Posts Tagged ‘Whidbey Island’

Summer Update for Krueger

Saturday, August 28th, 2010

Yep, haven’t posted in a long time. We’ve had steady sales–a lot of second-home buyers and some military folks too stationed at nearby NAS Whidbey Island.

Summer has been great on Whidbey. It’s a lovely 65 degrees right now, sunny and all the mountains are out. Missed the farmer’s market–busy working on revisions–but enjoyed a nice walk today. Did you know the walking trails around town go all the way out along Parker Road? You can really go for a long walk in every direction.

Tonight’s the Pleine Air Gala Event. It’s been fun seeing all the painters around Ebey’s Landing with their easels.

Also, we had a great dinner last night at the new Front Street Grill on, you guessed it, Front Street. Right on the water, the beautiful craftsmanship will wow you (owner Dan Miranda is also a custom home builder). The food was awesome too. I had a filet mignon and it was no less than spectacular. Would it be so wrong to eat that every day? Women need iron, right? :)

Spring has sprung!

Thursday, March 11th, 2010

Sorry for the extended delay! Just when everyone was healthy and whole, I thought, gee, I’ll get a puppy! Boy, I forgot how much work that is. He’s cute, but whoee, a handful. I ended up with a bronchial infection for almost three weeks–just from getting up at night to take him out for his business.

Daffodils are out, cherry trees are in bloom, the birds are all coming back…yeah, Spring! We went for a few family bike rides this weekend–one at Fort Ebey State Park and one on the mainland at Bayview, with a quick stop in LaConner. I’ve seen lots of road bikers out and about too.

Have you stopped by the new Coupeville library? It opened this Monday, the 8th, and we’ve already been three times. Yes, three times. My daughters love it and I do too. Very sunny, lots of room, a super meeting area, room for the staff to turn around and actually work…a nice use of our tax dollars.

Speaking of new, try the new Hawaiian BBQ and Teriyaki restaurant on Main Street, right between the Methodist Church and the Thai Restaurant. Two new restaurants are also planned for downtown, a new steakhouse and a Mexican restaurant–both with amazing views on the water. Yeah!

Johnny Bulldog plays this weekend to benefit the Senior Class of Coupeville High School. Love Creedence Clearwater Revival? Well, you’ll love this band, as the lead singer sings for CCR Revisited. The drummer’s no slouch either–Larry Mason of FunkMason and formerly, the Brandos. Shout out to Marcus hitting the ivory on the keyboard, Kevin on electric guitar and. Saturday, 6:30pm at Bayview Hall in Bayview.

That’s all for now. I’m thick in the midst of sending material to agents and also halfway through my third book.

Celebrating a Holiday

Tuesday, December 15th, 2009

Eek…where have I been? Well, we’ve had a bit more excitement and are very happy Whidbey General Hospital is right down the road. I’ll tell you, the ER staff is terrific and the nurses are great too. Wasn’t me this time, but the spouse who scared the living daylights out of me. And so, I longed for a holiday. You know, sipping a cold beverage by a sandy beach. Anyway, I took a break and now I’m back.

But, if you too long for a holiday, and we no longer “send Mommy for a little rest”…how about this–Island Medical Spa will soon be opening their new Coupeville location on South Main Street. Who wouldn’t enjoy a massage or facial? The new location will have a Vichy shower and promises to be very glamorous. 360-678-9005.

Or, visit the The Seaside Spa & Salon on Historic Waterfront Front Street, 678-0508. Check out the Vanity Room, which is a Spa Boutique. Bath salts, scrubs, handcrafted artisan soaps, jewelry, bath fizzy bombs. Hours are Tue-Sat, by appointment. Gift certificates for the holidays are available, or for any occasion. But if you buy one during December, get 15% off purchases from the Vanity Room. This is a full-treatment day spa and salon, offering manis, pedis, hot rocks, body wraps, facials, collagen treatment and more. They are participating in the $1000 Red Ticket Giveaway.

What’s that, you ask? Well, participating businesses of the Coupeville Historic Waterfront Association will give you a red raffle ticket for each $20 you spend. One lucky winner will receive $1000 at the drawing held outside the Island County Historical Museum on December 20th at 1pm.

Come to Coupeville for your Christmas shopping. Keep your tax dollars local. I always shop Front Street and find great stuff. Santa loves to find goodies at The Honeybear Toystore. Why get something plastic? How about a gift certificate to one of the delicious restaurants? Stop by Penn Cove Co-Op Art Gallery. They have local treasures, from watercolors, cards, baskets, jewelry, pottery, blown glass and more–you can easily find a one-of-a-kind gift around $20! Jan MacGregor Studios has neat stuff too. Well, gee, all the stores do–and I hate shopping. Forget about the mall or Costco or online…shop local!

Don’t forget, we have a lot of great massage therapists in the area too. Can’t think of what to get Mom, or Sister, or Auntie, or Grandma, or your Wife? Women often like being pampered. And if you ever argue with your kids about getting them to bathe…try a fizzy bath bomb. Guaranteed to cause everyone to want to jump in the bathtub!

Pumpkins and Grass-Fed Beef, Pigs and Free-Range Animals on Whidbey Island

Wednesday, October 7th, 2009

Don’t forget Sherman Farms off Highway 20, north of the pedestrian overpass, 46 S. Ebey Road, Coupeville. Look for the pumpkin signs. I believe they do trolley rides through the fields on weekends, 11-4. They also have a cool catapault where they let you launch Hubbard Squash and watch it splat. Speaking of which, you can always pick up delicious pre-cut squash at Prairie Center/Red Apple in Coupeville. Not sure of other groceries. It’s inexpensive, delicious and full of vitamins. I use their microwave directions, add a bit of butter and brown sugar, and YUM!

Also, stop by the Farmer’s Market on Saturday, 10-2, for Harvest Fest, the last market of the season and check out pumpkins, fall flowers, tomatoes and other bounty from the garden. Georgie from Willowood Farms will have her terrific farm-to-market cart full of local produce. Case Farms and Dugualla Bay in Oak Harbor also offer a pumpkin patch.

After the Market, head south to Greenbank Farm for the Oktoberfest on Saturday!

Speaking of buying local…did you know there are several options for locally grown grass-fed or free-range animals. Vegetarians stop reading! But for the rest of us who like hormone free, tastier and healthier food, here are a few options:

Sherman Farms is now selling grass-fed beef. Call them at 360-678-6344.

Jenne Farm will raise pigs or beef for you. I think poultry too, but I’m not 100% sure. 360-678-4433 or click on the link to get to their email link–sorry, couldn’t post it–and they’ll send you more information.

And 3 Sisters Beef sells beef, pork and free range eggs at the Farmer’s Markets, Prairie Center/Red Apple in Coupeville, Bell’s Farm off West Beach Road (eggs only, though they are grazing cattle there now), Saar’s Market in Oak Harbor, Payless Foods in Freeland and other places and by calling 360-675-2136.

And lastly, speaking of eating locally, did you know one of our Krueger Commons folks has caught TWENTY-THREE SALMON so far this year! From the beach! My poor other friend has only caught Sole from his boat. In fact, another fishing friend gave his wife a fresh salmon “so her husband would know what they look like.” They laughed, ate like kings and gave back some delicous homegrown corn from their garden–their salmon. Which actually, it kind of is as she used the Native American tradition of putting a dead salmon in the planting hole with each seed. She also used some kind of radioactive chicken poop because her garden this year was amazing. Hands down, she has a green thumb.

Enjoy the fall! We had another offer yesterday, so only four units left. Two corners and two interiors, all exceptional.

Volleyball Starts Monday

Sunday, October 4th, 2009

Don’t forget, it’s time for adult rec league volleyball. Mondays, 6:30-8:30pm at the Coupeville Middle School Gym. $30 through December 21st.

For more information contact Heather Kortuem hrkortuem@hotmail.com

Everyone is invited from the island or off-island. Get off the couch, turn off the TV and jump around…or in my case, get an inch or so off the ground.

3 Corner Units Left

Sunday, October 4th, 2009

Only three corner units left at Krueger Commons.

While I was meeting the local Sears rep for our latest second home buyer appliance delivery, another couple drove up to take a look. Once they toured #206, (the blue one on Wilkes with the patio surround of California lilac bushes and all bedrooms viewing the woods) and the waterview unit, #214, the husband said, “Honey, get the checkbook.” The view from all the bedrooms of the waterview is breathtakingly beautiful, the madrone trees, the light shining in from the protected forest, the water sparkling downhill in Penn Cove.

Time is running out. The first-time home buyer credit expires on November 30th–as in your loan or sale has to be closed by then. Banks are taking about one month for processing, so if you’re going to snatch up the free $8000, better hurry. Prices are their best now.

I’ve got another appointment on Thursday scheduled with a military officer. 3 Corner Units left, only 2 Interior.

Weekend events–Tour de Whidbey, Open Studio Art Tour, Kite Festival and more

Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009

Wow, it’s a busy weekend on Whidbey!

Friday is early release day. Come to the Elementary School and learn about astronomy! This free program (open to those outside the district) will start at 1pm at the Multi-purpose Room and is given by the Island County Astronomical Society!

Friday night is an art opening at the Raven Rocks Gallery at Greenbank Farm, 5-7pm, for photographer Tom Trimbath. He’ll display works from “12 Months at Deception Pass.”

On Saturday, look for bike riders for the Tour de Whidbey. Road bikes will roam our beautiful island, participating in the fundraiser which benefits Whidbey General Hospital. The family ride starts at Coupeville Elementary and is a gentle, 10-miles. Other mileage options are available starting from Greenbank Farm, including one of the most challenging century rides in the state.

The Morris Men from Seattle & Vancouver will be downtown at 11am on Front Street performing their dances.

Also, it’s the Kite Festival at Fort Casey on Saturday and Sunday. Free! Free parking. Free family fun.

The Open Art Studio Tour will also be taking place Saturday and Sunday. Tour artists in their studios. I’m telling you–this is very cool. We have some very talented people on Whidbey!

You’ll also see folks on motorcycles driving on their way to the Oysterrun in Anacortes.

Keep a heads up as it sounds like lots of folks driving around this weekend. If you’re in Coupeville, walk to the Saturday Farmer’s Market from Krueger Commons and tour art studios within walking distance. They’ll have free apples from the Whidbey Apple Exchange Event. Folks can enter apple items at the October 3rd Farmer’s Market.

Coupeville Community Classes

Thursday, September 17th, 2009

Coupeville Community Education- Fall Programs (Open to Everyone)

Volleyball Open Gym- Adults
Come out and enjoy a workout and a fun game of volleyball with a great group of people! For more information contact Heather Kortuem hrkortuem@homail.com
Oct 5-Dec 21, Mondays, 6:30-8:30
MS Gym
Cost: $30

Step Aerobics
Step Aerobics involving the use of a bench with varied moved on and off the bench or comparable moved on the floor. We will use weights, bands, and balls for muscle toning and exercise to improve flexibility and balance. For more information call Wendy Belew 678-3142 distinguishedhomes1@verizon.net
Sept 14- Dec 21, Mon & Thur, 5-6pm (12 Weeks)
Elementary MPR
Cost: $70


Seibukan Karate

A traditional martial are originating in Okinawa.
Adults, teens and children (7+) will experience physical conditioning and self defense techniques through basic karate exercise. Students will learn alternatives to violence, balance, and stability, develop self discipline and self confidence. Beginners’ class 6-7pm returning students will stay till 7:30pm. For more information call Chad Cloudy 678-6099seibukansue@aol.com
Ages: 7- Adult
Oct 1-Nov 24, Beginner- 6-7:00pm, Returning students 6-7:30pm, Tues & Thurs,
Elementary MPR
Cost: $100 adults, $60 Students

Beaded Jewelry Making- After School Program
Express your personal style by creating your own beaded jewelry. This eight week course includes learning the basics of making earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. Then we will branch out and explore wire wrapping techniques plus polymer clay creations. Instructor: Marianne Borozny, mborozny@yahoo.com
Ages: 8-13
Oct 22-Dec 17- Thurs, 3:45pm-5:15pm
Elementary Art Room #16
Cost: $90  + $25 material fee at first class, tools included.

Intro to Voiceovers- Getting Started in Voice Acting
Have you ever wanted to be the voice everyone hears on commercials and documentaries?
This fun and interactive class covers details of the industry, the importance of marketing, and of a demo tape. You will be coached and recorded for a personal evaluation.  Be warned — many who have taken this class have gone on to become real, bona-?de professional Voice Actors! This class is taught by a professional voice actor from the voice acting training company, Voices For All. Instructor Leah Frederick, Voice Acting Coach & Producer, is a vivacious, accomplished, professional voice actor dedicated to motivating her students by sharing her knowledge, experience and charisma. www.voicesforall.com <http://www.voicesforall.com>
Ages: Adult
Dec 1- 7-9pm
HS Annex Conference Room
Cost: $39


Guitar Boot Camp
If you have been playing guitar and are ready to get basic training on how to make yourself a better guitar player, this workshop is for you!
During this hardcore session, you will learn guitar fretboard logic, scales, practice exercises, fundamental chords and progressions, essential strumming and finger picking patterns.
You will learn everything you should know to have a rock solid foundation in playing guitar! Then learn how to put it all to work with some group soloing and jamming at the end.
Guitar Boot Camp is geared toward folks who have some playing experience and would like to take their playing to the next level. This course gives you the tools to play hundreds of songs in different styles. Songs will be derived from both traditional and contemporary sources. For more information call Quinn Fitzpatrick 360-579-3052quinnfitzpatrick@whidbey.com
#1 Oct 17, 1:30-4pm- Saturday
#2 Nov 14, 1:30-4pm- Saturday
Ages: Adult
HS Annex Conference Room
Cost: $45 per session


Beginning Guitar
Have fun while learning how to play acoustic guitar!
Gain a solid foundation and the tools to play thousands of songs using traditional and contemporary sources, in folk, country, gospel, blues and rock styles. Learn fundamental chords, progressions, strums and finger picking. By the end of this course, you will have the resources to play many songs in different styles. For more information call Quinn Fitzpatrick 360-579-3052 quinnfitzpatrick@whidbey.com
Ages: Adult
Oct 1- Dec 17, 7-8pm, Thurs
HS Annex Conference Room
Cost: $198

Beginning Drawing
Learn drawing in a supportive atmosphere! In this class you will experience your natural ability to draw through exercises that emphasize seeing. You will learn the fundamentals of art and basic drawing techniques including line and contour, value, texture, form/shapes, space, proportion, composition and perspective. Projects will focus on creating both realistic and abstract drawings. Working from photos, objects, still life and the imagination, you will develop your ability to see and translate that visual experience into drawing. Drawing improves creative thinking and problem solving skills. For more information call Quinn Fitzpatrick 360-579-3052 quinnfitzpatrick@whidbey.com
Ages: Adult
Oct 1-Dec 17, 8-9pm, Thurs
HS Annex Conference Room
Cost: $198  (Material fee charged at start of class)

Registration- PLEASE pre-register for the following programs through Coupeville School District. For a registration form and information on upcoming programs please check our website at www.coupeville.k12.wa.us <http://www.coupeville.k12.wa.us> . Please hand deliver or mail in registration form prior to start date.
CSD, 2 S Main St, Coupeville, WA 98239, 360-678-6222, kandrews@coupeville.k12.wa.us

Are you interesting in doing a winter or spring class or program for CCE?
Deadline for winter proposals – Nov 9th   (For programs Jan- Mar)
Contact Kim Andrews at 678-6222 kandrews@coupeville.k12.wa.us

Office Hours:
Tuesday 8am-10:30am
Fridays 8am-10:30am

Whidbey Open Studio Preview

Thursday, September 17th, 2009

This weekend visit the Crockett Barn near the Keystone/Port Townsend ferry and preview one piece from each of the 93 artists on next weekend’s Whidbey Open Studio Tour.

The Crockett Barn is a beautiful venue, overlooking the waters near Fort Casey.

If you haven’t enjoyed one of the studio tours before, please make a point to go. It’s amazing how many artists are around Whidbey. This tour concentrates on visual artists working in fiber, pottery, painting, woodworking, jewelry making, sculpture, photography, glassblowing and more.

The preview is Saturday and Sunday, the 19th-20th. The Tour is scheduled for next weekend. There is also a preview being held at Bayview Corner.

Wild blackberries, sunshine and ice cream

Thursday, September 17th, 2009

What a beautiful day on Whidbey. I went for a walk around town on the many trails and enjoyed picking wild blackberries along the way. Tomorrow, I’ll bring a tupperware. You can only hold so many in your hand without them spilling all over.

The kids enjoyed them when I picked them up from school, along with fresh blueberry muffins. Bonnie’s Blueberries, north of Oak Harbor near Dugualla Bay, has wonderful old bushes. Grab a bucket and it will be full in no time. We love to freeze her berries each year. Check the Saturday Farmer’s Market too. They were there last week, or you can find berries from Swansons in LaConner. I got a flat of late raspberries the other day that were out of this world. Made raspberry bars, yum!

Enjoyed the ice cream social Open House at Coupeville Elementary. Parents chatted and kids raced all over the playground. The classrooms looked great and both my kids were very proud during the tours they gave me.

I’ll try to get weekend stuff up soon. Don’t forget, you can check the Coupeville Examiner and the Whidbey News-Times online. Most of their papers are available in that format. I do know it’s Woolly Mammoth Day at the Island County Historical Museum in Coupeville. Every year my kids love this event, with crafts, stories, and more.