Of bespoke luxury and unparalleled craftsmanship with our expert team at Alair Homes Kirkland. Elevate your living experience with a custom home or renovation project tailored to your dreams and desires.
Now accepting projects for Winter 2024/Spring 2025, our commitment to excellence and passion for innovation sets us apart. Join us in redefining residential construction and experience the difference firsthand.
Discover a new standard of quality and collaboration. Contact us today to bring your vision to life and make your dream home a reality. Let’s create something extraordinary together.
-Maya Angelou
Giving Thanks
In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those that you love and encourages giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition and competition can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, enjoying the ride and appreciating those around us that have helped us along in our journey, can leave us missing out on what truly matters. We’ll never be content if we look outside ourselves and at our possessions or titles to determine if we are fulfilled. True contentment comes from within and from fulfilling who we were made to be.
This November, we at Kirkland Lifestyle at are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our city the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings.
Warm wishes,
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rachel Lund, Deborah Friend Wilson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Life N Light, Grace Kim, Jamie Petitto, Mel Martin
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
1-7: Kirkland Chamber of Commerce Annual Fashion Show. Featuring community models with looks from local merchants.
Photography by Taira Marie Photography
The Gridiron Auction at Efeste Winery in Woodinville 8: Lake Washington High School Cheerleaders 9: Gridiron Board: John Loy, Yvonne Holecek, Jennifer Loy, Melissa Porter, Ravit Aviram, Caitin Holmes, April Peterson, JR Duryee 10: Head Coach Andy Arena shares the vision for the football program with boosters 11: LWHS football players pose with Terry Hollimon 12: Auction Item from Lady Yum 13: Andrea Patzer & Jennifer Loy 14: Platinum Sponsor Max Rombakh with wife Nadia and daughter Chloe Photography by Peter Hui
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF
Five Iron Golf Brings Next-Gen Eatertainment to Kirkland
Five Iron Golf recently opened its second Seattle-area location in Kirkland, WA, on September 24th at Kirkland Urban Mall. The venue offers Trackman golf simulators, Duckpin bowling, a full bar, and a restaurant. It also features golf instruction, a stylish lounge decorated by a local artist, and an outdoor patio. Five Iron Golf offers endless activities designed for all ages, enhancing the Kirkland experience and adding a sense of community to the neighborhood.
Alair Homes Announces New Regional Partner for Washington State
Alair Homes is thrilled to announce Stacy Eakman’s promotion to regional partner for Washington State. With 12 years of industry experience, Eakman will oversee Alair’s growth and development across the region. This role is pivotal in expanding Alair's custom home services in Washington, where Eakman will recruit, support, and guide new partners. As a regional partner, Eakman will focus on strengthening Alair’s network of industry-leading builders dedicated to transforming the residential construction experience.
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Frostival and Santa Return to Kirkland Urban this Winter!
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at Kirkland Urban's Frostival + Winter Market! Every Saturday from Thanksgiving to Christmas, Kirkland Urban will come alive with costumed performers, mesmerizing ice sculptures, carolers singing holiday tunes, and exciting crafts for kids. Don’t forget to snap a photo with Santa in his sleigh and browse the Winter Market for one-of-a-kind gifts from local vendors. Stop by 4:00-7:00 PM on Nov 30, Dec 7, 14, and 21!
Photography by Life N Light
Photography by Kirkland Urban
Kirkland Turkey Trot is Back!
The Kirkland Turkey Trot, a beloved family tradition, returns to the Eastside community. On November 17th, participants will run along the shores of Lake Washington, from Marina Park to Carillon Point and back, completing a 5K. Sponsored by Lake Washington Physical Therapy, this race is a great way to kick off the holiday season. Afterward, enjoy food and drinks with friends and family at Moss Bay Hall, our race headquarters. Use promo code LIFESTYLE for a 10% discount on registration.
Where Everyone is Getting their Holiday Photos!
Capture the holiday spirit with Life N Light! Celebrating six years of providing easy and enjoyable holiday photo sessions, they’ve garnered rave reviews from thousands of satisfied customers all across Western Washington. With comments like, “There’s nothing else like this around!” and “It’s the only way I can get a good quality photo of my family!” it’s clear why customers keep coming back year after year. Don’t miss your chance to create beautiful memories this season—book your holiday session today at https://lifenlight.co/.
20 Years of Snowflake Lane at The Bellevue Collection!
Watch downtown Bellevue transform into a majestic winter wonderland this Holiday season at Snowflake Lane. This year marks the iconic parade’s 20th anniversary delighting residents and visitors alike. For 26 nights from Black Friday to Christmas Eve, guests can enjoy entertainment from nearly 200 performers, cheerful holiday floats, twinkling lights and more. The event is fit for all ages and is free – making it the perfect holiday tradition. Learn more at bellevuecollection.com/ snowflakelane/.
Photography by Life N Light
Photography Courtesy of The Bellevue Collection
Design PURPOSEFUL
A look inside Alair Kirkland’s latest build; a home crafted with vision and designed with views in mind.
ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW PHOTOGRAPHY
Designing a home with a view requires thoughtful planning to maximize natural beauty. Large windows, open layouts, and strategically placed rooms enhance the connection to the outdoors. It’s also important to focus on framing vistas and orienting the home to capture sunrise, sunset, or key landscape features.
This beautiful home was inspired by views of Lake Washington and the Olympic mountains. Maximizing these views was a primary design driver for the owners, who sought a minimalist, modern aesthetic that incorporated a rooftop deck, high ceilings, high windows, and a well-lit lower level.
Alair Kirkland, the builder of this home, was honored to take on the task of this client’s wishes to incorporate the gorgeous PNW surroundings that this property encompasses. For maximum enjoyment of the views and natural light, Alair Kirkland intentionally incorporated these design elements into this home:
1. Courtyard: At the ground level, a sunken courtyard emerges from the space between the kitchen and the staircase, bringing light into both the upper and lower levels; allowing the bedroom and family room to benefit from the morning sun.
2. Rooftop deck: A rooftop deck, elevated above the guest suite, extends the living space outside, offering a space to view sunsets over the lake and mountains. “The rooftop deck and courtyard are key to tying the house to its environment”, reflects architect Andres Villaveces.
3. Outdoor deck: The space is surrounded by a wraparound covered deck that is useable yearround allowing beautiful views from all angles while providing a shaded area in the Summer.
Alair Kirkland is known for building distinctive and exceptional homes that reflect the collaboration between the client, architect, and designer. “When you are considering whether to build a custom home, it is imperative that you assemble the right team to help you through the process. One mistake that I see people make repeatedly is not choosing their builder early enough in the process. Remember that building your dream home is not just about sticks and bricks, it’s about planning and executing. To do that right you need to include all key players in the entire process,” says Alair Kirkland owner, Stacy Eakman.
Open concept living area maximizes light.
Waterfall countertop on the center island is perfect for gathering family and friends around. Minimalist cabinets keep with the modern yet cozy vibe of the home.
Wraparound covered deck that is useable year-round, allowing beautiful views from all angles.
Large
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH FRIEND WILSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMIE PETITTO
Casia Lodge & Ranch Autumn Escape at
EXPERIENCE LUXURY, GOURMET DINING AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE IN THE HEART OF THE METHOW VALLEY
Nestled on nearly 300 pristine acres at the base of the North Cascades, Casia Lodge & Ranch is a hidden gem for luxury travelers seeking an immersive experience in the breathtaking Methow Valley. Since James Beard Award-winning Chef Jason Wilson, known for his culinary leadership at The Lakehouse and Civility & Unrest in Bellevue, joined as Managing Partner with his wife Deborah last September, Casia Lodge has gained regional acclaim. Now part of the exclusive collection of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, guests can enjoy the added benefit of Hilton rewards when booking.
At the heart of the Lodge is Chef Jason’s innovative culinary program. His farm-to-table New American cuisine uses seasonal, local ingredients from the property’s orchards and chef’s gardens, offering an exceptional dining experience. This fall and winter, guests can indulge in a decadent Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas Eve celebration, participate in private and group cooking classes, or savor the weekly Saturday High Tea service featuring house-made sweet and savory creations.
With 11 thoughtfully appointed rooms and a two-bedroom Creek Cabin offering an oversized fireplace and full kitchen, Casia Lodge promises luxury, comfort and style. The property also features a private horse barn for seasonal horseback riding, a stocked trout pond for fly fishing, and guided nature walks to observe local wildlife. In winter, explore snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on the Lodge’s groomed trails. The Lodge is also the perfect venue for weddings, corporate retreats and buyout celebrations of all kinds.
Exclusively for guests 18 and over, Casia Lodge & Ranch is the ideal Northwest escape for those seeking adventure and luxury. Book your stay at casialodge.com
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Co-founders and coowners
N A V I
GATINGHOLIDAY
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, togetherness, and connection—but let’s be real, they can also bring stress, especially when we’re navigating tough conversations with loved ones who hold differing opinions. Throw an election year into the mix, and it’s easy to see why many of us feel anxious about gathering around the dinner table.
As a mental health counselor, I believe in the power of vulnerability and courage when it comes to communication, especially during the holidays. Here are some strategies to help keep conversations respectful and grounded in connection, even when opinions clash.
CON VERSATIONSWITH
1. SET CLEAR, KIND BOUNDARIES
Before your holiday gathering, it’s okay to kindly express that you’d prefer not to talk about politics. You might say something like, “I really want this time together to be about connecting, and when we talk about politics I can start to feel less connected. Can we agree to focus on enjoying each other’s company?”
Self Space Therapy Shares a Guide to Staying Connected in an Election Year
ARTICLE BY RACHEL LUND | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE KIM
A C E
of Self Space, Rachel Lund and Jessica Andrews
2. GET CURIOUS, NOT DEFENSIVE
When a political conversation pops up, and it likely will, try to stay curious instead of jumping into defense mode. Ask questions with the goal of understanding where the other person is coming from. Curiosity doesn’t require agreement—it just requires a little humility. It’s about saying, “Tell me more about why this matters to you.” This helps create a space for dialogue instead of debate.
3. KNOW WHEN TO STEP AWAY
There’s no shame in bowing out of a conversation that’s becoming too intense or emotional. Pay attention to your body’s cues—racing heart, shallow breathing, tense muscles—and take a break if needed. Politely excuse yourself for a breather or a change in topic. It’s a brave act of self-care to protect your peace, and is good for the whole family.
4. FOCUS ON WHAT CONNECTS YOU
Instead of letting a disagreement pull you apart, look for the common threads in your values and experiences. Whether it’s a shared love for a family tradition or a mutual concern for the future, redirecting the conversation to what unites you can remind everyone that the relationship is bigger than the differences.
5. LEAD WITH EMPATHY
We can’t control what others believe, but we can control how we show up. Try to lead with empathy, even when it’s hard. Remember, we’re all shaped by our stories—our backgrounds, struggles, and hopes. Approaching a tough conversation with empathy doesn’t mean agreeing with everything, but it does mean honoring the humanity in each person.
At the end of the day, the holidays are about connection. Staying grounded in love, empathy, and a bit of courage can help us preserve those important relationships, even in the most heated of times. After all, it’s not about changing minds—it’s about holding space for one another, differences and all.
TIS THE SEASON! GIVE BACK THIS HOLIDAY WITH THREE LOCAL NONPROFITS.
ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW
Inspiring Ways to Support Your Community
HOPELINK
Hopelink provides programs for people experiencing poverty, immigrants and refugees, and people with disabilities. Hopelink’s mission is to promote self-sufficiency for all members of our community to help people make a lasting change. Our community can participate by giving time as a volunteer, using a talent to raise funds or in-kind donations, or offering the treasure of a financial gift. Learn more at Hopelink.org/take-action/.
THE SOPHIA WAY
Shelter. Safety. Stability. The Sophia Way is a place of hope and change for women. Women who come to the shelters find a warm, safe space to shower, rest, and sleep and are served nourishing food. Following the guiding principles of trauma-informed care, case managers partner with the women to support their physical, mental, and financial well-being. To donate or volunteer visit sophiaway.org for more info.
MARY’S PLACE
Mary’s Place needs your help to ensure that children and families who have lost their homes have a safe place to go. The No Child Sleeps Outside campaign runs through the end of the year and your donation of any amount will help to keep families and children safe and warm this winter! Donate by visiting marysplaceseattle.org
Photo Credit: Mel Martin
dip -giving
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
garlic herb feta dip
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
fig & honey brie
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
directions:
Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
NOVEMBER 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 4TH
Washington
Technology Expo
Meydenbauer Center | 7:30 AM
The Washington Technology Expo is a premier business technology event that connects innovative tech providers with businesses ready for digital transformation. Attracting over 3,000 attendees, the expo serves as a dynamic marketplace of ideas, solutions, and opportunities. It’s designed to catalyze growth, innovation, and collaboration, making it an essential gathering for anyone looking to drive technological advancement. For event details and to purchase tickets visit https://bellevue techexpo.extraslice.com/.
NOVEMBER 16TH
11th Annual Festival of Trees
Hyatt Regency Bellevue | 5:00 PM
Join us as we gather for a night of celebration, hope, and inspiration to usher in the Holiday season. During the Festival of Trees Gala, guests participate in an auction to bid on unique and fun items, including professionally decorated Christmas Trees, to help support Jubilee REACH services for the community. For event details visjubileereach.org/festivaloftrees
NOVEMBER 17TH
Sound Bath Class
Heritage Hall | 6:30 PM
Experience deep relaxation and restoration while participating in a series of Sound Bath classes brought to you by Savannah Powers of Ethereal Sound & Wellness. Immerse yourself in soothing sounds created by singing bowls, gongs, and chimes to reduce stress and promote a sense of balance and well-being.
NOVEMBER 28TH
Thanksgiving Day Cruise
Waterways Cruises at Lake Union
Piers on South Lake Union | 12:00 PM
Join us for a memorable Thanksgiving cruise on Lake Union and Lake Washington! Enjoy a gourmet feast of classic holiday dishes with a contemporary twist, all while taking in breathtaking views of Seattle’s iconic landmarks. Relax with friends and family in a festive atmosphere, and let us handle the details. Reserve your spot today for a truly special celebration! For tickets and more details visit https://waterwayscruises. com/thanksgiving-day-cruise/.
NOVEMBER 29TH
Village of Lights Christmastown
Leavenworth, WA
Every winter Leavenworth shines bright with over half a million lights from 6 AM until 11 PM each day from Thanksgiving thru the last day of February! There is no charge to visit Leavenworth and see the lights, so plan to visit our beautiful Bavarian Alpine Village – it’s like living inside a magical snow globe!
NOVEMBER 30TH
Garden d'Lights 2024
Bellevue Botanical Garden | 4:30 PM
Garden d’Lights features over half a million sparkling lights transformed into whimsical shapes of plants, flowers, birds, and animals, as well as cascading waterfalls. Set amid the stunning natural beauty of the Bellevue Botanical Garden, this enchanting display creates a magical atmosphere for all visitors. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this dazzling holiday tradition!
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It’s Pumpkin Bread Season
The Perfect Recipe For Some Autumn Comfort
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or canola oil
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a mixing bowl, add the flour, baking soda and baking powder, spices, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine the oil, butter, and vanilla in a liquid measuring cup.
4. In a mixing bowl (with a paddle attachment), beat the pumpkin, sugar, and eggs until combined.
5. Turn the mixer to low and slowly add the liquid ingredients. Let this process take about 1 to 2 minutes so the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
6. Using a spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the wet and slowly fold until the ingredients are blended.
7. Prepare a 10 x 5 loaf pan by buttering it really well and then adding a strip of parchment paper to the bottom and up the sides for easy removal.
8. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 1 hour. The bread will be fully risen in the center, like a loaf. Make sure it’s fully cooked and brown on the top otherwise it will fall in the middle once removed from the oven.
