Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
Western Washington’s Best Camping Trips
Summer is almost here and if you haven’t started planning your camping trips, now’s the time! There are so many wonderful places to choose from, and here are some of our favorites. It’s important to note that campsites offering reservations fill up fast while others are on a first-come, first-served basis so check now and plan accordingly.
Birch Bay State Park
Photo by Leo Phillips.
Just below the Canadian border sits Birch Bay State Park. Birch Bay, Washington is a quaint town with a water slide amusement park and many cute shops. Birch Bay State Park provides an incredible experience perfect for all ages with its expansive waterfront – just be sure to book in advance.
Cost (seasonal pricing): $20-37 for standard sites, $35-50 for full utility trailer sites
Drive-Up Camping: Yes
Deception Pass State Park
Photo by WA State Parks.
With miles of beachfront and trails to enjoy, this popular destination is hard to beat. The impressive Deception Pass Bridge connects to the mainland and you can easily head to Anacortes from there. Plus, the San Juan Islands are just a ferry ride away!
Cost: $30 per night
Drive-Up Camping: Yes
The Enchantments
Photo by Leo Phillips.
In the Bavarian town of Leavenworth lies the Aasgard Pass, and it is stunning. It’s also just a small part of the Enchantments. There are many picturesque areas with excellent campsites. You’re likely to see mountain goats on the trails so be ready to snap some photos.
Cost: $5 per person, per day
Drive-Up Camping: Limited
Kalaloch Campground
Photo by Leo Phillips.
Overlooking the seaside beach of the western side of the Olympic Peninsula, Kalaloch is one of two campgrounds there where you can make reservations in advance from the end of May to mid-September. Otherwise, it’s on a first-come, first-served basis. For those that like to plan ahead, book your advance reservations here. Or, make a mad dash to get there on a Friday morning and hope for a site. The remaining 22 of its 170 sites are first-come, first-served. Also, as a heads up, there are no showers.
Cost: $24 per night for standard campsites, $48 per night for group sites
Drive-Up Camping: Yes
Olympic National Park
Photo by Leo Phillips.
If you want the quintessential remote backpacking experience, the Olympics are your mountains! Nothing compares to the jagged majesty of the soaring Olympic range, nor the primitive campsites that connect the epic adventures that await. While there are some drive-up campsites (like the popular Hurricane Ridge and Deer Park), be prepared for steep drop-offs on the mountain roads leading up.
Cost: $8 per person, per night
Drive-Up Camping: Limited
First Quarter Market Review for North Kitsap
Poulsbo’s North Kitsap market picked up in our first quarter despite a seasonal slowdown. We’ve compiled key highlights so that you can easily get informed about our local real estate market.
Our Strong Seller’s Market
North Kitsap’s inventory remains low and demand remains high due to people moving away from the bigger cities and COVID-19 changing the way we work. There are still many eager buyers outnumbering sellers. Our Brokers continue to experience situations where some buyers are outbid either by price or by an all-cash offer in this competitive market.
If you look at the last five quarters detailed in the graph below, you can see that a similar growth trend in volume is repeated when comparing 2020’s first quarter to 2021’s first quarter. Get ready for the market to continue to heat up as we move from spring to summer.
With our low supply, we may see even higher prices. This strong seller’s market is driving us toward an affordability ceiling. As you can see below, there’s a growing listing and sale price divergence. Sellers continue to benefit from our inventory shortage. Prices may soon be too high for some people to afford to buy a home here.
Affordability Issues and Market Insights
Matthew Gardner, Windermere’s Chief Economist, continues to track this affordability ceiling in his most recent Housing and Economic Update: “If the pace of home price growth continues, many households will start to be priced out” of what people can actually afford. As Gardner points out, we need more supply, and we need home prices to drop to alleviate this market strain.
Unfortunately, that might not happen fast enough for many hopeful homebuyers to make their dream a reality. Gardner reminds us that the cost of materials, recent storms, and the current housing market prices have all added to the cost of building new homes. This, in turn, will add to the listing price.
Additionally, Gardner points out that mortgage rates have risen after “a jump in bond yields has led rates to spike” as the country re-opens and economic activity increases. The resulting potential inflation causes the 10-year treasury interest rates to rise in hopes of attracting more buyers. However, it is still far below standard rates and shouldn’t be a concern for buyers right now.
Ultimately, it’s still a strong Seller’s Market with an overall low supply and high demand. We expect to continue to see issues with affordability as prices continue to climb.
Community Spotlight: Fishline Food Bank
As one of the oldest food banks in the United States, Fishline has served North Kitsap County for 54 years. It distributes over one million pounds of food annually. Today, Fishline provides comprehensive services to assist our neighbors in need. Read on to find out more about this incredible organization.
Fishline’s History and Mission
The First Lutheran, St. Charles Episcopal, and St. Olaf’s Catholic Parish combined their efforts to establish Fishline in 1967. Fishline’s mission is to serve the North Kitsap community by providing resources to transform lives. Above all, Fishline envisions a community where a solid foundation exists for all people, including adequate food, shelter, healthcare, and employment.
Barbara Stuart, Fishline’s first Executive Director, worked tirelessly for 34 years to grow Fishline. Stuart’s leadership pioneered the organization’s innovative comprehensive services structure. “Their dedicated staff and volunteers work diligently to meet various needs,” says Realtor Randy Taplin, who volunteers at Fishline once a week.
Fishline Food Bank. Photo by Leo Phillips.
A Market and So Much More
Our Windermere agents are proud to volunteer and support Fishline’s services. “Fishline is a remarkable local organization that has evolved into something groundbreaking,” says Bridget Young, Broker. “The new facility serves community members experiencing food scarcity with its attractive and well-stocked market. In addition, they provide access to important services like dental care, mental health services, and resources for veterans.”
Fishline is most known for its food services through The Healthy Foods Market. The market is fully stocked with fresh produce, dry/canned goods, baby food, diapers, and various products. Additionally, registered clients can shop there up to two times per week and pay on a need-based “Fishbucks” system.
“I love that Fishline is a well-run organization with so many services to offer our local community members in need,” says Joni Kimmel, Broker. Fishline provides emergency and supportive services such as housing assistance, mental health services, and financial advice.
Mobile Showers Program
On October 5, 2020, Fishline launched its new Fresh Start Mobile Shower Program in collaboration with Kitsap County Rescue Mission, the City of Poulsbo, Clear Creek RV, and Integrity Roofing. The program hopes to expand Fishline’s safety net by providing physical, mental, and emotional benefits to community members during this unprecedented time. It operates Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. They provide clients with towels, toiletries, clothing, cold weather gear, and access to its other support services.
Programs to Address Housing and Food Insecurity
As part of its comprehensive structure, Fishline offers rent assistance, eviction prevention, and homeless support services under their housing services. Safe Park is a unique program that provides safe parking for up to five cars for single women, single men, and families who are temporarily living in their vehicles.
“Fishline’s Food for Thought program began in response to the need of low-income students to have enough food during school closures. It’s a fabulous program used by many students,” says Karen Keefe, Broker. Weekends, holidays, and summer can be stressful for food-insecure students who rely on free and reduced school meals. The Food for Thought program delivers meal kits to low-income students in Poulsbo and Suquamish every Friday. Also, this program provides meals during the summer.
Recognition
Impacting countless lives, Fishline’s programs and their innovative efforts have not gone unnoticed. In fact, two of its programs have received the Food Lifeline Excellence in Client Services Award. This industry award considers programs from food banks throughout Washington state.
Get Involved
Undoubtedly, the combined effort of volunteers and donors is what has powered Fishline’s mission throughout the years. In addition to volunteering and donating, you can host fundraisers or food drives to get involved. “Fishline is such an amazing, well-organized nonprofit in its mission to help our community of people in need. I love supporting it,” says Broker Mary Richards.
Hosting an annual food drive is a great way to connect with neighbors and impact your community. “Terry Burns and I host an annual food drive every November in Poulsbo’s Forest Rock Hills to benefit Fishline,” says Liz Bailey, Realtor. “All donated items go directly to Fishline. In 2020, the generous residents of Forest Rock Hills contributed 1,150 pounds of food along with cash donations totaling $1,500.”
Other Ways to Support Fishline
You can also support Fishline by shopping at or donating to Second Season Thrift Store. All sales directly support Fishline’s vision. Due to the pandemic, Second Season’s donations have decreased while the number of people in need of Fishline’s services has increased. To donate, go to the old Fishline building (19705 NW, Viking Ave NW in Poulsbo) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. For more information, visit their Donation Sites page.
Your Checklist for Spring Home Maintenance
The seasonal cleaning fest is right around the corner just as gray winter skies clear to welcome the warm spring sun. Get ahead of the spring home maintenance frenzy by following this simple checklist.
Top to Bottom Home Inspection
No one knows your house better than you do! Complete the first task on this checklist by performing a top to bottom home inspection. Note anything around the house that might show signs of wear and tear. The bathroom, kitchen, and interior rooms are usually the first that come to mind. But don’t forget the attic, crawl spaces, plumbing, and electrical. HVAC systems should be a priority so you can get ahead of the summer HVAC maintenance rush.
Prevent Issues with Pests
You aren’t the only one who wants to enjoy warmer weather. Insects, mice, and more will undoubtedly make a comeback this season. The warmer temperatures will draw them out of their winter hiding places, so it’s crucial to be on the lookout. Keep your house from becoming the go-to vacation spot for these little critters by taking preventative measures.
Clean Out the Gutters
The winter months of rain and high winds have likely clogged up your gutters with sticks, leaves, and other debris. Make sure to take some time to clear out your gutters to prevent water and other gunk from building up. Trust us, your house will thank you later. Clogged gutters can cause roof damage, impact your house’s foundation, and be a hub for bacteria and insects. If you want to take a hands-on approach, check out this DIY gutter cleaning project.
Check For Wood Rot
Winter weather in the Pacific Northwest can be a menace for our homes, especially with the rain. Make sure to check your windows and doors for any signs of wood rot. We recommend trying the “Knock Test”. Tap along your window or door frame to see if more than one-third of any piece is “hollow” sounding. If it is, it would be a good time to call a professional.
Start Planting
Breathe new life into your yard, porch, or deck by gardening! March is a great time to plant summer bulbs like dahlias and gladiolus. For planting vegetables, herbs, and more, check this classic gardening guide. Don’t worry if you don’t have much of a green thumb. Visit Valley Nursery in Poulsbo; the friendly staff will take good care of you.
Spring Home Maintenance Bonus
A beautiful garden and a refreshed home is the perfect setting for a barbecue when the weather warms up. Remember to perform a maintenance check on your grill to make sure you are ready!
6 Easy Ways to Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly
There are many ways to “go green” and that includes making your home more eco-friendly. Here are six easy ways that you and your family can help the environment at home.
1. Start Composting
Most of us are used to recycling, but have you ever thought about composting? It’s easy to believe that our food just decomposes in landfills, but this isn’t the case at all. Methane gas is produced when decomposing food is packed under layers of trash, and methane is at least 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Composting is easier than you may think. You can even avoid the smell by storing a compost bag in your freezer to eliminate odors. When your bag is full of produce, just take it out of the freezer and dump it into your compost bin outside. For more information, check out this helpful composting guide.
2. Switch to Reusable Water Bottles
Another simple change is buying the whole family reusable water bottles. This is a small investment to save money and reduce the amount of wasted one-use plastic bottles in the long run. Did you know only about 23% of all plastic bottles get recycled? The rest of it simply ends up in landfills and in the ocean. This tip doesn’t just apply to one-use plastic water bottles. Make a list of one-use plastic items that you use daily and see if you can upcycle or replace them with something reusable.
3. Use LED Light Bulbs
Another simple way to make your home more eco-friendly while reducing your electric bill is to make the switch to LED light bulbs. Not only are LED lightbulbs more energy-efficient, but they also come in a variety of color temperatures so that you can choose between a spectrum of warm and cool light. Ordinary incandescent light bulbs only convert 10% of energy into light while the rest is wasted as heat. LED light bulbs convert 95% energy into light.
4. Line Dry When it’s Sunny
One way, and possibly the most inexpensive and easiest way to make your home more eco-friendly, is to line dry instead of machine dry. We understand that line drying isn’t always an option, especially in the Pacific Northwest. However, if you’re able to do it during warmer months, the planet will thank you. Line drying can reduce your house’s carbon footprint by up to 2,400 pounds per year, and you get to save money while doing it.
5. Purchase a Programmable Thermostat
If you want to get a little fancy, then we recommend investing in a programmable thermostat. This is a bit of an investment upfront. But in the long run, it saves money, helps the environment, and modernizes your home. Smart thermostats cut down on fossil fuel energy sources by learning our heating and cooling preferences. With this information, the thermostat can lower your house’s demand for electricity produced by power plants and reduce carbon emissions.
6. Invest in Solar Panels
Solar panels have become increasingly popular in the last decade. Not only will they help save on your utility bill, but they are incredibly significant for the planet. Over 25 years, a typical solar panel installation is the equivalent of 135 tons of carbon dioxide emissions avoided, 440,000 miles not driven, and 2.3 acres of trees planted. Solar panels may be on the pricier side, but many solar panel contractors offer payment plans. Additionally, houses with solar panels can sell for up to 4.1% more than homes without solar panels.
New Agent Spotlight: Rebecca Olodort
We’re excited to feature new agent Rebecca Olodort. She knows how important it is to be a good listener, a strong advocate, and a trusted guide. Rebecca offers a wealth of information and experience and her love of home design and helping people shines through. Read on to find out more.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
I am a detail-oriented, practical, strategic problem-solver who ran a 50M fashion business for many years. Critical to being able to do this was: listening to all involved parties.
What drew you to real estate?
A passion for helping people combined with a love of home design.
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
It is critical that a Realtor be trustworthy, determined and a good listener. The ability to see all sides of a situation gives me the unique opportunity to create a smooth and seamless real estate transaction.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about those areas?
I serve King, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties. We have the best of all worlds in hiking, boating, and access to downtown Seattle via ferry. I love hiking the many local trails. There are really too many to mention but I highly recommend Fort Lawton Trail, Lake Crescent, and North Kitsap Heritage Park. Our favorite restaurants in North Kitsap are Kingston Ale House, Streamliner Diner, and Burrata Bistro. Another fun day for us is taking the ferry to Seattle, visiting one of the many museums (especially the Seattle Art Museum), and having a bite to eat and a lovely glass of wine at Purple Café.
How long have you lived here?
I was born in Kansas, raised in southern California, and I’ve been living in the Pacific Northwest for over 10 years. We were looking for an area with a small town feel and access to a major city with an international airport. We moved to Kingston in 2016 to design and build our forever home. Simply said, we have the best of all worlds.
How are you involved in the community?
I’m a White Horse Golf Community Board Member and their Design Review Chair. Also, I’m a volunteer for Meals on Wheels of Kitsap.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
After working for major corporations such as Estée Lauder, Swarovski, and Fossil Group, it was an organic decision to work with the most professional and successful real estate brokerage in the Pacific Northwest.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I enjoy shopping at Central Market and the local Farmers Market to select ingredients for preparing healthy meals for my husband and 96-year-old mother. In 2019, we adopted our Maltipoo, Sadie, from the Kitsap Humane Society and she is a 10-pound bundle of joy!
We are so glad to have Rebecca Olodort as a new member of our Windermere team. She’s a sincere pleasure to work with and you can connect with her on Facebook and Instagram, or visit her website.
Fourth Quarter Review and 2021 Forecast for North Kitsap
Poulsbo’s North Kitsap market saw a strong end to 2020. We’ve compiled key highlights from our fourth quarter as well as some useful insights from Windermere Real Estate’s Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner. Gardner also offers his 2021 market forecast with some uplifting and interesting predictions.
Our Strong Seller’s Market
Poulsbo’s inventory remains low while demand is high from people moving away from the bigger cities. Buyers, the market is in the usual seasonal slowdown – but not as slow as expected given COVID-19. There are still many eager buyers outnumbering sellers. Our Brokers have seen an increase in situations where some buyers are outbid either by price or by an all-cash offer.
In 2020’s fourth quarter, the average sale price in North Kitsap was up 21.3% year-over-year at $597K. Sale prices continue to hover close to listing prices, indicating strong demand.
2021 Forecast
In his final Monday with Matthew video of 2020, our Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner, shared his 2021 forecast for the housing market. He’s optimistic and for some good reasons.
First off, Gardners expects mortgage rates will not rise significantly on a local level, nor will they vary significantly throughout different regions across the U.S. Since mortgage rates are heavily tied to 10-year treasury maturity rates/yields, rates shouldn’t rise significantly until the entire market recovers from the COVID-19 slowdown. Another great sign is that Gardner expects home sales will grow significantly, from 5.55% in 2020 to 5.93% in 2021. That’s “to a level we haven’t seen since 2006,” Gardner explains. With the continuation of historically low mortgage rates and the consistent increase of home values, 2021 looks bright.
“No! There isn’t a housing bubble forming. But price growth will slow & sellers may feel like it’s a collapse … it isn’t collapsing, it’s just normalizing.”
Matthew reminds us that there are pitfalls to be wary of in this strong market. First and foremost: “we need more inventory.” With the shuffling to new homes, and the huge wave of “first-time buyers [that] will continue to be a major player in the housing market,” many are making moves in a flood that will not persist. Buying during the pandemic will slowly settle. People are expected to stay in their homes longer, especially homeowners who have chosen to refinance. House values will rise due to the lack of supply, and that may price out many buyers who want to purchase in our area.
Western Washington’s Market Report
For a big picture glance at how our local market compares, here are highlights from The Western Washington Gardner Report.
WESTERN WASHINGTON HOME SALES
- Total Sales: 26.6% increase from Q4/2019, but 8.3% lower than Q3/2020
- Homes for Sale: 37.3% lower than Q4/2019, and 31.2% lower than Q3/2020
- Pending Sales: up 25% from Q4/2019, but 31% lower than Q3/2020
- Average: $617,475 (up 17.4% from Q4/2019). This continues the trend of above-average appreciation of home values.
- Interestingly, prices between Q3 and Q4 of 2020 only rose by 1%. Is there a price ceiling we’re reaching?
- Mortgage rates will stay competitive as the market continues to charge toward a price ceiling and potential affordability issues.
- Average: 31 Days (16 days less than Q4 just one year ago)
- In Kitsap County, average days on market: 17
Conclusion
2021 will continue the trend of working from home, which keeps demand high. This, in turn, will drive sales growth, while affordability barriers will balance our current runaway appreciation for home values.
Hidden Gems Across Kitsap County
Kitsap County is full of interesting places to explore, and there are some lesser-known spots that we’re often excited to share with clients, friends, and family. Here are six that we highly recommend.
Foulweather Bluff Preserve
Source: The Nature Conservatory
On the northernmost tip of the Kitsap Peninsula sits the beach town of Hansville. Although Hansville is most known for its historic lighthouse and beautiful beach at Point No Point, the immense Foulweather Bluff Preserve sits just four miles away. According to the Nature Conservancy, “The combination of forest, marsh, and 3,800 feet of beach make the Foulweather Bluff Preserve one of the most valuable wildlife havens on the Kitsap Peninsula.” Come explore this gorgeous area with plenty of space to roam!
Open year-round, during daylight hours.
Port Orchard’s Hobbit House
Source: The Brothers Greenhouses
The Shire awaits! Whether you’re a fan of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit or simply enjoy interesting outdoor sites, this Hobbit House makes for a fun afternoon. The Brothers Greenhouses, which offers a beautiful selection of fauna, crafted their very own “Hobbit-inspired tiny house.” You can visit it during their business hours throughout the year. They encourage taking pictures and signing the guest book. Also, be sure to check out their rooftop garden display.
Here’s a video of the Hobbit House!
Open: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, every day. However, due to COVID-19, check their site for any changes.
My Girl Drive-In Museum
‘My Girl Drive-In Museum’ Photo by Leo Phillips
Re-live 1950’s Americana with Kingston’s authentic 50’s drive-in replica! My Girl “houses 10,000 square feet of collectibles including chainsaws, outboard motors, and antique toys”. If you’re a fan of 50’s music, they also have quite the collection of rock and roll memorabilia.
This museum is available for private and corporate events! Contact the host and curator: Bob Thompson at: (360) 297 – 1782
Lisa Stirrett Glass Art Studio
Source: Lisa Stirrett Glass Art Studio
Sunny days in Silverdale illuminate the circular orange glass art atop the Lisa Stirrett Glass Art Studio, beckoning glass artists and art enthusiasts from across Kitsap and beyond. Since 1987, Lisa has been a Northwest artist. Her studio welcomes visitors and is open to the public so that anyone can watch glass being created.
In addition to watching a master at her craft, you can check out an amazing display of glassworks. Many are soon-to-be unique gifts – from home decor to landscape art, sinks to candle holders.
Open: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Monday – Saturday
Note from the Studio: “We are adhering to Covid Safe Practices. ZOOM and In-Person classes available. Please CALL for Zoom Kit Shipping!”
Poulsbohemian Coffeehouse
‘The View’ Photo by Leo Phillips
Overlooking Poulsbo’s gorgeous Liberty Bay is a craft coffeehouse worth the trip! Poulsbohemian says it best themselves: “We have the best view in town. We have been perched here overlooking Liberty Bay in Poulsbo since 1993.”
That’s not all they have to boast about: famous coffee, espresso, and pastries – along with a selection of homemade soups, sandwiches, and bagels. Try the very popular wheat-free baklava cake and enjoy a latte infused with one of their homemade syrups!
Once you’re caffeinated, full, and have sufficiently enjoyed the view, your Little Norway adventure begins in the heart of historic Poulsbo!
Current Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, every day except Tuesdays. Check on their Facebook page for any changes.
Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve
Source: Visit Kitsap and Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve
With a drive through seaside Seabeck (and a pit stop at the historic Seabeck General Store), you’ll arrive at the stunning Guillemot Cove beach, nestled under the mighty Olympic Mountain range!
You won’t run out of walking trails with a sprawling 184 acres. Be on the lookout for the many varied species of birds. This pristine place is home to hundreds of birds and other woodland creatures!
Open during daylight hours.
Know of other hidden gems that you think we should highlight? Contact us through our new Facebook page: Windermere Sound Living.
New Agent Spotlight: Angela Winks
We are proud to feature Angela Winks in our new Q&A spotlight series. With a diverse set of skills and experiences, Angela offers buyers and sellers a focused, personalized approach with an emphasis on clear communication, positivity, and a sincere appreciation for the areas and clients she serves. Read on to find out about Angela’s background, what she loves about real estate, and more.
What drew you to real estate?
What drew me to real estate was my passion for all things “home” and my deep desire to help others. I also have always had the desire to have and manage my own business. As a business owner, personal growth and a positive mindset are a vital part of every day and I absolutely love being in an industry that constantly requires me to learn and be more so that I can give more to my family, friends, clients, and community.
What unique professional experiences or skills do you possess that enhance your abilities as a Realtor?
My years of experience in the health and fitness field helped me sharpen my skills as a strong communicator and leader. As an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Director of a post-physical therapy exercise program, I had the opportunity to help clients and patients set and achieve their goals, not only safely and effectively, but in a welcoming and fun environment.
As a Realtor, I enjoy the same opportunities. Whether my clients need to sell or buy real estate, it’s important to have clear communication and a great plan. And, of course, it is always my pleasure to make the whole process as enjoyable as possible for my clients!
What personality traits do you think are important in this profession?
Realtors should possess exceptional interpersonal communication and relationship skills as well as the ability to stay open-minded, focused, organized, and creative.
Which areas do you serve and what do you love about those areas?
I happily serve Kitsap, Pierce, Mason, Jefferson, and King counties. I believe we are incredibly fortunate to live in this part of the country and Washington state. The natural beauty is astounding and the support for the communities and their wonderfully unique local businesses is second to none.
How long have you lived here?
I have lived in Kitsap County for 7 1/2 years. I came here after college because I had family scattered around the area and fell in love with the natural beauty.
What made you decide to work with Windermere?
I decided to work with Windermere because of their special focus on building and nurturing relationships as well as their strong presence in the community. This is a company that truly cares about people and that is extremely important to me! They also provide the latest technology and education for their agents so we can always keep adding tools to our real estate toolbelts and serving our clients at our highest level.
We are delighted that Angela Winks has joined us. We know she will be a sincere pleasure for buyers and sellers to work with here on the Kitsap Peninsula and in Pierce, Mason, Jefferson, and King County. You can connect with Angela through her website.
Easy, Fun Ways to Start the New Year Right
2021 is the fresh start we’ve been waiting for; it’s a new year full of hope and possibility. Want to really make it a year to remember? Here are some fun, easy ways to do just that, right here in Kitsap County.
Enjoy the View
We all get caught up in routines and sometimes that means we take things for granted, like this beautiful place we call home. Bundle up and take a walk on a trail you haven’t been on in months (or ever). Really enjoy the sights and sounds around you.
“I love feeling like a tourist in my own town,” says Cherie Kesti, Branch Manager/Mortgage Consultant for Penrith Home Loans. Kesti enjoys walking along Poulsbo’s marina and through the park. Another great spot in North Kitsap is Point No Point Park and Lighthouse in Hansville. Broker Bonnie Chandler highly recommends it saying, “It’s a favorite beach walk of mine.” Chandler also notes that the lighthouse there is the oldest on Puget Sound. For a more expansive place to take it all in, head to Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park. “I always feel refreshed and renewed after visiting the Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park,” says Broker Valerie Gallagher. “This spacious park is a gift to the community with nearly 3,500 acres & 60 miles of trails!”
While you’re taking it all in, try to remember what it felt like to experience this place for the first time. Or, if you grew up here, remember the joy of sharing this place with a visitor. Focusing on those positive feelings can go a long way, boosting your mood and helping you refuel.
Actually Unplug
If your daily life involves a lot of screen time, take a day to fully unplug. Turn off your laptop, your TV, and yes, even your phone. It can be hard to do but so worth it. See what it feels like to spend time with those you love without any devices. Play a board game, write those holiday thank you notes, work on a home improvement project you’ve been meaning to finish. Whatever you decide to do, you may be surprised how often you instinctively reach for your phone throughout the day. Taking a break can help you step back and see where you really are on the usage spectrum. You may decide you want to limit your screen time as a new year’s resolution. If nothing else, a day off from electronics will help you appreciate them more.
Share Your Love of Books
Whether you’re an avid reader or have fond memories reading childhood favorites, make this a year to remember by sharing your love of books. Dust off some old stories that others could benefit from and donate them to your nearest Little Free Library. If there isn’t one near you, start your own! It’s a fun project, especially if you have kids. They can help you design it, decorate it, and fill it with all kinds of books for the neighborhood to enjoy.
Starting or adding to a Little Free Library also calls for a visit to your local bookstore. After all, you’ll have to pick up something new to read to fill those empty spots on your bookshelf. We love local bookstores like Poulsbo’s Liberty Bay Books and Eagle Harbor Book Co. on Bainbridge Island. If you struggle to find the time to sit down with a good book, we suggest downloading the free app called Libby. You can borrow ebooks and audiobooks on it by connecting it to your Kitsap Regional Library card. It’s easy to use and offers thousands of books for free.
Create a Gratitude Jar
Here’s a simple yet meaningful activity to do with your family. Get a large jar and decorate it with the word “gratitude” on it or purchase a gratitude jar like this one. Throughout the year, you and your family members can add notes to it: things you’re thankful for and moments you enjoyed. At the end of 2021, sit down together and go through all of these little notes. It’s a great way to reminisce and regularly practice gratitude throughout the year. To get in the habit, pick a day each week to do it as a family, like on Sundays after dinner. That way, it becomes part of your routine. Additionally, be sure to put it in a prominent place with pens and blank notecards so anyone can quickly jot something down and add it to the jar. The easier you make it, the more little notes you’ll have at the end of the year to enjoy.
Here’s to a wonderful new year ahead!
