Feathered Nest

Chris and Katie's Wedding

2010-09-04T11:14:00.001-07:00

On August 21st we gained a daughter-in-law! The day started off a little cloudy and the forecast was a little sketchy. But, the clouds burned off and out came the sunshine. With the guests mingling the music started and the procession began. Chris' fraternity brother Evan (appropriately nicknamed "Rev Ev") lead the beautiful ceremony. Katie's attendants were dressed in a rainbow of color and the groomsmen were quite handsome in their suits (along with their purple shirts thanks to Mike's suggestion and a nod to the Huskies!).

Speaking of the Huskies.....thanks to my sister Kelly the University of Washington marching band showed up and played! Everyone enjoyed it (even the handful of Coug's in the crowd :) and especially Chris and his TKE brothers.

The night continued under the glow of the candlelit yard and the sound of music from the band. Chris and Katie spent the night in the "Honeymoon Treehouse" which was transformed into a amazing site!

Merry Christmas and Kitchen Remodel Progress

2009-12-22T12:25:00.000-08:00

Old fireplace replaced with gas - new travertine

New entry - step removed and double doors replaced

Sliding door replaced in dining room - side lights were added yesterday

One of the 4 new windows in lving room

Well it's been awhile since I updated the remodel progress. We had a few weeks waiting for the new windows to arrive....but at last they have. A few of them were installed yesterday in the living and dining room and now today the two kitchen windows are almost in. I'm hoping that things will be winding down in the next couple of weeks as I have one of my best friends, who I haven't seen in over 12 years, coming to stay with us for a week on December 30th! Can't wait to see her! We don't have a Christmas tree up this year which feels really strange. We still don't have our furniture in yet because they will sand and re-finish the hardwood floors one last time when everything is done. I won't know what to do when Matt (our contractor) is through......he's like part of the family now!

Merry Christmas!

Kitchen Progress - Getting Closer

2009-11-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

No more hand washing dishes in the bar sink!

Oven that Matt set in Spanish for me

Well tonight marks a huge milestone in the kitchen remodel. I am cooking the first dinner even though the kitchen is not completed yet. We have all the appliances installed except the microwave. Matt, our contractor, succeeded in driving me crazy by setting the wall oven in Spanish! It took my daughter Courtney (3 years French in high school) and myself awhile to interpret and reset the oven to English. The oven didn't have the operating manual shipped in the crate so that was a fun time trying to figure that all out! I've since downloaded the operating manual.....Anyway.....I'm anxious to get back to cooking!

Roving Renton Returns!!!!

2009-11-03T17:41:00.001-08:00

After a short hiatus, Roving Renton returns! I am pleased to hear that once again the Melrose, Armondo's, Red House and Blossom have joined forces to continue their weekly Tuesday rove. If you haven't had a chance to join the fun.....you need to get this down on your social calendar! Each week one of the four above restaurants rotate as to where you start the evening. For $25 per person you receive an appetizer and glass of wine at each stop (the last one of the evening typically is a dessert). The Rove starts at 5:00 (get there early as they only allow 60 participants to keep things moving) and ends at 9:00pm. See you there! Armondo's 310 Wells Ave S 425-228-0759 http://www.armondos.com/ Red House 410 Burnett Ave S 425-226-2666 http://www.redhousebeerandwine.com/ Melrose 819 Houser Way S 425-254-0759 http://www.melrosegrill.com/ Blossom Asian Bistro 305 Burnett Ave S 425-430-1610

Another Successful Olde Fashioned Halloween

2009-10-31T16:47:00.000-07:00

Families enjoyed a day full of good olde fashioned fun!

Wonderful volunteers who made it all happen!

Getting the new popcorn machine ready for business! Today, with help of several local Renton business owners and other volunteers, the 4th Annual Olde Fashioned Halloween Party located in Main Street Square in downtown Renton was a huge success. Several hundred spooky, scrary, Super Heroes and fictional characters alike played games, ate popcorn and sipped on apple cider, all free thanks to donated goods. The Trick or Treaters were also treated to candy at several of the downtown businesses. Thanks to all who volunteered.....another great Halloween had by all!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-26T23:50:00.000-07:00

Love all those pumpkins! Some friends and I are getting together

this week to carve a few!

Kitchen Update

2009-10-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

New cabinet in dining room that use to be a bookshelf

This will be a built in hutch and desk. Cabinet company forgot to build the right lower cabinet....so we are waiting for that.

Microwave will be in upper cabinet and wall oven in lower cabinet. Refrigerator will be to the right of cutouts.

The sink (which is sitting on top of base cabinet) will be installed in this corner cabinet.

Well we have come to a standstill in the remodel. One reason being a mess up in the crown molding as I ordered and the other reason, and most serious, is that our contractor has come down with the swine flu! He hasn't been on the job since last Wednesday. He was planning on completing a small window job last Thursday and Friday at another site. I learned from my kitchen designer friend that he became sick early Thursday. He apparently contracted the flu at last weeks Seahawks game! Along with a ton of other fans. So beware! Here are a few pictures of the cabinets. All the lower cabinets are installed minus the lower right hutch baser.....the granite will be installed on Thursday. Looking forward to it! On to paint choice, stair rail posts and wrought iron balusters.

Kitchen Progress

2009-10-19T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today is not a fun day with the kitchen remodel. The first setback is Saturday evening, after all the monsoon rains, a previous roof leak reappeared in the dining room. Which means the sheetrock is wet and will have to be patched after the roofing company comes back to repair the roof once again. Then the cabinets arrived today, and not without their set of problems. The corner sink cabinet arrived 3" shorter than the plans, thus making the sink selection I was planning on impossible. So, I am back to looking at sinks that will fit the cabinet. The contractor we finally decided (and my personal hero), will shim the cabinet to make it all work. I can see that this project will result in more wine than expected.........

Kitchen Progress

2009-10-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Well the hardwood floors are installed and they start staining them today. I love them and can't wait to see them finished. Today I'm off to pick out tile for the kitchen backsplash and bathroom floor. I also need to pick a kitchen sink and faucet and paint colors. The painter starts tomorrow. This is all happening so fast!!! Yikes!!! Matt, the contractor, is so proud of me.....I made two major decisions yesterday in a matter of minutes. Floor stain color and interior doors.......I think it was because of inhaling the fumes from the floor stain samples!

Unfinished hardwood floor in living room

Going with the top stain (Golden).......makes the wood grain really stand out.

Kitchen Progress

2009-10-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

Friday all the sheetrock was textured and sprayed. It looks really nice but a huge mess! Dust everywhere! They took off the doors into where the new pantry will be and into the garage and believe me it's cold! I hung a blanket up to help stop the cold air from coming in. I spent yesterday at Home Depot looking at stair railings, garage doors, tile, sinks and faucets. I also went to several new home Open Houses near my house to look at sinks, stair railings and paint colorst to get ideas. I then continued to McLendon's to pick out paint and purchase a few sample colors. It was a long day! Today the hardwood starts. The guys have only been here about an hour and already all the carpet and stair rails are gone. They will start laying the hardwood after they finish prepping which might take awhile. I finally will get rid of all the "squeeks" in the floor. Along with all this Friday morning as I was headed down the hill to meet with the granite guy.....I was rear ended. I will be going to get estimates on my bumber later today.

Kitchen Progress

2009-10-07T14:24:00.000-07:00

Today brings the first delay. The plumber......still waiting for him. The kitchen sink plumbing needs to be moved along with plumbing for the refrigerator and gas lines. The wallboard went up yesterday and they mudded and taped. They will do another mud application either later today or tomorrow and Friday they will texture the walls and ceiling. I had a wall in my bedroom that had wallpaper on it and we had actually scraped the texture off to help the wallpaper stick better. I've decided to redo my bedroom and so spent Monday removing the wallpaper. They taped it yesterday and will retexture on Friday as well. Another couple of side notes is my 18 year old cat, Tabby, has found that she loves crawling in the open cold air vent that was removed. We have to remember to keep it covered otherwise she constantly keeps crawling in. And this morning we noticed a hole in the ceiling in the living room......there was a bees nest in the attic and they've chewed through the wallboard! The pantry is in and I know I'm going to love it! Off to look at sinks and wrought iron stair rails for the stairway today.

The hole from the bees nest

View standing in kitchen looking back into dining and living room. Amazing how different it looks with the wall down. The half wall will become the raised eating bar.

Kitchen Progress

2009-10-04T10:40:00.000-07:00

Things are moving along with the kitchen remodel. The electrician spent the last couple of days here adding all the new outlets and can lights. We also added an attic fan. Both kitchen windows have been removed and boarded up along with moving of the door from the kitchen to the garage. The new location of the door will be to the walk in pantry. I picked my granite Thursday. The plumber is scheduled for Monday and the new wallboard goes in on Tuesday. Kitchen eating space window gone.

Kitchen eating space window before.

Kitchen sink window boarded and garage door moved to new location. Temporary door.

Before kitchen window and sink

Kitchen Progress

2009-10-01T19:02:00.000-07:00

Well we just got back from our trip to Napa and the kitchen is totally gutted. I took some before pics before we left and a couple as to what it looks like now. Lots of decisions to make! I think we have finally narrowed down the granite to two.....which is a long process! My popcorn ceilings in the kitchen, living and dining room are gone too. It's amazing with the dining room wall out how much light there is into the kitchen now. Fun watching the progress. This is taken from the dining room looking back towards kitchen......same spot as the picture below with the wall gone. It will be replaced with a half wall and raised eating bar.

The picture above is from the dining room looking back into the kitchen........both walls are gone.

The one on the left of the doorway and the one on the right of doorway. And the attractive 1978 linoleum is no more!

This is from the kitchen looking at the wall that separated the kitchen/dining room. Blank space is where the refrigerator was.

Yesterday and today included adding of the can lights and the framing of the walk-in pantry.

And So the Remodel is About to Begin.......

2009-09-15T10:20:00.000-07:00

I will keep a log of how things progress with our kitchen/living room/dining room remodel. The demolition of our kitchen is scheduled to begin September 23. The same day we leave for vacation! I have been busy packing all the "stuff" in my china hutches (garage sale soon) and will be making my way into the kitchen to pack. We have to have all three rooms completely emptied so that the workers can do their thing! We have a 16' trailer coming this week to store everything during the remodel. It should be interesting living close to 2 months without a kitchen! I see alot of sandwiches, salads and crockpot recipes in the future. So if you have some tried and trued crockpot recipes....send them my way. I'll have lots of time to try them out! - Sue

The Sound of Music - Leavenworth

2009-08-21T10:27:00.000-07:00

Mike and I and friends are headed over to Leavenworth on Wednesday to spend the night. We are going to see The Sound of Music performed in the outdoor summer theater. It should be alot of fun. From what we are told you need to plan at least 20 minutes to walk from the parking lot to where the theater is located! We are bringing our bikes to ride around and discover Leavenworth. http://www.leavenworthsummertheater.org/ I am excited to see the Sound of Music.....back when I graduated from 8th grade at St. Anthony's in Renton, the nuns had all of us girls sing "How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria" for the graduation ceremony. And during my accordian playing days.....the music from the Sound of Music was quite the popular "current" hits!

4th Annual Art and Antique Walk in Downtown Renton

2009-08-18T10:12:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar for this Saturday from 11:00-5:00pm for the 4th Annual Art and Antique Walk in downtown Renton on S 3rd St. This has become one of the best venue's in downtown Renton so don't miss it. Lots of great local artists on hand and some good shopping/browsing/dining at the local shops and restaurants. Hope to see you there!

Celebrating Julia!

2009-08-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

Last Friday evening I ventured to Juanita's Farmer's Market via Kirkland along Lake Washington. On making my way back through Kirkland I discovered one of my favorite shops, Sur La Table. http://www.surlatable.com/category/culinary.do I wandered in and spent awhile browsing. I had noticed on their website that they offer cooking classes. In talking with the sales people they informed me that Kirkland was the only store that offered the cooking classes. They have some wonderful offerings but to my delight I signed up for "Celebrating Julia" which is tonight at 6:30. I love French food but have to admit haven't taken the time to learn much about it or actually try it at home. So I will report back!

Concert on the Green - Issaquah Community Center

2009-08-10T07:59:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow night (August 11) at 7:00pm Issaquah Parks and Recreation continues it's Concerts on the Green series featuring Soul Purpose. Several of my friends went two weeks ago to the Nearly Dan (Steely Dan tribute) concert and it was great! Pack a picnic and head on down......great way to spend the evening.

For more information visit http://www.ci.issaquah.wa.us/Files/2009%20Website%20Concerts%20on%20the%20Green%20Flyer.pdf

Too Many Choices.........

2009-08-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today I continue the search for granite. After 30 years of living in our home it's time to do updating. First project.....the kitchen. My first focus has been the cabinets and think I have them narrowed down. However.....now it's a matter of choosing the stain. Wednesday I spent a few hours looking at granite at Roman Tile & Marble on West Valley Hwy. and today I'm heading to Georgetown to several granite yards. I had no idea how many choices are out there (which is a good thing) and it's pretty overwhelming for someone like me! Although I'm beginning to see a natural elimination in the process. I'm anxious to get the project rolling....that's for sure. I've already purchased most of my new appliances back in February at the Albert Lee Warehouse sale. Wish me luck on my hunt today!

Seahawks Training Camp

2009-08-04T21:20:00.000-07:00

We had alot of fun at the Hawks training camp today! The facility is awesome and we couldn't have asked for better weather. We were impressed on how smoothly they shuttle you from The Landing to the VMAC (Virginia Mason Athletic Center). With Lake Washington in the background.....what's not to like! They were giving away hotdogs too. All in all.....fun time. Jeff was able to get several autographs at the end of practice. He came away with a big smile on his face!

Heading to Seahawks Training Camp Today

2009-08-04T11:18:00.000-07:00

Mike, Jeff, Courtney and I are going to the Seahawks open training camp today. Transportation is provided to VMAC training facility as they don't allow the public to park on site. We will catch our bus ($5) at the Landing parking lot. Should be alot of fun!

SeaFair - 2009

2009-08-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

Today is the 6oth running of SeaFair in Seattle on Lake Washington. The roar of the thunderboats send thrills down the spines of those lucky enough to line the shores. And the much anticipated show of the Blue Angels is the event of the summer! I have friends that own Miss U-48 and Miss U-37......It will be fun to see if they end up in the final heat against each other! Hope you all enjoy a safe SeaFair.....put on your sun screen!

Snohomish 25th Annual Garden Tour

2009-07-30T10:22:00.001-07:00

Sunday I drove up to Snohomish to attend the 25th Annual Garden Tour. It's always a highlight of my summer and this year was no exception. The gardens were all located in town this year which made it easier to get to all of them. As I went from garden to garden I liked each one equally as the previous one. The most impressive gardens were the community gardens that several homeowners of little cottages/houses share and have created a seemless flow of quaint sitting areas, along with flowering arbors and gardens. Pictured above is a sleeping porch in the community garden area. It was so sweet!

This garden boasted multi-variety grapes along with apple and pear trees. It's the Steven's House builit in 1887.

A view through the "moon gate" at the Stringer House built in 1904.

This garden was absolutely amazing! They must spend hours upon hours maintaining it! Pictured here is their greenhouse. This garden is located at the Carleton House - 1898.

And who doesn't find the charm in a tree house? This was the cutest including a vintage chandelier inside! The sweetest elderly lady lives in this home - Vestal House 1889

Here begins the community gardens. Among the cottages is the Ferguson Cottage - 1859! (Oldest home in Snohomish County) This cottage is nestled on the bluff overlooking the Snohomish River. Hiel Barnes was charged with assemling the home. He arrived with enough supplies to start a store and thus contributed to

the founding of Snohomish. (Your Washington State history lesson for the day)

One of the bungalows and their cute entrance!

And this is where my tour ended. Looking through this vintage door into a moss garden.

I ended the day at my usual stop... the Oxford Saloon.....which I believe is one of the oldest still operated bars in Washington State. I sat and had a bite to eat and listened to the "Swingtime Express" who perform each and every Sunday night for your listening pleasure.

Renton River Days Parade

2009-07-30T09:58:00.001-07:00

My girlfriends Dinky, Toni, and Tish, sister Kelly and I had a blast at Renton River Days Parade. We met people along the route, here we're pictured with current King County Executive candidate Susan Hutchison. We sang Renton High School's Alma Mater with the Renton High cheerleeders and football team (we're all Renton High grads.) They stopped in front of our seats. Great day!

As always, the hit of the parade.......the Seattle Seafair Pirates! Boy are they loud! Everytime they set off the canon my sister Kelly flew out of her chair!

Pictured here is Bill Larson, retired Renton Firefighter, driving the vintage Cooper fire truck.

Getting Caught Up on My Recent Adventures......

2009-07-30T09:51:00.001-07:00

Renton River Days

2009-07-23T23:00:00.001-07:00

I was driving through South Renton this afternoon and noticed this flag in the yard of Lynn and Bob Moran. They have the spirit! Looking forward to the weekend especially the parade which begins at 10:00am and the annual Antique District Sidewalk sale that runs on Saturday from 9:00-5:00pm.

Return to Renton Classic Car Show

2009-07-16T23:31:00.001-07:00

Everyone has to love these old cars. And what a great treat to have them lined in the streets of downtown Renton this past Sunday. Brings back memories of cruzin the loop! Here are a few of the many great "rides".....I personally loved the vets!

Cory Wilds at Benders Tonight

2009-07-10T08:36:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for some great entertainment tonight head up to Benders located at 10706 SE Carr Rd. Renton, WA and listen to the Cory Wilds Band. Mike and I heard them play a month or so ago and they were great! Show time is 9:00PM.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a happy and safe 4th of July!

Dick's Drive In and UW Arboretum

2009-06-27T17:40:00.001-07:00

Today's to-do list brought me to Dick's Drive-In on Capital Hill. I can't remember when I last had a Dick's hamburger and fries but they were just as good as ever. I wasn't going to succumb to the urge....but I just couldn't resist. The traffic was very heavy, both on my way there on 405 and up on Broadway so I decided to go home "the back way." I decided to drive thru the UW Arboretum and was glad I did. The flowers were plentiful and it was a great drive through the canopy of trees. I stopped at the Graham Visitor's Office and looked around. They had Master Gardner's on hand to answer any questions one might have and had plants for sale outside the visitor center. I wondered around and snapped a few pictures. There were so many people out and about enjoying this beautiful day....either by walking or kayaking along the lake. http://depts.washington.edu/wpa/index.htm I continued on along Madison Ave. and stopped at one of my favorite places, the Red Apple Grocery Store. I picked up some plants at some good prices and am headed out to the garden to plant them now!

Kirkland Farmer's Market

2009-06-16T11:08:00.001-07:00

Last Wednesday afternoon my girlfriend Dinky and I went to Kirkland to experience their Farmer's Market. One of the nice things about the market is that they have relocated it this year to the Marina area. It is a beautiful location and on a warm day (which we had) it was so nice to sit and just enjoy the view of Lake Washington. For those of you who visit the Renton Farmer's Market, there are several vendors at Kirkland that also sell their goods here. In talking with some of the vendors they make the local market circuit which means they are busy 3 to 5 days a week. They all said how much they enjoy it but the packing up and setting up gets a little burdensome. Kirkland's market does allow some local crafts people and I bought a pair of earrings from one of them. We enjoyed tasting the samples and talking with the vendors. We stopped at the Crepe booth and each ordered a crepe. I had the veggie and Dinky ordered the Chicken/artichoke. Both were very good. Later in the afternoon we decided to sit and watch all the people who were now at the beach. I snapped this photo of the young boy who I told Dinky in years to come will be laughing at the fact that he was playing in the lake in his underwear but for that day he didn't have a care in the world! We hope to get to the Columbia City market tomorrow, weather depending, and if not in the near future. It's really fun to see the variety each market has to offer.

5 Alarm Fire in Downtown Renton

2009-06-12T00:37:00.001-07:00

A 5 alarm fire destroyed a building on Wells Ave. So. in downtown Renton last night that housed The Comic Den, A-1 Vacuum and Locksmith and several apartments. According to several reports the fire broke out sometime after 7:00pm. Renton Fire Department was joined by SeaTac, Kent and Skyway Fire Departments to help battle the blaze. Several local residents who resided in the apartments located in the destroyed building have been left homeless. The Red Cross was on the scene to help any of them who needed places to stay. All the other tenants who live in adjacent apartments are not allowed to go back to their buildings for 48 hours. According to officials they are excavating the damaged building tomorrow.

Renton Farmers Market

2009-06-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

I went to Renton Farmers Market on Tuesday and I have to say that I think it's the best market to date. There were several vendors from years past but also some great new vendors as well. One of my favorite new additions is Bella Napoli. They were offering samples of their famous pasta with marinera sauce but for a real treat you need to dine at their restaurant located at 509 S. 3rd St. in downtown Renton http://www.ciros-bellanapoli.com/ I came home with a loaf of fresh brioche and a pint of the sweetest strawberries. I made French Toast with a strawberry sauce for breakfast yesterday morning....yum! There were many locals at the market and I had fun visiting with them. With the gorgeous weather everyone was enjoying the sunshine and the young were splashing in the fountains. The flowers vendors had great bouquets for sale and the peonies were amazing. Great day....can't wait till next week!

All Things Wine

2009-06-05T11:06:00.001-07:00

I attended the Food and Wine Pairing Class last evening at All Things Wine located at 4605 NE 4th St #4 in the Renton Highlands. This class was actually #4 in a series and now I wish I had been able to attend the previous three. Owners Leesa and Wayne Kofmehl are both very knowledgeable and have an obvious love of wine! And Wayne admitted his fondness of beer. He laughed when I told him my kind of beer is "Bud Light." All Things Wine offers free wine and beer tastings and has one lined up for tonight. So if you're looking for something fun to do this evening......stop by. Here's the upcoming tasting schedule: Tonight's Winery is Maryhill.

Wednesdays: 5:00-7:30 pm

Fridays: Beer and Wine Night 5:00-7:30 pm

Saturdays: Flagship Wine Tasting All Day 11:00-7:00 pm

All Things Wine also offers a Wine Club....for more information visit their website at: http://www.allthingswineonline.com/article.espx?SHOW=12263

Retirement......

2009-06-04T11:24:00.000-07:00

Well I offically "retired" as of Tuesday night. I am so looking forward to it! I have so many things I would like to do but always had work commitments. I will keep you informed of my adventures!

These first few days include getting out in my much neglected yard and just plain relaxing. I do have a wine and food pairing class tonight that I signed up through Renton Technical College. It's from 7-9:00pm. The class is scheduled at All Things Wine in the Highlands. If you haven't had a chance to visit this great wine shop, you should. They have wine and beer tastings several times a week and usually always free! http://www.allthingswineonline.com/article.espx?SHOW=12263

Friday evening is Mike's official retirement party at the Pavilion. He retired in September after spending 38 1/2 years with the Renton Fire Department (the department has recently been renamed Renton Fire and Emergency Services) http://rentonwa.gov/government/default.aspx?id=644. Mike retired as Battalion Chief. It will be fun to see all the active and retired firefigthers who have been like family to Mike and I over the years. It's pretty special the brotherhood the firefighters have towards each other and their families. - Sue

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-24T23:26:00.001-07:00

I went to the Issaquah Farmer's Market on Saturday morning to buy flowers for my mom's, grandmother and grandfathers grave. I then went to Greenwood Cemetary located in the Renton Highlands to place the flowers. I went back to the cemetary this evening to find this amazing picture of all the flags placed upon the graves. It's really a sight.

I ran into an old family friend who also was visiting the cemetary and she walked me over to another family friends memorial who had just recently passed away. Katie had purchased the most beautiful marble bench in honor of her two sons who passed before her and her brother John. Unfortunately, Katie did not live to see the finished bench. Katie's picture is also engraved in the bench. My friend told me I had just missed the bagpipe player who has walked the cemetary both yesterday and today at sunset playing Amazing Grace and Taps among other songs. I will go tomorrow to see if he will be back to play.

I also drove by the Veteran's Memorial Park located on the corner of Main Ave. and Houser Way. It's a memorial wall of local servicemen who have served our country.

I'm sure there will be many barbeques and family gatherings tomorrow to celebrate this holiday.

I will be going to my "soon to be" future in-laws for a get together. Can't wait! Happy Memorial Day!

Comedy Night at DC's Bar and Grill

2009-05-21T12:49:00.000-07:00

Looking for something fun to do tonight? Head to DC's Bar and Grill in downtown Renton (907 S. 3rd. St) for their Comedy Night. It starts at 8:00 and is only $5 cover at the door. Come join in the laughs!

For more information on events at DC's....check out their website at

www.dcsbarandgrill.com

Wine Tasting at Red House.....Almost!

2009-05-21T12:28:00.000-07:00

Last evening my friends Ed, Kathy and I (hubby out of town on fishing trip) were going to the Red House (located at 410 Burnett Ave. So. - directly across from the old Spirit of Washington Dinner Train Depot) for their weekly Wednesday night wine tasting. This week's guest winery was Kestrel's out of Prosser. From prior visits to the greater Yakima Valley wineries, this happens to be one of my favorites. While we all arrived promptly at 6:00pm we soon found that alot of other folks had the same idea! The place was packed! We decided to head downstairs to the deck and have dinner off their amazing menu. I can honestly say I have never eaten anything at the Red House that wasn't up to par. They truly have one of the best menu offerings in town. We were seated at one of the tables that still offered peaks of sunshine, but once the sun went down, we were reminded that summer in Seattle isn't quite here yet! I was hoping to get some pictures of the wine tasting but instead snapped a couple from my seat. This shot on the left is looking to the east and up onto Renton Hill. If you haven't attended a wine tasting at the Red House.....you most certainly should. For $20 (plus tax) you get several tastes of wine and a full buffet dinner. It has to be one the best values in town! Check out their website at http://www.redhousebeerandwine.com/

Cooking Class at Armondo's

2009-05-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

Today I spent a few hours attending "A Night in Tuscany" cooking class in Renton's very own Armondo's restaurant located at the corner of Houser and Wells. The class was in conjunction with Renton Technical College but we learned because of budgetary cuts these type of classes have been cut. Too bad.....all of us attendees had a fun time and ate some delicious food and sipped good wine. We started off with with Armondo himself instructing us in the kitchen of the restaurant. That was fun for me because I am fascinated on how restuarants operate and all the behind the scene sequence that makes up a finished dish. Armondo had prepped several parts of the dishes he prepared due to time limitation but he walked us through each and every recipe he made. We started off with Sage Leaf Rolls. He next prepared Ravioli Gnudi which is a "naked" ravioli without pasta. Seems unlikely but it was delicious! The next dish was a bean, tuna, red onion and celery leaf salad. Next on the menu was a Caprese salad consisting of just fresh mozzarella cheese, oven baked roma tomatoes and drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The main course item was Stracooto al Chianti Classico (which is beef with red wine, pine nuts, raisins, currants and several other wonderful ingredients). We also were treated to several tastes of a variety of Chianti wines while Armondo explained the labeling on Italian wines. We ended the day with the wonderful Ripassa Valpolicella wine that was one of the best wines I've ever tasted! Armondo told us that you could purchase the wine at the QFC in the Highland's and I might just have to do that! Salute! Visit Armondo's at http://www.armondos.com/

New Marshal in Town.......

2009-05-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

Today my husband Mike starts his marshalling job at Maplewood Golf Course http://rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=1370 in Renton. He's been retired from the Renton Fire Department since September and he's looking forward to this new adventure. If you haven't played the course you need to check it out. Maplewood has won "Best Public Golf Course" in the Southend for several years and once you play it you'll know why. They have a great staff, offer a full service pro shop and the course also offers a driving range. Also located on site is the River Rock Grill and Alehouse which offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and brunch on weekends. Make your reservations for Father's Day Brunch, June 21st from 10:00am to 2:00pm. Check out their webpage http://www.riverrockgrill.com/ and see the wonderful brunch buffet menu.

Sunday at Pike Place Market

2009-05-11T23:40:00.001-07:00

For Mother's Day my daughter and youngest son headed off to Pike Place Market for the day. With the sun shining it was a popular choice for many locals and tourists alike. We parked on Western Ave. and headed up Post Alley. As we were walking up the alley we noticed spots of color on one of the brick buildings (Market Theater) only to find upon closer inspection that it was gum! I know it sounds rather strange but it was truly a work of art! From intricate designs to actual names spelled out.....I marveled at the creativity!

We continued on to the market and had lunch at one of my all time favorite Seattle spots, Lowell's http://eatatlowells.com/. It's a great spot to sit and people watch (if you sit on the east side of the restaurant) or you can enjoy the beautiful view of the sound from the west. It's always a fun experience and the food is good too. From there we met up with my oldest son and his fiance' and continued through the market. We wandered through Sur la Table and on to Watson Kennedy, which just happens to be another one of my favorite stores. It's located in the courtyard of the Inn at the Market. We came home with a fresh dungeness crab and an afternoon of fun times in Seattle!

How I Spent My Saturday Morning

2009-05-09T14:31:00.001-07:00

I woke up to a beautiful sunshining day and needed a Farmer's Market fix so I headed to Issaquah at Pickering Barn. While browsing through the various stalls I noticed a young boy playing his violin. I overheard his dad say he was trying to raise money to attend a music camp this summer. He was very good for his age and there were many people stopping to listen to him play and add money to his open case. I wish him luck! The market was buzzing with people since it was such a sunny day and the flower vendors were the most popular tents. I'm sure many of the purchased bouquets will find their way to a mother's table tomorrow. It was fun to listen to the music and see so many carefree people out enjoying the day. From there I headed over to Trader Joe's. I love that store. I really wish Renton had a Trader Joe's. They have such a great selection of pre-made salads and sandwiches. Great for an impromptu picnic! Happy Mother's Day to all!

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

2009-05-05T16:36:00.000-07:00

Melanie and I had lunch today at La Hacienda in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. They have great food and love the chips and salsa and pico de gallo. Now it's off with Dinky for a margarita! Here's a little Cinco de Mayo history.......... While not the official Mexican Independence Day, which falls on September 16, Cinco de Mayo might just be the quintessential celebration of freedom for Mexicans the world over.

After the 1846 war with the United States, Mexico went through a difficult economic period, which was further weighed down by a civil war that lasted from 1858 to 1861. To supplement a deflated economy, Mexico borrowed vast sums of money from England, Spain and France. In 1862, all three European powers came to collect. Mexico offered vouchers, England and Spain accepted and went home; France invaded. Under Napoleon III, French troops moved inland from shore, trying to make their way to Mexico City.

But before they could get to the capital, they were stopped at the state of

Puebla. This is where, on May 5 of 1862, the comparatively small, outnumbered and out-armed Mexican army defeated the then super power that was France.

Mexico City subsequently fell to French rule less than a year later, but this hasn't spoiled the fun or the significance of that victory. The Mexican men who fought at Puebla defied the odds, and Cinco de Mayo celebrates their bravery and determination. Usually the festivities include Mexican food; think quesadilla and Mole Poblano, Mexican music like mariachi, parades, piñatas and firework. And, of course, plenty of margaritas and cerveza.

Roving Renton to Continue!

2009-05-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

I just received an email that Roving Renton will continue through May. If you haven't tried it yet you need to....it's a great value for the appetizer's and wine. Here's the May schedule!

Join Us Every Tuesday for ROVING RENTON! An Evening of Wine & Food Tasting 5:00 to 9:00 pm Visit Armondo's, Melrose Grill, The Red House and Blossom Asian Bistro for Wine and Food Sampling.

Purchase a $25* ticket at the starting restaurant and enjoy a wine and appetizer tasting at all four restaurants. Due to seating constraints, ticket purchases will be limited to the first 60 guests. Please arrive early!

Tuesday, May 5th Start at Red House End at Melrose Grill

Tuesday, May 12th

Start at Armondo's End at Blossom

Tuesday, May 19th Start at Blossom End at Armondo's

Tuesday, May 26th Start at Melrose Grill End at Red House *For the convenience of our guests, gratuity is included in the ticket price

Renton Softball at Liberty Park

2009-05-01T16:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday officially kicked off the start of Renton Parks Department Men's Softball league. It couldn't have been a better day either. The sun was shining and it was actually pretty warm....something we aren't use to around here! Both my sons play on Classic's Bar and Grill's team so it was fun to watch the two of them. The game was at Liberty Park and they played a double header. They won both games....infact 10 runned the other team both games. The group of guys have been playing together for years now and usually end up in the playoffs at the end of the season. I was sitting in the bleachers and noticed one of the players had his two young sons with him. They must have been over at the playground but ended up coming into the dugout. I noticed Terry (the dad) slip off his younger son's shoe and head out of the dugout. He walked over to a patch of green grass and I immediately started laughing because I knew from experience what he was doing! His son had stepped in dog poop and he was trying to wipe it off his shoe! First it was a swipe on the grass, then as in the picture he resorted to stick and then tissue. Tate is pictured in the bottom picture after his shoe was returned by dad! Gotta love kids!!

Issaquah Farmer's Market

2009-04-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year when Farmer's Markets around the area start up. This past Saturday I remembered that Issaquah's Farmer's Market started the first of April and runs through October. So I hopped in my car and headed out to Pickering Barn (across the street from Costco) where they hold their market. It was a pleasant afternoon but still a little nip in the air. I wandered and admired the many crafters and farmers. I definitely need to go back when I'm hungary because the food vendors had some amazing selections. From barbequed salmon salad to various fresh pastry tents.....it certainly is an ideal place to have lunch on a Satruday afternoon. I learned that one of my favorite Issaquah restaurants recently closed its doors after over 20 years at Gilman Village. Sweet Addition is no more. They had the best salads and desserts and it was always a pleasure to eat there. While I was at the market I stopped at a fresh pasta booth and saw Sweet Addition cookbooks for sale. When I talked to the vendors they were the original owners of Sweet Addition and told me the story. I did purchase some fresh Red Jalepeno Pasta from http://www.pappardellespasta.com/ and am looking forward to preparing it with the enclosed recipe http://www.pappardellespasta.com/recipes/recipe_red_jalapeno.php they provide with each purchase. It's a fun market and they also have vendors inside Pickering Barn. If you're looking for something to do on a Saturday.......head over to Issaquah and catch the market.....every Saturday from 9:00-2:00pm.

Renton History Museum Annual Benefit Dinner

2009-04-23T11:37:00.000-07:00

Save the Date! Renton History Museum's http://www.rentonhistory.org/index.html Annual Benefit Dinner and Silent Auction Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at the Renton Senior Activity Center http://rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=40. Social Hour begins at 5:30 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6:00 p.m. Silent auction and entertainment to follow. Tickets are $40 per person. For more information you may call 425-255-2330. I attended the auction last year and it was fun time. (I did learn that leaning over and hugging people with a glass of red wine can be trouble!) My friends bid on and won a day on a sailboat and my husband and I were fortunate enough to be invited to go with them on the sail. There were many great auction items and I won a Starbucks basket. Mark the date and plan to attend! I have a special place in my heart for Renton History Museum which is housed in the former Renton Fire Department main headquarter station located at Mill Ave. So. I met my husband Mike back in 1972 and he was a firefighter for the Renton Fire Department. I would come and visit him on shift during our "dating years" and have some great memories at this great old building. Mike had a great career at the Renton Fire Department and retired this past September as Battalion Chief after 38 years. This building is now home to the Renton History Museum which is a wonderful museum and has amazing exhibits throughout the year. If you have not visited the museum, I highly recommend it. One of the great displays they are exhibiting currently is the old Fey's Roxy Theater Neon Sign. That also brings back great memories of my childhood and teen years and the many afternoons and evenings spent at the Roxy! You can download membership forms online to Renton History Museum http://www.rentonhistory.org/pdfs/Membership%20form.PDF

A Great Day in La Conner

2009-04-20T18:01:00.000-07:00

My friend Dinky and I started out yesterday having a delicious breakfast at Cafe Lure. There are so many great items on the breakfast menu but I still haven't broken away from my usual eggs benedict! We then headed North to La Conner. When we arrived we noticed immediately that the tulips were not totally in bloom. Infact, many of the fields are still awaiting the amazing burst of color. I'm sure it's due to the extremely long cold winter we had here in the Northwest. Usually at this time of year the daffodils have bloomed....but not this time. They were still in their glory and many fields had yet to bloom. We then ventured into town and stopped at the La Conner Pub for a cold one and I had 2 of the best oyster shooters! The streets were packed with Harley Davidson riders out enjoying a great day in the sunshine. We also stopped in to the cutest dress shop called Cotton's. They had the best selection of purses and jewelry.

La Conner is definitely a great day get-a-way and they also have several hotels and B&B's should you decide to kick back and stay for a night or two!

Downtown Renton Spring Festival and Poker Run

2009-04-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

My son Jeff and I had a fun time today attending the Spring Festival at the Piazza on 3rd and Burnett. There were several vendors selling their goods from homemade honey to jewelry and live music for entertainment. Jeff and I signed up for the poker run and headed off to collect our best poker hand. We stopped at every business that was open to hand out cards. Jeff ended up with 4 of a kind which beat my measly straight! We stopped at DC's Bar and Grill along the route for a hotdog that they were selling outside. On our way to Renton History Museum we stopped at Veteran's Park where Jeff located his Grandpa Hal's name on the memorial wall for his service during both World War II and the Korean War.

It would be interesting to know just how far we walked to reach all the businesses because we were both a little tired by the end! It certainly helped that the weather cooperated too! Thanks to all the volunteers that helped make it a very enjoyable event!

Downtown Renton Poker Run and Spring Festival - April 18

2009-04-17T12:16:00.000-07:00

Looking for something fun to do with the whole family this weekend? Head on down to the annual Downtown Renton Poker Run and Spring Festival located at the Piazza located at S. 3rd St. and Burnett from noon to 5:00PM. Admission for the festival is free and all activites begin at noon. Register for the poker run at the piazza (cost to play is a suggested donation of $1 or a can of food for the local Renton Salvation Army) and then visit the sponsored businesses to collect a card. The first 200 registrants will receive a great "goody" bag. You then use your best five cards to make your best poker hand. There are great prizes for the winning hands donated by the local businesses. You can also enjoy all the other fun at the Spring Festival. There will be vendors for arts, crafts, flowers and produce. Also on hand for your entertainment there will be live music. And if finding a bargain is your thing don't miss the Piazza Attic rummage sale.

Opening Day at Safeco Field

2009-04-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

One day back in February I received an email asking if I'd like to sign up for information on ordering single game tickets to the Seattle Mariners. I replied and was able to purchase Opening Day tickets on April 14th.

My husband, son and sister headed out to the ballpark for a fun day. We started by having lunch at The Showbox located at 1700 1st Ave. So. in Seattle about 2 blocks south of Safeco Field. We had great hamburgers and service by Derek! We were also able to enjoy the Seattle Times live Webcast from the Showbox. The Times had several of their sport reporters to answer questions from the patrons and online viewers. After the webcast, they held a Trivia contest about the Mariners. I actually won a pair of tickets to this Friday's game!

We then headed over to Safeco. For a day that started out with a forecast of rain, we couldn't have asked for a better day. The sun was shining and they were opening the roof as we reached our seats. You could just feel the excitement in the air as the fans were anxiously awaiting the return of Ken Griffey Jr. to the Mariner line up. It had been ten years since we saw Number 24. The crowd burst into cheers, claps and whistles as Griffey approached the batter's box. He stepped out of the box and tipped his hat to the loyal fans! And to make his first at bat even sweeter he got a hit to right field which sent the crowd into even louder cheers.

The Mariner's managed to pull out the win in the 10th inning and everyone on hand for that special Mariner's home opener went away with a great memory. Griffey hit his first home run at home last night and Ichiro hit a grand slam - the Mariner's currently have a 7-2 record!

Here's to a great season!

Fun to Collect Old Jars and Bottles

2009-04-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

We finally have had four days of spring! I actually sat outside in the sun yesterday....it's been so long! As I was doing my bathroom cleaning today I thought I'd share the old jar collection I've started in my main bathroom. I'm not sure what originally came in any of the jars, but they look interesting on my antique marble top washstand. I had them under a cloche during the winter but I thought it was time to let the clean glass of the jars shine through. Hope you're all enjoying this wonderful weather!

Final Four Fun

2009-04-04T15:12:00.000-07:00

It's finally here. We've made it through the March Madness....now it's game time for Michigan State, UConn, Villanova and North Carolina. I'm picking UConn.....what about you?

Roving Renton Returns - April 7, 2009!!!

2009-04-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to receive an email this morning with the news that Roving Renton returns April 7th! I know I have missed the fun on Tuesday's since it ended back in February. All four restuarants are returning and they have included gratuities in the cost this time.....great thinking! Tickets are now $25.00 per person.....here's the schedule for the start and ending places. See you soon!

Tuesday, April 7th Start at Armondo's End at Blossom Asian Bistro Tuesday, April 14th Start at Red House End at Melrose Grill

Tuesday, April 21st Start at Melrose Grill End at Red House

Tuesday, April 28th Start at Blossom End at Armondo's

*For the convenience of our guests, gratuity is included in the ticket price

Is It Really Spring????

2009-04-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

This is what I woke up to this morning!!?? Is it really spring? Is it really April?? I don't know about you but I'm ready for some wamer days and warmer nights! This is getting really old!

Hopefully by the weekend we will have some sun and dryer weather. One can only hope!

The Bite Was a Delight!

2009-03-31T15:26:00.000-07:00

A group of 7 of my friends did the Bite of Downtown Renton last night and it was a pure delight! All of the restaurants showcased their restaurants with delicious "bites" and the service was amazing. From talking with many of the owners it sounds as though the crowd was great too....we heard somewhere around 170 participants! For those of you who were unable to attend I urge you to get on down to downtown Renton in the near future and visit the many fine restaurants Renton has to offer. We really have a great diverse selection and quality choices for an afternoon lunch or dinner! Thanks to Armondo's, Fin N Bone, Melrose, Red House, Blossom's, Bella Napoli, Geri's Casual Dining, La Hacienda and Yoggi's Frozen Yogurt - you and your staff's were so much fun!

Sue

Bite Tonight!

2009-03-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

Don't forget it's the Bite of Downtown Renton tonight starting at 4:00 and running until 9:00pm. Tickets may be purchased at the Renton History Musuem - located at 235 Mill Ave. So. http://www.rentonhistory.org/ Cost is $20.00 per person. Stop by Feathered Nest http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/ located at 914 S. 3rd St.

Crown of Love

2009-03-26T13:25:00.000-07:00

One of our dear customers Kris is one of those ever so creative ladies we all wish we could be! Every time she stops by Feathered Nest, she is always on to a new project. Today when she stopped by she brought this great crown she created out of chicken wire, fabric, a shell necklace, random jewelry and scraps of ribbon and lace. It's always a delight to see what she comes up with next. Kris' daughter is getting married this July and so she is making a customized crown for each of the bridesmaids for the bridal shower. What a wonderful momento for such a happy occasion!

Bite of Renton - Monday, March 30th 2009

2009-03-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for something fun to do this Monday night (March 30th 4pm - 9pm) you should check out the Bite of Downtown Renton. The Bite of Downtown Renton celebrates the Renton History Museum's hosting the Smithsonian Institution's Key Ingredients: America by Food, March 21-May 9. For more information about the exhibits and Bite of Downtown Renton, visit http://www.rentonhistory.org/ Cost is $20.00 per person - tickets may be purchased at Renton History Musuem located at 235 Mill Ave. S. All proceeds of the Bite of Downtown Renton benefit the Renton Historical Society. Stop by Feathered Nest located at 914 S. 3rd Street while you are in the neighborhood! www.featherednestinteriors.com Participating restaurants include: La Hacienda, Bella Napoli, Armondo's, Melrose Grill, Fin N Bone, Blossom Asian Bistro, Red House, Yoggi Frozen Yogurt and Geri's Casual Dining. See you there! Sue and Melanie

Planning an Herb Garden

2009-03-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

I attended the

"Planning an Herb Garden" class this morning at Squak Mt. Nursery in Issaquah. It was very imformative and inspirational. There were lots of questions both asked and answered. The instructor Patty was extremely knowledgeable and suggested great ideas for planning and planting an herb garden. The one thing I learned is that because of our long, wet, cold winter it will be a few more weeks before we can actually get all the plants in the ground. I did come home with bags of compost to get my soil amended, awaiting the actual planting day! Although there were herbs to purchase, most of them were small and not in bloom quite yet! After class I wondered through the nursery and snapped a couple of pictures of some bright blooms. As I was walking through the nursery I thought of all the great vintage type containers we have at Feathered Nest http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/ that would be perfect as small planters for flowers or herbs. I also stopped to take a picture of the serene creek that runs through the nursery on my way back to my car . Happy Spring!

Spring is Finally Here!

2009-03-20T10:21:00.001-07:00

Well today is the first official day of Spring! And believe me I can't wait! It's been quite the winter here in Seattle.....having had snow up to this week! I'm anxiously awaiting the day of our "final frost" to get out in my garden and get this year's flowers planted. My garden actually consists of several large pots....but it's still a garden. I'm planning on attending an herb container class this Saturday morning at Squak Mt. Nursery in Issaquah http://www.squakmtnursery.com/ Let us know your plans for your garden this year.....we'd love to hear from you. Happy Spring! Please also visit us on our website at http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/ Sue and Melanie

Beauchamp Compacts etc........

2009-03-19T15:28:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure about you, but I am often trying to find the perfect gift for a friend or a little treat for myself. Here at Feathered Nest we carry Beauchamp compacts, business card holders, pill boxes and reminder note pads which make a great gift. What makes these products so fun is that they come in the cutest packages and include a black velvet like pouch. Some of the different sayings include "Here's to Good Women: May we be them May we know them May we raise them", "Hormonolly Challenged", "Pills...Pills...Pills...and more PILLS", "You'll always be my friend...You know too much!", "Diva", "If you can imagine it, you can achieve it", "Well behaved women seldom make history", and several more. You can order any of these by visiting our website at http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/

Still Waiting for Spring!

2009-03-16T10:32:00.001-07:00

After this weekend I'm sure I'm not alone in hoping that Spring is just around the corner! From snow, to hail, to high winds and now non stop rain.....it's March in Seattle. I find that our Fringe Studio products that we carry in our shop, Feathered Nest, help remind me that it won't be long before our gardens are in bloom. All of the Fringe Studio products have such wonderful designs and really are more like a piece of art. I look forward to being able to snip some flowers and add them to the many Fringe Studio vases we offer. Please visit our website at http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/ to see all our Fringe Studio products. Feathered Nest Sue and Melanie

Spring Is Just Around the Corner!

2009-03-02T21:30:00.000-08:00

I just counted and we only have 19 days left till the first day of Spring!! Here in the Northwest we've experienced one of the most memorable winters in years from record snowfall to floods. Needless to say we are all anxiously awaiting the first few peeks of crocus and daffodils poking their blooms from the frozen ground. Here at Feathered Nest we offer several items that will create that fresh spring feeling in your home. From Fringe Studio vases...Fringe Studio candles and Fringe Studio trays to Fringe Studio boxed gift sets to our many bird inspired home decor items, we are sure you will love that fresh look that it brings to your home. Also browse our website and check out our hand decorated flameless candles that give you that soft warm glow in your home without the worry of lit candles. We carry several differnt designs and will be happy to assist you in a custom order. So from our nest to yours, please visit us at Feathered Nest 914 S. 3rd St. Renton, WA - 425-430-5411 or visit us online at www.featherednestinteriors.com - we look forward to visiting with you or helping you place your online order. Sue and Melanie

Roving Renton To Return

2009-02-25T15:48:00.001-08:00

Well my husband Mike and I did the last (at least for awhile) Roving Renton last night. I heard that it was another great success and had quite a few rovers. We started at Armondo's and were treated to non-pasta gnocchi's which were great accompanied by a glass of red wine. We then headed to Melrose but were roving behind a rather large group so we decided to head to Blossom's. There we had a chicken egg roll and pork skewer with a glass of their house white wine. Very good! Then we wandered back to The Melrose and waited for a few minutes for the bar to clear out because that's my favorite place to sit and be entertained by Leroy the bartender. He's worth the trip believe me! We enjoyed the most delicious scallops and rice and a great glass of viognier. To end the night we walked to the Red House where we enjoyed a glass of white wine and the best rice pudding. In talking with the restaurant owner's they said they were taking a few weeks off but hope to bring the Roving Renton back soon. I know I can't wait! Sue

Feathered Nest Flea Market a Success!

2009-02-24T16:44:00.000-08:00

Well after weeks of preparing, pricing and setting up, Feathered Nest's first Flea Market proved to be a success this past weekend. We had very positive comments from the many customers that visited us both on Saturday and Sunday. We were very pleased with the turnout...thanks to sunny weather on Saturday and mostly dry on Sunday (the rains came at closing on Sunday!). We had several customers ask if we planned to do it more often and several who are interested in renting a table or space the next time around. If you would like more information on our next flea market please leave your contact information on a comment for this post or you can email us your information at featherednest@comcast.net. Please visit our website at http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/ We look forward to hearing from you.

Sue and Melanie

Feathered Nest

FEATHERED NEST'S FLEA MARKET IS HERE THIS WEEKEND

2009-02-20T10:25:00.000-08:00

We are ready to open the doors for our first ever indoor Flea Market set for this weekend. Please drop by the Flea Market on Saturday, February 21 and Sunday, February 22 from 10:00-5:00pm both days. The Flea Market is located at 226 Main Ave. So. Renton located next to Uptown Glassworks. We have hundreds of items from furniture to collectables.....something for everyone. We hope you stop by and say hello.....and while you're in the neighborhood....stop by our shop Feathered Nest at 914 S. 3rd St. Renton. You can also visit us online at www.featherednestinteriors.com Hope to see you this weekend!

2009-02-14T12:37:00.001-08:00

With this being the day all about love and sweetness we thought we'd share some pictures of a few "sweet" things we have here in our shop. With our shop being named Feathered Nest we have several items bird related which appeals to so many. We would love to hear how all of you spent this day so please leave us your comments.

Pictured here are two vintage hotpads with bird inspired images. There are 7 hotpads in the set.

Featured in this photo are various bird items. The blue box is handpainted and would be perfect for those creative minds! The platter in the background has feathers around the edge and a nest in the center.

This is another wonderful home accessory or gift featuring Fringe Studio's Walden vase.

We wish everyone a very special and romantic day!

Sue and Melanie - from our nest to yours!

http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/

A Valentine Blog Party

2009-02-10T11:54:00.000-08:00

A Blog Party! don't ya love 'em? The most talented Katherine, (Collage Diva), is hosting a Soul Journal Valentine Blog Party! for anyone would love to come, visit and meet new people! Isn't the banner lovely? All of the images are from The Vintage Moth! :) You'll have to hunt for them tho if you want 'em! Come join the fun!

Melanie & Sue

After you visit us at Feathered Nest, stop across the street at Tapestry Saloon, Cafe Lure or Calico Cheesecake

2009-01-30T17:22:00.001-08:00

If you're looking for a great way to spend a day why not stop by our shop Feathered Nest located at 914 S. 3rd Street, Renton, WA 98057. We are open Tuesday thru Saturday 11:00-5:30PM. We offer a variety of vintage finds, home decor and many gift items for you to choose from. Then walk across the street to enjoy a delicious breakfast (Saturday and Sunday's only) or lunch at Cafe Lure. Joe Kennedy, the owner, has done a wonderful job not only on the interior of the building, but also with his menu. You've got to stop for a great meal. Cafe Lure is also open for lunch and dinner along with Tapestry Saloon, which is the adjoining lounge. You can finish your meal with a slice of the best ever piece of to-die-for cheesecake from Calico Cheesecake which is also adjoined to the other two restaurants. Come spend the day and evening in downtown Renton! http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/

Our First Flea Market Coming in February

2009-01-24T12:56:00.000-08:00

With the ho-hum days of winter we've decided to add a fun Flea Market set for February 21 and 22, 2009 located at 228 Main Avenue South, Renton, WA just around the corner from our shop Feathered Nest (914 S. 3rd St. Renton, WA). We will be updating information as we get closer to the Market day so check back often as we plan to have alot of wonderful finds! Mark your calendars.....we look forward to seeing you! In the meantime you can stop and see us at our shop or visit us online at www.featherednestinteriors.com Sue and Melanie

Another Great Roving Renton

2009-01-23T18:09:00.001-08:00

As you can tell we can't enough of Roving Renton. We went again last Tuesday and had another fun time! This next week some of my high school friends and I are going to Rove Renton. It starts at Armondo's this week. Definitely worth checking out! If you get into town before 5:30 stop in to our shop Feathered Nest located at 914 S. 3rd St. Renton WA 98057 425-430-5411 www.featherednestinteriors.com Sue and Melanie

IT'S TUESDAY THAT MEANS ROVING RENTON

2009-01-20T13:02:00.000-08:00

It's Tuesday and that means it's Roving Renton. If you haven't participated yet, I highly recommend it. It's a great deal for $20 and a really good way to visit the four restaurants: Armondo's, Melrose, Red House and Blossom. My friends and I are headed there tonight. Roving Renton starts at 5:00 pm and goes to 9:00. Just make sure you're at the last stop by 8:30 pm. See you there!

Recipe of the Week - Chicken Tortilla Soup

2009-01-10T18:13:00.000-08:00

INGREDIENTS 1 pound shredded, cooked chicken 1 (15 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, mashed 1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce 1 medium onion, chopped 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chile peppers 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups water 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 bay leaf 1 (10 ounce) package frozen corn 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro 7 corn tortillas vegetable oil Place chicken, tomatoes, enchilada sauce, onion, green chiles, and garlic into a slow cooker. Pour in water and chicken broth, and season with cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir in corn and cilantro. Cover, and cook on Low setting for 6 to 8 hours or on High setting for 3 to 4 hours. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly brush both sides of tortillas with oil. Cut tortillas into strips, then spread on a baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven until crisp, about 10 to 15 minutes. To serve, sprinkle tortilla strips over soup.

2009-01-09T17:32:00.001-08:00

I just had to show you more of these lovely vases from Fringe Studio. The two that I have photographed are Botanique and Elizabeth. They are both a tall rectangular style also called “Tiffany”. These are really like works of art because they look great whether they are empty or filled with flowers. The Botanique vase has gorgeous florals and the words “petit Cours Botanique” and a little French label that has “Paris ” on it. The “Elizabeth” vase has a black and white or sepia toned picture of a girl on one side and the other side of the vase has a stem with blue flowers and the words “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” . The side has the words from “ Song of the Fairy”.

These along with other Fringe Studio items can be found in our store or at http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/.

Drinks Well With Others Bottle Stopper

2009-01-09T15:04:00.000-08:00

Just In - these hilarious bottle stoppers from Design Design. Would be great for that wine lover! Retails for only $8.95 and comes in a box. You can find this at: http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/catalog.php?item=279&catid=72&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D72

Roving Renton

2009-01-09T15:00:00.001-08:00

Melanie and I did Roving Renton last night and highly recommend it! What is Roving Renton? Well it just happens to include four of my favorite Renton restaurants…..Armondo’s http://www.armondos.com/, Melrose http://melrosegrill.com/, Red House http://www.redhousebeerandwine.com/ and Blossom Asian Bistro http://www.blossomasianbistro.com/. It’s on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-9:00PM. Here’s what we did….we started at Armondo’s where we paid our $20.00 (plus tax) and received our punch card. We had a delicious appetizer and glass of red wine and walked to the next stop which was Melrose for us. Again, another glass of red wine, and a risotto and duck appetizer which was to die for! Then on to The Red House for a pita and feta cheese appetizer and another glass of wine. The final stop was Blossom’s where we enjoyed a glass of reisling along with creme brule’. So all that for $20.00 and the other nice thing is that after you get your card punched at all 4 stops you can use the card for your next visit to any of the 4 restaurants for 10% off your bill. It was alot of fun and was able to try some great wines and appetizers. I will definitely Rove Renton again! - Sue

Fringe Studio Owl Vase

2009-01-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

Fringe Studio Owl Vase - a great present

If you still have that someone that you are looking for an unusual present for, this could be it!!!. This is another beautiful piece from Fringe Studios. These are so nice because they look with flowers or twigs or great as a stand alone piece. The owl has such a realistic look to it. You can find this and other great pieces at http://www.featherednestinteriors.com/

Recipe of the Week - Beef Stew

2009-01-09T14:26:00.001-08:00

With the weather at records low, I thought this would be a great meal for a cold night. Loved the recipe. BEEF STEW 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces 3 1/2 cups halved mushrooms (about 8 ounces) 2 cups diagonally cut carrot 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped onion 1 1/2 cups sliced celery 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 1/2 cups water 1 cup Cabernet Sauvignon or other dry red wine 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 2 (14.5-ounce) cans no-salt-added stewed tomatoes, undrained 2 bay leaves 1 (2 1/4-ounce) can sliced ripe olives, drained 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook 5 minutes, browning on all sides. Remove from pan. Add mushrooms and next 4 ingredients (mushrooms through garlic) to pan; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Return beef to pan. Stir in water and next 6 ingredients (water through bay leaves); bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour. Stir in olives, and cook for 30 minutes or until beef is tender. Discard bay leaves. Stir in vinegar. Sprinkle with parsley. Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 1 1/3 cups) CALORIES 288 (32% from fat); FAT 10.3g (sat 3.3g,mono 5g,poly 0.6g); IRON 5.5mg; CHOLESTEROL 71mg; CALCIUM 100mg; CARBOHYDRATE 20.1g; SODIUM 584mg; PROTEIN 25.2g; FIBER 5.7g

We Just Received A New Shipment of Fringe Studio Items!

2009-01-09T13:41:00.000-08:00

We just received a new shipment of Fringe Studio items. We have a variety of products from the popular vases and candles to coasters and trays. To view these items, please visit our website at www.featherednestinteriors.com