In the [know].

[In the Bowl, Seattle, WA]

As one of Capitol Hills best kept secrets, In the Bowl, is one of those places that gains popularity through word-of-mouth. A meal that consists of two “episodes” and a pot of hot tea costs roughly $20. Situated near the intersection of East Denny Way and East Olive Way the locale is not ideal if traveling by car. However, In the Bowl offers parking validation for parking in the lot behind the Olive Way “Starbuck”. The crowd that frequents this establishment is as diverse as the flavors that make the food so palatable. From the quirky décor to the names of the dishes – the melting culture is divine – every element compliments the other and contributes to an experience to savor. Perhaps the most unexpected surprise – particularly to meat eaters - is that In the Bowl is vegan. Even though the outside signage indicates it is a Vegetarian Noodle Bistro, there is a notice on the inside that states, “No animals meats and animals products inside the restaurant”. Regardless of dietary preferences the cuisine will speak for itself and the message will invariably be passed on.

Swim fan.

[Colman Pool, Seattle, WA]

Outdoor saltwater slightly chlorinated heated Olympic size pool with a corkscrew water slide. That pretty much sums up Colman pool in the West Seattle neighborhood of Seattle, WA. This pool was donated to the City of Seattle in 1941 by Kenneth B. Colman and named in memory of his father, Laurence J. Colman. The contributions of the Colman family to Seattle include Colman Park in the Mount Baker neighborhood; the Colman building located downtown across from the Washington State ferry terminal which used to be Colman dock; and, of course, Colman pool. The pool itself is heated to 85 degrees and is situated between Lincoln Park and Puget Sound – completely encircled by nature. Children usually outnumber adults during public swim time so even though the surroundings are tranquil the activity in and around the pool is anything but. A limited number of chaise lounges line the perimeter, although, they occupy quickly. More information about the pool can be found here. Pictures of the pool and surrounding area can be viewed here.

Rhymes with mustard.

[Old School Frozen Custard, Seattle, WA]

For the record frozen custard is NOT the same as ice cream. Although its consistency is similar to that of gelato, frozen yogurt, and soft serve ice cream it has a unique and different flavor. Frozen custard tastes extraordinarily rich and creamy with a slight “eggy” aftertaste. Old School Frozen Custard has captured the decadence of this frozen dessert and now offers it at their Capitol Hill location in Seattle, WA. The building is non-descript and the signage is slightly camouflaged by trees so it can be easy to miss (it’s in the same area as the Elysian Brewing Company and Chop Suey). Not only does Old School feature a new flavor every day, but it is open late until 10pm (11pm on Fridays & Saturdays). Five dollars will purchase an agreeable portion of this rich and flavorful frosty delight that will satisfy most cravings. More information about Old School Frozen Custard, other locations, and a calendar of flavors can be found here.

Rock on!

[The Feathers, Vantage, WA]

The Feathers were given their name because the basalt pillars “resemble feathers stuck in the ground”. They are located approximately two hours Southeast of Seattle, Washington and are surrounded by desert. Regardless of your skill level there is an ample selection of routes from which to choose. Even though the rocks are located next to the road they are isolated which provides an ideal back drop for a serene and peaceful day of climbing. An added bonus is that there are camping sites – free of charge - next to the Feathers and along the Frenchman Coulee. However, there aren’t any bathroom facilities or running water. Although the pillars are solid basalt there is the occasional flaky hold. During the summer months climbing the south side of the Feathers after 12pm could result in second degree burns as the south wall is completely exposed to the sun. Frenchman Coulee by Marlene Ford & Jim Yoder and Rock Climbing Washington by Jeffrey L. Smoot are excellent resources. Each book maps out the majority of the routes at the Feathers in addition to other routes along the coulee and in Washington State. Supplementary information from other climbers about the routes and area can be found here. More pictures of the Feathers can be viewed here.