Sun Mountain Lodge Review.

The drive over to Winthrop from Kingston was a beautiful drive. We decided to do the cascade loop a drive that I had yet to ever do as someone that was born and raised in Washington State. 

Being a native from Washington, I know what it's beauty has to offer. A wealth of natural beauty and generous quality vacation spots and resorts that we have to offer to the people that truly want to see something amazing. You are in luck Sun Mountain Lodge is one I had heard that I needed to try and check out. Nestled in the Methow Valley in Eastern Washington. 

When my Mom and I made the turn on the Arlington exit off of I-5  we started to drive towards Eastern Washington. We realized that it didn't take very long at all to leave the Western Washington's rainy gray skies behind us. Amazingly Winthrop Washington is located only 200 miles northeast of Seattle.The baby blue skies and warm sunshine made us feel like we had jumped on a plane to get this sunshine but we just had to drive a few hours to reach it. A great trip to our back yard is all we needed. 

Stepping back in time in the frontier town of Winthrop Washington with it's old wooden sidewalks. Winthrop is a popular destination for visitors from all around the country. The Cowboy town is fun to explore especially the downtown very quaint old out west feel and appearance. Despite it's small size, hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, make their way over the Mountains just like My mom and I did just to check it out. Walk down main street where you can get  a taste of the old West! The great shops and ice cream cones are just the tip of the iceberg for a fun vacation spot. If you don't already know, Winthrop offers a variety of outdoor activities. The area offers 150 miles of trails, busy with bikers, hikers and horse back riders during the summer months. Cross country skiers and snow shoers leave their tracks during the winter months. There are many great fishing and hunting area's within a short drive of Winthrop. 

We were able to check out some great places to shop Trails End Bookstore where we were able to get some fun books to read while staying at Sun mountain lodge. Red Hen Trading Company a great little consignment shop that mom and I were both able to find a new treasure to take home. I got a new dress for $2.50 and Mom got a beautiful scarf for $1.00. Aspen Grove Gifts was a wonderful place to check out, with such fun things it was hard to just choose one thing to buy. Mom found a pink cast iron flying pig and I found a the perfect clock to go in my Paris themed office. There were so many wonderful places to shop at but I don't want to write about them all in this review because I am very excited to go back again. 

After we were done looking around we got a bite to eat at the Duck Brand Cantina where mom and I both had a wonderful lunch. I can only hope to one day be asked to stay in the hotel that they have on the same site as the Duck Brand Cantina at this is a great place with a funky themed environment. We also tried the School House Brewery, the place where your husband will be happy to sit and relax all the while enjoying a brew and the sound of the river rolling through the outside patio. It is a perfect way to end a fun day in the wild wild west. 

On our drive up to the lodge we were amazed with the beautiful views of the sun soaked mountains glimmering in the gold tones that the rolling hills only eastern Washington has, the entire time the road followed the river. Wild life was everywhere you looked. Eagles flying over head, baby deer close to their mommy's and the Buck's leading the way. The entire time I was thinking what it must look like when its blanketed in snow. How amazing a trip up to Sun Mountain must look like in the middle of winter.  After about a half hour we made it to the lodge and the view just continued to get better.

I received a frosty greeting at the front desk, when asking for a little more detailed direction for how to get to my room. I felt that I was a bother when I asked about it after I had checked in. Being that the resort is so well known and such a destination for people to travel to I would think that their hospitality would be a little bit better. The housekeeping staff was above and beyond helpful and sweet, making me forget about the first impression of the front desk. All was forgiven right then and there. I am sure that they do a lot for making things right. The gift shop was over the top and was far above expectation with hand picked details and all the things you might have forgotten at the bottom of the mountain in town. They even had Ting's my favorite vegan chips. 


Our room was amazing and the decor didn't take away from the natural wonders of outside. The little patio with a table and two chairs were just prefect for mom and I to sit out and enjoy the sunset between the mountains and the valley. A doe and her fawn's came right to our patio and if we would have reached out our hands we would have been able to pet them. Something in my life I had never been so close to before in their own natural settings.  The bed was comfy and the linen was rich and enjoyable to sleep in. I am always so worried about the sleep I am going to get on a review. It wasn't a disappointment at all.  The I-pod dock allowed us to listen to the kind of music we like and enjoy but the room had a built in radio with stations that were pre programed for us if we didn't have an I-pod.  The bathroom was big and had a jetted tub and free standing shower. In the living area there was a coffee table, desk and couch along with a rustic feeling chase lounge. All in all the room was beautiful and comfortable.


We ordered room service and both wished that we would have just gotten out of our Pj's and gone to the 5 star restaurant to enjoy the food prepared there instead of having cold food brought to us in our rooms. For only about $15.00 more we could have really enjoyed a nice meal. The next time we go we will know now to do this.

If relaxing in a peaceful environment free of the noise and clutter of every day life and distractions is what you are looking for this is your place. If you are a TV girlie like me it was a little hard to take the no TV resort.  Although I know it was really good for me, and Mom and I were able to enjoy some great conversations and a lot of laughs. So once in a while it pays to have a no TV night. They do have WiFi allowing me to catch up on some Hulu time.

Sun Mountain Lodge is the kind of resort that when people think of Washington they think of this, a place where people can come relax & enjoy being front and center with the wilderness. For those who are looking for a true Northwest escape from your everyday life this is the place.

They say that this is a fun filled family vacation spot, although I didn't see one child at the resort during our visit. I don't know any children at a young age that would enjoy this, and I don't think the couples looking for romance would enjoy the not so peaceful moments with a little one screaming or crying about the lodge.

Guests have so many activities to choose from including fly fishing, river rafting, canoeing, tennis, and nearby golf. When winter approaches, it turns into a winter wonderland, cross-country, ice skating and sleigh rides. 

For a added relaxing touch,  one can enjoy some of the many spa services or a dip in one of the two pools on site. If you are looking to enjoy a great backyard escape, Sun Mountain Lodge is the first place you should look to plan your next getaway. I know I will go back with my girlfriends for a wonderful girls get away next Spring.  


Remember when you book your trip there tell them Kingstongirl sent you!

Advice for a person who want to travel.

I love to travel. I always have, I always will.  I think its in my soul, my blood or whatever else could have been the cause. Being a travel writer and review hotels and Inn's, B&B's is an amazing dream job that has now become a reality to me and my world.  I am going to pass on tips for traveling in my blog. Giveaways for travel related things. Between this and the great things going on in my neck of the woods in and around the great places that I have in my back yard of Kitsap County. 

Here are some tips I hope you find to be something that you enjoy maybe laugh a bit and maybe then book a great month away in a small little town to really learn the in's and out's of a different part of the world. 

Best advice: For over seas travel. 

1. Say Hello, to all other travelers. You never know when you need help.
2. Theft. Out of site, out of mind. Do not show people what you have. People steal what they can see. EXAMPLE: Walking around with a camera. Put it in a backpack.
3. Always take a taxi, or bus, etc from bus station to hotel.
4. Store you passport, travel check information in you e-mail box. 
5. Carry a Padlock, Place it on a door. Put eyelet screw on door if possible or when needed, use your own lock.
6. Do not look rich, dress, jewelry, tourist clothes, expensive backpack.
7. Take long pants on all bus rides. 
8. Take lots of pictures.

Hotels: Best 10 Questions

1. Let me look at the mattress please.
2. Do you have free water?
3. Do you have free breakfast?
4. Do you have hot water showers
5. Do you heat with Electricity? Solar? Gas?
6. Is the hot water 24 hours a day?
7. Do you have the hasp, so I can put on my own lock?
8. Are the showers free?
9. Can I bring friend into the hotel, or my room?
10. Do you have cable TV? HBO, Cinecanal?
11. Do you have a book exchange?

Save money:

1. Do not drink beverages, other than water. $3
2. Electric Hot Plate to cook,  $2 Day
3. Guidebook for rooms. $2 Day
4. Water purification drops. $1 Day
5. Take overnight bus. $1 Day
6. Rent rooms in hotels with free water. $1 Day
7. Travel, or share a room with a friend $1 Day
8. Wash you own clothes .50
9.  Eat only 1 sit down meal a day and eat in market for the others.
10. Stay for one month in each location and negotiate a price of room for 1/2 normal price.

Jobs:

1. Teach English
2. Waiter or Waitress
3. Pick Fruit
4. Cook food at hostel for a month
5. Reception of desk.
6. Massage Therapist
7. Dive master
8. Tour guide, or selling tours
9. Graphic on computer. Trade for room
10. Travel Agency.

Why I blog.....

Almost a year ago I began blogging thinking that it would be an outlet for me as a writer.  It has become so much more than just a hobby,  blogging is so fun, it has taught me so much, especially about myself. Just another thing to do to pass the time. It has become a start to a beautiful career.  One that will grow as fast and as big with the time I put into it. blogging might have started slow but with each day and with each post it's brought me to many wonderful adventures and is going to open many doors. 

I enjoy sharing MY stories, photos, and thoughts with people.  The main reason I work so hard on my blog is because I know that it is going to help me reach many of my goals and help my dreams to come true.  I love travel and I love to write so why not make this a place for my readers to be able to check out and then travel to there themselves. 

If you know me well at all you know that one of my goals and wishes, and that is that someday I want to share my unfinished novel with the world. I want to catch the eye of some out there who thinks that I have I am the next big thing.  I hate to disappoint people, and love to surprise them. Writing is my dream, I just never knew. Not until now. I know I have a "style" per se and I believe there is an audience out there who would enjoy my work.  I believe blogging could be my vehicle to where I want to be; a published Author. The west coast Samantha Brown!  

I will continue to write and promote my blog until I see my novel on the New York best sellers list. 

A change is coming.........

I am going to be doing a different spin on Kingstongirl News.  

This is going to be about reviews on places where I stay. 

about businesses that deserve to be talked about.

We are going in a direction that is 100% on target for Traveling, Review,

& seeing what is going on in the North West and especially the 

Great things that North Kitsap has to offer! 

Please stay tuned for some great stuff coming soon! 

xoxo

Tempt my tummy tuesday.

MAPLE BUTTERBUTTER NUT SQUASH

This wonderfully buttery squash puree, sweetened with maple syrup and whipping cream, is a classic fall favorite that's sure to make a spectacular side to your Thanksgiving turkey.

Ingredients

• 4 lb. (2 kg). butternut squash
• 1/4 cup (50 mL) butter
• 1/4 cup (50 mL) whipping cream
• 1/4 cup (50 mL) maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp. (2 mL) salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. With a large, sharp knife, cut butternut squash in half lengthwise. Scoop seeds out with a spoon and place both halves, cut side down, in a shallow baking dish or cookie sheet with sides. Pour in just enough water to cover the pan about 1/8 inch (0.25 cm) deep. Place in oven and bake for 30 minutes. Turn the squash halves over and continue baking for another 30 minutes or until very tender when poked with a fork. Remove from the oven.
3. With a spoon, scoop squash flesh out into a bowl. If you have a food processor, puree squash with butter, whipping cream, maple syrup and salt until very smooth and creamy. (You may have to do this in two batches.) You can also beat butter, cream, maple syrup and salt into squash with an electric mixer, if you prefer. The squash won't come out quite as velvety smooth, but it will still be delicious.

Servings: 8

BRAISED RED CABBAGE & APPLE 
A little sweet, a little sour, this sensational side dish of braised red cabbage and apples is an easy accompaniment to roast turkey that can be made ahead of time and reheated right before dinner.
Looking for more Thanksgiving or Fall recipe ideas?  Do visit our complete listings of Fall comfort recipes that your family will just love!

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp. (30 mL) vegetable oil
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 1 small head red cabbage, quartered and thinly sliced
• 2 apples, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) red wine (any kind)
• 1/4 cup (50 mL) apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp. (15 mL) sugar
• 2 tsp. (10 mL) salt
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) apple jelly

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring for 5 minutes, until softened. Add cabbage and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes or until cabbage is thoroughly wilted and softened. Now add apples, wine, vinegar, sugar and salt, lower the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1-1/2 to 2 hours, stirring once in a while.
2. Stir in apple jelly, replace the cover on the pot and continue to simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes.

Servings: 8

ONE POT CHICKEN AND PASTA!

This is a delicious and quick one-pot wonder. If you want, you can use herb and garlic seasoned diced tomatoes instead of the plain kind – but omit the basil in the recipe and save yourself a step when making this wonderful One-pot pasta with chicken and mushrooms recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable or olive oil
• 1 lb (500 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch (2 cm) chunks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1.5 cups (375 mL) sliced mushrooms
• 1 can (28-oz.798 mL) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (250 mL) water
• 1 tsp (5 mL) dried basil
• 2 cups (500 mL) smallish pasta, such as shells, bow ties, fusilli or elbows
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
• black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks and cook, stirring, for 5 to 7 minutes or until just beginning to brown. With a slotted spoon, remove chicken chunks to a bowl leaving the as much of the oil behind in the pan as possible.
2. Add the onion and mushrooms to the pot and cook until softened – 5 to 7 minutes. Add the tomatoes, water and basil, bring to a boil, then stir in the uncooked pasta. Cover with a lid, lower the heat to medium low and cook for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender but not mushy, stirring once in a while. Drain any excess water.
3. Return the chicken to the pan, and cook for about 3 minutes, until the mixture is completely heated through. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Servings: Makes about 4 servings.

Meet Me Monday!!!

1. What do you do when you have time to yourself?

When I have time to myself where I don't have to write something, or clean something, I would scrapbook, I'm so behind its crazy so yes if I had some me time all to myself that is what I would do.

2. When you look out your kitchen window, what do you see?

I see my neighbors house and their veggie garden, a few piles of wood. Then there is the dry dirt that they dug up to put the propane tank in. Where my lawn and beautiful flower gardens were. Man I miss my flowers.

3. Who/What would you want to be reincarnated as

I have no idea, maybe my dogs, they are spoiled and get to hang out and sleep all day and have no worries.

4. What is your biggest pet peeve about other people's kids?

I can't HANDLE the whining!!

Makes me wanna gouge out my eyeballs when I hear whining. Or not having their children say thank you or the kids that are so lazy that they can't even pick up after themselves, or when I am on the phone and the parents are yelling to them through the phone, just hang up with me and have your loud discussion with out me.

5. Regular or Diet soda?

Diet Coke, I can't do much sugar or I would have to give myself even more insulin. 

& we don't need that now do we.....

What I am looking forward to...

The past week its been getting darker earlier, There is a chill in the air, the leaves are changing  

There are so many things I love about this time of year....

Here are some of the things I am looking forward to, 

Fall colors.

Hot apple cider.

Jumping into plies of leaves.

Knitting on a cold evening. 

Friday night football.

Pumpkins

Vintage Halloween

The Seattle Rain...

Candles in the evening. 

Reading all the books you didn't this summer. 

Snuggling down with warm blankets.

Shopping for Christmas gifts. 

The Fair. :)

The Fall TV show line up!!!!!!!!!!