Scott and I visited Picture Lake and Mount Shuksan a couple of years ago in the fall and the views were stunning. Jagged mountain peaks surrounded by vivid red and gold foliage. A clear lake with a perfect reflection. It was spectacular. Take a look at the banner on our web site’s home page and you’ll see what I mean.

Ever since then, I’ve wanted to go back in the winter. I’ve wanted to see what these gorgeous, jagged peaks would look like covered in snow and surrounded by blue sky.

We woke up on a Saturday to one of those rare days (most years) where the sun is shining in the middle of winter! When this happens there are so many things we want to see and do. But on this particular day, we only had a few hours to spare so we need to stay close to home. Not to worry, there are lots of great things to see in the Tacoma area.

Most of our adventures begin with a great cup of coffee and this was no exception. Scott and I were ready for an adventure but only had 1 day to get away. Since the weather report looked good, we decided to hop onto the Washington State Ferry in Bremerton and catch a few sights.

I’m soaked and my hands are getting numb despite my gloves and the rain poncho I’m wearing over my heavy coat. But the waves are spectacular as they come crashing into shore. It isn’t a king tide that can bring the really giant waves. It’s just a winter storm on the Washington Coast. High tide is nearly here, and I try to hold out a little longer to get a few more shots. Then in the distance I see the ships exiting the Columbia River, crossing the bar and entering the Pacific Ocean.

The month of January is especially known for gray where we live. The dark clouds and rain can really weigh you down if you let them. It can be hard to go anywhere or do anything. To get past this we go in search of green. Green moss, green ferns, and green grass. With all the rain it isn’t hard to find.

Fresh snow. Kids laughing and sledding down the hill. Cute store fronts and festive lights. It’s hard to beat Leavenworth at Christmas.

My family started making the annual trip at Christmas time a couple of decades ago following a family wedding. My mom was looking for a good place to relax and recover from the event. Little did she know we would still be making the trip these many years later.

 Nothing puts me in the Christmas spirit more than Christmas lights. I love driving around town seeing homes lit up. I love going downtown to see the giant tree fully decorated for Christmas.