Northwest winters, with their short days and low-hanging skies, can drain the cheerfulness from even the most stalwart souls. Despite the recent spate of sunshine, this winter, colder and wetter than normal — following on the heels of The-Summer-That Wasn’t — is proving to be a true test of Northwesterners’ mettle, and many Puget Sound area devotees have found themselves longing for greener — and sunnier and dryer — pastures.
But before anyone trades in their fleece jackets for flip flops and heads south, it might be a good idea to take stock of what’s here and enjoy some of the splendors available only on Vashon.
1. Make the Most of Sunbreaks: It is a rare part of the country that experiences this weather phenomenon, so we should be sure not to squander them. Of course, you might head outdoors to clean up debris from a recent windstorm in these brief sunlit moments. But there is an even better idea: Spend your sun breaks with a furry friend, which brings us to number two.
2. Adopt a Pet from VIPP: Vashon Island Pet Protectors always has dogs and cats that need a good home. And what better way to spend those sunbreaks than grabbing the leash and heading out the door? Not feeling that energetic? Then curl up with a cat in the sun and relish the warmth. Either way, pets are good for you, so much so that people who have heart attacks live longer if they have a pet than those who do not.
3. Sing the Blues Away: Singing — simply breathing and making music — is the perfect tonic for a heavy heart. Waiting in the ferry line? Turn up the radio and sing. Or go all out and join one of the Island’s choirs. The Vashon Island Chorale begins its next session Jan. 11 and welcomes new singers for an April concert of Brahms’ Requiem. The Free Range Gospel Choir, a fun-loving group that performs music from around the world, also welcomes new voices. It will begin practicing again Jan. 10.
4. Get Your Sunshine in a Glass: Vashon’s Pure has a multitude of juices good for body and soul, especially when fresh summer fruit, veggies and good old Vitamin D are in short supply. Stop by. Top picks are Bunny’s Brew with carrot, apple, ginger and lime and Morning Greens, with kale, celery, apple, lemon and ginger. Also nutritious and popular are vegan soups and spicy brown rice, bean and quinoa bowls. You are guaranteed to feel better.
5. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth (just a little): Enjoying some of life’s simple pleasures can do a lot for a rain-soaked soul, and one of those pleasures is biting into one of Islander Hedy Anderson’s handmade caramels. First introduced at the Farmers Market to rave reviews, they are now available at The Little House in six varieties, including classic, licorice and sea salt.
6. Surround Yourself with Color: Vashon in the winter can feel like a black and white movie, but step into the Quilt Shop, and you will find yourself in a Technicolor world. Entering the store during a recent downpour, one shopper suggested people come by for color therapy. “It happens every day,” owner Paul Robinson responded, giving a nod to the vibrant rainbow of fabric all around. “It’s like walking into my imagination,” said one young customer.
7. Go to the Movies: Vashon Theatre was voted the Best Rural Movie Theater by the Seattle Weekly. It is an Island treasure that needs support to keep it alive. And while you’re there, munching on butter-drenched popcorn, the world outside fades away.
8. Be an Armchair Traveler: Vashon’s book stores and library offer unlimited escape from the winter doldrums. Need a laugh-out-loud-knee-slapper? Or would you like to lose yourself in history or doze under the Tuscan sun? With a little browsing, you can be transported worlds away without ever getting on a ferry.
9. Do Some Good Deeds: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give,” Winston Churchill said. With that in mind, Vashon has plenty of opportunities to make a life. Lend a hand at the food bank, sort donations at Granny’s Attic, serve the community through Rotary and Kiwanis, visit with residents at the care center or coach a youth sports team. You — and those around you — will be better for your efforts.
10. Put Another Log on the Fire: After the darkness comes the light, the saying goes — and it it true. The shortest day of the year is over, and the coming days will be filled with increasing light. Put your feet up, settle in and relax.
— Susan Riemer is a staff writer at The Beachcomber.
