Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Movie Night in Pullman!!

As a college student, I need a break from homework and studying every now and then. Sometimes the most relaxing way to take my mind off of school, is by zoning out at a movie at the Pullman Movie Theater. An upcoming movie that I plan on seeing in the next couple weeks, is Date Night with Tina Fey and Steve Carell. Date Night, out in theaters April 9th, is a comedy about a married couple who steal another couple’s dinner reservation and find themselves in a great deal of trouble. As it turns out, the people they pretend to be in order to get the reservation, are wanted by corrupt cops. Check out the movie trailer I found on YouTube!

Shopping

Pullman, a small, rural, college town, is a great place to go to school but not necessarily a great place to shop. As the weather gets warmer its time to replace our winter clothes for spring and summer clothes. Seattle, an obvious city for great shopping, is about a five hour drive from Pullman. However, if you are looking for a quick shopping trip, then opt instead to make the one hour drive to Spokane.

Spokane is home to several stores that provide great shopping. Looking for affordable clothes? If so, make sure to stop by Forever 21, Banana Republic, Nordstrom Rack, Abercrombie and Macy’s.

However, if you are looking to spend a little more money and find some great pieces for spring and summer, I recommend stopping by Nordstrom and Cues Boutique. At Nordstrom, the variety is endless and the prices range from very affordable at Brass Plum to more expensive at Savvy and Individualist. My personal favorite departments happen to be Saavy, Individualist, Mac, and women’s shoes. Also, you can shop swimwear, lingerie, sleepwear, shoes, make-up, and handbags.

Cues Boutique is another one of my favorite shopping stores in Spokane, and is a great place to find trendy, brand names. With a jeans selection that is out of this world, Cues ranges from casual wear to formal wear. With name brands like William Rast, Olivia + Alice, Young Fabulous and Broke, Boy Meets Girl, Ella Moss etc., there is a great selection to choose from

For a quick shopping getaway, take my advice and check out the stores I listed above!

"Most scenic concert location in North America!?”


Personally, when I think of Eastern Washington I typically think of a dry desert area with nothing to do. However, after researching all about the Pacific Northwest there are many “hidden” places that this side of the mountains has to offer!

One of my favorite places to visit is Gorge Amphitheatre. Here, you can camp out and witness some of the world's best musicians perform. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. “Administered by Live Nation, it is considered one of the premier and most scenic concert locations in North America and the world.” The Gorge Amphitheatre is located in George, Washington that seats 25,000 people. The best part about the George is it’s backdrop…which is right above the Columbia River. Another perk of this amazing venue is the weather. Most concerts are held in the summer months when the weather is extremely enjoyable.

This venue is also home to many historic concerts varying from genres’ such as: John Mayer, Cold Play, Tom Petty, Dave Matthews Band and even Neil Young.
In all, if you are to take one piece of advice from this week’s blogs, I suggest you begin planning a trip to one of the best concert venues offered!

FACT: Brooks and Dunn's "Only in America" video was filmed at The Gorge.

Lets Go to China!!


CHINATOWN INTERNATIONAL DISTRICT

One place that I would love to travel is China, but since I’m a broke college student China is way out of my budget! However, another way to cheaply receive the authentic taste of China without actually flying there is to visit Chinatown in Seattle.

When I was younger, I went on a school filed trip to Chinatown and got to experience first hand the wonders of this town. When entering Chinatown you will quickly notice the thousands of people all exploring the unique sights, languages and smells that this exclusive district has to offer.

Just minutes away from the downtown area…anyone can go and visit this community. The best way to have the full experience is to take a Chinatown Discovery tour. According to the Chinatown Discovery website, “the tour covers the history, traditions and customs of Asians highlighting aspects of Seattle's current Chinatown community. Learn about 1,000 year old eggs, myths, legends and much more.” Also, another addition to the tour is that you can request to receive an authentic meal!

Chinatown Discovery has been in continuous operation since 1985. There 90 minute tours are available Tuesday through Saturday, but you can also request private tours too.

The best parts about the tours are that they are extremely cheap, students are $12.00 and adults are $17.00. Now that's what I call a bargain!

Website: http://www.seattlechinatowntour.com/
Telephone 206.623.5124
Fax 206.623.4559
Email info@seattlechinatowntour.com

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Seattle Attractions



While brainstorming ideas on things to do my upcoming summer in Seattle, I ran across an amazing website!

Seattle attractions
is a website that offers people endless ideas on what to see, where to go, or what to eat in the Seattle area. It also gives special deals and coupons that are sure to come in handy.

Even if you aren’t from Seattle, take a look at this page, it may give you a good enough reason to take a weekend getaway out to the beautiful city.

Enjoy!

Seattle Underground Tour


Seattle is a city rich in history that many of us call home. What many of us tend to forget is exactly how many exciting things the town has to offer.

One of my all time favorites is the Seattle Underground Tour. Seattle underground is a network of underground passageways and basements that travel beneath the Seattle streets. “Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour” is a tour that has been taking visitors and Seattle residents alike through the streets beneath Pioneer Square since the 1960’s.

This amazing look at the history of Seattle makes you feel as if you are in a time warp, and never ceases to amaze its viewers.

Whether you are trying to beat the heat in the approaching summer, or just want to take a look at amazing scenery, go visit the Underground Tour in downtown Seattle! Visit their website for ticket prices, times, and more info.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

A cheap way to travel

Seattle is only a five hour car ride away from Pullman, Washington. However, not all students have cars to travel back and forth to visit the sights and sounds the city has to offer. I have many friends that don’t have cars at school and finding rides back and forth can sometimes be a hassle. Therefore, I thought that I would research different methods of getting back and forth cheaply, to and from Pullman.

Here is something unique I found that was available to anyone. It is called “Ride Share.” Here are the directions:

>Go to www.craigslist.com
>Click on Washington State area: Pullman/Moscow
>In the search button type in Ride Share and submit
>Ads will pop up for people who want rides or can give rides.

I found this method very interesting because you can either make money or if you are in need of a desperate ride home someone is likely to help you out! Plus, you know that the ride won’t cost more than $20.

* Rides can be all over Washington too!

The FIRST Starbucks was where…the Pacific Northwest?!!!


How many mornings do you wake up and the first thing on your to do list is to get a cup of coffee? Well, for me coffee is always comes number one in the morning.
Seattle is a city that is filled with not only natural beauty, but also wonderful well-known businesses. Starbucks one of the worlds famous coffee shops having over 11,000 stores just in the United States alone. Also, Starbucks has chains all over the world too.

A fun and exciting activity do while visiting Seattle is to head down to Pike Place Market along the water and go to the first established Starbucks. The first store opened in 1971 and strictly sold locally grown coffee beans. However, after one of the main founders took a trip to Italy … drinks were soon placed on the menu.

Today, Starbucks has expanded to coffee, espresso, ice cream, music, books…you name and I’m sure Starbucks has done it. The first store on Pike Place even has the original décor due to building regulations in downtown Seattle.

In all, I think that taking a trip to the original Starbucks store is a cheap and exciting way to receive a cup of coffee and a little educational history lesson.
Tip: If you are looking for a new drink to try and tired of a regular cup of coffee, I suggest you try an Iced Starbucks Double Shot…which is one of my personal favorites.

Life in Haiti: a Leclerc Brothers video

I was browsing vimeo the other day and ran into this.


Life in Haiti-Canon 5D MKII & Glidetrack from Leclerc Brothers Motion Pictures on Vimeo.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Woodland Park Zoo

Looking for something fun to do outside of Pullman? Check out Woodland Park Zoo and experience a day of viewing magnificent, wild animals! Some of the animals you can see are gorillas, jaguars, hippopotamuses, zebras, kangaroos and many, many more. Here is a video I found off of YouTube, documented by Shannon Kringen showing lions, tigers and bears at the Zoo!



Seattle Events at your Fingertips




Seattle is a big city, and because of that, it may seem impossible to keep up to date on all of the exciting venues, events and places that are available. Here is a helpful link that I use often to keep up on the many options that Seattle has to offer. Not only does DList Magazine online tell you the best places to be, eat, or shop, but it also gives very interesting articles and inside looks to our local culture. Enjoy!

Alki Beach


As the weather keeps getting nicer, I continue to feel more and more stir-crazy in Pullman. Second semester of every year seems to be a little slower than the first, and people begin to get antsy as summer approaches. Instead of occupying your time in Pullman by either partying or studying, opt to take a short road trip to Seattle and spend some time at Alki Beach. Even though it is not quite time to swim and lay out in the sun, Alki Beach provides many enjoyable activities that allow one to spend a beautiful day outdoors. With a two-and-a-half mile long boardwalk and a beautiful white sandy beach, Alki is a great place to take a walk, play volleyball, cruise on a water taxi, sightsee, or just spend time with friends.

Located near the beach are several restaurants, shops, and sightseeing spots. From dining to shopping, people can spend an entire day in the area. Locals rave about Spuds, a fish-and-chips eatery that serves the freshest seafood around. Also while your in the area, stop by and check out the Alki Point Lighthouse. It is only one of eight lighthouses located on the Puget Sound that is available to the public. Inside the lighthouse you can see old photographs, instruments and charts of Puget Sound. The lighthouse is open daily at noon and costs nothing.

Many people enjoy spending an evening on the beach, socializing with friends. Fire pits along the beach allow people to have bonfires and grill hotdogs and hamburgers. Others prefer to check out the Log House Museum, which is located only one block south of Alki Beach. Here, you can study the heritage of the Denny party, who came to the beach in 1851 and the Duwamish people who were original natives of Alki Beach.

I recommend spending some time with friends at Alki Beach and enjoy the warm weather! For more information check out the website!

Seattle Sights


Being from Seattle, I often find myself taking for granted the amazing things the city has to offer. While visiting my hometown last week during spring break, I spent a nice, sunny day in Seattle and remembered exactly why I love the city so much.

As the spring weather continues to become even more gorgeous, many of us find ourselves looking for things to do outside. Inspired by last week’s wonderful day in Seattle, I have a few things I recommend you try if you find yourself spending any time over in the Seattle area. Here you go!

1.Pike Place Market: The Pike Place Market is a huge tourist attraction that is an amazing way to spend your day outside in the beautiful city. Being recognized as the heart of Seattle, this amazing market offers visitors and residents alike the opportunity to shop, people watch, view art, eat amazing food, and much more! Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the market is a cheap and effective way to spend your day! (I recommend checking out the world famous fish throwers and picking up some fresh, local fruits and veggies from the many stands that offer them!)

2. Ride the Ducks of Seattle: If you have ever spent any time walking around down town Seattle, I’m sure you’ve seen the “Duck Tours” that take people all around town, rain or shine! Hilarious captains take people of all kind throughout a tour of Seattle by both land and water. After exploring the town on a duck motor craft, it eventually splashes you into Lake Union for a tour by water. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this attraction is open year round! Visit their website to purchase tickets or for more information.

3. Argosy Cruises: The Argosy cruise tour is a wonderful way to spend your time in this nice weather while taking in the gorgeous cities surrounding Seattle. This can be a group event, or even taken solo, either way you will be sure to enjoy the tour. Different opens are offered, some even including a dinner, so be sure to look at their website for information on which kind of tour you are interested in taking.

Those are just a few ideas, but if you find yourself in Seattle, be sure to enjoy your weekend the right way and not take advantage of our beautiful area!

Monday, March 22, 2010

Travel Memoirs


The other day I was thinking about the books that have positively changed my life the most, and interestingly enough, several of those are all about people on the road or going off the beaten path. So here's my Reading Rainbow breakdown for you:

Travels With Charley by John Steinbeck - I'm a big Steinbeck fan, that's all there is to it. This story is no exception to Steinbeck's catalog of masterpieces. Covering 10,000 miles of American roadway in a pick-up/camper combo called Rocinante with a big poodle riding shotgun might be the ultimate life-quest. My admiration for adventure doesn't stop short with the basic idea of his 1960 mission to get the scoop on the heart American culture. Steinbeck bore witness to scenes that are never discovered at 30,000 feet above ground in a bulky jet. Road-tripping is great. But writing all about it afterward and sharing it with the rest of the world is better.

The Zanzibar Chest by Aidan Hartley - It pains me to admit I still have yet to finish this one. My reason lies solely in the inability to renew inter-library loaned items. You might wonder why this is on my list, considering I haven't actually finished it. I can say that what I've read so-far is amazing. The story in a nutshell is phenomenal. A journalist raised in the plains of Kenya and amidst the dangers of war zones, parallels his stories of covering conflict in East Africa during the '90s while examining the life of his father's friend who was mysteriously murdered while serving in Arabia during WWII. Hartley's discovery of his father's Zanzibar chest led to his find of this story, rarely spoken of by late-father during his up-bringing. It's a gripping, often gritty and tough, and fascinating memoir of traveling the African Continent and documenting history as it happens and as it happened.

Hope in the Dark by Jeremy Cowart and Jena Lee - Hope in the Dark is a photobook with profound statements, both through image and written word interwoven throughout its pages. I've never been more messed up in my spirit over a book with so few words than when I opened up this book. I say messed up because it left me feeling uncomfortable, but in the most positive of ways. In Hope in the Dark, Cowart and Lee examine the human existence in some of the poorest places on this planet through lens and text. It's raw and often tough to wrap one's mind around because of its simple and poignant offering of a new perspective - a new perspective on suffering, hope, joy, sadness, injustice and reconciliation in places void of vacationers and high-rises, and yet abounding in shanties and tin-roof homes. I challenge anyone to read this and not have a new compassion for the fellow person, as I doubt it's possible.

The Journey is the Destination: The Journals of Dan Eldon by Kathy Eldon, Dan Eldon - I think Dan Eldon had something with "The journey is the destination." When I see this quote it makes me realize that sometimes it isn't about where you're planning on going, but how you get there. Eldon's extensive photography and art are exhibited in this compilation of his life-work; a veritable treasure trove of journal-based masterpieces and writings. Chronicling Eldon's short but amazing life, The Journey is the Destination is a testament of a young photojournalist/artist discovering life in some of the most dangerous and hostile environments in the world. His witty annotations and reflections are both humorous and incredibly thought-provoking. Getting your nose into this book is highly recommended.


Just Ramblin' by Vance Orchard - I used to read this at my grandma's house. I assure you this is one of the most fun browses of a book you can have on a Saturday morning. It goes really well with vinyl records playing in the next room, chex-party mix within reach and on a sunny, cozy day at home. This book is basically all about Orchard "just ramblin'" around northeastern Oregon and southeastern Washington. This book is a winner, as I'm fully fascinated by ghost towns, dinosaur fossil discoveries, first-hand accounts of the old west (Orchard got all sorts of good interviews with the aged versions of those who tamed the West in the late 50s and 60s), and basically all the stuff in his book. It's definitely out of print, but the link I put up for this one might help out.


(Insert Lavar Burton quote here)

South Fork Audio Slide Show




Here is a look into a new, local restaurant in Pullman - check it out!



Created by Courtney Moorhead, Emma Cloninger, Andrea Agostinacci

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Good tunes on the way to class

In our own back yard-

I didn't have to travel very far to find good music this week. Bands and solo artists performed at the CUB Lair at the Student Entertainment Board Open Mic Afternoon on the WSU campus Monday afternoon. I was able to talk with the band Genevieve before their performance.


Jordan McIntyre, a freshman communication major and Genevieve's lead MC, said the band's sound is a fusion of rock and rap; his own personal inspiration from heroes Michael Jackson and other well known music legends. The bands leader, Jacob Leon, a freshman and guitarist for the group, said some of the members played together at various functions in high school, often teaming up with McIntyre. The members of the band also include vocalist and freshman communication major Kevin Wolford, drummer and freshman music major James Kasinger, freshman communication major and bassist Zac Reed, and freshman music major and sax player Jonathan Urmenita.

Check out the band's music when they play at the upcoming Battle of the Bands on March 28.



Photos and audio: Sean Parsons

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Local Whitewater Rafting



Are you looking for some excitement during your spring break this year? Are you tired of spending your spring break on the couch watching television? You may want to try the thrilling experience that is whitewater rafting.

Luckily, because we live in the Pacific North West, we have endless opportunities to explore the raging waters the cover our states. Whether you are a beginner, or an expert, whitewater rafting is an experience that should be had by all!

Here is an amazing site I came across that offers information for those of you who are looking to experience this adventure in the Washington, Idaho or Oregon area! Visit here for information.

Wonderful Whale Watching


Spring break: something many students wait the whole year for. Maybe you are the type who enjoys using this week to spend your time relaxing at home, taking in the idea of no home work, or maybe you’re the type who dreams of being on an exotic island, with nothing but the breeze in your hair. But here’s something a few too many of us find familiar, what if neither of those getaways sound like our ideal way to spend spring break?

Then here is something that may be for you. Just neighboring our lovely state of Washington lays Oregon, a beautiful state with an endless amount of things to do. A few years ago I went on a vacation with a friend and their family. I didn’t think it sounded like the best time in the world, but our week long trip along the Oregon coast was incredible!

Although I enjoyed the whole trip, one thing stood out to me the most, whale watching. Luckily enough for you fellow spring breakers, prime whale watching season for the spring falls in March. Whether you are watching from a lighthouse, or have the chance to go on a boat tour, the Oregon Coast has a variety of ways for you to go whale watching.

So, if you aren’t trying to be in the heat on a sandy beach, or would like to spend a little time away from home, try heading over to our neighboring state, Oregon, and go view the breathtaking experience that is whale watching! I promise you it will not disappoint!

Monday, March 8, 2010

Spring Break Ideas For Those Staying in Pullman

Pullman can become a little deserted when all the students go home for spring break. For those who are staying in Pullman and are looking for fun ideas to pass the time, here is my list of top 5 activities:

1. WSU Climbing Wall: This indoor recreational climbing wall allows students to challenge themselves to a fun day of climbing. Located in the Hollingbery Field House, students can practice skills, meet new people, and exercise.

2. Bike to Moscow on the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail. Do something different and spend some time outdoors in the beautiful weather. Bikes can be rented from the WSU Outdoor Recreation Rental Shop.

3. Get a massage at Identity Salon Day Spa. Have fun and relax over break. Use this time away from classes to pamper yourself, or relax. Check out pricing and location, at the Spa’s link.

4. Take a mini-trip to the Davenport Hotel in Spokane. Looking to get out of Pullman for a night or two, but can’t go home? Travel the hour and 15 minutes to Spokane and stay at the Davenport Hotel or Tower. Swimming, spa treatments, dining, and drinking are just a few of the many activities offered here.

5. Frisbee-Golf: check out the frisbee golf course at Sunnyside Park! For directions and more information, go to: Sunnyside Park

Coeur d' Alene Resort

For those who aren’t able to make it home for spring break, and are staying in Pullman, check out the Coeur d’ Alene Resort in Idaho. One of the most luxurious resorts in the area, the Coeur d’ Alene Resort accommodates guests by providing several available activities and amenities. A few of the activities include: spa treatments, dining, golfing, a boardwalk bar, boat rentals, cruises on the lake etc.

The Coeur d’ Alene Resort is one of my favorite places to get away and relax without breaking the bank. Only an hour and 45 minutes from Pullman, it serves as a great way to take a mini-vacation. It allows you to save money on airfare, and take a quick little trip. If you are looking for a weekend of relaxation, spend time golfing, pampering at the spa, shopping and dining. If you are looking to party and socialize visit the several different bars and restaurants.

Upcoming event s that will be happening over Spring Break in Coeur d’ Alene (March 13-21) are: a St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a dance competition at the Performing Arts Center, and the 2010 Wine Extravaganza. Coeur d’ Alene is a beautiful little city, that has so much to offer visitors. Bring a couple friends and spend the weekend at the resort! For more information on location, pricing and accommodations visit The Coeur d’ Alene Resort.

Egypt/Lebanon: a notable video by Khalid Mohtaseb

A buddy of mine exposed me to this guy's work not too long ago. If you aren't familiar with the Canon 5dmk2, this video shows what pushing the envelope with it looks like. This video is like that band you just "discovered" and can't, no matter how much you try to, seem to quit telling people about it. Egypt and Lebanon might be a bit far off from the Pacific Northwest, but this is just too cool not to share.


Egypt / Lebanon Montage from Khalid Mohtaseb on Vimeo.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

WSU Recreational Center


Although I know everyone around the Palouse knows about Washington State University's Recreational Center, I don’t think everyone takes advantage of how wonderful the facility actually is. Being a member of a recreational center like the one we have on campus would cost hundreds of dollars a month! Therefore, I suggest everyone visit the Recreational site to see all the new classes that are being offered...which start up next week!

HOURS:
Monday-Friday: 5:30am-11:30pmSaturday: 9:00am-11:30pmSunday: 10:00am-11:30pm

South Fork

When living on the Palouse I sometimes feel life can be very repetitive. To add more excitement to such a small city lifestyle I am constantly looking at events, concerts and new places to go! Being a hospitality and business management minor, I heard of a new restaurant that just opened called South Fork. I was really excited when I heard this news because there are only so many restaurants around the Palouse where you and your can dine.

When walking into South Fork I was pleasantly surprised of the atmospheres. The décor was a rustic western theme with a modern twist. For example, the sign of the restaurant was made of rustic-iron, but the bar had huge flat screen televisions. I was also was surprised about the menu selection. When first laying eyes on the menu the food items ranged from burgers, fish, gyros, to salads. Having a variety of foods at a restaurant is important because then it fits everyone’s taste buds in your dining party. Another plus is the prices are extremely reasonable. (Average plate is around $10-$15.)

Overall, I had a wonderful experience at South Fork and I am really excited to see what the future brings for the restaurant. I highly suggest grabbing your friends and family to try out this new hip dining spot on the Palouse.


Cool Fact: Everything at the restaurant is made locally….even the salad dressings!!

*Next week look forward to see a picture video about South Fork

Monday, March 1, 2010

St. Patty's Day!!


St. Patrick’s Day is quickly approaching once again on Wednesday, March 17th . For Coug students, this day happens to fall during spring break. Many students might have plans to spend the week back home or on vacation, but for the students who will be in Pullman over spring break and are looking to celebrate St. Patty’s Day, stop by the Palouse Grange Hall for a St. Patrick‘s Day celebration.

This St. Paddy’s Day event is sponsored by the Palouse Arts Council, and begins with an Irish dinner at 6:00 p.m. This year’s meal includes an authentic Irish stew or vegetarian Irish stew, Irish soda bread, colcannon, and dessert. At 7:00 p.m. live music begins, featuring the local band Potatohead and traditional Irish dancers.

Beer and wine are available at the no-host bar. Tickets are $16 for adults and $7 for kids 6-12 years, (younger kids are free.) If you are interested in enjoying some local Irish spirit on St. Patty’s day, I recommend attending this event. For more information, visit Moscow Food Co-op to view the event.

Tee-Time!


As the weather continues to get warmer, I find myself looking for activities that involve being outdoors. For students who enjoy golf, the season is just beginning. Therefore, to people who play golf, I recommend scheduling a tee-time at Palouse Ridge Golf Club. This course allows players to have fun while enjoying the scenic beauty and wildlife. This course is accommodating to advanced players looking for a challenging game, and to recreational players just looking to have fun.

Schedule a game of 6-holes, or a full game of 18-holes. Either way, students can receive the spring discount and play for $26. Also, while enjoying a game of golf at Palouse Ridge Golf Course, players can take a break and enjoy a meal at Banyan’s restaurant. This restaurant, located on the ridge of the course, is a British colonial steak house, housing indoor and outdoor seating. Overlooking the 18th green, players can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Grab a few friends and play a game at the Palouse Ridge Golf Course, or just stop by and practice putting or tee-ing off. Activities in Pullman can become fairly scarce, so play a game of golf and enjoy the beautiful weather. For more information on rates, location or directions visit the Palouse Ridge Golf Course.

Golfing Outdoors


I know I am not the only one who wants to be outside when the hills of the Palouse are covered in nothing but sun. Many of us college students forget that there are amazing activities to do outdoors when we have spare time, which is why I am here to give you ideas.

As most of us who have been at WSU for a while will probably remember, in 2008 the Palouse opened a new golf course. The Palouse Ridge Golf Club is a gorgeous, 18-hole facility that is a perfect place to be in this nice, spring weather.

If you are a pro, or even just a beginner, spending the day outdoors at a wonderful golf club is always a great place to be. For more information visit their web-page.

The Palouse Falls


We all know that the Palouse is a beautiful place to live, but as this spring weather becomes warmer, its beauty only grows. We got very lucky with a warm winter this year, and it feels as though we are getting even luckier as these months progress and the days are continually warm and sunny.

With this nice weather I have found myself wanting to spend more and more time in the outdoors. Feeling productive and inspired to be outside, last weekend a group of friends and I made a little trip out to the Palouse Falls.

The Palouse Falls in one word are breathtaking. Coming from the Palouse River, these falls drop from a height of 200 feet and seem endless.

If you are looking to spend some time outdoors as this warm weather continues, take a little hike, or just view some amazing scenery, try venturing out to the Palouse Falls. The distance from Pullman is small in measure – but the views and experience are immeasurable.

"Alice in Wonderland 2010"


As a kid I was a Disney movie fanatic. I would constantly beg my mom and dad to let me watch movie after movie every afternoon. Therefore, I thought that it would be fun to promote the 2010 version of the famous 1951 Disney Movie “Alice in Wonderland.”


On March 5 “Alice and Wonderland” will premier all around the United States. I am extremely excited because not only is the director Tim Burton who has done a handful of successful movies such as “Edward Sissorhands”, “Beetlejuice” and “The Nightmare before Christmas”….but also it is coming out in 3D too!



For all of you that do not know what “Alice in Wonderland” is about here is a short synopsis: “Alice is now 19 years old and accidentally returns to wonderland, a place she previously visited ten years ago. She is told that she is the only one that can slay the Jabberwock, a dragon controlled by the Red Queen. However, Tim Burton has added his own twists and quirks that will be interesting to see.



Another neat aspect of this movie is the cast. Popular actors such as Johnny Depp play The Mad Hatter and Anne Hathaway who plays The White Queen. Also the special effects are supposed to be amazing, especially if you decided to see it in 3D.



SO…If you are sick of the typical weekend in Pullman…I suggest you grab some friends and go see this fictional fantasy movie that is a classic from the past!

Trailer: "Alice in Wonderland 2010"




Cheers..to Local Wine



As I sit and ponder about what would be fun for all groups of people…I stumbled upon a local winery. I think that this would be a great place for a trip with parents on parents weekend, friends or just a nice get-away to try something new and affordable!


The Barrister Winery located in Spokane, Washington offers a local and unique experience to all guests. This small winery was founded in a garage by Greg Lipsker and Michael White, who states they began making wine as a hobby and quickly their hobby got out of hand.


Today, the winery is in a 100-year-old brick building located in the historic Davenport Arts District. There are a variety of events that are held at this beautiful location, such as tastings, tours, weddings, parties and even business meetings!


If you are looking for a fun afternoon to have a glass of wine and to visit a local winery Barrister Winery is the place to go! There is only a fee of $5.00, but the fee is credited to purchase a bottle of wine too. The tours are also unique because the founders Greg or Michael give the tour, give you taste samples are from the barrel and each tour is tailored to fit the guest’s needs and wants.


This particular winery specializes of limited quantities of Bordeaux varietal wines and Syrah. All wines are sold at the winery, through a mailing list and online. It also offers visitors a time to get away and just relax. For an affordable price of $5.00 you too can get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and have a glass of local, homemade wine.


**Fun Fact from their Website: “Like most wineries in Washington State, we do not own vineyards. We contract with a number different vineyards to purchase grapes. We use acreage contracts so from year to year our grapes come from the same vines in the same rows in the same vineyards.”


Here is Barrister Winery’s Contact Information:
Barrister Winery1213 West Railroad AvenueSpokane, WA 99201


Phone: (509) 465-3591 Fax: (509) 624-5806