Author: Pete

Leave a comment Posted on Mental Health

Weekend Getaways to Recharge and Explore

Let’s talk about weekend getaways—those little trips that are just long enough to reset your brain but short enough to not completely wreck your routine. I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how important it is to take time to recharge, especially if you’re juggling a busy schedule. For me, a weekend trip is the perfect way to explore someplace new without the stress of planning a full-blown vacation.

When I’m looking for a weekend getaway, I usually keep it within a couple of hours of home. That way, I don’t waste half the trip stuck in traffic or on a plane. Living in Seattle, I’m lucky because there are so many options nearby. Like, if I want mountains, I’ve got the Cascades. If I want water, there’s Puget Sound or the San Juan Islands. It’s kind of ridiculous how much variety there is.

One of my favorite spots for a quick recharge is Leavenworth. I mean, yes, it’s a little touristy with the whole Bavarian theme, but there’s something about being surrounded by those mountains that makes it easy to unwind. Plus, the food scene there is surprisingly good. I usually grab some bratwurst, maybe a pretzel, and just enjoy being outside. If you’re feeling more active, there are tons of hiking trails nearby. I’ve done Icicle Ridge a couple of times, and the views never disappoint.

Another go-to for me is Whidbey Island. It’s such a quick trip—you just hop on the ferry, and before you know it, you’re in this totally different world. Whidbey’s got these amazing beaches and little towns that are perfect for wandering. There’s this one spot, Ebey’s Landing, where you can do a loop hike that’s part cliffside, part beach walk. It’s the kind of place where you just breathe differently, you know? Like, the salt air hits your face, and suddenly all your stress feels a million miles away.

Sometimes, though, I skip the outdoors altogether and head to a city for the weekend. Portland is such an easy choice. It’s close, it’s walkable, and there’s always something interesting happening. I’ll spend the day exploring bookstores and coffee shops, then find some live music or just enjoy a great meal. One time, I randomly stumbled into a donut-tasting event—I’m not even joking—and it ended up being one of the highlights of the trip. Stuff like that makes a city getaway feel fresh, even if you’ve been there a bunch of times.

I think what makes these quick trips so special is how simple they can be. You don’t need to overthink it. Pack a bag, pick a direction, and just go. There’s something so freeing about not having a rigid itinerary. It leaves room for surprises, for wandering, for discovering something you didn’t even know you were looking for. And that’s what makes you come back feeling like you actually had a break.

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My Journey with a Personal Trainer

Alright, let’s talk about my journey with a personal trainer and how it’s completely changed the way I approach running and fitness. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first. I mean, I’ve been running for years, and I always thought, “Why would I need someone to tell me how to run? I just lace up and go, right?” Turns out, I had no idea how much I was leaving on the table.

So, a couple of months ago, I started working with a Tacoma-based personal trainer, On Track Coaching. They specialize in helping runners like me, as well as prenatal and postnatal mothers and youth athletes. What I really liked was how tailored their approach was. It wasn’t about some generic “work harder” advice. They really dug into what I needed—my goals, my routines, and even the little things, like how my day-to-day life impacts my training.

When we started, the first thing we did was assess my running form. And let me tell you, it was eye-opening. I always thought my form was solid—turns out, not so much. My trainer noticed that my stride was a little too long, which was putting unnecessary strain on my knees. They also pointed out how my arm movement wasn’t helping my momentum as much as it could. We worked on some drills to fix those things, and honestly, it’s like I’m running with a new body now. I feel lighter, smoother, and way more efficient.

One of the biggest game-changers was learning how to structure my training better. Before, I’d just go out and run. Some days it was long and slow, other days it was fast—totally random. But my trainer introduced me to a more intentional plan. We added interval workouts, tempo runs, and proper recovery days. At first, I thought recovery days were a waste of time. Like, if I’m not sweating buckets, am I even doing anything? But now, I get it. Those rest days have made such a difference in how I feel on my hard days. I’m faster and less tired overall.

Another thing I loved was how they incorporated strength training. I’ve always been one of those runners who avoids the gym because, honestly, it’s intimidating. But my trainer made it so approachable. They set me up with some at-home workouts that didn’t even require much equipment—just a couple of dumbbells and resistance bands. We focused on core stability and leg strength, which has made a huge difference in how I tackle hills. It’s wild how a few targeted exercises can transform something that used to feel like torture into just another part of the run.

Nutrition was another area we worked on. I thought I was eating okay, but my trainer helped me fine-tune things to fuel my runs better. We talked a lot about timing—like when to eat before a long run, what to refuel with afterward, and even how to snack during the day to keep my energy up. It’s not about some strict diet; it’s about making smarter choices. For example, adding a little protein to my post-run meals has helped me recover faster. It’s one of those simple changes that makes a huge impact.

What really sets On Track Coaching apart, though, is how accessible they make everything. They offer in-home and remote training options, which is perfect for someone like me with a busy schedule. There were weeks where life got crazy, but because we could adapt the plan and do check-ins remotely, I never felt like I was falling behind. It’s clear they really care about making fitness fit into your life, not the other way around.

And you know what? This isn’t just about running anymore. Working with a trainer has spilled over into other parts of my life. I’m sleeping better, I’ve got more energy during the day, and even my mindset has shifted. I used to think of fitness as this box I had to check, but now it feels like this integrated, natural part of my routine.

So, if you’re in Tacoma or anywhere nearby and you’re looking for a personal trainer who really gets it—whether you’re a runner like me, a new parent, or even a youth athlete—I can’t recommend On Track Coaching enough. They’ve helped me hit paces I didn’t think I could hit and made me fall in love with running all over again.

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Discovering Local Cuisine on My Travels

Alright, let’s talk about one of my favorite parts of traveling: discovering local cuisine. I mean, for me, food isn’t just something you eat; it’s like this gateway into understanding a place. Every bite tells a story—of culture, of history, of the people who’ve been living there for generations. And the best part? You don’t even have to be a foodie to enjoy it. You just have to be curious.

So, let me walk you through how I approach this. When I get to a new place, the first thing I do is skip the guidebook recommendations. I know, I know, those lists have their place, but I’ve found that the best meals—the most memorable ones—happen when you’re a little more spontaneous. I like to wander, find the markets, the street vendors, the little mom-and-pop restaurants that are tucked away in alleys. You know, the places locals actually go.

Take this trip I did to Portland last year. Everyone talks about the food trucks there, right? And yeah, they’re amazing, but what really blew me away was this tiny Ethiopian restaurant I found completely by accident. I was walking back from Powell’s Books, got lost—classic me—and ended up in this neighborhood I didn’t recognize. There was this little place, no big sign, just a smell of spices wafting out the door. I ordered their veggie combo plate, and let me tell you, it was transformative. I mean, the injera alone was a masterpiece. Tangy, soft, just the right texture to scoop up the lentils and greens. That meal wasn’t just food; it was an experience.

Another rule I live by when I travel: always talk to people. Locals are the best resource for finding hidden culinary gems. One time, I was in Vancouver—so close to home, but still such a foodie paradise—and I struck up a conversation with a barista at this café. I asked where they’d go for a great meal, and they sent me to this izakaya place I never would’ve found on my own. The grilled squid there was next level. It was smoky, tender, just the right amount of char. And, of course, it came with this tangy ponzu sauce that I’m still dreaming about.

Street food is another thing I never skip. It’s quick, it’s cheap, and it’s usually some of the best food you’ll find. Like when I was in Mexico City. Oh man, the tacos. I’m not talking about the fancy sit-down kind—I’m talking about the ones you grab from a stand on a busy corner. I had this al pastor taco, and I swear, it changed my life. The meat was carved fresh off the spit, pineapple juices dripping down, and then they topped it with a sprinkle of onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. I didn’t even need a plate; I just stood there eating it, surrounded by locals on their lunch breaks. That’s the kind of food moment you can’t plan.

I’ve also started taking cooking classes when I travel. It’s such a cool way to connect with a place because you’re not just eating the food—you’re learning how to make it. On one trip to Italy, I signed up for this pasta-making workshop. I thought, okay, I’m just here to roll some dough and eat a nice meal. But no, the instructor took us to the market first, showed us how to pick out fresh ingredients, and explained why each one mattered. By the end of it, I felt like I had this deeper appreciation for every bite of the tagliatelle we made.

And, if you’re into learning more about local food cultures and traditions, I highly recommend checking out this resource from UNESCO on food as intangible cultural heritage. It’s such a fascinating dive into how cuisine shapes identity and how it’s preserved over time. Seriously, give it a read—it’ll make you look at your next meal a little differently.

Anyway, my advice to you is, when you’re traveling, let food be your guide. Follow your nose, trust the locals, and don’t be afraid to try something totally out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s a bustling market stall, a tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant, or a farm-to-table spot, you’ll find that the flavors you discover are some of the best souvenirs you can bring home.

Leave a comment Posted on City

A Day in the Life of an Urban Adventurer

I want to take you through a day in the life of an urban adventurer. And by “urban adventurer,” I just mean… well, me, I guess. Someone who’s always poking around the city, trying to find the hidden gems, the overlooked details, the stories hiding in plain sight. You know, the kind of day where you don’t really have a plan, but you’re also not totally aimless—if that makes sense.

Alright, so, my day usually starts with coffee, because, well, it’s Seattle, and coffee is basically a religion here. I’ll head to one of my favorite spots—sometimes it’s a big-name place like Starbucks, but more often it’s one of those little hole-in-the-wall cafes. There’s this one in Capitol Hill, kinda tucked away on a side street, and they do this cardamom latte that’s just… wow. If you’ve never had cardamom in coffee, trust me, it’s life-changing.

Anyway, I grab my coffee, and then I just start walking. That’s the beauty of urban adventuring—you don’t need a car, and you definitely don’t need a destination. One of my favorite things to do is head toward a neighborhood I don’t know super well. Like, the other day I ended up in Georgetown. If you’ve never been, it’s this cool mix of old industrial stuff and quirky artsy vibes. I stumbled on this tiny bookstore—it didn’t even have a sign, just a chalkboard outside that said “Books, open till dusk.” Inside, it was like stepping back in time. The shelves were crammed with these old, yellowed paperbacks, and the guy behind the counter was just sitting there reading, not even paying attention. I picked up this random book about the history of Seattle, and now I’m weirdly obsessed with learning about how the city used to look before all the regrades and construction.

After the bookstore, I decided to follow the train tracks for a bit. This is one of those things I love to do—not in a sketchy way, just, like, finding where the tracks go. There’s something kind of romantic about it, right? Walking alongside the tracks, imagining all the places they lead to. Anyway, I ended up at this old abandoned-looking warehouse, and it had all this amazing graffiti on it. I’m not a graffiti expert or anything, but some of the art was seriously impressive. I spent a good twenty minutes just walking around, taking it all in. It’s like finding a gallery, but outside, and totally free.

Around lunchtime, I usually try to find a new place to eat. This time, I ended up at a food truck park. I love food trucks because they’re like little micro-adventures in themselves. I tried this Ethiopian truck I’d never seen before, and oh man, the injera was so good. That’s another thing about urban adventuring—it’s not just about what you see. It’s about what you eat, what you smell, what you hear. The whole sensory experience.

After lunch, I’ll usually take a little time to sit somewhere and people-watch. Parks are great for this. I ended up at Gas Works Park that day, which, okay, I know it’s not exactly a hidden gem—it’s pretty iconic—but it’s got these weird industrial structures that I never get tired of looking at. Plus, the view of the skyline from there is just unbeatable. I like to sit with my notebook and jot down random observations. Not anything deep, just stuff like, “Saw a dog wearing a sweater” or “The clouds look like marshmallows today.” It’s funny how writing down even the simplest things makes you notice more.

In the afternoon, I try to dig a little deeper—literally, sometimes. I’m really into finding stairways. Seattle is full of these hidden staircases that connect different neighborhoods, and they’re so much fun to explore. Some of them are covered in moss, and you can tell they’ve been there for decades. Others lead to the most unexpected places, like tiny pocket parks or overlooks you wouldn’t know were there unless you happened to climb the steps.

Toward the end of the day, I usually find myself near the waterfront. There’s something about water that feels like the perfect way to cap off a day of exploring. I’ll walk along the piers, maybe grab a cup of clam chowder if I’m hungry again. And then, if I time it right, I’ll catch the sunset over the Olympics. That’s the kind of moment where you realize just how lucky you are to live in a place like this. The city, the mountains, the water—it all comes together in this way that feels so alive.

By the time I head home, I’m usually a little tired, but it’s the good kind of tired. The kind where you’ve been walking all day, taking in the world, and you feel like you’ve really been somewhere, even if you never left the city.

Leave a comment Posted on City

Exploring Hidden Trails in the City

so, today I want to talk about something I’ve been really into lately—exploring hidden trails in the city. And, you know, Seattle is kind of perfect for this. It’s one of those places where you can be in the middle of downtown and still somehow stumble onto a little patch of green that makes you feel like you’re out in the woods. I love that about living here.

Anyway, I was out last weekend, just kind of wandering around, and I ended up in Ravenna Park. Now, I’ve been there before—like, everyone knows Ravenna, right? It’s not exactly a secret. But what I didn’t realize is just how many little offshoots there are from the main trail. I mean, I’ve always stuck to the big, obvious paths, but this time I decided to follow one of the smaller ones. And oh my god, it was like entering a completely different world. You get these little pockets where the trees are so dense it feels like you’re deep in a forest, and then you hear a bird—or maybe it’s just a squirrel—and it’s like, yeah, this is what I needed today.

What really surprised me, though, was how quiet it was. Like, you’re in the city, right? You’d think you’d hear cars or construction or, I don’t know, someone yelling about the Seahawks. But no, it was just… peaceful. Well, mostly peaceful. There were a couple of joggers who kind of startled me, but I guess that’s the price of sharing the trails.

Anyway, that got me thinking: how many other little trails like this are out there? So I did some digging—figuratively, not literally—and I found out there’s this spot over in Interlaken Park. Have you been? It’s technically part of Capitol Hill, but it doesn’t feel like it at all. It’s so quiet, and the trails are super narrow, kind of winding through these big trees and ferns. Honestly, it’s the kind of place where you half expect to see a deer pop out, even though, realistically, it’s probably just going to be someone’s off-leash dog. But still, it’s got that vibe.

Another one that blew my mind is over in West Seattle, Schmitz Preserve Park. Like, I knew it was there—I’d heard about it—but I hadn’t actually checked it out until recently. The thing about Schmitz Preserve is that it’s not just a park. It’s an actual forest. And the trails are kind of rough in places, which I love. It feels wild, even though you’re technically in a residential area. You can literally walk out of this lush green wonderland and be back on a sidewalk in, like, two minutes. It’s surreal.

One thing I’ve been doing, by the way, is bringing a little notebook with me when I explore these places. I’m not, like, writing poems or anything—I just jot down stuff I notice. Like, last time, I saw this really cool moss growing on a log, and I don’t know why, but it made me want to learn more about moss. Is that weird? Probably. But hey, it’s the little things, right?

So, yeah, if you’re in Seattle—or honestly, anywhere—my advice is to get off the beaten path a little. Check out the smaller trails, the ones that maybe aren’t on Google Maps. You’d be amazed at what you find when you stop following the main path and just… wander.