Of five cities I’ve visited this week, Seattle is my favorite by far. With Lake Washington, Puget Sound and Cascade mountains nearby, there’s no shortage of incredible views or outdoor activities. It rains but rarely snows, and oversized fur trees greenify the region year-round. Clean sidewalks, fresh salmon, rich coffee, blooming tulips, outdoorsy people, innumerable unique restaurants and a lively music scene — talk about high quality living!
Asian culture influences the local demeanor, which seems simultaneously shy and friendly. Downtown neighborhoods bleed into one another, so interstate driving isn’t necessary, especially if you work at one of the many well-known businesses with offices here — Amazon, Boeing, Costco, Microsoft, Nordstrom, REI, Starbucks, Zillow, and the list goes on. Home of the hipster nation, a casual dress code is the norm for work or play. And a light rail is coming?! As usual, I’m sold!
Born in nearby Tacoma, my mother has wonderful memories of time spent swimming in Lake Louise and picking blackberries with my great-grandfather. I imagine her childhood was filled with simple joys and endless laughter. Watching sea planes and paddle boards from the Lake Union houseboat community, made famous by Sleepless in Seattle, I think this is the kind of existence I’d like to provide for my family, if I’m lucky enough to have one someday.
