Bellingham Alive November/December 2022

Classic Christmas

Christmas is around the corner, so we’re rounding up our favorite ways to channel the holiday spirit in the North Sound. From family recipes to Santa sightings, holiday outings, and more, this issue is all about celebrating both the season and our very own community. In short, whether you’re looking to embrace nostalgia or create new festive traditions, we’re bringing you all the info you need to feel merry and bright this Christmas. Happy holidays!

Photo by Sofia Apkalikova

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photo by Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

If you’re overdue for a peaceful weekend getaway, consider booking a stay at The Willows Lodge in Woodinville. This cozy escape is located just over an hour away from Bellingham, but it feels a world apart.

@willowslodgewa

Read more about it in the full article by Cocoa Laney, photos courtesy of Jeff Caven and Victoria Wright.

WEARABLE WORKS OF ART BY WOMEN

“Bellingham is full of femme creatives, and many of these artists make wearable works of art that can be shown off every day rather than just hung up in your home.”

Looking for one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts? This month’s online exclusive (written by Gaia Crans) features wearable work from some of our favorite femme artisans, including Golden Fern Adornments, Alma Earrings, and Gaudy by Nature Goods. Check it out online at bellinghamalive.com!

EVENTS CALENDAR

Be sure to check out our events calendar. If you have an event that you would like our readers to know about, bellinghamalive.com offers an events calendar where viewers can search by day, venue, event type, or city.

Go to bellinghamalive.com/events and submit your event today. Once your event has been approved by our editorial staff, it is live.

BE IN THE KNOW

Sign up for our free entertainment e-newsletter to get the latest on upcoming events and more! bellinghamalive.com

The Speedy Gonzales’ chocolatey base is enhanced by two shots of espresso and a healthy pour of house-made coffee liqueur. It’s rich without being cloying, and with all that caffeine, you can probably guess how this beverage got its name.

This month’s Mixing Tin is The Speedy Gonzales’ from Evolve Chocolate + Cafe. Read the full article written and photographed by Cocoa Laney.

@evolvefairhaven

Photo by Jeff Caven and Victoria Wright

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Photos by Marion Bouquet

On Tradition, Christmas Carols, and Community Theater

FROM THE AGES of nine until 15,

I played every role a child could possibly play in my hometown’s musical production of “A Christmas Carol” and to a plucky Southern kid, this felt like the next best thing to Broadway. We take our community theater really seriously in Huntsville, Alabama, so this annual performance is a Very Big Deal.

For context, the same community theater company has been presenting “A Christmas Carol” in Huntsville for more than 30 years now, making it a tradition for many families in my hometown. The production value was also surprisingly high think rotating sets, period costumes, glitzy dance numbers, and even pyrotechnics during the graveyard scene with Christmas Future. (The fireworks were both very cool and kind of traumatic for an anxious 10-year-old.)

Over those years, I took on roles ranging from Scrooge’s younger sister to Belinda Cratchet, a mistletoe vendor, and a very sparkly sprite that danced alongside the Ghost of Christmas Present. These weren’t even the coolest parts I played during my brief obsession with community theater; that distinction goes to the role of the flying, singing spider in “The Hobbit: The Musical” (yes, that exists). However, they certainly invoke the fondest memories.

Being in “A Christmas Carol” was an honor, but it also meant giving up most of one’s actual holiday season in the name of school-night rehearsals and capital-T “Theatre.” My mom

even oversaw the children’s green room, somehow mustering the patience to corral dozens of budding thespians up past their bedroom. Even my brother made a guest appearance one year despite being far more shy than me. As a result, the Laney family has the lyrics to every Christmas carol ever burned into the recesses of our memories, probably forever.

My Christmas celebrations in 2022 no longer involve pyrotechnics and period costumes, and to be frank, living across the country from family means that our current Christmas traditions are few and far between. But if you were to throw my mom and I into a crowd of carolers, we could belt “The Holly and the Ivy” like nobody’s business, and probably recite a few of Scrooge’s monologues while we’re at it. It’s rare that a Christmas slips by without someone referencing my tenure in “A Christmas Carol” the story has become a key part of how we celebrate and who we are as a family.

That’s my favorite part about Christmas: For those that celebrate it, Christmas traditions are both intimate and universal. My mom and I have seen countless movie adaptations of “A Christmas Carol,” and the nostalgia each one invokes still feels personal, even though the story holds meaning to millions of other families, too.

After all, holiday traditions whether they be Christmas carols or menorah lightings or Ramadan recipes don’t just connect us to our loved ones. They tie us to our communities and cultures as a whole. When we gather to celebrate the holidays in which we find meaning, we’re sharing in a collective sense of nostalgia and comfort even if we are gathered amongst total strangers.

That being said, it’s no secret that the past few winters have been anything but ordinary. So, for our annual holiday issue, we’re getting back to the basics with a round-up of the classic Christmas traditions

that make us feel merry and bright. Our feature includes info on everything from decorations (p. 64) to Santa meetand-greets (p. 66) and even tried-andtrue family recipes from team members at Bellingham Alive (p. 60). We’ve even included an extensive guide to roasting your holiday bird, courtesy of Osprey Hill Farm (p. 30).

The holiday spirit is also a time to give back to your community however you can and you can find quite a few ways to do just that on p. 70. On that note, it feels appropriate to close this letter with a quote from Scrooge himself: “I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future.” From our homes to yours, the team at Bellingham Alive wishes you the happiest of holiday seasons no bah humbugs about it. 

COCOA LANEY

Editor In Chief

Holiday Magic Lives Here

Holiday Tree Lighting

Hotel Bellwether transforms into a festive holiday wonderland all December with creatively themed trees on display throughout the lobby and halls, all decorated and sponsored by local businesses. View & vote on your favorite tree and enter to win an overnight stay in the iconic three story Lighthouse Suite (valued at $1,000) 100% of proceeds go to Skookum Kids, which provides crucial care and support for children entering or transitioning into foster care.

Holiday Buffets

Enjoy more time together this Thanksgiving or Christmas with family and friends and let us do the cooking! Join us on Thursday, November 25th or Sunday, December 25th for our bountiful holiday buffets prepared by our Executive Chef Marcello Mazzoleni and culinary team from 11 am 7 pm at the Lighthouse Grill. Advance Dining Reservations are required. Visit our website or contact Hotel Bellwether Front Desk for more info and to reserve your table

Holiday Celebrations

Celebrate your holiday party or special occasion in one of

beautiful private event spaces! From our elegant Wine Cellar for 10 guests to our Grand Ballroom for up to 350 guests, our attentive Bellwether Team is ready to take care of you and your guests. Full service Catering and Bar Services available.

Contact

Sales & Catering Office for more information

catering@hotelbellwether.com

Kolby LaBree

Kolby LaBree is owner/operator of Bellinghistory Tours with the Good Time Girls, purveyors of guided walking tours and other historical edutainment in Bellingham since 2011. The Good Time Girls are available year-round for private tours and virtual events. See Bellinghistory.com for current offerings!  p. 16

Robin Daly

Robin Daly is an interior designer whose work appears throughout the PNW while happily based in downtown Bellingham. When she’s not busy with design, you’ll find her exploring interurban trails, brushing up on her oil-painting skills, and searching for the best French fries in town.  p. 76

Emma Radosevich

As a child, Emma developed a love of literature by reading chapter books with her dad; she made sure he got every character’s voice just right. She still appreciates a great narrator. Emma is a Collection Development Librarian for Whatcom County Library System, where she gets to work with fellow book lovers. When she’s not working, she likes walking on Bellingham trails while listening to an audiobook or NPR podcast.  p. 23

Jessamyn Tuttle

Jessamyn Tuttle is a writer, photographer, master gardener, weaver, and musician. She started a food blog (foodonthebrain.net) in 2007 and has been writing ever since, contributing to Edible Seattle, Grow Northwest, the Skagit Valley Herald, Cascadia Weekly, and the Cascadia Daily News. A native Washingtonian, she lives in the Skagit Valley with her husband and a number of cats.  p. 26

THE NORTHSOUND

READER’S

Bellingham Alive welcomes comments and feedback for our Letters to the Editor section. We’d love to hear what you have to say and are open to story ideas about the people, places, and happenings in the North Sound (Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan counties). Let us know what you like, and what you’d like to see in the magazine! Contact our editor at editor@bellinghamalive.com.

I saw your October issue in my doctor’s office and for the first time ever I was hoping they were late because I did not want to put it down! It’s just amazing, the articles and pictures and even the paper. I have to get my hands on this magazine. I filled out the subscription card but I want this issue as well, where can I find it for sale?

Susan M., Bellingham

Publisher: Susan, thank you so much for your kind words. Your words brought a smile to my face as I pictured you sitting in the doctor’s office not ready to go in. What a great visual and testament to my team on another issue well done. Enjoy your subscription! Lisa K.

I really enjoy the magazine. I actually find that I can’t put it down. As soon as I turn the page and read, I’m constantly learning new things from it. And I’m

enjoying the beauty of the photographs and seeing what’s going on in my local area and slightly beyond.

Michele S., Bellingham

Publisher: We are so blessed to live in an area where there is so much to share with our readers. After 13 years we still find new personalities and businesses to bring to the pages of Bellingham Alive. I hope you continue enjoying the magazine, you are why we do this! Lisa K.

What a cover! I am always so excited to receive the Best of the Northwest issue and not only did the cover rock, but it was great to see all the local winners. I can’t wait to visit many of them.

Kerri F., Ferndale

Publisher: Kerri, I couldn’t agree more, I too look forward to seeing who our readers choose as their favorites! Lisa K.

Kristen Boehm

What is your role at the magazine and how long have you been with K&L Media?

I’ve been with the magazine since August! My official jobs are as the editorial coordinator and the marketing coordinator. I have the distinct pleasure and honor of supporting Editorin-Chief Cocoa Laney in writing, fact checking, and generally wrangling the stories for Bellingham Alive. I also get to post our stories to social media and help with admin at the office.

What is your background?

I moved to Washington from Florida just over a year ago, a big change that I quickly realized a lot of people make (seriously, there’s so many Floridians here). I’m the oldest child of two musicians who met at their day jobs programming computers. I spent my youth loving the heat and humidity of white sand beaches, reading fantasy stories, and getting the rough and tumble upbringing of a lateera millennial on the wild wild World Wide Web. I got my bachelors in mass communications and digital journalism from the University of South Florida when I realized media was a driving force in my life and I wanted to work in it.

What are your interests outside of work?

I’m an art hobbyist! I love to paint on wood, throw clay on the wheel, and even, sometimes, animate very badly in Procreate. I can’t resist the energy of live shows, so you might catch me at various concerts and events, and I’m always looking for new stuff to experience. I love to engage with my queer community around Bellingham, and I’m still a huge sci-fi/fantasy/horror appreciator.

Tell us an unexpected fact about yourself!

I did gymnastics and dance as a kid. I can still do cartwheels, backbends, and other lightly contortion-flavored tricks. 

K & L Media, Inc.

Bellingham Alive | NSLife

W. BAKERVIEW RD. STE 101 BELLINGHAM, WA 98226

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Bellingham Alive | NSLife 432 W. BAKERVIEW RD. STE 101 BELLINGHAM, WA 98226

Photo by Jack Carver,

Bellingham’s Historic Holiday Hijinks

Christmas Traditions with the Good Time Girls

WRITTEN BY KOLBY LABREE

EVER WONDERED HOW

Bellingham residents celebrated Christmas in centuries past? As it happens, December is a big month for not just holidays but the history of Bellingham as a city. The first white settlers, Henry Roeder and Russel Peabody, arrived in 1853 yes, in December. In a canoe. (Brr.)

Lummi guides showed them the ropes as well as much generosity; local tribes such as the Lummi have their own traditional winter holiday and giftgiving traditions such as the potlatch, which were at one time outlawed by the colonizing Euro-Americans. Roeder and Peabody and the many settlers that followed brought their Euro-American holiday traditions to the shores of Bellingham Bay.

In the 1870s, the first Christmas tree was put up in the mining town of Sehome, in a former saloon that had been converted to a church. The first community Christmas celebration occurred in 1873, also in the mining town at Sehome, as recollected by both surviving children of Henry Roeder, who rode to the event in a sleigh over newly fallen snow. The party was attended by around 200 persons, mostly miners and settlers from the surrounding area. Highlights included a decorated evergreen tree, gifts and candy for the children, performances, a grand feast at midnight, and dancing into the wee hours of the morning.

Santa Claus arrival at Bellingham Bay Furniture, 1901

Santa Claus arrival at downtown Bellingham, 1957

Santa Claus (Tripo Costello) arrival at Bellingham Mall, 1969

Photo by Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

Photo by Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

Photo by B. B. Dobbs, Whatcom Museum

The town of Bellingham was officially born in December of 1903 after voters approved consolidation of the towns of Whatcom and Fairhaven. The headlines read, “Bellingham is Born Amid Clanging of Bells,” as churches and fire halls tolled “the death knell” of the former towns. The newspapers also printed a cartoon titled “Santa Claus Gets Acquainted with Bellingham,” quelling kids’ fears that he might not be able to find them in the newly minted city.

Santa Hits the Shops Appearances of “Santa Claus” at local mercantile establishments became a feature as early as the 1880s. The Red Front Store on Holly Street (site of what is now KeyBank) advertised a visit with free distribution of candies and toys to the children of Whatcom in 1883. Additionally, a 1901 photograph documented large crowds awaiting Santa’s arrival at Bellingham Bay Furniture. Santa rode a train from Van Wyck into town and then boarded a horse drawn carriage to the store.

Santa Claus coming to town became a winter staple, as merchants took advantage of the gimmick to get people spending money in their stores. Downtown merchants banded together to make the holiday shopping season a major annual event, with elaborate Santa arrivals, parades, and more.

In 1928, Santa spoke to crowds on the streets via a new-fangled loudspeaker technology. City merchants held a contest, hiding a red tassel amidst holiday window displays with prizes for folks who could spot it. To top it off, a whopping 1,000 pounds of reindeer meat was barbecued on the sidewalks of Downtown Bellingham and served with buns and coffee.

The holiday excitement saw a bit of a lull during the depression, but after the war years, city-wide holiday festivities ramped up again, with parades and ever-morespectacular arrivals of Santa Claus. Santa arrived on trains

that still chugged up the middle of Railroad Avenue, on fire trucks with sirens blaring, even in a helicopter and via parachute! He would then spend hours handing out candy and listening to the Christmas wishes of thousands of local children.

As for the men behind the myth, the Bellingham version of Santa Claus has been portrayed by a whole host of local jolly good sports. Jerry Paolergio could be found donning the beard and red suit during the post-war years. Paoloergio’s day job was commercial fisherman and proprietor of Jerry’s Italian Village restaurant on Cornwall Avenue. John “Jack” Westford was another famous Santa, as well as a severalterm Bellingham mayor and local mortician!

John “Jack” Westford as Santa Claus, 1957

Jerry Paolergio as Santa Claus, 1953

Ray Hyatt as Santa Claus, 1950

Photo by

Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

Photo by Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

Photo by Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

The excitement wasn’t just limited to Bellingham, however: In true holiday spirit, local businessman Roger Wahl, the Bellingham Jaycees, and the Sea Scouts organized annual “Christmas Ship” voyages ferrying Santa Claus to the island towns of the San Juans and Canada, bringing joy to the children who couldn’t make it into town for the festivities. Ray Hyatt and Tripo Costello played the role of sea-faring Santa over the years.

Decking the Halls (and the Streets)

Decorations have always been a big part of Bellingham Christmas traditions, with the Jaycees and other organizations hanging festive boughs and twinkling lights along city sidewalks each year. In the post-war years, Bellingham was feeling especially celebratory when the town entered into the running for “world’s largest Christmas tree.”

After New York and California towns boasted of 90and 100-foot-tall trees, Bellingham said, “hold my beer…” A 134-foot-tree was erected on Railroad Avenue in 1948, easily taking the record. The next year, the town outdid itself with a 153-footer equivalent to a 14-story building, or roughly as tall as the “Bellingham Towers.” Seattle later topped our record and holds it to this day, with a 212-foot tree displayed at Northgate Mall in 1950. These days, we (luckily) prefer not to chop down our oldest and largest living trees.

A special choral performance was a highlight of the Big Tree festivities, featuring the First Baptist Choir singing a carol composed by local musician, Cecil Swanson, titled “Christmas Night on Holly Street”:

It’s Christmas Night on Holly Street

The wise men walk, I hear their feet Oh yes it’s true, you’ll hear them too On Holly Street

From out the East the ‘Evening Star’ Sends its beams from oh, so far And extra bright, ‘cause it’s Christmas night On Holly Street

A child so famed Our street is named It’s Holly Street

Our street of green, where angels sing Though they’re not seen The quiet hour in the old clock tow’r It’s Christmas Night!

Want to learn even more about historic Bellingham hijinks, festive and otherwise? Book a tour with the Good Time Girls at bellinghistory.com. 

Thank you to Jeff Jewell at the Whatcom Museum Photo Archives for helping with sourcing photos.

Tripo Costello as Santa Claus on the Christmas Ship, 1973

Gifts for the Christmas Ship, 1948

World’s Tallest Christmas Tree, 1949

...

Photo by Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

Courtesy Whatcom Museum

Photo by Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

Photo by Jack Carver, Whatcom Museum

Alabama St.,Bellingham

FACES

THE

Garden Spot Nursery is a neighborhood nursery and boutique, open year-round, where you can find indoor and outdoor plants, gifts, and supplies for all your garden projects. The people at the nursery are what make it so special. Garden Spot’s staff is a group of knowledgeable gardeners, each with a different specialty to help you realize your gardening dreams.

The holiday season is a magical time at the nursery. Everywhere you look, lights glitter and illuminate unique, local, and handmade decorations and gifts. You can find greens, wreaths, cut and live trees of all shapes and sizes to bring you cheer during the cold months. If you just need a peaceful place to escape for a bit, come visit anytime.

Outdoorsy Winter Adventures: A 2022 Round-Up

LAST YEAR BROUGHT snow days a-plenty, so we’ve put together a few suggestions for having fun in the winter sun!

Your first step on any adventure is getting the proper equipment. Check out Backcountry Essentials or Yeager’s Sporting Goods in Bellingham, or if you’re planning on going for a serious trip, Northwest Mountain Shop & Mt. Baker Guide Service in Sedro-Woolley can rent you all the gear you’d need.

Skagit Guided Adventures can help you get the most of the wilderness with guided snowshoe tours through Washington’s national parks. They’re flexible, so your trip will depend on the weather and your determination. For something more tame, Berthusen Park in Lynden is a walkable winter hike on well-kept trails and a historic farmstead.

For snowboarding and skiing, you can’t go wrong with Mount Baker. This well-known natural wonder is tentatively expecting aboveaverage snowfall this year, which means plenty of powder on the 1,000 acres of ski-able terrain. Mount Baker offers season passes for the dedicated snowsports enjoyer, day-lift passes, and areas from easy to double-diamond.

Although sledding is prohibited in the Mount Baker Ski Area, the nearby Picture Lake and Highwood Lake make perfect sledding bowls when frozen over! If you’d like to stay closer to home, wherever that might be, investigate your local parks.

Around this time of year, ice skating rinks may pop up in plenty of places, but for a surefire venue there’s the Whatcom Sports and Recreation Sportsplex. They have indoor soccer, hockey, figure skating, and yes public ice skating! They’re the perfect place to get in a few practice laps before you hit the ice anywhere else. KRISTEN BOEHM

Leave the Cooking to the

Lighthouse Bar & Grill

Thanksgiving buffet is an annual tradition at the Hotel Bellwether, and 2022 is no exception. Make sure to reserve your spot at the table ahead of time, because this one is a popular pick (and for good reason!).

Goat Mountain Pizza Company Returns to Holly Street

PIZZA LOVERS, GET ready to celebrate: After closing in 2019, Goat Mountain Pizza Company is set to return to Holly Street this winter. Its new incarnation is located beside sister businesses Black Sheep and Lorikeet, and while it mostly stays true to the original, diners have a few surprises to look forward to as well.

Co-Owner Chas Kubis says that the original Goat Mountain closed so that Black Sheep could expand, whereas its new, more intimate venue (formerly the home of the recently-closed Bar 542) better suits the pizzeria’s style.

“We’re planning on opening it a little differently. This time, it’ll be definitely more bar-focused,” Kubis says. “It’s a chance to kind of fix the stuff we didn’t do right in the bigger Mountain.”

Kubis says that the new menu stays true to the original, meaning that fans of the original restaurant can look forward to enjoying Goat Mountain’s pizza and burgers once more. However, given the newfound emphasis on cocktails and drinks, diners will also have options for bar food as well as cocktails.

“There’ll be a little bit more of a whiskey and gin focus, as opposed to where Lorikeet’s [focus is] rum, and Black Sheep is, obviously, tequila and mezcal,” Kubis says.

Getting hungry yet? You don’t have to wait long: Goat Mountain’s opening is planned for early November. The new venue even features TVs, so if you need a place to watch the game, bring your friends and stop in for a slice.

“This our third place on the street, and it really just allows us to set a vibe for that area,” Kubis says. “With all three [restaurants] in a row, we can set it up to be a really great hub for downtown in the evening.” 215 W. Holly St., Bellingham COCOA LANEY

Skylark’s Hidden Cafe

Featuring options for both dine-in and take-out meals, Skylark’s is dishing out classic Thanksgiving dinners all day this Thanksgiving. You can even expect a full bar and dessert by the slice.

Mount Shuksan overlooking Picture Lake

Holiday Cheer Grows on Giving Trees

IF YOU’RE LOOKING

to start the holiday season in the spirit of giving, get excited for the return of the Giving Trees, a form of gift drive that appears all over our community near the end of every year.

At Village Books and Paper Dreams, the Giving Trees program gets books to people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford them. Village Books works with a dozen organizations, including Northwest Youth Services and the Opportunity Council, who need different types of books. The needs are translated into angel tags, which customers can find on trees at both the Fairhaven and Lynden locations.

Customers are free to shop and pick out the books they’d like to donate, and Village Books picks up 20% of the cost upon checkout. When shoppers are having trouble choosing, Owner Paul Hanson suggests sharing a favorite book from their own childhood.

“[If you] love Curious George, some other kid will, too. And you’ll be passing that gift along to them,” says Hanson.

Another spin on this community aid is the Salvation Army’s Angel Trees program. They focus on families with children ages 0–14, and instead of books, they collect toys that the kids request.

“When these families come on their designated day to pick up toys, their whole life lights up,” says Lt. Chase Green of the Whatcom County Salvation Army. “Maybe it seems like it’s short term, because we’re providing toys, but in the end… that love and joy goes a heck of a long way.”

Whatcom County’s Salvation Army provided toys to more than 1,300 kids last year, and they aim to increase those numbers this season. You can find their trees at the Bellis Fair Mall, the Walmart on Meridian, and at their facility. KRISTEN BOEHM

B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar

For cozy fire pits, top-notch drinks, and family-style meals, look to none other than B-Town Kitchen & Raw Bar for your Thanksgiving meal. Check out their website (btownkitchen.com) to see this year’s menu!

ENTER-TO-WIN Monthly Giveaway

EACH MONTH, WE give you the opportunity to win a prize from local merchants. You can enter once per day on bellinghamalive.com. A winner will be chosen by random draw, and notified via email and/or phone. It’s our way of saying thank you for your support and for continuing to help encourage shopping and dining local. Below are the Enter-To-Win prizes for November and December.

Redeveloping the Bellingham Waterfront’s Boardmill Building

EVER NOTICED THE big brick building standing empty by Waypoint Park, just behind the Container Village? This historic 44,000-square-foot structure, known as the Boardmill building, is one of the few remaining buildings from the former waterfront paper mill but its site is set to undergo a major redevelopment in the years to come. Port of Bellingham commissioners reviewed a variety of proposals, and development ideas included everything from a new YMCA to a soccer stadium. They settled on a proposal put forth by a team of contractors and developers known as the Boardmill Group, who plan to transform the building into a hotel and convention center. The new development would also include some residential units and public spaces. COCOA LANEY

The Oyster Bar

On the fine dining side of things, The Oyster Bar will be serving Thanksgiving dinner starting before noon. With advance reservation, you can enjoy your turkey and fixings with knockout views of the Bellingham Bay.

Community Food Co-op

If you want the intimacy of at-home dining (but without all the hassle), let the Community Food Co-op do the cooking this year. Get your pre-orders in early or stop by the deli for a selection of holiday mains, sides, and more.

Crowns by Design is a locally owned and operated dental lab located on Iron and State street. Specializing in crown and implant design. Ricardo Miguel is celebrating 30 years in business in Bellingham. By providing excellent customer service and the latest dental CAD/CAM milling technology, Ricardo has brought the quality of large labs to the local dental community with a personal touch. Crowns by Design does all milling in-house, keeping costs low and quality high.

The Snowy Cabin Cookbook: Meals and Drinks for Adventurous Days and Cozy Nights

by Marnie Hanel and Jen Stevenson

The Superfun Times Vegan Holiday Cookbook: Entertaining for Absolutely Every Occasion

by Isa Chandra Moscowitz

Cookbooks

BY EMMA RADOSEVICH

IMAGINE: IT’S THE week between Christmas and New Year’s, and you’re headed toward Mount Baker for some cabin time with your favorite people. In between trips to the slopes (or the hot tub) you’re going to get hungry luckily you brought “The Snowy Cabin Cookbook”!

There are recipes for cabin cooks of all types. Lowmaintenance preppers will gravitate toward Slope Snacks like Moose Chow and Five-Spice Candied Cashews. If your cabin M.O. is playing bartender, you’ll appreciate the Fortifications chapter with cocktails ranging from straightforward to decadent. In between are sides, mains, desserts, and more.

This is also a guidebook for making your cabin stay as cozy and #aesthetic as possible. You’ll find a checklist of kitchen essentials (and fun nonessentials, like an aebleskiver pan), sauna etiquette, and tips for building the best wood stove fire. With charming illustrations by Monica Dorazewski, “The Snowy Cabin Cookbook” will get you ready for snuggle weather.

IF YOU’RE HOSTING a holiday meal this year and don’t want your vegan guests to go hungry, look no further than “The Superfun Times Vegan Holiday Cookbook: Entertaining for Absolutely Every Occasion.”

Beginning with New Year’s and ending with Christmas, this cookbook features 17 holiday menus with over 250 recipes. Expect to find Jewish, Christian, and American holidays, plus some other fun occasions like Oscars Night and a Super Bowl Party. Some recipes are vegan takes on traditional menus: Think Curried Candied Yams for Thanksgiving and eggless Eggy Potato Salad for the Fourth of July.

But it’s the unexpected menus that make this cookbook stand out. Think outside the box and start a new tradition like a New Year’s Day bagel bar (with vegan “cream chee”) or a “Show Them You Curry” menu for your Valentine. Author Isa Chandra Moskowitz’ enthusiasm for hosting shines through, and her Make Ahead tips will help you minimize prep and maximize time with your friends.

Literary Events

November 18, 1 P.M. Books and Bites Blaine Library and online 610 3rd St., Blaine 360.305.3637, wcls.org

This monthly book club’s November title is “The Ten Thousand Doors of January” by Alix E. Harrow, which is a fantastical tale of impossible truths, unforgettable love, and self-discovery.

November 19, 7 P.M.

Josephine Woolington, Where We Call Home: Land, Seas, and Skies of the Pacific Northwest

Village Books, 1200 11th St. Bellingham 360.671.2626, villagebooks.com

Part of Village Book’s Nature of Writing Series, Josephine Woolington’s series of beautiful essays sheds light on the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest. Take a journey through the natural histories of ten native species to our diverse region.

December 21, 7 P.M.

Lynden Front Streeters: The Midnight Library

Village Books Lynden 430 Front St., Lynden 360.526.2133, villagebooks.com

This month’s Lynden Front Streeters discussion is about Matt Haig’s “The Midnight Library,” following Nora Seed as she searches for what makes life worth living and how different choices may change our lives, for better or for worse.

This Month in Bellinghistory

WRITTEN BY KOLBY LABREE OF BELLINGHISTORY TOURS WITH THE GOOD TIME GIRLS

Nov. 5, 1920

After winning an election bet, John Kienast was given a “free wheelbarrow ride” down the middle of Holly Street by the loser, Jim Coats, while two others walked behind hammering on an old saw and a tin pan.

Nov. 9, 1883

It was rumored that Dan Harris, of Fairhaven, had $500 stolen from him... “but that would not lower Dan’s pile much.”

Dec. 7, 1883

The Nooksack River was “on a regular bender” after heavy snowfall and rains swelled the waters to record heights, inundating farms in the region.

Dec. 11, 1891

Two distinct earthquake shocks were felt in Whatcom. Smoke reportedly belched from the Twin Sisters mountains and a fissure was visible on the west side.

Conserving Our Forests, One Tree at a Time

Whatcom Million Trees Project

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

FROM FILTERING AIR to lessening the impact of heat and floods, healthy forests are essential to the wellbeing of our region and the people who inhabit it. Unfortunately, these forests are experiencing two simultaneous crises: climate change and a decrease in overall biodiversity. Enter Whatcom Million Trees Project, a nonprofit dedicated to combating these issues at the most local level.

The work of Whatcom Million Trees includes both planting saplings and conserving existing trees, namely within naturally regenerated forests. The organization began as an informal monthly meet-up in response to a call to action by Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu, but since 2020, it has grown into a full-fledged 501C-3.

“More than anything, we want people to get engaged with us in the land, whether it’s through work parties, or as an admin volunteer, [or] helping with our advocacy efforts,” says Executive Director Michael Feerer. “We’re an all-volunteer organization, including myself, so that we can spend most of our money on the trees instead of us.”

In addition to smaller planting efforts, Whatcom Million Trees is also involved with large-scale advocacy. The organization was one of the four major nonprofits involved in the pushback against the proposed Bessie timber sale, which would have put 166 acres of forest near Lake Whatcom at risk of logging.

“We’re not an anti-logging organization … but logging shouldn’t be in our drinking watershed,” Feerer says. “And it shouldn’t be in the naturally regenerated forests, like Bessie, where there’s more than just wood. It’s a whole bio-habitat [with] a lot of other benefits as well.”

Given all of this activity, one might be tempted to ask: Just how many trees have been planted so far? These statistics are

readily available on the organization’s website, but according to Feerer, Whatcom Million Trees is about more than hitting a quota.

“The million trees aspiration has been useful for us, because we want to communicate that we are thinking big, but we’re actually not super attached to the number,” he says.

Rather, Feerer hopes that the organization will help to rebuild a connection between people and the natural world a connection that he believes many of us have lost.

Whatcom Million Trees also involves the community through educational programs, events, and a variety of local partnerships. Previous efforts have included fundraising campaigns at businesses such as Village Books and Pizza’zza, as well as a sold-out documentary event at the Pickford Film Center.

Donations are always useful, but if you’d prefer to get your hands dirty, work parties offer hands-on involvement and require no previous skills or expertise. From planting trees in the winter to trimming tree-killing English ivy in the off season, there are a variety of ways to make a direct and tangible impact on the community.

Looking at the climate crisis on a large-scale level can be disempowering, but these opportunities give people a way to be active participants in positive change starting at the most local level.

“There’s so much built-up frustration and waiting for national and international politicians to hopefully do the right thing,” Feerer says. “Getting involved in a work party to plant a tree, for instance, or even just to clear land in preparation for a tree, or to remove it to save an existing tree … All those actions are something that people can do.” Bellingham, whatcommilliontrees.org 

Executive Director Michael Feerer

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THE FACE OF MARKETING & ADVERTISING

Jennifer Irwin, Swell Media Solutions

info@swellmediasolutions.com

I founded Swell Media Solutions in 2018 in an effort to help businesses navigate the ever-changing digital landscape. Since then, I’ve worked to assemble a highlytrained team of professionals who work closely with our business partners to develop marketing strategies that elevate brand awareness and increase brand loyalty.

Our team specializes in multi-media marketing solutions that include: digital advertising, graphic and website design, copywriting, social media management, reputation management, video production & editing, and media buys and placement.

We’re committed to doing whatever it takes to support our clients and their businesses; their success is our success.

PNW Art in the Heart of Skagit Valley

Rexville Grange Art Show

THERE ARE ALL kinds of annual holiday traditions, like shopping for the perfect Christmas tree, attending a performance of “The Nutcracker,” or baking cookies. For many people in Skagit County and surrounding areas, a favorite tradition is attending the Rexville Grange Art Show, a pop-up arts and crafts gallery just outside La Conner that appears every November.

It all began over 20 years ago. On Best Road, just north of Fir Island, between Conway and La Conner, once stood the Pleasant Ridge Pottery & Gallery, which hosted pottery studios and a gallery featuring work by many local artists. When it closed in 2000, a core group of artists decided to look for another venue. This included Marguerite Goff, a ceramics artist; Janet Hamilton, a pastel artist and painter; and Beth Hailey of Dona Flora Herbs & Flowers (familiar to regular customers of the Bellingham Farmers Market).

This group looked to the Rexville Grange hall just up the road from the gallery, an old building used for decades for weddings, meetings and parties. They cleaned up the hall, installed new lighting and a hanging system, and put on a holiday art fair as the Rexville Grange Art Show. This was so successful it became a twiceyearly event and has continued for more than 20 years.

Each year there are two shows. The spring show is scheduled during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, to take advantage of out-of-town visitors. In November, there is a holiday show which is typically held the two weekends before Thanksgiving. For every show there is an opening reception with wine, snacks, live music,

JESSAMYN TUTTLE

Pastels by Janet Hamilton

Purses by Linda Ballard

Raku by Marguerite Goff

Pottery by Marguerite Goff and painting by Janet Hamilton

and most of the artists in attendance. In the past this has been held on the first Friday of the show, but this year it has been shifted to Thursday.

The art show is set up in the grange’s basement, which has groundlevel access from the parking area. Each artist has their own display area, and a central sales table is staffed by participating artists. While the space is not exactly glamorous, it regularly transforms into a warm, inviting space full of beautiful things.

The roster of artists changes from show to show, but there are many regulars in addition to the founding members. The show frequently offers brilliant paintings by Anne Martin McCool, purses made from reclaimed carpet and horse tack by Linda Ballard, encaustic photography by Kathy Hastings, jewelry by Ellen Dale, handweaving by Liz Moncrief (a weaving instructor and loom repair expert), handmade soap by Andrea Lawson of Bellingham shop MW Soapworks, Wendy Ross’ painted ceramics, and much more. The show also may include woodworking, cards, prints, photography, stained glass and mosaic, jewelry, clothing, metalwork, cement garden art, felted hats, and wreaths.

Most of the artists are local to Skagit, Whatcom, or Snohomish counties, and the work reflects that with its imagery and materials. Whether you’re just picking up a few cards, buying gifts for your family, or investing in a statement painting, Rexville Grange Art Show makes it a wonderful shopping experience. 19299 Rexville Grange Rd., Mount Vernon, rexvillegrangeartshow.com

MW Soapworks

Printed tiles by Susan Cohen Thompson

Raku by Marguerite Goff

“The Twins and Kitty Pumpkin”: Local Creatives Publish Children’s Books on Human Rights

Q&A with Author Laurie Noelle and Illustrator Sharon Beth

Laurie, could you give a brief synopsis of “The Twins and Kitty Pumpkin Born Free and Equal”?

Author Laurie Noelle: “The Twins and Kitty Pumpkin Born Free and Equal” is the first in a series of 10 children’s books featuring Kitty Pumpkin, non-identical twins Jaime and Jen, and their escapades as they seek to find out about human rights. As the series progresses, the adventures get more and more thrilling basic human rights are explained in poetry, depicting fun story examples children will enjoy and remember! My magnificent illustrator brings these stories to life with colorful images kids will love.

What inspired you to write “The Twins and Kitty Pumpkin”?

Author Laurie Noelle: I was inspired by two things. Witnessing human rights abuse going on in the world, near and far, and wanting so desperately to do something about it, I decided to tackle the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights.” Upon reading it carefully, I realized everyone has more rights than I thought they did, and that these rights were not in practice everywhere as they should be. Secondly, being a poet, I thought of the books I read to my daughters when they were very young, and realized I still remember some of the poetic phrases from those books. Putting two and two together, my major inspiration was, “What if I wrote all the human rights into poetic stories for children? Perhaps the next generation will grow up remembering and applying all their rights!”

Sharon, how did you and Laurie first connect?

Illustrator Sharon Beth: We first connected in Vancouver, B.C. more than 40 years ago. We met in a nightclub where

we both worked; she supporting a young family and me attending Simon Fraser University at the time. I am so happy that Laurie enlisted me to illustrate these books and feel very privileged to be a part of this project.

What’s it like to collaborate together on a children’s book?

Illustrator Sharon Beth: Illustrating a children’s book is the most fun I have ever had as an artist! The poem is so wonderful, so I had to rise to the challenge of making the concepts come alive visually for children to grasp. It has been so gratifying for me. I have illustrated more 80 pages so far that cover most of book six. There will be 10 books when the series is complete. All 30 human rights are being addressed.

Since “The Twins and Kitty Pumpkin” is a series, what can we expect from subsequent books?

Author Laurie Noelle: Here are a few examples of future adventures to befall the twins and Kitty Pumpkin: the besting of classroom bullying, escaping attempted abduction into slavery, overcoming fraud in an underwater hotel, a rocket ship ride in outer space, adventures in Africa, travel in a time machine, and much more! The wonderful thing is all these stories end positively and applicable human rights for the circumstances are learned well. We are embarking upon the creation of the seventh book in the series, and the second book should be available to the public soon.

Noelle’s works (including books, photography, poetry, and prose) can be found at laurienoelle.com. Beth’s digital art and photo manipulations are located at sharonbeth.com.

THE FACE OF CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES

Noble Chiropractic

119 Grand Ave., Ste. C, Bellingham, 360.671.7067, noblechiropractic.com

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When the body works as it’s capable of, moving through space is effortless and done with a confidence that makes life fun and enjoyable. Pain has an impact on life’s joys, and one simply doesn’t need to settle.

“Best chiropractor I’ve ever been to! Dr. Noble offers far more than the typical chiropractor experience: his gentle, unique program of healing interventions got me back to pain-free in no time at all.” -V. B.

“Dr. Noble’s unconventional methods are the most effective I have experienced. I have seen many other local chiropractors and body work specialists, but none have yielded the results Dr. Noble has.” -K. S.

“Outstanding, innovative practitioner. Different than anything I’ve seen before, with tangible results.” -M. K.

Holiday Bird How-To

Q&A with Anna Martin of Osprey Hill Farm

When shopping for a holiday bird, what should customers look for to ensure that their meat is ethically and sustainably raised?

Whenever possible, the best way to ensure that your meat is ethically and sustainably raised is to purchase from a farmer in your local community that specializes in pasture production. If you can put eyes on a farm and talk to your farmer, you can verify whether or not they market with integrity.

What are some common mistakes that people make when roasting a bird at home?

The best way to enjoy a home-cooked turkey is to make sure you’ve got a good fit between your oven capacity and the size of your bird. A bird weighing up to 20–25 pounds will easily fit into a roasting pan in your oven and

allow enough air space around the bird to produce a good outcome.

We sell fresh holiday birds, but if you have a frozen bird, make sure you allow two to three days for thawing in the fridge before cooking. And if you love stuffing as much as I do, it’s a good idea to cook it in a separate baking pan instead of roasting it in the bird since it affects cook times.

Do you have any advice for how to avoid a dry, tough end result when cooking a bird?

Brining poultry yields a flavor-packed punch and it alters the meat structure so it stays more moist while cooking. It’s a little extra work, but the process is simple and it’s totally worth it. We provide a brine bag with our birds, but you can also find them in grocery stores around the holidays.

Start by dissolving 2 cups of kosher salt and ½ cup sugar in 2 gallons of cool water. Next, put the thawed, bagged turkey in a roasting pan and pour the liquid over the bird. Refrigerate the brined turkey for 12 hours. Next, you’ll dump the brine and toss the bag. Return the turkey to the clean roasting pan and let it sit uncovered in the refrigerator for 12–24 hours to let the skin dry. I like rubbing plenty of butter under and on top of the skin just before roasting it.

What are the most important factors to keep in mind when roasting?

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and plan to roast your bird for 13 minutes per pound of unstuffed turkey. Loosely cover the bird with aluminum foil at first to keep the skin from getting dark too fast and remove it about halfway through the cooking process.

Check the temperature about threefourths of the way through that time, and then again every 10 minutes, and roast until the thermometer reads 150

Photo by Shawn Linehan

Photo by Shawn Linehan

when checked at the thickest

of the

meat

of the breast meat.

a turkey

a minimum

temperature of 165 degrees.

it rests, the temperature will then

to rise to

juicier meat, however, some people

to take the bird out at 150 degrees, so the temperature will rise only to 165 degrees as it rests.

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THE FACE OF PET AFTER-CARE Radiant Heart

801 W. Orchard Dr., Ste 3, Bellingham, 360.778.9578, radiant-heart.net

Pets may not be our whole life, but they make our lives whole. Honoring your pet’s life in a transparent and respectful way is what Radiant Heart is all about. Our talented and compassionate team have been working hard since 2013 to ensure that your pet receives the best after-care possible. We are the only pet cremation service north of Seattle that offers eco-friendly water cremation. (It does the same thing as flame but with less environmental impact.) Same-day service is available with flame cremation. Memorials like opal rings, glass pendants, and engraved river rocks are available through our shop or website. Although pre-planning is always recommended, we are the easy part just call us when you need us.

A Heart-Warming Festival to Benefit Cardiac Health

Skagit Regional Health Festival of Trees

WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM | PHOTO COURTESY OF SKAGIT

DUST OFF YOUR holiday party outfits and get ready for a triumphant return to form for the 34th annual Festival of Trees from the Skagit Regional Health Foundation.

The Festival is the largest annual fundraiser for Skagit Regional Health, a medical organization which serves the North Sound through 29 facilities, including hospitals and urgent care clinics. Through fundraising and sponsors (this year’s biggest is People’s Bank), the event typically raises around $450,000, whereas last year’s COVID-friendly Festival raised $242,000. For 2022, the Foundation is campaigning for Skagit Regional Health’s Heart and Vascular Institute. They handle things like angioplasties, pacemaker installation, and arrhythmia management.

“The funds raised at this event will help us purchase equipment that will allow us to move more patients through the Cardiac Cath Labs more efficiently,” says Director of Skagit Regional Health Foundation Linda Frizzell. “The demand is very high.”

This year, the Festival of Trees is Northern Lights themed and will mainly be held over Thanksgiving weekend in Burlington. On the first night, Friday, Nov. 25, the Foundation is throwing a gala (black-tie encouraged) and hosting their grand tree auction.

The Gala opens up at 6 p.m. with a Merry Merry Cocktail Party, where guests will be welcome to grab a complimentary glass of bubbly or beer, snack on delicious hors d’oeuvres from local businesses, and peruse the trees. Each of the 33 trees are decorated to the nines by the Foundation’s design teams and have their own unique themes, from Classic Christmas to Outer Space.

Once the tree auction begins, guests will also be encouraged to raise their paddle to make donations or bid on exclusive experiences, like destination trips or a night out on the town. Afterwards, there will be live music from local band Mama Dirty Skirt to keep the party going merry and bright into the evening.

“It is a time to dress up, from sparkly gowns to tuxedos,” says Festival Coordinator Wendy Ragusa, who is also the Foundation’s Stewardship and Annual Fund Manager. “It’s one of the few events where you can do that in the Valley.”

If the energy of the live auction isn’t your scene but you’d still like to give, the Festival of Trees has plenty of other options for you! There are wreaths for purchase, multiple raffles, and even a silent auction of artificial mini-trees.

Of course, that’s all just on the first night! The Festival continues through the weekend, starting with the kid-centric Jolly Gingerbread Jingle Breakfast from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday. About 250 parents and kids can come to meet Santa, have a delicious breakfast, and do fun activities. The rest of

the weekend is filled with Family Festival Days festivities including crafts, games, live entertainment, and more.

After all the fun, the trees will be bundled up and shipped to their new homes, and the funds raised will be put directly to serving and caring for people all over the North Sound region.

“We’ve been so fortunate to have a number of people share their stories … and they are so proud and grateful that we have the level of care that we do right here,” said Ragusa. “You may not need it now, but it will be here for you.” 500 Cascade Mall Dr., Burlington, 360.814.5747, skagitregionalhealth. org/foundation

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Wonder Tree Care was born from a love of trees and people. Owners/Operators Ash & Geoff came to Bellingham from Portland, Oregon and saw a need for a tree service that had a deep focus on tree care. From removing large hazard trees for Larrabee State Park to offering shrub pruning instruction to Bellingham homeowners, no job is too big or small, and each job matters. We employ fun, vibrant individuals who leave the

at the door, and you can trust you will always get a knowledgable and

who truly cares about you and your space. At Wonder we

for the trees and people of Bellingham.

from Schweinhaus Biergarten Schweinhaus is a top destination for Germaninspired sips and snacks, so it only makes sense for them to serve gluhwein. For the uninitiated, gluhwein is a standby at European

but you can skip the international

in Downtown Bellingham.

N. State St.,

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

2Harvest Spice Cider from Bellingham Cider Co.

Bellingham Cider Co. has concocted the perfect cider to complement the colder months. Featuring a comforting blend of spices and subtle hint of pumpkin, the Harvest Spice Cider is everything you could want out of a wintertime refreshment. 205 Prospect St., Ste. A-105, Bellingham, 360.510.8494, bellinghamcider.com

3Mulled Organic Juice from Boathouse Cider Works

If you head to Orcas Island this season, stop into Boathouse Cider Works. The Mulled Organic Juice is a great zeroproof option, whereas if you prefer your cider spiked, you can order the Boathouse Cider Works Chaider instead. Hotel Rd., Orcas, 360.622.2992, boathouseciderworks.com

4Wassail Mead from Honey Moon

Ditch the mulled wine and opt for mead instead! Infused with warming spices such as cinnamon, ginger, cloves, allspice, peppercorn, and grains of paradise, Honey Moon’s Wassail Mead is a cozy and comforting take on classic honey wine. 1053 N. State St. Alley., Bellingham, 360.734.0728, honeymoonmeads.com

5Mulling Spices from Skagit Acres

Prefer to sip your cup of cheer in the comfort of your own home?

Pick up spices for DIY mulled drinks at Skagit Acres. Not only are they bound to make your house smell amazing, but they make excellent Christmas gifts too. 18923 Peter Johnson Rd., Mount Vernon, 360.424.6760, skagitacres.com

THE

THE FACE OF BEAUTY SALONS

Salon Bellissima

1215 Old Fairhaven Parkway, Ste. B, Bellingham, 360.715.1052, salonbellissimabellingham.com

Located in Fairhaven since 2011 Salon Bellissima has been providing services in an atmosphere that offers comfort and style in a positive, uplifting environment. Each stylist is widely trained and have many decades of combined experience. Whether your needs are custom bridal hair and makeup, personalized colors and highlights or a haircut to fit your everyday style, Salon Bellissima has a stylist that will take the time to listen and provide you with the hair you desire.

Partnering with Green Circle Salons we are a certified sustainable green salon and continue this commitment with the use of Davines products which is known for their leading-edge efforts in creating a more sustainable future both for the Earth as well as the Beauty Industry. Last year alone we recycled 379 lbs. of hair, foils, and waste.

by Kelsey

Your Fashion Home at House of Style

The Shop

As you walk South 1st Street in Downtown Mount Vernon, happily buzzing with locals and visitors popping in and out of vibrant storefronts, you will come upon the swinging sign for House of Style Boutique. This is where, for the past eight years, Owner Amy Jacobs has welcomed clients with the goal of rejuvenating their outer appearance and inner spirit.

In its current evolution, House of Style is a high-quality, feminine fashion boutique with a small salon at the back. Jacobs, who has a long-running career as a hairstylist, still sees her long-time regulars there, but plans to focus on the retail side of things and expanding her shop.

The Atmosphere

House of Style has been described by customers as “the cutest little shop, and you feel good just walking inside.” The large windows at the storefront stretch towards the high ceilings, letting in plenty of natural light for a bright and airy feel. White walls, subtle metallic structures, exposed wood, and cement floors are dressed with gold accents, warm light fixtures, and pops of vibrant color.

“It was like a blank, white, kind of cement box, really… We really started from scratch,” says Jacobs. She infused the shop’s design with her personal style a contrast between polished and a little bit undone.

WRITTEN BY KRISTEN BOEHM | PHOTOS BY AMY JACOBS OF HOUSE OF STYLE

The store is well-stocked, but not stuffed, leading to a fun experience of discovering new things in every direction. The overall vibe is cool, laid-back comfortability with an intriguing edge.

Key People

Jacobs has been a hairstylist for 25 years and has always loved being able to empower and inspire people through their personal presentation. During her hair career, she pursued an education in fashion and design and has been growing in that direction ever since.

Although Jacobs had employees in the past, House of Style became a one-woman show during the pandemic and she’s happy to keep it that way for now. Running the shop all on her own has allowed her to grow closer to her clientele and the business community around her.

What You’ll Find

“I really pull from hundreds of vendors to build my own collection,” says Jacobs, who works hard to curate the clothing, accessories, self-care items, and retail that fill her shop.

She aims for classic feminine fashion with flairs of “an elevated twist,” a “boho lean,” and a little bit of edge. Jeans, jackets, sweaters, dresses, flannels, and more are collected

here so that Jacobs’ customers can always find that piece that’s missing from their closet.

Fashion isn’t the only thing on Jacobs’ mind, though. She’s conscious of wearability, affordability, and quality. She brings in women-owned and local businesses as often as she can; the Brass Sand jewelry she carries is hand-made in Seattle, and the SopranoLabs bath and body products are from a smallbatch, woman-owned and operated New York business.

Favorites

While Jacobs loves vibrant, easy-to-wear dresses for the hotter months, she loves the sweaters, jackets, and jeans of fall and winter. She adores deep, rich pops of color and comfortable, layerable pieces. To see her rock some exemplary pieces like the Leo Dress and the Baby It’s Cold Outside Jacket, head to her website she models all of the clothing herself! 510 S 1st St., Mount Vernon, 360.419.9672, houseofstylemv.com 

House of Style has been described by customers as “the cutest little shop, and you feel good just walking inside.”

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

Leather at the Intersection of Function and Elegance

Sarah Larson of Sage to Sea Designs

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY PHOTOS BY KELSEY CHANCE OF GOOD CHANCE CREATIVE

FROM TOTES TO backpacks and wallets, the creations by Sage to Sea Design tick nearly every box: They’re durable, versatile, and made with functionality in mind. Beauty is never sacrificed for the sake of usefulness, however; each design incorporates a minimalist aesthetic, clean lines, and colors inspired by nature. Best of all, a portion of every purchase is donated to a good cause.

Sage to Sea Designs is a labor of love by Sarah Larson, who started the company in 2017. Larson says she learned to sew from her mother, who in turn learned from Larson’s great-grandmother; in fact, Larson and her mother designed Sarah’s very first piece (a “simple little backpack”) together. Larson was immediately hooked, and after plenty of trial and error, honed her craft into the thriving business it is today.

While the majority of production is still carried out by Larson herself, she has two part-time employees and receives occasional help from her husband, namely during farmers markets and around the holiday season. From start to finish, it takes about five to six hours to make a bag.

“I start with all raw materials, so with hides of leather and designs that I create myself,” Larson says of her process. “And I hand-cut all the patterns I mean, 100% is done by hand.”

Moreover, Larson is proud of the raw materials she uses for each bag, and all Sage to Sea creations are made of domestic leather. Larson sources her leather from three different tanneries, all of which are among the oldest tanneries in the country.

“The cost of my raw materials are so high because I’ve tried so many different leathers, and once you have the best, you just can’t go back,” Larson says. “That’s something that I’m really proud of the time that I’ve put into finding the best of the best that’s out there.”

To learn more about Larson’s process, you can visit Sage to Sea Designs online or chat with Larson in person at the Bellingham Farmers Market. Having moved to Bellingham just two years ago, the market has been a way for Larson to “develop a sense of place in Bellingham, meet other makers, and develop community.”

“Talking to the person who comes up to the booth and asks questions about the process and seems interested, that’s just as satisfying as actually selling a piece,” she says.

But while Larson prides herself on producing high-quality work, Sage to Sea is about more than bags alone. Larson’s career background is with nonprofits, and as such, she carries a passion for mission-driven work into her own small business. 5% of all profits are donated to mission-driven organizations; for the remainder of 2022, this percentage will go to groups supporting reproductive rights.

“Designing and making and selling bags fulfills a really big part of me but it doesn’t feed every part of me,” Larson says. “Something I’m always thinking about is how can I make more meaning out of this work, and have a broader impact? Slow fashion and shopping small is really important in and of itself, but I want to do more.”

To learn more about the art and activism behind Sage to Sea Designs, visit Larson online or on social media @sagetoseadesigns. Bellingham, sagetoseadesigns.com

THE

together and serving others is our passion. We just so happen to do it through dentistry. At the heart of Ferndale Family Dental is the mission to deliver total health

care based on prevention and whole-body

believe that optimal health is best achieved by

determine the best preventive,

approach to dentistry is not a

as unique as the person who wears it. It’s not just

and let us be

Skincare Products to Help People and Pollinators

Moon Valley Organics

FROM SKINCARE TO medical salves, Moon Valley’s personal care products are an eco-friendly addition to any self-care regime. Since the late ‘90s, Owners Kim and Aaron Otto have gone from selling vegetables at farmers markets to distributing value-added beauty products nationally under the Moon Valley brand but if you ask them, the company is just getting started.

“We make everything on our farm in Deming. We have a giant 10,000-square-foot barn, and another 4 or 5,000-square-foot production area but we’ve outgrown it,” Otto says.

After getting their start in Seattle (and selling at Pike Place Market for many years), the Ottos moved their home base to Deming in 2009. They’re now planning to move the farm closer into Bellingham, but even as the company continues to grow, the majority of Moon Valley’s herbal ingredients will still be produced on-site.

“That’s what makes us unique: We actually grow a lot of the herbs we use in the products,” Kim says. “We do bring in some herbs that we can’t grow in this region, though anything we can grow, we do. Our biggest crops are calendula and comfrey, and that’s pretty much in all of our products.”

Beyond the labor involved in producing ingredients, every product is packaged by hand, and the production process can also be labor-intensive. While Moon Valley makes thousands of lip balms and lotion bars per day, Kim notes that soaps can take two to four weeks to cure.

Another thing that sets Moon Valley apart is their commitment to clean, sustainable, and organic ingredients. Moon Valley is a certified B corporation, and the farm as

a whole is certified organic. Even product packaging is chosen with sustainability in mind, as everything is either biodegradable, reusable, or recyclable. Moreover, the Ottos don’t use pesticides and utilize their company’s influence to advocate for the protection of pollinators like bees.

“We donate to organizations that help with legislation and education around pollinator habitat and pesticide use, and how people even on a small level can do little things to help preserve pollinators,” Kim says.

While Moon Valley makes a variety of products, from lip balms to soaps and even honey, the lotion bar continues to be a No. 1 seller. Kim describes the product as sustainable, travel-friendly, and longer-lasting than most water-based lotions and best of all, it doesn’t come in a plastic bottle.

Kim’s new personal favorite, however, is Moon Valley’s new Organic Hair Therapy oils. Made with organic MCT oils, these treatments are meant to soothe frizz, flyaways, and dryness.

“It pairs with our shampoo bar and the conditioner that’s going to come out shortly, so we’ll have a whole line of hair care products that are not in plastic bottles,” Kim says.

No matter what product you choose, you can rest assured that your money is going to a good cause: Moon Valley Organics donates 10% of all profits through both direct action and contributions to nonprofits like the Pesticide Action Network and the People & Pollinators Action Network. Moon Valley products are available everywhere from Community Food Co-ops to Whole Foods, Fred Meyer, and most natural grocers. Deming, 360.595.0500, moonvalleyorganics.com

A

Shopping

Ben Mann Studio/Gallery

Paint the Town! Whimsical fine art original paintings, calendars, cards and gift certificates. Special Hours for the Season of Sparkle: Friday-Sunday 10am–4pm through December 18.

3rd Floor walk-up, 1000 Harris Ave., Fairhaven 360.920.4022, Ben-mann.com

Sunset Beauty Supply

Let us help you find the perfect “Christmas Gift” this season! Our locally owned and professionally staffed shop will assist you in finding the highest quality haircare products, the cutest hat, that unique gift or even a Raquel wig for everyone on your list... including yourself!

360.738.0359, sunsetbeautysupply.com

Statement Apparel

This cute little bag by Joy Susan includes a roomy interior and a crossbody strap. Many colors to choose from. Grab one for yourself and another for a gift! $57. Located in Barkley Village. Open Mon-Sat 11–5. 2945 Newmarket St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.734.9595, statement-apparel.com

Fairhaven Runners & Walkers

Fairhaven Runners is a super friendly store for walkers, runners, travelers and people who just want their feet to feel happier. We carry shoes, socks, watches, clothing, packs, sport nutrition, sunglasses, headlamps and more!

1209 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.4955, fairhavenrunners.com

The Apothecary Spa

Relax and say yes to Me Time at the award-winning Apothecary spa. Treating your loved ones to a spa day has never been easier, with two locations to serve you. Gift certificates are available online.

320 E Fairhaven Ave. #101, Burlington 419 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.299.2112, theapothecaryspa.com

The Greenhouse

Family-owned home décor, houseware, and furniture store; Greenhouse has everything for your home and even more for your life. You can find something for everyone on your list here including the stocking stuffers! Don’t miss out on the kick off to the holiday the weekend of Nov. 11th 14th. 360.676.1167, greenhousehome.com

Still Life Massage and Float

Give your loved ones the ultimate gift of stillness. Float Therapy is deeply relaxing, pain relieving, and truly restful. The nothingness of Floating is everything and more.

19 Bellwether Way, #101, Bellingham 360.647.2805, stilllifemassage.com

Tides of Anacortes

Include Tides of Anacortes in your holiday shopping plans this year. We have fabulous clothing and shoes for women and men as well as some lovely gift items for that hard to find person.

719 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.873.8785, tidesofanacortes.com

Good Earth Pottery

Presenting work by more than 40 unique curated clay artists. Locally handmade decorative and functional ceramics make wonderful gifts for loved ones—or yourself!

1000 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.671.3998, goodearthpots.com

Terramar Brewstillery

Small-batch, hyper-local American Single Malt Whiskey, Vodka and Gin crafted from 100% Skagit Valley grown and malted barley. World Spirits Competition Gold and Silver Medal Winner. ADI Spirits Competition Silver and Bronze Winner. Skagit family owned and operated. Visit us in Edison for more gift ideas! Follow us @terramarbrewstillery.

5712 Gilkey Ave., Edison terramarcraft.com

Trove Cannabis

Socks and sweaters are great and all, but what if you tried something new this year? Give the gift of tasty cannabis treats and enjoy these precious last moments of 2022! Order online for in-store pick-up. Open daily from 8am–11:45pm.

218 N. Samish Way, Bellingham trovecannabis.com

Warning: This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Cannabis can impair concentration, coordi nation, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machin ery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Cannabis products may be purchased or pos sessed only by persons twenty-one years of age or older.

Kulshan Brewing Company

Beer lovers on your list? Kulshan’s got you covered! Shop beer gear at both locations, and also on our online shop.

2238 James St., Bellingham 1538 Kentucky St., Bellingham kulshanbrewing.com

Stowes

Take your toes to Stowes for expert service and a wide selection of quality shoes and clothing. A cornerstone of downtown Burlington since 1940. They’ll help you find the perfect gift and even gift wrap for you.

420 E Fairhaven Ave., Burlington 360.755.0570 stowesshoesandclothing.com

The Nutcracker Show

Join us for this Festive Event featuring gifts by more than fifty local artists, crafters, and specialty food makers!

Open November 10-13: Thursday and Saturday 9am-6pm, Friday 9am-9pm and Sunday 9am-3pm. Free Admission. Your non-perishable food donation for Helping Hands Food Bank would be gratefully accepted.

Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes Facebook.com/NutcrackerHolidayGiftShow NutcrackerHolidayGiftShow.com

Northwest Yarns & Mercantile

Located in beautiful downtown Bellingham’s Arts District, Northwest Yarns & Mercantile is the place to find all your fiber arts crafting supplies, kits, and gifts. Pop in to visit, or shop online!

360.738.0167, nwyarns.com

Reference Media

Visit our new showroom and experience the remarkable quality of Sony’s newest Intelligent TV processing technology. Our showroom features a variety to choose from, custom order yours today. We also specialize in audio video equipment, turntables, acoustic treatments, lighting, shading, and so much more. Stop in and see why we are “more than an audio shop”.

1611 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.8860, reference-media.net

Bella Boutique & Consignment

Bella offers men, women, and juniors clothing, as well as custom tees/hoodies, jewelry, candles, and handbags. With 90% of our items being consigned you will definitely find something unique. So whether you are shopping for a gift for someone or an outfit for yourself we invite you to shop with us!

1887 Main St., Ste. 103, Ferndale 360.778.1181, bellaboutiqueferndale.com

Skagit’s Own Fish Market

We are a full service fish market striving to bring the freshest seafood to your table. We also have a large selection of artisan grocery items for the “foodie” on your Christmas list. Skagit’s Own Fish Market has a great lunch menu served daily with all fresh ingredients. 18042 Hwy. 20, Burlington 360.707.2722, skagitfish.com

Apple Yarns

Learn, laugh and yarn! Online and in our new Bellingham location. Stop in and say “hello”!

New Location

1405 Fraser St. F103, Bellingham 360.756.9992, appleyarns.com

Bella Rose Bath & Beauty Boutique

Bella Rose Boutique offers beautifully designed gifts such as candles, bath bombs, shower steamers, lotions, and more. We also offer gift boxes and shipping. Visit us at our storefront in Fairhaven or shop online.

1134 10th St., Bellingham 360.746.8163, luvbellarose.com

It’s The Sweet Things

Specializing in handcrafted treats, with unique flavor combinations, we have you covered this holiday season. Cocoa Bombs, European Style Pastries, Brookies, Cupcakes and more. Stop by for the perfect stocking stuffer or an assortment of treats for your next gathering!

1206 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham 360.255.9998, itsthesweetthings.com

Lost Giants Cider Company

We are a local producer of quality craft hard cider using Pacific NW apples. Visit our cozy tap room, sample ciders, and find a unique gift for the cider lover in your life. Gift certificates available on our website.

1200 Meador Ave., Bellingham lostgiantscider.com

Cruisin Coffee

Cruisin Coffee is a local favorite since 1993. We truly have something for everyone. Our Cruisin Holiday Blend Coffee is available at all 13 locations and is the best way to bring Cruisin home with you. Our Cruisin Cards are also the perfect thank you or gift for anyone on your list this holiday season. cruisincoffee.com

Quinn + Foster

Come see us at our new location in Fairhaven to shop our handselected collection of knitwear in luxe cashmeres and timeless designs, a beautiful gift for yourself or the one you love.

1402 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2000, quinnandfoster.com

Whatcom Art Market

Received the Gold Award for best art gallery 2022! Located in the Historic Fairhaven District, creations by local artists of both functional, fine art collectibles and gifts from jewelry, art glass, wood, soft sculpture, painting, photography, textiles and much more. Gift cards sold too. Visit and be delighted!

1103 11th St., Bellingham 360.738.8564, WhatcomArtMarket.org

Refind Creations

Refind Creations is a Memory Maker Studio offering small group creative projects for adults. Sign up online or buy a gift card for someone to create their own work of art!

215 W Holly St. #B28, Bellingham 360.966.6473, refindcreations.com

Hamann’s Gallery & Gift

Featuring porcelain vases from Thailand. Watertight and come in many textures and shapes. A portion of proceeds benefit the Elephant Conservation Center and children’s charities in Thailand.

2940 Newmarket St., #109 Barkley Village, Bellingham 360.733.8898

Oh Snap!

Are you looking to add something unique to your upcoming event? Let Oh Snap! bring the fun! Offering our newest booth that allows guests to take pictures, boomerangs, and gifs and send them directly to their phone/social media!

360.441.8084, ohsnapeventphotobooths.com

Labels Consignment

Have a sustainable holiday season! Labels is your store for unique and festive finds! Explore gently used and new kitchen items, decor, and clothing perfect for cozy nights and holiday parties!

2332 James St., Bellingham 360.738.0333

3927 Northwest, Bellingham 360.676.1210

labelsconsignment.com

2020 Solutions

Cannabis

Infused 21+ gifts: CBD topicals, Verdelux Bon Bombs and Truffles, tinctures, gummies, bath salts, mints, beverages and a superbly curated selection of cannabis. 3 locations:

2018 Iron St., Bellingham 4770 Pacific Hwy., Bellingham 1706 Mt. Baker Hwy., Bellingham 360.734.2020, 2020-solutions.com

Warning: This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Cannabis can impair concentration, coordi nation, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machin ery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Cannabis products may be purchased or pos sessed only by persons twenty-one years of age or older.

Classic Christmas

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY AND KRISTEN BOEHM

WHETHER IT BE caroling, Christmas cookies, or chestnuts roasting on an open fire, our annual traditions are what make the holidays feel merry and bright. For those of us that celebrate it, Christmas is a time to embrace togetherness and nostalgia and maybe pick up a new tradition or two along the way.

The past few holiday seasons haven’t exactly been conventional, but with many winter events and traditions returning in full force in 2022, we’re getting back to our favorite Christmastime customs. From well-loved recipes to festive decorations, seasonal outings, and more, there are a myriad of ways to embrace the holiday spirit while also supporting the local businesses and community here in the North Sound.

Put on your favorite Christmas songs, fix a cup of cheer, and settle in somewhere cozy your guide to a classic PNW Christmas begins now.

Photo by Sofia Apkalikova

Farm-to-Table Holiday Feasts

Christmas Morning Magic

Some might think of Christmas dinner as the main event for holiday food, but others especially those of us with little ones know that the festivities start far earlier. Gather your family ‘round the tree and begin your day with take-andbake cinnamon rolls from Antler Baking Company. (Their vast selection of cookies also make great offerings for Mr. Claus himself if your little ones can resist eating them first, that is!)

As for what to sip on, the caffeine in a cup of breakfast blend from Tony’s Coffee is sure to wake up the grown-ups. Kids, on the other hand, can get a sugar rush with a Hot Cocoa Explosion by Banana Ohh Na Na.

Main Course Meats

When planning your holiday menu, it makes sense to start with the star of the show: the bird. Birds like turkey and chicken are classics for a reason they’re both delicious and relatively simple to cook (if you’re okay with being a little patient). To keep things ethical, we recommend sourcing yours from local farmers. Prefer ham over poultry? No problem many of these farmers also specialize in pork and other livestock.

Oak Meadows Farm in Whatcom County raises chickens in addition to a variety of other meats, and they utilize regenerative, pasture-based farming techniques that are kind to both the animals and the environment. We also love FarmWild; not only are they the largest hydroponic farm in Northwest Washington, but they also raise poultry, and each animal is given plenty of room to run free.

In Skagit, Well Fed Farms specializes in pasture-raised chicken and pork, and they place sustainability at the forefront of everything they do. In addition to beef, pork, and poultry, Skagit River Ranch raises organic turkey you can feel good

about buying after all, they’re members of the ASPCA’s “Shop With Your Heart” and the Certified Humane programs.

Produce, Sides, and Spreads

A holiday meal isn’t defined by protein alone you’ll want top-quality ingredients for side dishes, too. Luckily when it comes to sourcing the freshest locally grown produce, the Community Food Co-op has your back. (Pro tip: They’re also a great source for meat, and even entire pre-made holiday meals!). But if you’d prefer to buy produce from the source, try looking directly to local farms.

Cedarville Farms grows more than 30 types of veggies and cooking herbs, whereas Mariposa Farms is certified organic and sells a variety of produce. The family-owned, sustainably-operated Wright Brothers Farms is another great resource for winter veg, whether it be beets, kale, carrots, or otherwise. In Skagit, look to Tangled Thicket Farms for seasonal produce, or go to Slow Food Skagit (slowfoodskagit.org) for a comprehensive list of resources for wintertime farmsteads.

What’s a holiday dinner table without the fixings? For bread, we recommend pre-ordering a loaf (or three) from the iconic Breadfarm in Bow-Edison. Try serving it alongside some top-shelf olive oil and vinegar from where else?! Drizzle in Fairhaven. The Co-op has you covered when it comes to gravy and other sauces, and if you’d prefer to put a local spin on classic holiday spreads, sweet/savory jams like Apricot Balsamic from 3 Generations Jam in Anacortes pair well with meats, cheeses, and other holiday dishes.

One last tip: The Washington Food and Farm Finder has a great guide to holiday eats, from produce to markets and more. Visit it online at eatlocalfirst.org/ holiday-food-farm-finder.

FarmWild

Don’t Forget the Drinks

Five Ideas for Holiday Libations

Mulled Wine

If you’d like to try your hand at making it at home, pick up mulling spices from Living Earth Herbs in Bellingham.

Cider and Brandy Bellewood Farms is your best bet for all things apple, and as such, their brandy is not to be slept on.

Eggnog

If you don’t think you like eggnog, you should try the fresh (and local!) variety from Twin Brook Creamery we’re willing to bet that you’ll change your mind.

Sipping Chocolate

Yes, you read that right. The drinking chocolate from Flying Bird Botanicals is a classy step up from basic hot cocoa, and it’s excellent enjoyed as-is or mixed with your favorite holiday spirit.

Hot Toddy

This classic winter concoction is meant to warm the body and the soul. To make it at home, get tea from Wonderland Tea & Spices and local whiskey from Chuckanut Bay Distillery in Bellingham or Terramar Brewstillery in Edison.

Living Earth Herbs

Photo by Dean Davidson

Photo by Cocoa Laney

Flying Bird Botanicals

Devilled Eggs

BY JENN MIRANDA

Photo by Dean Davidson

Neema Rose’s Double-Batch Zucchini Bread

RECIPE BY ROSE BACHTEL

THIS FRESH GARDEN harvest recipe, created by my grandmother Rose, is so good she made a double batch every time! It’s perfect for making four regular or six to eight small loaves to give out during the holidays.

JENN MIRANDA

Ingredients

6 large eggs

2 cups vegetable oil

3 cups granulated sugar

4 cups grated fresh zucchini, skin on

4 teaspoons vanilla

4 cups flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

4 teaspoons baking soda

6 teaspoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon salt

2 cups raisins

2 cups chopped walnuts

Preparation

In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs.

• Stir in oil, sugar, vanilla, and zucchini.

• In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

• Mix well, then add to egg mixture.

• Blend completely and then add raisins and nuts.

• Bake at 350 in greased and floured regular-sized bread tins for 60 minutes. (Smaller tins may take less baking time.)

• Bread is done when separated from edges and a toothpick in the center comes out clean.

At Home for the Holidays

Deck the Halls

Most of us have our old faithful holiday decorations that we pull out every year, but there are excellent opportunities to liven up your decor (or even start from scratch) this season!

Lights are a staple of holiday decoration, but they’re notoriously tricky to keep neat and tidy in storage and that’s not to mention the hassle of putting them up in the first place! For an easy and gorgeous way to show the whole neighborhood your spirit, consider calling the professionals.

Local business Northern Lights is a passionate group of mountain climbers/lighting enthusiasts who would love to help you design and achieve your own personal winter wonderland. They bring the lights, maintain the displays for the season, and then take them down and store them. Pacific Northwest ProWash will do the same thing, and they can also clean the outside of your home so that it sparkles even after December!

To get an early start looking for those little touches and knick-knacks that help you fill every corner with cheer, check out our local thrift scene. Places like Penny Lane and Bellingham

Antique Mall are sure to have one-of-akind trinkets and vintage conversation starters for you to put on the mantle.

If you’re less into the hunt and more into the magic of seasonal store displays, there are plenty of shops that would love to furnish your cozy Christmas. Petals & Blooms Decor in Ferndale has merry slogans, jolly

gnomes, and other sweet decorations available for you to dress your space.

Specializing in contemporary yet authentic design, Ideal is a great place to look for more subtle decor that still gives off warm, cozy holiday vibes. They also carry housewares, books, and toys, so you can get a little gift shopping done while you’re there!

Northern Lights

Petals & Blooms Decor

Photo by Kelly Pearce

Photo by Paul Bikis

Add a Touch of Ambiance

Now that your house is looking fantastic, it’s time to encourage some sensory seasonal memories starting with the music. Nab some Christmas albums on vinyl from Black Noise Records in Bellingham or Lost in the Groove in Mount Vernon.

If you aren’t big on baking, you can still fill the air with holiday scents. Cinnamon brooms get popular in fall and last all the way through winter for their delightful diffusion of spice. Simply hang it on the wall and enjoy it for about a month! Alternatively, pay a visit to Wonderland Tea & Spices to stock up on peppermint tea, clove, nutmeg, and other spices for some practical pantry items that can double as all-natural potpourri.

Candles add a soft warm light and colorful accents to your holiday set-up, and they also can add very specific scents to your home. Check out Essentials Northwest, a local Bellingham maker whose holiday candle collection includes scents such as sweet brandied pear, peppermint mocha, smokey open fires, and woodsy birch and cedar.

Poinsettias are always loud and proud Christmas heralds, with their bright red and lush green leaves. You can also use bouquets as lively, beautiful decorations and gifts. A New Leaf Flower Shoppe is a Bellingham company that can deliver custom holiday orders to your door. M&M Floral & Gifts has plenty of pre-made holiday bouquets that you can shop online.

Of course, the show stopping flora at most any Christmas celebration is going to be the tree. Be it douglas, balsam, or fraser, your Christmas tree will create a gorgeous center around which your family can gather.

Alpine Meadows Christmas Tree Farm in Deming has a large variety of trees you can cut down yourself, and even makes sure to have extra-large trees brought in for those who might need one over 8.5 feet. Small’s Northwest Evergreens is a smaller tree farm in Ferndale that also offers wreaths, a gift shop, and complimentary drinks!

More Than Just Eye Candy: Four Ideas for Edible Decor

It’s a long-standing Christmas tradition to deck the halls with edible decorations! This specific subset of visually appealing treats are a great way to fill your home with holiday scents and spend time with your family as you cook and bake the necessary ingredients.

• Gingerbread houses are perhaps the most iconic of all delicious decor. They’re often big centerpieces for the middle of your mantle, windowsill, or dining room table. You can purchase kits to make them from just about anywhere, or you can whip up a few sheet pans of sturdy gingerbread and go all-custom. After you glue your house together with hard-drying royal icing, there is no limit to what other candy you can use to make your cookie dream-home. (Side note: If you need inspiration, the Port of Bellingham puts on a gingerbread house contest every year this year’s theme is “Holiday Magic.”)

• If a classical Christmas is your goal, you absolutely have to gather the family and form a popcorn garland train. Part of the collective American memory, popcorn garlands are inexpensive but time-consuming labors of love. Make or buy some unsalted and unbuttered popcorn, then leave it out for a few days so that it becomes strong enough to handle. Use fishing wire or dental floss to string it into a garland. Apply a fixative to help it stay pretty for the whole season, and voila! You can also dye the popcorn or add dried fruits for extra-fun touches.

• There’s also a lot of tasty potential when it comes to ornaments. You can go as simple as hanging candy canes on the boughs of your tree, or you can graduate to things like marshmallow snowmen and holiday shaped sugar cookies. For the snowmen, you’ll only need toothpicks to hold the body together and your choice of black dye or firm-drying icing to make the little face and buttons.

• And don’t forget the exteriors! Edible decorations aren’t just for us, after all. Get the kids involved in a little arts and crafts by making peanut butter pine cones. This is a little messy and a lot of fun. You find some pine cones outside (be careful of the pointy spines!) and slather them in peanut butter. After they’re all coated, roll them in bird seed and hang them in the yard using festive twine.

A New Leaf Flower Shoppe

Photo by Dean Davidson

Gifts to Treasure

Under the Tree

Presentation (pun intended) is part of the fun when it comes to holiday gifting and if you’re looking to shop local for gift wrap, Cresswell Boggs is sure to have everything you need and more. If you prefer to get your gifts professionally wrapped, Paper Dreams offers both gift wrap and wrapping services, as does Cordata Post and Parcel.

Looking to add even more pizzazz to your presents? For the cutest holiday cards in town, check out Bison Bookbinding and Letterpress in Downtown Bellingham. In addition to greeting cards, they also have adorable recipe cards for holiday treats like candy cane shortbread and mint hot chocolate. You can also find cute note cards just down the street at Brazen Shop + Studio and The Lucky Dumpster in Bow-Edison.

Swoon-Worthy Stocking Stuffers

If your family’s Christmas stockings could use a custom upgrade, EtchCraft (etsy.com/shop/EtchCraft) is a Bellingham-based crafter who creates personalized embroidered stockings

• For the mixologist: Shrubs are zingy (and non-alcoholic) mix-ins to add extra oomph to any drink, and Girl Meets Dirt’s miniature samplers are the perfect size for stocking stuffers. 208 Enchanted Forest Rd., Ste. A, Eastsound, 360.375.6269, girlmeetsdirt.com

• For the baker: If your loved one wants to make the cutest cake in town, get them a cake topper kit from MaryGold Tales. These whimsical, watercolorillustrated decorations will add flair to any celebration. Ferndale, marygoldtales.com

• For the comedian: Cresswell Boggs has a vast selection of humorous gifts, whether that be cheeky card games, irreverent magnets, or even novelty shot glasses. 1300 Railroad Ave., 360.752.0522, Bellingham, cresswellboggs.com

that will look stunning on any mantle. As for what to stuff your stocking with, the possibilities are truly endless when you shop local but here are a few of our favorites.

• For the nerd: Looking for games or collectible trading cards? Cardhaven Games has one of the best selections in Bellingham. 1111 McKenzie Ave., Bellingham, 360.398.6183, cardhavengames.com

• For the scientist: You’ve probably seen bioluminescence light up the bay on summer nights, but did you know that you can purchase a decorative orb filled with these phytoplankton to admire all year long? PyroFarms is a phytoplankton farm (yes, those exist!) that sells them to consumers across the United States. pyrofarms.com

• For the self-care queen: Bubbles and Ewe specializes in bath bombs that look as good as they smell, and their creative shapes and designs are sure to please kids and grown-ups alike. Sumas, bubbles-ewe.com

EtchCraft

Meets Dirt

The Lucky Dumpster

Photo by Lara Dunning

Photo by Sofia Apkalikova

Courtesy of Girl Meets

Dirt

Six Can’t-Miss Markets for Holiday Gift Shopping

Holiday Festival of the Arts

What: Presented by the Allied Arts of Whatcom County, this annual festival features the work of more than 100 regional artisans.

When: Nov. 18–Dec. 24

Where: Downtown Bellingham Allied Arts gallery (in-person) or online 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, alliedarts.org

Red Barn Market

What: This beloved holiday market brings together artisans and vintage vendors twice a year once during the spring, and once during the holiday season.

When: Nov. 4–5

Where: Northwest Washington Fairgrounds 1775 Front St., Lynden, 360.441.8084, redbarnmarketevents.com

Valley Made Market

What: Valley Made is a monthly pop-up maker’s market in Mount Vernon, and the holiday edition is one of their biggest events of the year.

When: Dec. 9–11 (Dec. 9 is a ticketed “Sip and Shop” event)

Where: The Vinery event space at Christianson’s Nursery 15612 Best Rd., Mount Vernon, valleymademarket.com

Pacific Arts Market

What: After a pandemic-induced hiatus, this longrunning local tradition is set to return in 2022.

When: First three weekends of December Where: Sunset Square in Bellingham 1125 E. Sunset Dr., Ste. 115, pacificartsmarket.com

Make.Sale

What: This quirky DIY arts-and-crafts sale is hosted by Make.Shift, a Bellingham arts space that supports and empowers local creators.

When: Dec. 2–3

Where: Make.Shift 306 Flora St., Bellingham, 306.933.1849, makeshiftartspace.org

Anacortes Holiday Market

What: After the farmers market season winds down, this holiday market presents a great opportunity to both stock up on produce and knock out some Christmas shopping.

When: Nov. 19–20

Where: Depot Arts Center in Anacortes 611 R Ave., Anacortes, anacortesfarmersmarket.org

Red Barn Market

Valley Made Market

Holiday Festival of the Arts

Photo by McKenna Ross

Photo by Sig Photography

Courtesy of Allied Arts of Whatcom County

On the Town

Merry and Bright Christmas Lights

When it comes to Christmas lights, it doesn’t get more classic than the Fairhaven Winterfest. From carriage rides to window displays, caroling, and even a lighted bike parade, this well-loved event is a festive feast for the senses.

You also don’t want to miss the Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downtown Bellingham’s Depot Market Square. Beyond the glitz of the main event, guests can look forward to treats, artisan goods, and even appearances by a few “Bellebrities.”

You can also catch a tree lighting ceremony on San Juan Island by attending the annual Island Lights Festival

When it comes to residential displays, take a drive through James Street Estates in Bellingham. Farther out in the county, Lynden residents Ryan and Megan Mitchell bring the sparkle with their annual animated light show, Emerald Way Lights, whereas Cross Country Lights is another stellar Lynden light show. More info on both locations can be found on Facebook (@EmeraldWayLights and @CrossCountryLights, respectively).

If you’re planning a pilgrimage to Lynden, you could even time your visit around the Lynden Lighted Christmas Parade. This annual tradition takes place in early December and features a promenade of floats, cars, tractors, and other vehicles decked out in their holiday best.

Five Spots for Santa Sightings

• Santa might not seem like the sportiest fellow (maybe blame the Christmas cookies?), but you’d be surprised at the athleticism it takes to scale so many chimneys in one night. Maybe that’s why he stops by Yeager’s Sporting Goods for family photo-ops all throughout the holiday season. If your little ones want to meet Mr. Claus live and in person, check their social media (@yeagerssportinggoods) for dates and times.

• The Ferndale Heritage Society’s 29th annual Olde Fashioned Christmas event will take place Dec. 2–3 at Pioneer Village, where the park’s 15 historic log cabins will be lit up in full holiday splendor. Visitors can expect entertainment, food, crafts, the opportunity to write letters to Santa, and visits with the jolly old man himself.

• If you can’t make it all the way to the North Pole, Mount Baker is probably the next best thing which is why Santa will be stopping by the Mount Baker Ski Area Dec. 11–12 for a photo-op. The meet-and-greet is open to all ages, but access is via ski and snowboard only.

• Every year, the Whatcom Museum pulls out all the stops for Deck the Old City Hall, and of course Santa will be in attendance. The program also features decorated themed trees for viewing, plus arts and crafts for the kiddos.

• In Skagit County, the Children’s Museum of Skagit County brings the concept of Winter Wonderland to life at The Shops at Burlington. In addition to a meet-and-greet with Santa, previous year’s events have included everything from outdoor activities to entertainment and plenty of festive food and drink.

Deck the Old City Hall

Fairhaven Winterfest

Olde Fashioned Christmas

Courtesy of Fairhaven Winterfest

Courtesy of the Whatcom Museum

Courtesy of The Ferndale Heritage Society

Cream Cheese Filling

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

• In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs, gradually adding sugar.

• Add squash and mix well. In a separate bowl combine flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.

• Add dry ingredients to the squash mixture and mix well.

• Line a 10-by-15-inch jelly roll or cookie sheet pan with waxed paper, then grease and flour the paper. Spread batter thinly and evenly into the pan and sprinkle nuts all over the top.

• Bake for 13–15 minutes, then let cool for 10 minutes.

• Turn cake over onto a flour sack or tea towel dusted evenly with confectioner’s sugar. Gently peel off wax paper.

• Roll up the cake in the towel, jelly roll style, starting with the short side. Set aside to cool completely while preparing the filling.

• In a small mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, sugar, and vanilla until blended well.

• Gently unroll cake, then spread filling over cake leaving ½-inch space around all edges.

• Roll the cake back up and trim edges.

• Chill 15 to 20 minutes, then slice and serve.

Photo by Dean Davidson

Holiday Harvest Roasted Veggies

RECIPE BY JENN MIRANDA

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash; peeled, seeded, and cut into 1 ½-inch pieces

12 to 14 red new potatoes, well-scrubbed and quartered

1 pound brussel sprouts, quartered longwise

1 pound medium red onions (about 2 to 3), peeled and quartered

6 to 8 carrots, halved lengthwise

1 red and 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced in large chunks

1 pound fresh green beans

6 to 12 garlic cloves, peeled and quartered

1 tablespoon fresh thyme

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary

3 tablespoons olive oil

Coarse salt and ground cracked peppercorns

Preparation

• Place all veggies in a shallow pan or cooking sheet, lined with parchment paper.

Sprinkle all seasoning and herbs plus the olive oil evenly over top and mix well.

• Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours (and up to 12 hours), stirring occasionally.

• Preheat the oven to 450 and place marinated veggies on the middle rack uncovered for about 30 minutes.

• Pull the pan out and gently mix the veggies.

• Place back in the oven on the bottom rack for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Serve hot!

Photo by Dean Davidson

Ask a Pro: Creating the Perfect Christmas Card

Kayla Colburn, Photographer and Owner at Old Growth Photo & Film

Consider a professional Christmas mini session.

“We love the holidays as they give us the opportunity for holiday-centered sessions! There’s something magical about going up the mountain (if possible) and capturing a couple in love, or heading to the studio and meeting a family for an indoor session while it’s blustery outside but cozy inside. For a lot of families, this may be the only time of the year they get photos done, so it’s a really special honor to be able to capture that.”

Put your heart into it for an iconic card.

“Authenticity [is key]. I know that sounds obvious, but I mean it. If you are a super goofy person, show that in your photos! If you are more reserved, ain’t nothing wrong with that either … Let your freak flag fly! Truly, whatever that means to you.”

If you plan to take your own Christmas photos, don’t forget to take lighting into account.

“Time of day is super important! Aim for golden hour (the hour before sunset) if you are taking them outside. If you are taking them inside, sometime in the afternoon in front of a nice window if possible and turn off all the lights in the room. Either keep decorations simple or go all out.”

Location, location, location!

“Head up to the mountains and get those views, and maybe a little bit of snow. That’s not always possible, so parks are accessible and awesome. Whatcom Falls Park is pretty year round. Vine Creative Spaces NW is a studio in Lynden that is great for an indoor space if you don’t have one.”

To keep the peace, a little understanding goes a long way.

“I’m a mom to two little boys, one of which is special needs I know how hard it can be! Have grace with your children. Bring some music that they love, and for the older kiddos … sometimes bribery is okay. Be nice to yourself as a parent.”

Don’t leave out four-legged friends. “Listen, furry or scaly they’re part of the family! This is another thing that we really love seeing. My family just got bearded dragons this year and are looking forward to including them in our holiday photo.”

The final (and possibly most important) pro tip?

“Have fun with it, this is supposed to be fun! Trust your photographer, you’re investing in their knowledge and skill.”

Bellingham, oldgrowthphotoco.com

Whatcom Falls Park

Kayla Colburn and Rochelle Thomas, Old Growth Photo & Film

Photo by Old Growth Photo & Film

40 Ways to Give Back

There’s more to the spirit of Christmas than mistletoe and gingerbread; after all, the holidays are also a season of generosity. If you’re wondering how to make a difference, consider offering time, money, and/or effort to an organization whose work makes our community a better place to live. There are plenty of places worthy of your support and our list is just the tip of the iceberg.

Aiding Our Social Services

Lydia Place has been providing resources for individuals and families facing homelessness since 1989, and their holiday giving guide (available on lydiaplace.org) is a great place to start. In addition to a traditional monetary donation, you can participate in their Adopt a Family program, become a monthly donor, or purchase Lydia Place’s new gourmet chocolate bar. This sweet treat was developed by K’UL Chocolate in collaboration with San Juan Sea Salt and Anytime Toffee, and all proceeds go directly to the organization.

The Opportunity Council (Bellingham) and Community Action of Skagit County offer a range of programs to aid the homeless as well as low-income families and individuals. Both accept monthly and one-time-only donations via their website, and they’re always on the lookout for volunteers.

The Max Higbee Center and The Arc of Whatcom County are both dedicated to supporting children and individuals with developmental disabilities, and you learn more about donations and volunteer opportunities online. Alternatively, you can support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by purchasing delicious baked goods from Our Kitchen Bellingham, a local business providing employment opportunities for those with IDD.

Looking for more ways to volunteer? The Volunteer Center of Whatcom County can help you find seasonal opportunities with organizations ranging from Toys for Tots to the Salvation Army.

The Opportunity Council

Lydia Place

Lydia Place

Our Kitchen Bellingham

Courtesy of Lydia Place

Courtesy of Lydia Place

Photo by Clinton Lively

Courtesy of Our Kitchen

Protecting Land and Sea

If you’d like to donate time or money to environmental causes, some of our favorite Indigenous-led environmental organizations include Whiteswan Environmental and Sacred Sea, both of which promote protection and restoration of the environment, culture, and waters of the Salish Sea.

Want to get your hands dirty? Organizations like Whatcom Land Trust, RE Sources, the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association, and Whatcom Million Trees Project all offer community events and work parties for individuals of all skill levels.

Providing Meals for All

When it comes to food, the Bellingham Food Bank, the Salvation Army, and Helping Hands (Skagit) help to ensure that each and every family has access to nutritious meals this holiday season and beyond. You can support their work through volunteering or by making a monetary donation.

There are lots of ways to support the Lighthouse Mission, and this includes donating goods like food. Beyond meal staples, the organization also requests donations of baked goods during the holiday season. Friendship House in Skagit serves more than 66,000 no-cost meals per year at the Friendship House Cafe, and to help them continue this mission, they are happy to accept most food donations.

Caring for Animals

Four-legged friends need extra love this time of year, especially when the weather gets cold. Purchase a Happy Tails calendar to directly support the Whatcom Humane Society, or shop for pre-loved Christmas gifts at the thrift store benefiting Humane Society of Skagit Valley. Beyond domestic animals, Because We Matter advocates for animal stewardship and environmental education, and they also function as an exotic animal rescue. Animals as Natural Therapy supports mental and behavioral health through connection with animals, and they emphasize serving veterans and youth in particular. Both organizations accept donations online!

Whatcom Land Trust

Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association

Bellingham Food Bank

Because We Matter

Courtesy of Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association

Courtesy of Whatcom Land Trust

Photo by Zach Moffatt

Courtesy of Bellingham Food Bank

Patronizing the Arts

Encouraging local artists means supporting the culture of your entire community and if you’re looking for a good place to start, know that it’s never a bad time to become a member of the Whatcom Museum or Museum of Northwest Art

For the musically inclined, Kulshan Chorus, the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra, and Skagit Symphony are all organizations worth supporting. Alternatively, if live entertainment is more your style, consider donating to local organizations like the Bellingham Theatre Guild, Anacortes Community Theatre, and San Juan Community Theatre. You can even support students’ access to the arts by helping to fund an educational scholarship with Mount Baker Theatre.

The Bellingham Makerspace is both a nonprofit and community workshop space, and if you’ve ever used their tools, consider making a donation to keep them up and running. Lastly, Make.Shift is a Bellingham-based art space that offers a variety of shows and workshops to the community. You can help them continue their mission by becoming a member of their Patreon.

Bellingham Makerspace

Bellingham Symphony Orchestra

Bellingham Theatre Guild

Photo by Damian Vines Photography

Photo by Tony Mueantonthian

Photo by Shannon Finn

Supporting the Next Generation Skookum Kids’ mission is to help children in the foster care system by involving entire communities, and they offer volunteer opportunities ranging from mentorship to support groups and work at their emergency shelters. Blue Skies for Children supports homeless, low-income, and foster children in Whatcom and Skagit Counties, whereas Northwest Youth Services serves youth ages 13–24 experiencing homelessness in the same region.

Vamos Outdoors Project is a Bellinghambased nonprofit providing environmental education, outdoor recreation opportunities, and mentorship to Latinx youth. They accept donations and provide volunteer opportunities, particularly for individuals who are bilingual in English and Spanish.

While the aforementioned organizations need year-round support, you can make a kid’s Christmas by donating toys to the Community Toy Store, a holiday gift assistance program based in Blaine. Additionally, Toys for Tots and the Salvation Army both accept toy donations, whereas the Interfaith Coalition has a variety of holiday outreach efforts. These include their Holiday Joy sponsorship program, winter coat drive, and Project Warm-up (wherein volunteers knit hats, scarves, and blankets to be donated to various social service agencies).

Vamos Outdoors Project

Vamos Outdoors Project

Interfaith Coalition

Photo by Hailey Hoffman

Courtesy of Vamos Outdoors

Project

Courtesy of Vamos Outdoors

Project

Photo by Tony Zapien

Construction, New Beginnings

Robin Daly Color & Design WRITTEN BY ROBIN DALY PHOTOGRAPHED BY TONY ZAPIEN

THE OWNER OF this Ferndale home relocated back to where she grew up (after a lifetime away), to be closer to her children and grandkids. She moved into a newly-built over-55 community, and needed to furnish it for this next chapter in her life. The client was trying to find a new normal after a few challenging years, and she needed not just new furniture, but a way to personalize the space to help her feel rooted and good again.

The decisions made in the project were both stylish and practical; the sofa had to be cozy enough for popcorn and movies with grandkids, and the house had to be durable for living with her new rescue dog, and casual enough that you could pop in and outside without fuss or worry about the decor being too precious.

We had three key design words guiding our project: “place,” ”touchable,” and “connection.” Every design decision had to relate to these three ideas.

Creating the Wow Factor

I wanted the owner’s friends to have a great first impression, and to create an element of surprise when they arrive. So we wallpapered the entry with a gorgeous digitally printed mural that feels like our misty mountains and sea, and it added so much depth to a long, (formerly) boring space. Instant wow factor.

Details matter, and so we trimmed the living room draperies with a textured blue accent. Everywhere you look, there are details to discover and items to make you understand that this is not off-the-rack decorating.

The finish on the credenza is satiny-smooth; people don’t expect it to feel so nice, and they literally stop and run their hands over the surface when they realize it doesn’t feel cheaply made. Interior design is supposed to appeal to our touch as well as our sight, and how an object feels is just as important as making sure it looks good.

Connecting with Clients

Clients often say that I am approachable and not intimidating. I work to turn a stressful decision-making process into a pleasure. We accomplish this with a lot of listening, regular email updates throughout the life of the

project, and having a clear process to navigate the project from start to finish.

When we begin working together, I am busy picking up cues about my client, and it’s my job to take all those observations and create a personalized story that reflects them, and to craft it into a story that’s better than they ever imagined. I find that clients might start to focus on specific elements, like finding the perfect sofa, whereas I communicate the big picture and bring it to life.

The best part of the project was how game the client was to transform her new house into something that feels like home and not just in the style that she was accustomed to. She just kept saying: “Yes.” “Okay, let’s do it.” “I trust you, Robin!”

(Alright, the mural took a little more convincing, but once she saw what we accomplished in the great room, she was 100% on board.)

I have the best clients, and I love it when we take an idea and run with it. Who doesn’t love a good transformation? 112 Ohio St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, 206.794.0314, robindalycolor.com

Builder Landed Gentry

Photographer Tony Zapien Interior Designer Robin Daly Color & Design

THE

I’d like to introduce you to my family: Josh, my husband, my sons Colby and Tristan, and my daughter Portia. I would like to say thank you to my family, who has been the biggest supporter of my career over that last 17 years. When I approached my family with the idea of being a agent, My family was 100% with me. I feel so blessed to have such support in my life.

We love the time we spend together going to community events, participating in school activities, and just having fun being together.

I was raised in Ferndale and graduated from Ferndale High school. Josh graduated from Mt Baker. I love our small town, (which is now growing so fast) and all the new friends that have joined us. I think that what makes a great town is the family that we create within it and joining together to help each other and to continue to make it better. We’re a community which makes us all family.

Meet a Private Christmas Tree Decorator

Noam Moore, Concept Design LLC

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NOAM MOORE

First of all, please introduce yourself and what you do!

Hi! I’m Noam and I work as a building designer at Concept Design LLC. We provide creative solutions to your residential construction design needs. I was born and raised in Bellingham and intend on making the town more beautiful and stunning than it already is.

How, exactly, does one become a professional Christmas tree decorator?

When I was a freshman at Western Washington University, about nine years ago, I was looking through the college’s job listing web page. There was an advertisement for a “Christmas Decorating Elf” position that caught my eye. I replied to the posting giving my credentials of decorating for my high school prom and professing my love of Christmas and got the gig. I have been working as a private Christmas tree decorator ever since.

Where are your favorite places to find ornaments?

I love the selection at Greenhouse; they have a mix of classy and flashy. Cresswell Boggs has a fun selection of unique glass blown ornaments. If you are ever in Leavenworth, you have to go to Kris Kringl. That place is pure magic! I buy a lot of my ornaments second hand because I prefer glass ornaments. When buying bulk balls, they are usually advertised as “unbreakable” which means plastic and I don’t think they shine like glass ornaments do.

What is the trickiest part about decorating a tree?

What sets the fantastic trees apart from the ordinary is ornament curation and placement. When it comes to ornaments, I say the more the merrier!

When arranging ornaments I start at the top of the tree and work my way down. Make sure to put ornaments close to the trunk and continue to place them along the branch until you get to the tip so the tree has dimension. Large glass balls will reflect and refract light from the middle of the tree. Icicles look great dangling from the end of branches. Fill the rest of the tree out with ribbons or garlands.

How do you decorate your own home for the holidays?

I, of course, have a decked-out Christmas tree that I try to keep up as long as possible each year. One year I cut out 100 different paper snowflakes and strung them on LED light strings that went around my living room. Ever since I was little, my mom would make me and my siblings personalized Christmas stockings with felt. I have a large collection of stockings and now make them for friends and loved ones.

Do you have any tips for at-home decorators who are looking to get creative with their Christmas tree?

Anything can be a Christmas tree decoration. I have put keychains, dolls and toys, and origami on a tree. One year when I could not afford ornaments I put hooks through clementines and strung popcorn and cranberries. Dried flowers can give the tree a romantic look. Maybe you lost one of your favorite earrings and just can’t let the other one go. Currently my tree has a sparkly Rubik’s cube, a feathered mask from a masquerade party, and some old Christmas card cutouts. It’s a great way to repurpose old items that invoke special memories. 104 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.255.0459, conceptdesignllc.net 

Noam Moore

What sets the fantastic trees apart from the ordinary is ornament curation and placement. When it comes to ornaments, I say the more the merrier!

Noam Moore

Household Holiday Gifts Made Close to Home

King Dahl Creative

BY

IF YOU’RE STUMPED on ideas for potential presents for the holidays, look no further than the wondrous wood creations of King Dahl. Dahl uses beautiful handpicked hardwoods with varying grain patterns and live-edge styles for his furnishings and decor to foster a refined rustic aesthetic for the home.

“Holidays are certainly a time for entertaining, and there’s no better way of creating a wonderful ambience than having grazing tables or charcuterie boards,” Dahl says.

One great choice is the ready-made gift set including a serving tray, cutting board, and coasters with many designs and wood species to choose from. You might also consider a more specialized gift like a black walnut bathtub tray to make soaks in the tub even more relaxing, or a figured maple photo stand a timeless gift specially made to support printed aluminum substrate photographs. Alternatively, surprise a pup parent with a standing dog dish holder accompanied by hammered-copper dishes so their furry friends can dine in elegance.

Dahl also creates stylized furniture that will turn your home into a cozy gathering space for friends and family, or that you can gift to someone really special. Tie a room together using a grand centerpiece such as a live-edge maple

coffee table with hammer-textured steel hairpin legs and black walnut bowtie inlays or a retro nouveau bookshelf made with black walnut and a live-edge catalpa back panel.

If you’d prefer a stunning accent piece, The Stacia, a combination end table and floor lamp is a perfect option, and it’s crafted using sapele (an African mahogany) and maple veneer for the beehive design lampshade.

Jennifer is a multi-talented authority on all things beautiful, fashionable, and functional, with a passion for bringing style and personality to your home’s most important spaces. Jennifer Ryan Design offers it all design, planning, production, and contractor services. A chameleon of sorts…starting in her “designer” heels and then transforming into her contractor wear. From start to finish, Jennifer will help you create the surroundings you’ll enjoy for a lifetime.

“Creating beautiful rooms that are well designed, comfortable, and reflective of the people who live there is my goal as a designer.”

“Creating rooms that are well built, with quality materials, attention to detail, while making sure my clients are well taken care of during the process is my goal as a contractor.”

And if you or your loved ones are all about spending time outside, spruce up outdoor living spaces with Dahl’s classic collection of slate-top tables and cedar patio chairs. If any of the currently available creations don’t exactly suit your fancy, Dahl is open to custom commissions to meet your needs.

“Everything I do is made one at a time and with an emphasis towards how the pieces can be used in a creative way by the new owners.”

And don’t worry about the trees, because Dahl plants a new one for every product he sells. He is dedicated to running a low-impact operation using wood and materials that have been harvested sustainably, with a focus on locally sourced, reclaimed, or salvaged wood that’s FSC certified.

“I try and really kind of capture the spirit of the Northwest in the work that I do,” Dahl says.

In addition to garnering inspiration from the nature of the Northwest, he will also often make up designs as he works drawing on his improvisation skills as a jazz musician with the Jerry Steinhilber Trio.

“My functional art strives to be organically flowing and rhythmic in its design, while being harmonious with its surroundings,” Dahl says. “In fact, my approach mirrors the principles found in the jazz I study, play, and love so deeply.”

Dahl also says his work comes from a love of entertainment and aesthetics, which has culminated into products made to last as legacy pieces that can be passed down to your grandchildren and beyond. Bellingham, 702.596.9727, kingdahlcreative.com

THE

Windsor Plywood has been around for 51 years in Whatcom County. We have evolved into a local, favorite go to. From tried-and-true industry standards to some of the latest trends, our team is here to help you with all of your home

We don’t just sell

we are an all in one solutions

Most homeowners understand the challenges, especially in today’s world, that arise when taking on a project. With almost 200 years of combined experience, chances are pretty good that one of us has seen it or done it.

we are all about.

THE DANISH CONCEPT of “hygge”

While the word is not directly translatable, Merriam

defines it as “a quality of coziness that makes a person feel

think

plush blankets,

and a roaring fire. Hygge also implies a focus on togetherness and enjoying the present moment.

No matter how busy you might be

season, we hope you find the time to enjoy life’s simple

being chief among them). After all, hygge is how the Scandinavians keep their sanity amid

long and dark winters and we could take a page or two from that book here in the North Sound.

Bellingham, 360.392.3100,

FACES

THE NORTHSOUND

THE FACE OF ARCHITECTURE

Haven Design Workshop

Sean Hegstad | Architect

5828 Second Ave., Ste. 101, Ferndale 360.527.2840, haven-dw.com

Architecture isn’t just about designing buildings. According to Sean Hegstad, architect at Haven Design Workshop, it goes much deeper than that.

“Before we start talking about a style of building, we ask what their style of living is. If it will be a residence, how do they like to interact with family and friends? If it is a business, what is the flow, how do their employees work with one another? The most important part of architecture is being a good listener.” Apparently, their clients agree:

C. G. “Sean’s experience and calm demeanor helped to steer the design/revision process emerging with plans that perfectly reflected our style AND lifestyle.”

S. C. “Sean and his team were a pleasure to work with, they always listened to what I wanted to achieve.”

Photo by Tony Mueantonthian

Ashuri Baklava and Cafe

Cozy Winter Restaurants: A Regional Round-Up

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY

WHEN IT COMES to staving off the PNW winter blues, good food is a great antidote especially when it’s enjoyed somewhere warm, welcoming, and intimate. Imagine it now: The weather outside is frightful, but you’re snuggled up with your sweetie and sharing a delicious meal by the light of a roaring fire. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it?

If the season begins to take its toll, we recommend looking to our local restaurants to keep spirits merry. The North Sound has plenty of cozy dining options to try this holiday season, but here are a few of our top picks to get you started.

Whatcom County

Our restaurant round-up begins with a Bellingham classic: The Black Cat, which is a cold weather favorite for several reasons and chief among them is the fondue. (I mean, what could possibly be cozier than fondue?!) This local favorite also makes the perfect base for observing Fairhaven’s holiday lights thanks to its third-floor location and large windows. For equally impressive views plus boozy hot chocolate, head to the mezzanine level at Village Books and settle in for a meal at Evolve Chocolate + Cafe.

On the subject of cafes, Cafe Blue is as cute as it gets, and you’re not going to want to leave Fairhaven without trying some of their fresh-baked pastries. Alternatively, in Bellingham, Ashuri Baklava and Cafe serves up traditional

Turkish coffee and treats. Its richly-decorated interior is sure to transport you straight to Istanbul.

Just down the road from Ashuri, Redlight Kitchen & Bar has unbeatable ambiance and some of Downtown Bellingham’s best tabletop fireplaces. To escape the bustle of a busy weekend night, try to snag a seat in the intimate, semi-private room opposite the bar. Additionally, if it’s drinks you’re after, the aptly-named Cabin Tavern features standard bar fare and beverages strong enough to warm up even the coldest of winter evenings.

Even in the summer, pizza and a pint at North Fork Brewery are musts on the way to Mount Baker but this eatery’s rustic atmosphere is especially inviting after a long day of hitting the powder. If you prefer to stick closer to town (and are willing to forgo the pizza for beer alone), the new North Fork taproom in Bellingham is equally as cozy.

We’d also be remiss not to mention Carnal, which boasts a wood-burning fireplace in the dining room and a heated pergola in the outdoor garden. Another favorite outdoor option is the patio at B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar, which is a great date night pick thanks to built-in heaters, comfy seating, and several fire pits to huddle around. Speaking of fire pits, the Lighthouse Bar & Grill at Hotel Bellwether upgraded theirs during the pandemic, and the ambiance pairs excellently with a hot seasonal drink and views of the Bellingham Bay.

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe Cafe Blue

Evolve Chocolate + Cafe photos by Lindsey Major, Cafe Blue photos by Kyle Hooper

Skagit County

If it’s views you’re after, Hotel Bellwether isn’t your only option head south to Skagit via Chuckanut Drive for an evening at The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut. It features intimate dining rooms, a roaring fireplace, and sweeping panoramic vistas of the bay. Also on Chuckanut Drive is Cob + Cork, which serves classed-up comfort food in a homey-yet-refined atmosphere.

Keep heading south to La Conner for Nell Thorn, which also offers waterfront views, fine dining, and a fireplace of its own. Nell Thorn’s chef is known to cook with the seasons, so diners can expect a meal that’s tailor-made for blustery winter days. Oyster & Thistle is another great pick for upscale eats plus a warm, welcoming ambiance that’s sure to raise your spirits.

For a more casual bite, the homestyle baked goods at any of the three Calico Cupboard locations are sure to nourish both the body and the soul (but we particularly love the intimate feel of their Anacortes location). Indulge Bakery in Mount Vernon also has baked goods, plus piping hot coffee and espresso to cheer you up on chilly mornings.

A’Town Bistro is a rustic, farm-to-table eatery in historic Anacortes and yes, their dining room absolutely features a fireplace. Also in Anacortes is 5th Street Bistro at The Majestic Inn and Spa, and their outdoor rooftop lounge is equipped with fire pits and even blankets when the weather permits.

San Juan Islands

While some might consider them a summertime destination, those in the know can tell you that the San Juan Islands are equally magical during the holiday season. If you find yourself in Friday Harbor this winter, your first stop should be breakfast or lunch at the ever-welcoming Cynthia’s Bistro Dining here feels a bit like stopping by a friend’s house for lunch, mostly thanks to the warmth of Cynthia and her staff.

Also on San Juan Island is Duck Soup Restaurant, which has garnered a (well-earned) reputation as a foodie destination. The food itself is upscale without ever feeling pretentious, and between the heated outdoor deck and roaring fireplace, the atmosphere is as homey as it gets.

For a similar vibe, head to Orcas Island and try The Mansion Restaurant at Rosario Inn and Spa. It’s located on the veranda of the historic Moran Mansion, and as with Duck Soup their menus are known to change with the seasons. Also on Orcas Island is The Inn at Ship Bay; this hidden gem features a romantic restaurant worth sampling, whether or not you’re lodging at the inn itself.

Oyster & Thistle

Duck Soup Restaurant

Oyster

Thistle photos by Cathrine Torres, Duck Soup Restaurant photo by Cocoa

Laney

Shareable Bites and House-Made Spirits in Downtown Bellingham

The Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS BY KYLE SZEGEDI

YOU’VE LIKELY SAMPLED a spirit or two from Chuckanut Bay Distillery, but if you haven’t yet tried their restaurant, you’re missing out on one of the best new additions to Downtown Bellingham’s growing culinary scene. Between craft cocktails and creative dishes designed for sharing, a night spent at the Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant will be one to remember.

“From the moment we first purchased our building on Cornwall back in 2017, we planned to open a restaurant and bar that would showcase our spirits in cocktail form and complement them with locally-sourced dishes in a fun, welcoming atmosphere,” says Co-Owner Kelly Andrews.

The restaurant (opened summer 2022) is located in the same centuryold building as the distillery itself, giving tour guests a venue to further taste the spirits they learn about. The atmosphere strikes a fine balance between historic and steampunk: think warm old-growth wood finishes, reclaimed metal accents, and perhaps the most eye-catching element of the space an actual penny farthing mounted above the bar area.

The concept of the penny farthing, the first-ever machine to qualify as a bicycle, is a nod to Chuckanut Distillery’s history. Their first-ever vodka was produced using an apple grinder connected to a bicycle frame. Moreover, the building itself was once home to JCPenny until it moved across the street in 1960.

Given the Penny Farthing’s ties to the distillery, drinks are a focal point of the menu, and a glass wall in the first-floor dining area even gives guests a full view of the production area next door. When ordering, I recommend asking the waitstaff what drink would pair best with your bite; roughly half the menu consists of classic cocktails, whereas the other half are new inventions. I went with a classic Manhattan ($12), which was the perfect vehicle for Chuckanut Bay’s house-made 100% Rye Whiskey to truly shine.

The idea of putting a modern twist on the classics extends to Chef Erik Szalamas’ food menu. It consists entirely of shareable plates, but make no mistake “shareable” doesn’t necessarily mean tiny tapas. Rather, these dishes are generous in portion and unpretentious in spirit, and most

of their ingredients are sourced locally (namely from Flynn Farm in Everson).

“Farmer Savannah Flynn and I teamed up at a farmer/chef mixer event in May of this year. At that time, I shared the ingredients I was planning to use on our Penny Farthing menu and Savannah kindly planted the seeds to harvest our ingredients,” says Szalamas.

The stunning Mezze Platter ($19) is an excellent showcase of seasonal veggies and fruits, marrying PNW pro duce with a variety of Mediterraneaninspired accompaniments. While grilled veggies and flatbread provide a satisfying crunch, this platter’s depth of flavor comes from its array of sides: hummus, marinated feta, olives, baba ganoush, and a rich raita cream (Indian yogurt sauce).

For a snack that’s both substan tial and refined, the Filet Mignon Medallions ($22) are a must-order. Crisp crostini are layered with slices of butter-basted filet mignon and made even more indulgent through the addi tion of Whatcom County blue cheese and house-made beet pickled red onions. Best of all, Szalamas notes that the dish is meant “to satisfy those with refined pallets as well as folks enjoying share able bites which pair well with our spir its,” namely bourbon and rye whiskey.

Other standout menu items include the perfectly charred Tuscan Ribs a la Rosticceria ($23) and the Roasted Cauliflower Steak ($18), which is garnished with golden raisins infused with Chuckanut Bay’s iconic Krampus liqueur.

Even the dessert menu is locally influenced, featuring a Spiked French Vanilla Custard Risotto ($12) made with Chuckanut Bay Bourbon-infused peach jam from 3 Generations in Anacortes. To keep things fresh, Szalamas will soon be adding a rotating dish to the menu.

Moving forward, Andrews notes that guests should keep an eye on the venue: Chuckanut Bay aims to open a third-floor event space in the spring and a rooftop bar with panoramic views in the summer. 1309 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.738.7179, chuckanutbaydistillery.com

VOTED

Skagitonian Sourdough from PNW-Grown Grains

Water Tank Bakery

WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF WATER TANK BAKERY

was studying to become a dietitian and coordinating a school garden program. Now, just three years later, she’s running one of Skagit Valley’s most buzzed-about new bakeries.

When the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a change in paths, Sobczak returned to her roots by starting a small-scale cottage bakery and the idea took off quicker than she could have imagined. What began as a one-woman subscription bread service transformed into Water Tank Bakery, where Sobczak and her team whip up sourdough goodies ranging from bread and rolls to cookies and biscotti.

“My approach is to try to produce a product that is appealing in a way that is something almost like your grandmother made but … a more artisan version,” Sobczak says. “And just really, really trying to do my best to create the most optimal flavor profile.”

In short, Sobczak’s baked goods aren’t just appealing to foodies. While all her products are made with sourdough, she uses a young levain starter, which is sweeter and less tangy than the kind found in San Francisco-style sourdough. Her offerings, which include honey oat sandwich bread and shortbread cookies, are also far more approachable than the word “artisan” might imply.

The process of making bread begins at 6 a.m. and finishes at 11 or 12 that night, making each loaf a true labor of love. Moreover, the goods at Water Tank Bakery are about as local as it gets: Sobczak has a direct relationship with Skagit’s farmers and prefers to get her ingredients from the source. Impressively, even her flour is made from local wheat processed at Cairnspring Mills (located quite literally next door to Water Tank).

Sobczak knew from the start that she wanted to use 100% PNW flour, even though local flour is more variable than the kind produced at larger-scale mills. Her prior baking experience meant she was already familiar with how to use

local grains, and in addition, Cairnspring produces a wide range of flours allowing for more diversity in Water Tank’s offerings too.

“It’s one thing to know that there’s a mill here, to know that there’s wheat that’s grown here, but for the consumer to actually be able to say, ‘This is made from something that’s grown right down the street’ is really special,” Sobczak says. “The quality [of Cairnspring Mills flour] is so much superior to any other flour that I’ve used.”

On the whole, this kind of collaboration has been key to Sobczak’s success. She feels immense gratitude for the support from the community and other businesses alike, whether it’s from Seattle-based Tom Douglas Restaurant Group (who donated their industrial oven to Water Tank Bakery) or Breadfarm (where Sobczak cut her teeth as a baker and worked for a decade).

“It’s a great feeling to know that businesses can be mutually beneficial and supportive of each other,” Sobczak says. “We have a culture of supportiveness between the farmers in the region, the growers, the miller, and the people who come here.”

Water Tank offers same-day purchases at their bakery’s walkup window as well as pre-order pickup at three locations. Most baked goods are mainstays on their weekly menu, but others rotate regularly, namely the seasonal cakes. (Hint: They will also be selling cookie boxes for the holiday season.)

Diverse as they may be, each of Water Tank’s offerings have something in common: They’re delicious reflections of both the agriculture and community spirit in Skagit County.

“I moved here because of the food,” Sobczak says. “I moved here to work at a bakery, and then to have the success of now having my own business and the support of my previous employers and the whole community has just been really, really sweet.” Burlington, 11777 Water Tank Rd., Ste C, 360.757.2253, watertankbakery.com

AT THE BEGINNING of 2020, Baker Rachael Sobczak

DINING

and prices are subject to

check before you go. See all

restaurant reviews on our Eat and Drink tab at bellinghamalive.com

restaurants need you now more than ever! However, due to COVID-19, some restaurants may be temporarily closed. Remember to call ahead or check online for delivery and pick-up options.

Review provided by restaurant.

WHATCOM

ASHURI BAKLAVA AND CAFE Turkish

103 Grand Ave., Bellingham 360.318.3030, ashuri.co

Ashuri Baklava and Cafe is introducing Bellingham residents to the traditional Turkish coffeehouse experience strong coffee, decadent pastries, and a place to enjoy good company. The owners, brothers Kristofer and Lukas Konutgan, were both born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey. They opened the shop as a way to create a space that felt a bit like home.

THE BLACK CAT American

1200 Harris Ave., Ste. 310, Bellingham 360.733.6136, blackcatbellingham.com

Tucked away in the heart of Fairhaven, this iconic Bellingham eatery serves up craft cocktails and American fusion eats on the third floor of the Sycamore Square building. Come for happy hour and stay for the delicious food and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

CHAIR 9 WOODSTONE PIZZA & BAR American

10459 Mount Baker Hwy., Glacier 360.599.2511, chair9.com

After a long day skiing or snowboarding from Mount Baker Ski Area’s eight chairlifts, Chair 9 is tailor-made for those seeking a place to grab a bite before heading back down the highway. The building is spacious, with two stories of seating and a colorful variety of snowboards decorating the wall. Their pizza is crafted on house-made artisan dough and cooked classically in a wood stone oven. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu make it a destination to try on your next trip to the slopes.

are based on in-house infusions of spirits, a collection found only at Fireside, and their beer options range from local to obscure to international.

THE FORK AT AGATE BAY American, Seafood 2530 Northshore Rd., Bellingham 360.733.1126, theforkatagatebay.com

Nestled at the fork between Y and Northshore roads near Lake Whatcom sits The Fork at Agate Bay. This relaxed and boat-house-chic restaurant offers a seasonal menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all featuring fresh, local ingredients. The bar boasts an impressive drink menu, with a drink selection based on fresh and local ingredients and tastes.

LOCUS American, Eclectic

120 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.306.8556, locusofbellingham.com

BANTAM American, Southern 1327 Railroad Ave., Bellingham 360.788.4507, bantambellingham.com

A bantam is a type of small chicken. At Bellingham’s newest southern-inspired chicken rotisserie, you get what the name promises. The Buttermilk Fried Chicken has breading that’s thick, crispy, and somehow not greasy at all. While the downstairs is familyfriendly, the upstairs is reserved for those 21 and older.

CHIHUAHUA MEXICAN RESTAURANT Mexican 5694 Third Ave., Ferndale 360.384.5820 chihuahuamexicanrestaurant.com

Dine in at one of the largest Mexican restaurants in Washington and experience the authentic cuisine derived from decades of dedication to excellent food. Using family recipes passed down for generations, Chihuahua Mexican Restaurant will not only leave you full, but also deeply satisfied.

CULTURE CAFÉ Eclectic

210 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham 360.746.6558, kombuchatown.com

This inviting, comfortable place gained a reputation for its all-natural, craft kombucha but it also offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. All the items are prepared in-house with the exception of bread, which is made by Mount Bakery. The menu reflects a great deal of care and integrity, served by authentic and accommodating employees in a communal space that offers karaoke, board games, and live music.

Ever tried a wine latte? Or a stout with cold brew and Irish cream? How about a smoothie blend of espresso, berries, ice cream, and tahini? These one-of-a-kind creations are all available at Locus, where you’ll find classic and curious offerings of coffee, wine, beer, and food. Breakfast is available all day, and includes sandwiches, bagels, and wraps.

LOMBARDI’S Italian

21 Bellwether Way, Ste. 112, Bellingham 360.714.8412, lombardisitalian.com

This waterfront bistro pairs classic Italian eats with a standout wine list and idyllic views of the Squalicum Harbor. Their menu features ingredients both local and imported, with items like sauces, dressings, and desserts made in-house from scratch. Keep an eye out for events including wine dinners and monthly wine club meetings.

NEW MEXICO TAMALE CO. Tex-Mex

4151 Meridian St., Ste. 106, Bellingham, 360.389.8841, nmtamale.com

From flavor-packed handmade food to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder this Southwest-inspired eatery landed on Yelp’s “Top 100 Places to Eat in 2020” list. 95% of the restaurant’s menu is vegan and 100% of items are gluten-free and lard-free.

FIRESIDE MARTINI & WINE BAR Eclectic, Bar

416 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.738.1000, firesidemartini.com

Fireside is out to make a name for itself. Their menu changes on an almost daily basis and uses only fresh, local ingredients. Cocktails

NICKI’S BAR AND GRILL/ NICKI’S BELLA MARINA American, Seafood

2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com

Harborside visitors can grab a bite at Nicki’s Bar and Grill or rent out the floor above, Nicki’s Bella Marina, for private events with

Chewy Treats Made with Love

Anytime Toffee

BY GAIA CRANS

TARA WRIGHT, THE owner of Anytime Toffee, considers herself an accidental entrepreneur, but what isn’t an accident is how delicious her toffee is with a recipe dating back over 25 years! Wright was originally taught the recipe by her husband’s mom, and she and her mother-in-law would make it during Christmas to hand out to friends and family. They were always met with raving reviews and urges to start selling and around seven years ago, the idea turned to reality when they began creating and selling toffee out of their home kitchen as a way to teach business to Wright’s four children.

“We decided it would be fun to try to learn business together, and so we set out to get our business license and did craft shows, farmers markets, and it sold,” Wright says. “We decided to run with it.”

The operation quickly grew when Wright’s eldest daughter, Danica Anderson, created their first website while her younger daughter, Ellie Barbo, did product photography while they were both just teens, and they all created the name and branding as a family. They moved to working in bigger kitchens, then to their own shop, and are now expanding into a wide, windowed corner store location in downtown Ferndale.

“I always imagined getting to run a storefront as a young person,” Anderson says. “It’s cool that it actually is a reality now, and it was really cool to learn and watch it go from this tiny little home business to now, a storefront.”

Their tantalizing toffee comes in about 20 different flavors that rotate throughout the year and are handmade in small batches. All of their toffee is delectable, but the fan favorites are the salted milk chocolate and salted dark chocolate toffees of which I had the pleasure of tasting myself. The smooth and silky milk and dark chocolate just melts in your mouth, leaving the chewy toffee and nutty crunch of the almonds the salt cuts through the sweetness and brings a perfect balance to the treat.

Wright’s personal favorites are the salted milk chocolate and cinnamon white chocolate toffees. As for Anderson, she’s a fan of the coconut milk chocolate toffee, which she even incorporated into her wedding.

“For my wedding we, my husband and I, both picked our favorite flavors and had those as wedding favors,” Anderson says.

Whether you get them as wedding favors, holiday gifts, or personal treats, standard Kraft bags come in three sizes: 2.2 ounces ($5.50), 5 ounces ($11), and 11 ounces ($22). They are also available in customizable speciality boxes. And if you can’t decide on which one’s your favorite, you can get a sampler to try different flavors.

Aside from the house-made toffee, they aim to build community and support local businesses by carrying other products made in Whatcom County.

“It has been such a joy to spend my days at our shop, meeting new people, supporting other businesses, and hopefully bringing a sweet touch to Ferndale,” Wright says. 5703 3rd Ave., Ferndale, 360.319.6358, anytimetoffee.com

spectacular views of Bellingham Bay. Once you’ve had a chance to check out the water, take your first glance at the large menu. The burgers are big, juicy (there are even Wet-Naps on the table), and flavorful.

NORTHWATER Regional NW 4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham 360.398.6191, northh2o.com

From breakfast to late night dinner, northwater’s 185-seat restaurant features a diverse menu of Pacific Northwest dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. The restaurant’s waitstaff is personable and enthusiastic eager to answer our questions about ingredient sources and what desserts they’d recommend.

TASTE OF INDIA Indian

3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.647.1589, tasteofindiabellingham.com

At Taste of India, all the dishes are rich, delicious, and authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Taste of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite and well-developed flavors. For those unsure of what to order, or those who want to try multiple dishes at once, try the lunch buffet.

TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar 306 W. Champion St.,Bellingham 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com

Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please. In between delicious bites made from locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house-made infusions and bitters.

Farmstrong Brewing Company and Northsound Brewing

OISHII Asian

424 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.671.6007, oishiiteriyaki.com

The next time you find yourself craving Asian fusion, head to Bakerview Square for sushi, teriyaki, noodles, and more. “Oishii” means “delicious” in Japanese and as any of their longtime regulars will tell you Bellingham’s Oishii Teriyaki & Rolls more than lives up to its name.

WAKE ‘N BAKERY American 6903 Bourne St., Glacier 360.599.1658, getsconed.com

Looking for the perfect cold weather brew? Mount Vernon-based Farmstrong Brewing Company and Northsound Brewing are collaborating on a doppelbock to release early this season. This German-style lager is higher in alcohol by volume, making it the perfect winter warmer.

OTHERLANDS BEER Brewery, European 2121 Humboldt St., Bellingham 360.746.8118, otherlandsbeer.com

Keeping in the theme of small European breweries, the menu features only six beers half ales and half lagers some of which you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. The café’s menu captures the spirit of European street fare, with dishes like pierogis and falafel. It’s food that allows you to have a couple beers with your friends and feel great.

Wake ‘N Bakery is a staple rest stop along Mount Baker Highway. If you’re in need of a sweet treat and hot coffee to bring the feeling back to your numb fingers, this will fit the bill. Whether you’re traveling to or from the mountain, watch for its signs as you pass through Glacier the cafe is about a block off the highway.

SKAGIT

A’TOWN BISTRO Regional NW 418 Commercial Ave., Anacortes 360.899.4001, atownbistro.com

THE PENNY FARTHING BAR & PEPPER SISTERS Mexican, Pacific Northwest

1055 N. State St., Bellingham 360.671.3414, peppersisters.com

Customers have been diving into their plentiful plates of comforting burritos, quesadillas, and other specialties since 1988. The spunky atmosphere only elevates the already upbeat mood of the place. With bright booths, samplings of art, and lively music, it’s nearly impossible to feel sour. Regular patrons groove to Stevie Wonder as they plunge their forks into massive burritos filled with red chili pesto, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, potatoes, green chilies, and cheese.

A’Town Bistro’s careful sourcing of ingredients, creative approach to food and drinks, and comfortable atmosphere are why it’s about to become your new go-to restaurant. Pair your meal with something off the ever-changing cocktail menu. Bitters, shrubs, and syrup are made in-house and the creative cocktails are composed by staff or sourced from a collection of vintage bartending books.

Welcome Road Winery

On the wine side of things, Welcome Road Winery in Bellingham is rolling out three new releases: the 2021 Sémillon (featuring notes of citrus, floral, and peach with a touch of honey), 2020 Mistral (a red blend that’s Welcome Road’s version of “vin de pays,” or French country wine), and 2020 Lionne (a smooth and velvety 100% syrah, named after the French word for “lioness” because it purrs!).

Aslan Brewing Co.

The good folks at Aslan are releasing two new brews this season! First up is the Dunkel, a medium-bodied brew that’s known as the original beer of Munich and has notes of toffee and toasted bread. Next is the Simcoe Slice, a hazy IPA brewed exclusively with Simcoe hops as part of Aslan’s Single Hop Series.

FORTUNE MANDARIN Chinese, Mandarin 1617 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon 360.428.1819, fortunemandarin.com

Tea warmed over a candle, delicious drinks with a slight exotic twist, tender and flavorful meat, and vegetables cooked to perfection are expected at this peaceful bar and restaurant with Chinese decor. The owner and staff remember regular patrons, creating a sense of community alongside mouth-watering food.

Bellingham Cider Co.

Bellingham Cider Co.’s winter cocktail menu is not to be missed, and in addition to their annually released Warm Cider, patrons can sample seasonal drinks like the Gloom & Doom. This rustic reposado tequila-based cocktail features spiced butternut squash, amontillado sherry, and fresh lemon.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING for something a little different than your classic warmed or mulled holiday drink, The Black Cat in Fairhaven has got you covered. It’s bringing some original cocktails to the table this winter, including the Red Velvet Margarita.

This iced drink bucks tradition by forgoing the triple sec usually found in margaritas. Instead, it’s made by shaking silver tequila, lime, agave nectar, and Disaronno Velvet together. The Velvet is a creamy version of classic Disaronno Amaretto liqueur released in 2020,

and provides a rich base of vanilla and almond. In a salt rimmed glass, pomegranate juice is floated on top, creating a jolly red and white marbled effect inspired by Santa’s iconic suit. Jewel-like pomegranate seeds are the last touch to this snowy and festive-looking drink.

The final flavor is bright and juicy, balancing a smooth and creamy body with refreshing citrus, salt, and the fruity hit of the pomegranate think Christmas fruitcake, except actually tasty! 1200 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.6136, blackcatbellingham.com

KRISTEN BOEHM

THE OYSTER BAR Seafood

2578 Chuckanut Dr., Bow 360.766.6185, theoysterbar.net

The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive is perched among towering conifers above the oyster beds. Housed in a structure dating from the 1920s that has survived many incarnations, the restaurant owes its reputation to its remote, quintessentially Pacific Northwest setting. But people don’t dine at The Oyster Bar for its location alone. While oysters are the signature offering, The Oyster Bar offers a variety of other fine-dining choices and is known for its extensive wine cellar.

SAKURA JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR Japanese

1830 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington 360.588.4281, sakuraburlington.com

Professional Teppanyaki chefs take you on a journey of delicious and interactive dining at Burlington’s Sakura Japanese Steakhouse. Using the freshest ingredients and perfect seasonings, they stir-fry your meal right before your eyes, creating a fabulous feast. Choose from steak and chicken to salmon and shrimp; each meal is served with soup, salad, rice, and vegetables. If it’s sushi you crave, they also offer a full sushi bar.

SALT & VINE French 913 6th St., Anacortes 360.293.2222

An international cheese, wine, and charcuterie shop, Salt & Vine offers the best of both worlds. It’s a boutique artisan grocery where you can sit down and enjoy the offerings, and then, if something tickles your fancy, you can take it home to enjoy later. While some choose to grab-n-go, others decide to stay a while. The cozy, intimate environment works great for a date night or happy hour with friends.

SWINOMISH SPORTS BAR & GRILL American

12885 Casino Dr., Anacortes, 888.288.8883, swinomishcasinoandlodge.com

Located along the waterfront of Anacortes, this is not your run-of-the-mill sports bar. While you can go the more classic bar-food route, this restaurant offers Italian, barbeque, seafood, Southern, among many other cuisine styles. Find the latest lines, watch the race, or grab a beer and grub as you watch every play, pass, and score.

TAQUERIA LA BAMBA Mexican

2222 Riverside Dr., Ste. 850, Mount Vernon 360.424.0824

Off the road and inside a small plaza sits a little gem a family-run, low-key Mexican

The Black Cat Red Velvet Margarita Ingredients: Silver tequila, Disaronno Velvet, lime, agave nectar, pomegranate juice, pomegranate seeds, salted rim, $11

Photo by Cocoa Laney

restaurant. Taqueria La Bamba offers authentic taco truck food in a sit-down restaurant. The salsas are spicy, full of flavor, and made in-house. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food at a low price, eat here and you won’t be disappointed.

ISLAND COUNTIES

CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN

2072 Captain Whidbey Inn Rd., Coupeville 360.678.4097, captainwhidbey.com

The entire menu features down-to-earth items that are reasonably priced, locally sourced, and well-balanced. While the inn does serve as a special-occasion spot, folks dressed in shorts and a T-shirt are also welcomed. Built in 1907, Captain Whidbey Inn is a historical gem.

CYNTHIA’S BISTRO

65 Nichols St., Friday Harbor, 360.298.8130, cynthiasofcourse.com

Located in a renovated 1920s home, this local San Juan Island staple is known for their innovative menu selections. You can enjoy lunch, or even an extended breakfast, daily in spring and summer. They are famous for their brunch, but you might try stopping by later in the evening for their dinner menu a special treat.

DOE BAY CAFÉ American

107 Doe Bay Rd., Olga 360.376.8059, doebay.com

Whether you’re heading toward the San Juan Islands or don’t mind taking a trip for an unbelievable meal, be sure to make reservations at the ever-popular Doe Bay Café. Owners Joe and Maureen Brotherton have stuck to their mission of providing world-class seafood and vegetarian dishes.

FRIDAY HARBOR HOUSE Regional NW

130 West St., Friday Harbor 360.378.8455, fridayharborhouse.com

It’s hard to beat the view of the ferry landing, marina, and San Juan Channel from Friday Harbor House the hotel and restaurant provide a sweeping panorama of water and sky. In addition to the delicious food menu, Friday Harbor House is one of the few island restaurants to offer a full bar at brunch every day of the week.

NOW BOOKING HOLIDAY PARTIES

GIVE THE GIFT OF LOMBARDI'S

Beet Wellington

Chef Cinnamon Berg of Cosmos Bistro

Place dough on parchment paper and roll out to a 12×8-inch rectangle between ¹/8 inch and ¼ inch thick, with one 12-inch side closest to you.

• Wet dough with pastry brush and water. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme (reserving a bit for garnish).

• Designate a 10×4-inch rectangle on your dough where you will stack your ingredients. Press arugula onto dough inside your designated area.

• Place beets in a row over arugula and top with mushroom mix, mounding around the sides. (It helps at this stage to have an extra pair of hands!)

• Wrap your wellington by folding and pressing dough around filling one side at a time, cutting off any excess. Pinch the seam together well and roll the seam side down.

TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY MEALS

aren’t always friendly to those on plant-based diets. That’s why Chef Cinnamon Berg took it upon herself to make something a little more filling: Enter the Beet Wellington, a.k.a. your new go-to plant-based main course.

As its name implies, the Beet Wellington is basically a beef wellington, except minus all animal products. It’s even friendly to glutenfree folks (but you’d never guess by tasting it). The final result is a hearty yet wholesome holiday dish that showcases seasonal produce, and it’s guaranteed to wow plant-based and meat-eating holiday dinner guests alike.

Meet the Chef

Prior to opening Cosmos Bistro more than seven years ago, Berg contributed her cooking skills to restaurants and catering companies across Seattle, Bellingham, and even L.A. Berg has been cooking for her whole life, and her creations incorporate a wide array of cultures and flavors.

The abundant seasonal produce available in Whatcom County is another major source of inspiration

for Berg, who sources locally whenever possible. She loves experimenting with herbs and spices to create unexpected flavors never to mask the natural flavors of her ingredients, but to emphasize and elevate them.

Ingredients

1 sheet vegan/gluten-free puff pastry (can be purchased at the Co-op or use recipe that follows)

4 medium beets roasted and sliced ¼" (keep slices together)

Mushroom duxelles (see recipe)

4 ounces arugula, coarsely chopped

2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary

1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme

½ teaspoon each kosher salt and pepper

¼ cup tamari or melted vegan butter for brushing on dough

Port and balsamic reduction

Assembly

• Wash beets, rub them with olive oil, and place them in the oven at 375 degrees for 30–45 minutes, or until soft when poked with a wooden skewer. Cut off ends and pull skin to peel (works best while still hot).

• Cut off any excess from ends and pinch them together like a present. Use water to help seal seams tightly.

• Brush the entire wellington with tamari or vegan butter to enhance browning and sprinkle with the remaining herbs and salt and pepper.

• Bake for 35–40 minutes. Once done, let cool for 5 minutes, and slice in 1 ½-inch slices.

For the sauce, mix 1 cup red wine, ½ cup ruby port ½, cup balsamic vinegar, ½ teaspoon each kosher salt and pepper, and 1 tablespoon minced basil.

• Place wine, balsamic, port, salt and pepper in pot and reduce by half over medium heat. Stir in basil and pour over Beet Wellington slices.

Mushroom Duxelles

2 pounds mushrooms (crimini, shiitake and oyster), minced in food processor

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 shallots, minced

COURTESY OF COSMOS BISTRO

PHOTOGRAPHED BY COCOA LANEY

Courtesy of Cosmos

Bistro

¹/³ cup ruby port wine

2 tablespoons tamari

1 tablespoon minced rosemary

2 tablespoon minced basil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

2 teaspoons pepper

1 cup toasted walnuts, minced in food processor

3 tablespoons nutritional yeast

2 tablespoons olive oil

Saute mushrooms, garlic, and shallots in olive oil on medium heat until moisture evaporates.

• Add port, tamari, salt, pepper, rosemary, and basil and cook until most of the wine cooks down.

• Cool and mix with walnuts and nutritional yeast.

Gluten-Free Dough

2 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend (I use Namaste)

½ teaspoon xanthan gum

1 tablespoon sugar

2 ½ teaspoons yeast

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup cold vegan butter (grated with cheese grater)

½ cup oat (or similar) milk

½ cup water

• Whisk together dry ingredients and mix in grated butter with a pastry blender until only peasized pieces of butter remain.

• Mix water and milk into dry mixture and knead several times until dough comes together.

• Wrap in plastic and let rest in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out dough into rough rectangles, about ½inch thick.

Fold in thirds, turn 90 degrees, and repeat the rolling and folding process three more times.

• Let rest another 30 minutes before use. Cut dough in half for Beet Wellington recipe. 

TASTES

We already know that donuts are delicious, and so are mochi so what happens when you put them together? Head to Mochinut and order a Mochi Donut to find out. (Spoiler: This combination is a match made in heaven.)

Marta’s Cocina in Lynden is the place to go for Mexican meals made with love. Order the Fiesta Platter to sample a little bit of everything, including flautas, nachos, and plenty of guac.

Have a craving for Thai?

For newcomers to the cuisine, the Yellow Chicken Curry from On Rice Thai Cuisine is a safe bet. You can order it as mild (or spicy!) as you want, making it friendly to all palates.

When it comes to weekend treats, “PNWaffle Boutique” Waffles in Paradise is a Bellingham Farmers Market fave. Their indulgent Happiness Found in Chocolate is our top pick, mostly because of the Honey Mama chocolate truffle topping.

Black Sheep might have the most famous tacos on Holly Street, but the Mushroom and Kale Tacos right next door at Lorikeet Bar are not to be slept on and their chipotle crema topping is to die for.

If your crew needs brain fuel for Wednesday night trivia at McKay’s Taphouse and Pizzeria, get the Jalapeno Poppers. They’re fried to golden perfection and pair perfectly with a pint of craft beer.

Pel’meni Russian dumplings, topped with butter, curry powder, homemade hot sauce and cilantro, are a perfect comfort meal for a rainy day. Order the Potato Dumplings for a fantastic vegetarian option!

Yes, the Biscuits and Country Gravy from Shambala Bakery and Bistro are vegetarian and free of dairy and eggs and no, you won’t miss the animal products. Best of all, this updated breakfast classic is served all day long.

Photo by Mariah Currey

INN AT LANGLEY American

400 First St., Langley, 360.221.3033, innatlangley.com

If beauty were a taste, this would be it. As a guest, you’re taken on a mouthwatering culinary journey through a multicourse tasting menu. Not only is the meal a delight for the taste buds, but there are also surprises at each turn, whether it’s the presentation or the accoutrements. Each guest is served as if they are the only one in the dining room. The menu is prix fixe, with an additional charge for wine pairing. Dinner here is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

$ $ $ $

SALTY FOX COFFEE American

85 Front St., Friday Harbor 360.622.2486, saltyfoxcoffee.com

When owner Andrea Hampton put together her coffee shop’s food menu, she worked hard to create items that were easy to make, but still healthy and satisfying. She wanted to be able to serve ferry riders on a time schedule, along with locals who come in for breakfast or lunch. Guests can take anything to go, including sealed wine and beer, much of which is locally made on the island.

SAN JUAN ISLAND BREWING CO. American

410 A St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.2017, sanjuanbrew.com

At San Juan Island Brewing Company all the brews are named after San Juan-inspired concepts, and if you can’t decide what brew to try, order a sampler. If they weren’t in the business of brewing, San Juan Island Brewery would be in the business of pizza. Order one of their wood stone pizzas and you won’t be disappointed. The thin crust is crispy on the bottom, but still soft and chewy.

TOBY’S TAVERN Seafood

8 NW Front St., Coupeville, 360.678.4222, tobysuds.com

Overlooking the scenic Penn Cove in the center of old Coupeville, Toby’s Tavern offers diners a dive bar ambience with a delicious menu of seafood favorites. Steamed and soaked in a scrumptious mix of simple seasonings, wine, and juices, Toby’s robust offering of mussels makes for a memorable visit.

Chutzpah! Festival

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

VALLEY MADE HOLIDAY MARKET + SIP AND SHOP EVENT

December 9, 5–8 p.m.

This annual 21+ holiday market combines a few of our very favorite things: Goods by local artisans, holiday festivities, snacks, and refreshments (both boozy and otherwise). Really, what’s not to love?! Tickets go fast, so make sure to secure yours as soon as possible! The Vinery at Christianson’s Nursery, 15612 Best Rd., Mount Vernon, valleymademarket.com

OS MUTANTES

November 8, 8 p.m.

This legendary group is known as one of the most influential bands to come out of Brazil, and their music is still making waves half a century after its formation. Os Mutantes is most notably linked with the Tropicália movement that gained popularity during the ‘60s. They deliver a one-of-a-kind blend of Anglo-American psychedelic rock and Brazilian groove. The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.778.1067, shakedownbellingham.com

AN EVENING WITH BOB WOODWARD: HOW WE GOT HERE LESSONS FROM 10 PRESIDENTS

November 12, 7:30 p.m.

Bob Woodward’s investigative journalism is nothing short of legendary; in fact, his and Carl Bernstein’s account of the Watergate Scandal was described by Time Magazine “perhaps the most influential piece of journalism in history.” This November, you can join Woodward in conversation with moderator Ron Judd of Cascadia Daily News as they discuss the state of America today. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

FAIRHAVEN WINTERFEST

November 18–December 18, times vary

It’s that time of year again: The annual Fairhaven Winterfest is back and glitzy as ever, featuring a full month of holiday

lights, window displays, activities, and even a lighted bike parade. Head online or follow @EnjoyFairhaven on social media for details on this year’s festivities. Fairhaven, enjoyfairhaven.com

DECK THE OLD CITY HALL

November 25–December 31

For more than a month this holiday season, head to the Rotunda Room in Bellingham’s Old City Hall to view an array of dazzling trees decorated in their full Christmas splendor. Additionally, the Whatcom Museum will host weekly crafts to inspire the imagination and welcome the holiday season. Proceeds support the Whatcom Museum’s programming. Old City Hall, 121 Prospect St., Bellingham, 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org

OLDE FASHIONED CHRISTMAS

December 2–3, 4–9 p.m.

Mark your calendar for the Ferndale Heritage Society’s 29th annual Olde Fashioned Christmas celebration, because Santa and his crew are returning to Whatcom County! This year’s event features everything from model trains to letters to Santa, gifts, refreshments, crafts, horses, and of course visits with Mr. Claus himself. 2004 Cherry St., Ferndale, 360.384.6461, ferndaleheritagesociety.com

JINGLE BELL RUN 5K

December 10, 8 a.m.

The Jingle Bell Run is nothing short of a holiday tradition and the best part is that your participation helps to fund

a good cause. Proceeds from this 5K fun run benefit arthritis research and treatments, helping patients to fight and conquer the disease for good. The idea is to “spread good cheer for a great cause,” and so participants are encouraged to (quite literally) be there with bells on! Bellingham High School, 2020 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, bbayrunning.com

BELLINGHAM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: HOLIDAY MAGIC!

December 11, 3 p.m.

The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra will be playing all your favorite Christmas songs (and more!) at this family-friendly concert. Head to Mount Baker Theater on December 11 for Christmas tunes, holiday classics from around the globe, and even a narrated performance of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

WHITNEY CUMMINGS: ONE NIGHT ONLY

December 18, 8 p.m.

The title says it all: Comedy legend Whitney Cummings will be gracing the Tulalip Casino stage for you guessed it one night only this December. Cummings is the creator of NBC sitcom “2 Broke Girls,” and you might also recognize her signature sense of humor from TV shows like “Chelsea Lately” and comedy specials on Netflix, Comedy Central, and HBO. Tulalip Resort Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

Photo by Sig Photography

THE CLAIRVOYANTS

November 18, 8 p.m.

Join The Clairvoyants for a night of magic, mentalism, and all-out fun at Tulalip Resort Casino! You might know this Austrian magician duo from “America’s Got Talent,” but you haven’t fully experienced their magnetism until you see them live. Even if you don’t believe in magic, this engaging and enchanting act just might change your mind. Tulalip Resort Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 888.272.1111, tulalipresortcasino.com

AARON TIPPIN

November 19, 8 p.m.

Country music fans won’t want to miss Aaron Tippin at Angel Of The Winds this November. With hits like “Workin’ Man’s PhD,” “Where The Stars And Stripes And Eagles Fly,” and “You’ve Got To Stand For Something,” Tippin’s country career spans 25 years (so far), and he’s still going strong. Angel Of The Winds Casino Resort, 3438 Stoluckquamish Ln., Arlington, 360.207.2594, angelofthewinds.com

CLASSICAL

WHATCOM CHORALE: MESSIAH

December 9, 7 p.m.

To mark 50 years of performances, the Whatcom Chorale and Sinfonia are once again gracing the Mount Baker Theatre stage, kicking off their 2022–23 season and celebrating “50 seasons of song.” The chorale will be performing George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah,” regarded as one of the most frequently performed pieces of classical music even 280 years after its composition. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

NOEL ENSEMBLE HOLIDAY CONCERT

December 10, 3–5 p.m.

Join the NOEL Ensemble for a can’tmiss afternoon of holiday tales and masterfully performed music from around the world. In addition to performances featuring Celtic harps, strings, flute, and percussion, audiences can expect Rosemary Vohs and Evan Ingalls to read heartwarming winter and Yuletide stories. Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.3600, jansenartcenter.org

SAN JUAN SINGERS: CHRISTMAS MIRACLES

December 10–11

Join the San Juan Singers as they celebrate the season with a performance of John Rutter’s “Magnificat,” which the Theatre describes as “a lush and lyrical setting of Mary’s response to learning she would be the Mother of Jesus.” The concert will also feature the Holiday Chamber Orchestra and a performance of “O Magnum Mysterium” by famed composer (and San Juan Island resident) Morten Lauridsen. San Juan Community Theatre, 100 2nd St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

SCHIMMEL SNOWCASE: GABRIEL AND REBECCA MAÑALAC

December 16, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.

Visitors to the Jansen Art Center have no doubt noticed the stunning Schimmel that graces the Main Hall. Once a month, the Jansen invites regional pianists for a one hour performance complete with refreshments. December’s showcase is particularly unique, as it features two pianists, Gabriel and Rebecca Mañalac, sharing one piano. Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.3600, jansenartcenter.org

HERALDING CHRISTMAS

December 17–18

You’re invited to join the Skagit Valley Chorale at their much-anticipated Christmas show, which will be performed at McIntyre Hall for their first live event since 2019! This year’s performance brings back plenty of old Christmas favorites, live audience sing-alongs, and a rendition of “Peace, Peace” to close the show. McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, 360.416.7727, skagitvalleychorale.org

CONCERTS

MBT LOOKOUT SESSIONS: TALISK

November 9, 7 p.m.

Talisk is one of the most buzzed-about Scottish groups on the contemporary folk scene, with millions of fans streaming their music across the globe and once you hear what they have to offer, it’s not hard to understand why. Described by Songlines UK as “incredibly infectious and endearing… fresh, invigorating, accomplished,” its members are bringing their genre-bending brand of folk to the Mount Baker Theatre this November. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

TAI VERDES

November 12, 9 p.m.

Tai Verdes defines “star on the rise” with more than one million global streams and 100+ performances since his start in 2019. His list of accomplishments include performances on American Idol, Jimmy Kimmel Live, the Today Show, and Lollapalooza, plus his song “A-O-K” rose to No. 34 on Billboard’s Hot 100 charts. Wild Buffalo House of Music, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

MIDLAND

November 16, 7 p.m.

As the winners of the 2018 New Vocal Group of the Year Award from the Academy of Country Music, the members of Midland can be described as “progressive traditionalists” when it comes to their approach to country music. Midland’s chart-topping sophomore album “Let It Roll” debuted in 2019 to great acclaim, and their star

San Juan Singers: Christmas Miracles

Courtesy of San Juan Community Theatre

only continues to rise in 2022. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

CHAMPAGNE DRIP

November 20, 9 p.m.

L.A.-based producer Samuel Poole has a simple philosophy when it comes to making music: “Innovation springs from inspiration.” As Champagne Drip, he blends diverse influences to create a signature electronica sound that can best be described as uplifting. If you’re in the mood for a carefree night of EDM grooves and dancing, catch Champagne Drip at the Wild Buffalo this November. Wild Buffalo House of Music, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

GHOST LIGHT

December 8, 9 p.m.

Catch Philadelphia-based jam band Ghost Light during their extensive cross-country tour in promotion of their sophomore album, “The Healing.” Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, the recording process allowed members to face and process their own mental health, traumas, and “less traveled emotional roots.” The result is an album that’s full of heart, humanity, and plenty of grooves. Wild Buffalo House of Music, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

MASON JENNINGS

December 9, 7:30 p.m.

Folk singer Mason Jennings has spent the better part of 25 years honing his

craft, and his 2018 record, “Songs From When We Met,” is a poignant collection of songs about rebirth, healing, and love. He has since released a self-titled album with synth band Painted Shield, and a 2020 album titled “Real Heart.” Join him for an evening of sincere, heart-felt music. Wild Buffalo House of Music, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.746.8733, wildbuffalo.net

THEATER

LITTLE WOMEN

November 3–6, 10–13, 17–20

Based on the beloved book by Louisa May Alcott, this musical tells the story of the March sisters Jo, Meg, Amy, and Beth as they come of age in Civil War-era New England. The timeless tale has affected generation after generation of readers since its publication, and its musical adaptation is sure to win over the hearts of theatergoers, too. Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes, 360.293.6829, acttheatre.com

BOTS! A NEW CHILDREN’S MUSICAL

November 17–20

This STEM-centric musical centers around themes like technology, teamwork, and… singing and dancing robots? Yes, you read that right anything is possible in this energetic new musical about rivalry and friendship at the BOTS Robotic competition. Whether or not you consider yourself a coding whiz, the whole family is sure to leave feeling inspired. San Juan Community Theatre,

100 2nd St., Friday Harbor, 360.378.3210, sjctheatre.org

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

November 25–27, December 1–10

Perhaps the Bellingham Theatre Guild puts it best when they say that “this isn’t your grandmother’s Austen!” The classic tale of latent love has been given a facelift for a whole new generation, but Austen purists never fear audiences can expect all the insight, wit, and romance of the original classic novel. Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H St., Bellingham, 360.733.1811, bellinghamtheatreguild.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

TURKEY TROT

November 26

How better to work up an appetite for Thanksgiving dinner than a 5K fun run? The Turkey Trot is an annual tradition for many families, accessible to all ages, and best of all, the proceeds benefit the Bellingham Food Bank! Prizes will be awarded to the top four finishers in each age group, but don’t worry the event also emphasizes “strollers are welcome!”

Squalicum Creek Park, 1001 Squalicum Way, Bellingham, gbrc.net

SANTA 5K AT CORDATA

December 18

It’s time to lean into the silly side of your Christmas spirit at the Santa 5K at Cordata! Whether you want to run as fast as possible, take a leisurely stroll (complete with hot cocoa), or cross

Santa 5K at Cordata

Photo by City of Bellingham Parks and Recreation

THE FACE OF

THE NORTHSOUND

Built in 1926 and operated as a non-profit since 1987, the jewel of Skagit Valley has entertained the Pacific Northwest for nearly a century. With a small staff consisting of both full- and part-time employees and with the help of a dedicated Board of Directors and dozens of volunteers the Historic Lincoln Theatre continues to host national touring acts, blockbuster and arthouse films, educational classes, community events, and a plethora of talented local musicians, actors, speakers, and more.

Committed to a varied slate of offerings, the Lincoln Theatre plans to be a part of the community for another hundred years at least!

the finish line skipping backwards, all styles of walkers and runners are welcome at this family-friendly fun run. Costumes aren’t a requirement, but race organizers say that “they do enhance the experience by 28.5%,” so make of that what you will. Cordata Community Park, 4510 Cordata Pkwy., Bellingham, 360.778.7000, cob.org

LAST CHANCE MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON

December 31

The name says it all: This is your very last chance to run a full or half marathon in 2022! The course covers the Interurban Trail and finishes at Clayton Beach, making it both scenic and not overly strenuous given the lack of steep hills. Even dogs (wellbehaved and on leashes) are welcome to participate alongside their owners! Fairhaven Park Pavilion, 107 Chuckanut Dr. N., Bellingham, nwenduranceevents.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

RAYN: FLAMENCO FOR A NEW WORLD

November 7, 7 p.m.

Renowned dancer Savannah Fuentes will be joined by Diego Amador Jr. for a night of flamenco in its purest form: voice, guitar, and of course dance. Fuentes is one of the only touring artists in the PNW whose connections to the art form run deep, with more than 300 performances and workshops under her belt. You won’t want to miss this evening of passion, performance, and raw talent. FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.305.9858, firehouseperformingarts.com

THE NUTCRACKER HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW

November 10–13

If you’re looking to do some holiday shopping and give back for a great cause, then the Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show in Anacortes should be at the top of your agenda. In addition to showcasing wares from a variety of local artisans, the organizers will be collecting non-perishable food items to donate to the Helping Hands Food Bank. Depot Arts and Community Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes, 360.853.6894, nutcrackerholidaygiftshow.com

34TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF TREES

November 25–27

This year’s Festival of Trees benefits Skagit Regional Health’s Heart and Vascular Institute, and you’re invited to their black-tie gala and auction on the night of Nov. 25. But the fun doesn’t stop there: Bring the whole crew Nov. 26 27 for Family Festival Days, featuring crafts, entertainment, a holiday breakfast, and even a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus himself. Skagit Regional Health Foundation, 500 Cascade Mall Dr., Burlington, 360.814.5747, skagitregionalhealth.org

STORM LARGE: HOLIDAY ORDEAL

December 1, 7:30 p.m.

Portland-based Storm Large is your classic quadruple threat: musician, actor, writer, and even playwright. After rising to fame as a contestant on the 2006 show “Rock Star: Supernova,” she now delights audiences across the U.S. with her wit, charm, and jaw-dropping vocals. Needless to say, if you join Storm on this night of “music, gags, and gifts,” you can expect to be entertained. Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.734.6080, mountbakertheatre.com

HOLIDAY TEA AT WILLOWBROOK MANOR

December 2, 3, 9, 10

This Christmas, take a step back in time at Willowbrook Manor, an English tea house and chamomile farm. Guests will be served tea sandwiches, soup, sweet cream scones, and homemade sweets in addition to their pot of tea. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the manor’s festive atmosphere by taking a stroll through the lit-up gardens. Willowbrook Manor, 27420 Minkler Rd., Sedro Woolley, 360.218.4585, teaandtour.com

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS WORKSHOP

December 3, 1–3 p.m.

This workshop is ideal for the folks who feel craftiest around Christmastime. Join Artist Pam Fredback to create holiday-themed, hand-built pottery items that incorporate techniques from slab construction to coil pots, pinch pots, and surface texture. All supplies are included! Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden, 360.354.3600, jansenartcenter.org

Golden Dragon Acrobats I January 22

KUINKA

Mariachi Herencia de Mexico I February 6

Four Guitars

November 19

VISUAL ARTS

ARTISTS FROM THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST AT GALLERY SYRE

November 1–December 31, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Head to Gallery Syre in Bellingham Tuesday–Saturday all throughout the winter to feast your eyes on work from four intergenerational PNW artists, each of whom presents our region with a unique perspective. The show includes pieces by Francis Xavier Donovan, Anita H. Lehmann, Bonnie Smerdon, and David Syre. Gallery Syre, 465 W. Stuart Rd., Bellingham, 360.746.8745, gallerysyre.com

UN/NATURAL SELECTIONS: WILDLIFE IN CONTEMPORARY ART

November 1–December 31

The Whatcom Museum is unveiling its newest exhibit: “Un/Natural Selections: Wildlife in Contemporary Art.” Organized by the National Museum of Wildlife Art, this exhibit is an exploration of contemporary art’s use of animal imagery in works that address the human relationship to the natural world. With about 50 included works from the last 20+ years, this collection tackles themes of tradition, science, politics, and

aesthetics. Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher Building, 250 Flora St., Bellingham, 360.778.8930, whatcommuseum.org

OUT OF TOWN

SEATTLE

POUR

November 4, 6 p.m.

Seattle Urban Wineries is a collective of wineries and tasting rooms that have been promoting Seattle’s urban wine culture for over 10 years. This November is their 5th annual POUR event, where around 20 local Seattle wine companies come together for an evening of wine, music, and delicious Cuban food provided by Cafe con Leche! Club Sur, 2901 1st Ave. S., Seattle, seattleurbanwineries.com

DISNEY IN CONCERT: TIM BURTON’S THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS

December 1–4

Fanatics and casual appreciators alike should get quite the thrill from

this unique viewing of Tim Burton’s “Nightmare Before Christmas”! The cult classic movie will be projected in its entirety on the big screen while the Seattle Symphony performs the score live. The full-body experience of live orchestral music paired with the spellbinding tale of the Pumpkin King will inspire any audience! Benaroya Hall, 200 University St., Seattle, 206.215.4700, seattlesymphony.org

VANCOUVER, B.C.

VANCOUVER CHUTZPAH! FESTIVAL

November 3–24

Launched in 2001, the Chutzpah! Festival is a symposium of different creative events and performances that connect, explore, and celebrate diverse Jewish perspectives. The Festival returns in full force to in-person events this year at various Vancouver venues, and will also offer limited streaming. Events span theater, music, dance, comedy, special events, and more, so download their 2022 program for more information!

Annette Rothstein Theatre, 950 W. 41st Ave., Vancouver, 604.257.5111 ext. 235, chutzpahfestival.com

Photo by Gallery Syre

Artists from the Pacific Northwest at Gallery Syre

I sit beside the fire and think of all that I have seen of meadow-flowers and butterflies in summers that have been; Of yellow leaves and gossamer in autumns that there were, with morning mist and silver sun and wind upon my hair.

I sit beside the fire and think of how the world will be when winter comes without a spring that I shall ever see.

For still there are so many things that I have never seen: in every wood in every spring there is a different green.

I sit beside the fire and think of people long ago and people who will see a world that I shall never know.

But all the while I sit and think of times there were before, I listen for returning feet and voices at the door.

J.R.R. TOLKIEN

North Sound photographers, we want to see what you’ve got. We’re looking for locally generated photographs for our Lasting Image feature. We’re seeking local nature photographs ones that freeze a moment, tell a story, evoke an emotion. We’ll run your photo, along with your name, where you’re from, where the photo was shot, and a short 40-word write-up about the photo (inspiration for it, how you got it, meaning behind it, etc.). The photo must be high resolution (300 dpi) with no watermarks. Send to dean@bellinghamalive.com. Then sit back and enjoy the view.