after a big storm had passed and found the vast beach littered with starfish as far as the eye could see, stretching in both directions.

Off in the distance, the old man noticed a small boy approaching. As the boy walked, he paused every so often and as he grew closer, the man could see that he was occasionally bending down to pick up an object and throw it into the sea. The boy came closer still and the man called out, “Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?”

The young boy paused, looked up, and replied “Throwing starfish into the ocean. The tide has washed them up onto the beach and they can’t return to the sea by themselves,” the youth replied. “When the sun gets high, they will die, unless I throw them back into the water.”

The old man replied, “But there must be tens of thousands of starfish on this beach. I’m afraid you won’t really be able to make much of a difference.”

The boy bent down, picked up yet another starfish and threw it as far as he could into the ocean. Then he turned, smiled and said, “It made a difference to that one!”

adapted from The Star Thrower, by Loren Eiseley (1907 – 1977)

Click to purchase BEE Thankful and help send kids to camp!

Capturing Words, a writer’s journey

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Fri, 02 May 2025 12:48:00 +0000

As a writer, there are times when words softly and conveniently make their way to me. Words also specialize in abandonment, which is commonly referred to as Writer’s Block. Yes, I’ve suffered from it, typically at a deadline with an editor waiting for my choreographed words. There are other times words rudely interrupt me, keep me up at night or are completely off subject of my current situation. This makes it immensely hard to concentrate on the task at hand. At this moment, I should apologize to my husband and thank him for his bewildered patience.

Regardless of words being invited or simply barging in, the trick is to quickly harness the words and get them on paper, so they don’t pass you by. No, they don’t always circle back. I’ve restored to the tactic of capturing them by making cryptic notes on random pieces of paper with the plan return to them at a more convenient time. It’s at this moment, I realize I am my father’s daughter. In my defense, this odd behavior is so the words will stop haunting me and I can attend to life or get back to sleep. Yes, I do realize I sound slightly deranged.

So, here’s what kept me up one night, got me up early and kept me in my pajamas after 10am. Click on the link to read about Renaissance Revival.

https://www.sipofspokane.com/2021/01/renaissance-revival-beauty-from-ashes.html

Coincidence? I think not.

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 18:25:00 +0000

Coincidence? I think not.

I found this be kind wine well in Canada. Same font as my book. And yes, the contents were as good as the cover.

Meant to BEE 💛

TheWritingRoom #WordsLikeHoney #WritersOfInstagram #Inspiration #WisdomForTheWay #BeeBrave #WooedByWords #sipofspokane #buythebook #BeeKind #BeeThankful #BeeLove #okanaganvalley #okanaganwine #beekindwine

A Cup of Kindness

noreply@blogger.com (Sip of Spokane) — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 18:54:00 +0000

That morning was like so many others - I was running late and frazzled that the coffee drive-thru was annoyingly slow. Fumbling through my handbag, I realized my wallet hadn't made the trip. I pulled up to the window, counting out loose change when the barista informed me the car in front of me paid my bill. Grateful and shocked, I dumped all the change in tip jar and blissfully drove away. That random act of kindness turned around what started as a less than stellar day. That one cup of kindness brought such joy that years later, I'm telling you about it.

Let's say I didn't just forget my wallet through, and the coffee I craved wasn't financially possible. How much more would I appreciate each sip? Kindness comes in many forms. It can be random acts done anonymously, specific acts done with intention, boldly with fanfare or quietly from the heart. The list goes on, but one thing is constant, kindness has the a ripple effect and apparently can come in a cup.

Boots Bakery & Lounge, an iconic indy coffee shop with great eats is located in downtown Spokane is the anti-Starbucks. At its original location, its bright turquoise facade, soaring ceilings, mismatched chairs, local art, an inspiring vegan menu and warm welcome. This locally owned gathering place has a serious commitment to what's been coined as "suspended coffee." The way it works is when you place an order, you add on one or more extra coffees. Those extra or suspended coffees are then banked for when someone needs to be spotted for their coffee. No questions asked. For those financially challenged, or simply someone who forgot their wallet, can order a suspended coffee. The ripple effect of kindness envelops this friendly gathering place and is reflected by the staff and the patrons. Boots Bakery & Lounge was riding the wave of the suspended coffee movement as a warm cup of kindness can be counted on when needed.

In the end, only kindness matters. Anonymous random acts of kindness expect nothing in return. Not even a thank you. The only thing you can do is pay it forward. So, would you buy a stranger coffee? You should try it. It feels awesome for both the giver and the recipient.

Your challenge - Go and buy a stranger a cup of kindness.

Musical Coffee Shops; Boots Bakery & Lounge was originally located at 24 West Main Ave. in downtown Spokane. Now the charming Coco Cafe is located in its place. No worries, Boots can be found across the street nestled inside the Saranac Commons ant 19 West Main Avenue. Two cafes with personality and heart.

Written by Laurie Allen. As published in Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living magazine 5/15