Active Lifestyle

Seattle Seahawks

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With new coach Pete Carroll at the helm, many are hopeful for a winning 2010 season.

Seattle Seahawks fans are known as the loudest fans in the NFL…and this is in an outdoor stadium like Qwest Field – that is pretty darn good!   Check out the history of the 12th man at http://www.seahawks.com/fans/12zone/spirit-of-12.html.  Who will be the person/celebrity raising the 12th man flag each game?  Show up and find out.  At the time of this post, J.R. Celski, 2010 Winter Olympics short track speed skater two-time bronze medalist was the latest to have this honor.

At the Qwest Events Center prior to the football game, check out Touchdown City.  It offers numerous activities to get your energy going… meet the Sea Gals and have them sign their new calendar, watch the game in the “lounge” on a 40 x 48 screen, see the pre-game show being broadcasted via radio, bid on autographed memorabilia, shop for Seahawks merchandise, stop by one of the sponsors/vendors exhibits, test your quarterbacking accuracy or get timed in the 40 yard dash.  Or maybe you want a temporary tatoo or have your hair colored to show your Seahawks spirit.

Qwest Field offers cutting edge technology, a roof that covers 70% of the seating area, views of downtown Seattle and surrounding area, and a variety of seating options that put you just feet from the action.  On a local, artistic note – check out the wall showcasing the helmets of Washington State’s high school football teams (with a legend to help find your favorite).   Purchase your favorite Seahawks merchandise at the pro shop or at any number of the kiosks located around the stadium.  At the pro shop, you can have a customized jersey made or find Seattle Sounders gear as well.

And if you are looking for food and drink prior to during the game, I would recommend checking out one of the numerous options near Qwest Field.  I say this because the food is limited upon entering the stadium.  Your choices are the typical stadium and hot dog fare, Ivars seafood, Kidd Valley hamburgers, bbq, burritos, or pizza.  I was disappointed that there was not more of an assortment…such as Subway or similar to the fine selection at Safeco Field.  Mind you, I understand this might be the case as there is an extended period of time between games.  Also, if you are into microbrews, the selection is limited – you will find a better selection at a hockey game.  But of course, tailgating might be the preferred option…bring your own grub, grill it to your liking and make your own meal/sandwich to bring in.  Enjoy!

Go Hawks!  http://www.seahawks.com/

Check out Seattle Seahawks 2010 schedule:

http://www.seahawks.com/schedule/season-schedule.html

Update 11/28/10 –  if you can get a pass (or have a ticket) to the club level, try the $40 buffet…NOTE:  you won’t need to eat the rest of the day!!!!  Good mix of choices…omelet (breakfast bar), spring rolls, asian noodles, pot stickers,  freshly carved roast beef, wedge salad, mini-sausage options (3), pork loin …and delicious bloody mary’s are served.

Mariners Baseball and Elysian Fields

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Although I have written of this before (see May 2010), I needed to add to it as the experience was again a good one.  Prior to the July 8th Seattle Mariners game vs. the New York Yankees, we had starters at Elysian Fields.  Recommendations:  1) Side:  French Fries 2) Starter: Oasis Plate – Hummus, Baba Ganouj, cucumber salad, grilled pita.  The cucumber salad is wonderful – nice chunks of tomato, feta cheese, cucumber.  So good I had to mention it.  3) Starter: Fried Goat Cheese – rosemary honey, red pepper coulis, grilled baguette – YUM!!!! It is also served with greens that has a delicious balsamic dressing.  Delectable!  4)  Men’s Room Original Red – and for the fans… it is being served in other establishments around the Puget Sound area and is now being bottled.

The weather was great for baseball in the summertime.  Did you ever hear that summer starts July 5th in the Seattle area?  It is true much of the time.  On this day, it was our hottest day yet…but still comfortable.  We were sitting behind right field where Nick Swisher was playing for the Yankees.  I am not a Yankee fan but am a Nick Swisher fan.  I was wearing my Oakland Athletics 33 Swisher t-shirt…I stood up and yelled…Hey Swish!  He looked, smiled, and tipped his hat…now that was cool!  It made my night.   A shout out must also be given to the staff at Safeco Field – my sunglasses of five years (purchased in NYC), fell from my purse and one of the clean-up crew actually turned them in to lost and found!  How great is that!

Rock ‘n’ Roll 1/2 Marathon Seattle

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Have you checked this off your bucket list yet?  The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and 1/2 Marathon show up in numerous cities throughout the USA.   http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/  The Seattle event starts in Tukwila (arrive early as there can be heavy traffic getting to the drop off point) and ends in Seattle at Qwest Field.  The route runs along the freeways, through neighborhoods, winds through the beautiful Seward Park area with views of Lake Washington and then into downtown Seattle.  The weather was great this year as it was overcast yet mild enough that a jacket was not needed.  What I found interesting is that many start out with a coverup for the morning (one that they don’t care about) and dump it on the side of the path once they have warmed up.  You are assigned a corral based on the expected finish time but of course it is you who controls your finish time.  And fun was had…especially as I beat my desired time and made it through the pain in my foot.  Training support is available as well as tips to make the most out of the experience.  I saw a bit of everything – the dedicated or competitive runner, those that are supporting a charity (as this marathon series benefited the American Cancer Society), or a spunky 82-year-old woman who came in just five or so minutes after I did – amazing!…among others.  It is an achievement by any account to complete the 13.1 or 26.2 mile run/walk. 

The Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon series entertains with different bands (various genres) along the way.  And there is a post race concert open to the participants and the public alike – Tonic headlined for 2010.  See the Entertainment page for the 20+  http://seattle.competitor.com/entertainment/bands/.  Water and a sports drink are available at many spots along the route as well.  Support was shown from Cheerleaders from different area schools, neighbors that cheered us on from their front lawn, friends and family that came out, and the volunteers were of much support.  Look out for Elvis along the route too!  And what I had not expected, a medal was given for all those who finished the race…very cool!

Next year’s event will take place on June 25, 2011.  Sign up early as it sells out by March.  I heart Rock!

Green Lake

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When I moved back to the Seattle area many years ago, Green Lake (I typically spell it …Greenlake) was a recommended must-see to visitors as it is a popular space that exudes vibrancy, community, and the Northwest lifestyle.   I haven’t been back in the last couple years and wondered why as I fell right back “in appreciation” with it.  This lake is nestled between I-5 and Hwy 99 in Seattle, WA.  It is surrounded by homes, restaurants, and shopping…where parking can be a challenge at times.  What I saw on my outing: 

A range of race, nationality, every age..from baby to elderly, dress…whether it be fitness, jeans or workwear (I actually saw someone walking in a business suit), and all lifestyles…moms with their children in strollers (a lot of these), family, friends, co-workers, those getting in their daily (or periodic) walk or run, rollerblading, frisbee, and those walking (or running) their dogs (and there are all kinds)…I loved this as I like dogs.  There are those that are picnicking or sunning themselves, boat rentals, people watching while feeding a squirrel (not recommended), birdwatching, fishing, playing with a motorized boat, reading a book (while walking) or sipping coffee, bicycling, playing tennis, basketball, those having a group meeting or class, and children playing at the playground (and wading pool when it gets warmer).  I especially enjoyed seeing three older gents taking a stroll, getting their exercise, and enjoying conversation.  Rowing, sailing, canoeing, and kayaking classes can be had at the Green Lake Small Craft Center.  And for your art fix – the Seattle Public Theater at the Bathhouse http://seattlepublictheater.org/ offers community-based theater in an intimate setting. 

What to do:  EVERYTHING!

http://www.seattle.gov/parks/park_detail.asp?ID=307

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_Lake_(Seattle)

UPDATED 6/17:

Headed to Super Jock ‘n Jill http://superjocknjill.com/ to see their Thursday night sports therapist with regards to my foot…seems to be that I need to stretch my tight calves to keep the pressure off the toes.  Super Jock ‘n Jill has good service and really looks to find you the right shoe.  Anyway, met a friend for lunch prior to and ended up at Tacos Guaymas at Green Lake.  http://www.tacosguaymas.com/cantinagreenlake/index.html   This is one of my preferred spots located here.   I enjoyed the complimentary chips and salsa and draft beer for happy hour (sitting in the bar area is my preference).  I cannot comment on the margaritas as I have not had these recently.  We ordered the chicken soft tacos and a quesadilla.  The staff is friendly…with smiles from the men.  And a special treat, a mariachi band entertains on a regular basis at this location.  Tacos Guaymas has other locations as well.

Sammamish River Trail

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Located on the “Eastside”, the Sammamish River Trail makes I-5 in Seattle look like a country road – just kidding… as we came upon an accident between two bicyclists.  This trail is enjoyed by cyclists, runners, walkers, commuters, rollerbladers, dog walkers, and families out for a day together.  It runs from Marymoor Park in Redmond along the Sammamish River into Bothell, and then picks up the Burke Gilman Trail which extends all the way to Seattle.  A friend and I are preparing for a half marathon and wanted to get some walk time in…so, 7.5 miles were walked with a stop at the Redhook Brewery afterwards for a fill up.   I was so focused on my walking that I forgot to take a picture.  There is much to do around the Sammamish River Trail…it is close to shopping, parks, wine tasting in Woodinville, as well as cultural activities.

http://www.kingcounty.gov/recreation/parks/trails/regionaltrailssystem/sammamishriver.aspx

Redhook Brewery and Forecaster’s Pub –  http://www.redhook.com/Default.aspx?p=41  Forecaster’s Pub is open daily and has a variety of brews on tap and a pub-style menu that will surely please…whether you choose the bratwurst, a sandwich, nachos, burger, or other (hint:  warm the bun).  An outdoor patio (when the weather allows)  makes this an essential summer stop.  Minors are welcome anytime except for after 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays when the patrons are entertained by live music (which I have heard is a bit too loud).   The brewery is known for a tasty and informative tour – 1 hour for $1.  On select Thursday evenings during the summer, cop a squat under the stars and enjoy a flick at the outdoor Moonlight cinema.  The movie starts at dusk.

Seattle Mariners Baseball

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May 25-  Enjoy Baseball?  Want to see a ballpark that offers a great experience?  The Seattle Mariners and Safeco Field won’t disappoint…at least not this day with a win (5-3) vs. the Detroit Tigers.  www.seattlemariners.com

Safeco Field is a terrific ballpark for baseball.  It offers a view of the downtown Seattle skyline, the ability to watch the pitchers in the bullpen up close and personal and  .  It features a comprehensive, state-of-the art scoreboard system and a one-of-kind retractable roof (designed to cover not enclose the ballpark).  The Mariner Moose…the Mariners mascot, can be seen around the ballpark, in the stands, and in the Moose Den (at certain times during each game).  Take note of your surroundings as the Art in the Park is varied and impressive.  My particular favorite is the “quilt” made of license plates, discarded pop cans and other metals.  Also, located at the Home Plate Gate, a sculpture (chandelier) made of baseball bats.

A wide assortment of food vendors can be found here – Thai, sushi (including the famous Ichiroll), hot dogs, pizza, soft pretzels, microbrews, organic/veggie selections, Mexican fare, BBQ, Ivar’s seafood,  Kidd Valley burgers… and the garlic fries with the can’t miss aroma, Shishkaberry (chocolate covered strawberries on a stick), and of course the typical ballpark fare (along with some surprises). The club level offers the Terrace Club, specialty food selections, suites, and the Hit It Here Cafe.  The third level offers sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains, Seattle and Puget Sound.

 An ongoing suggestion:  more rock music…although I did like “If you’re happy and you know it clap your hands” 🙂

Prior to the game, we enjoyed Taco Tuesday (in the bar from 4-6 pm) at Elysian Fields.  It is located in the Stadium District (with two other locations around Seattle).  The restaurant has windowed garage doors that open to its patio which adds to the atmosphere during the nice weather.  The beer selection consists of beer from Elysian Brewing (I liked the Mens Room Original Red (KISW radio)) as well as a variety of “guest” beer.  The menu doesn’t fail to impress. On certain game nights, Elysian Fields has a special/limited bar menu and on the regular menu, a number of items have been tried (and enjoyed)…steamed mussels (or clams), steak sandwich (or salad), and the hamburger is a continued favorite.  http://www.elysianbrewing.com/elysianfields.html

Miles Traveled

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Whether you walk, jog, or run… www.mapmyrun.com “empowers active lifestyles” or those trying to :).  Offers training tips, lists events, social connection, and allows you to track your own progress, create your own map, or get suggestions for a route near you… or wherever you may roam.  Another option:   http://www.run.com/ lists routes in other countries which is especially fun if you like maps and international travel.