Butter Massage Spa at 1320 Market St is ready to sweep you away for some much-needed "me" time.  Owner Michelle Wedel's goal is for everyone to leave her new business relaxed.  And she didn't have to twist my arm to give it a try!  I love the interior updates to this classic building we've all cruised by a million times.  It feels clean and organized (which calms me) and also professional while quiet and private.   You can park on the street or in the little lot in the back.   Michelle will greet you for check-in, so get there early because not only should you never ever be even 3 seconds late for a massage, but the lobby has an interesting array of products that are all from women-owned and US-based brands and you'll want to have time to check them out. There's fabulous smelling non-drying hand sanitizer, jewelry that she creates (her former job), candles, lotions, oils, and more.  Michelle got into this business because she was hit by a semi-truck in her 20s and experienced chronic neck pain. The only thing that helped was massage, and she enjoys working with her hands and being one-on-one with people, so she wanted to be able to help others this way too.

My treatment really hit the spot in a comfortable room where she expertly delivered a 90-minute deep-tissue massage and discovered many rocks that have apparently been living rent-free in my upper back. Specialty oils and hot towels made it complete.  Michelle has a quiet demeanor, which I appreciate in this environment, and I shared how I always wished there was an option to pay a little extra at the end of a massage so I could just fall asleep for 30 minutes instead of having to re-dress and face the world again so immediately.   LOL- is this just me? Her full list of services can be found here and include luxuries such as hot stones, warm bamboo, cryotherapy, cupping, dry brush, and more.  Pricing is really reasonable starting at $100.  And of course, there's something special for Kirkland Blog readers..... a 90-minute hot stone massage, seasonal sugar scrub for back and feet, plus a paraffin foot treatment all for $185.  Text 206-402-1978 to book before 9/1/2023 and tell Michelle you heard about it here.  Alternatively, there is a first-time client discount of $15 off a service of your choice.

Other providers rent space in the building  that offer services such as permanent make-up, skincare, acupuncture, and naturopathy.  They will soon be expanding into the downstairs also.  And Michelle will have another room where there will eventually be couples massages offered.  Check back at buttermassagespa.com and their Insta page often for updates, promos, and monthly offers.  Go treat yourself to a 90-minute massage at Butter Massage Spa (60 is never quite enough..), you deserve it! ~j

<--mushroom burger on The Slip's new patio

I hope not! But maybe?  ARGH!  I'm having some technical issues with the blog and contact mgmt platform which is super frustrating. I've also been traveling a bit lately and maybe I'm old and tired too?  You guys are so sweet, though, I really appreciate the notes I've received asking what's happened or where I went and encouraging me to keep blogging.  I haven't forgotten you, I promise.  

I do have bunches of things to share................like the fact that Forge Pizza delivery/takeout just launched inside Coastline Burgers on Central (and hello handcrafted canned cocktails too!).  And Arleana's on Central is working hard to open soon and there's a menu posted already.  After being closed for 3 months,  The Slip has re-opened with its new patio offering 50% more seating.   Sparrow just announced their full menu will be available for lunch too, starting at 11am,, and happy hour is 3-5.  And yes, our beloved Stavros sold Santorini Greek Grill ( we all miss that big smile!), but you shouldn't notice much change in the restaurant.  He left it in the capable hands of his good friend that owns other Greek eateries in Seattle, and of course, Hector and the guys making those amazing gyro salads I crave will keep the food experience consistent.

On the events side of things, there's a Kirkland Job Fair coming up on April 1st that will help get our teens out of our hair this summer. Hooray! The (free!) Kirkland  Easter Egg hunt is April 9th. And we can almost start thinking about Wednesday Market and what's new there this year.  Spring/summer programs through the City of Kirkland open on 3/22 at 7am and Aquatics reg opens 3/29 at 7am on KirklandParks.net (this is when 4082 Kirkland moms all try to sign their kids up for swim lessons at the very same time). Better be logging in at 6:59!

Lucky me, I just had a treatment at Butter Massage Spa and an upcoming post will tell you all about it and share a special offer for readers.  And there's also a new animal urgent care in Houghton I have some scoop on.  It looks like the sales office for the new Continental Property apartments called Vela  (old Hector's spot) is open.  I'm so curious, anyone been in? 

Sorry, that's a lot of info.  That's what happens when I don't share for a month or two, I'm all pent up with Kirkland gossip.  Be sure you are following KirklandWeblog's Facebook and Insta, it's way easier for me to post quick updates there as they're happening.  

PS- what is with all of the new pay parking signs at Juanita Village? #superannoying

You can still squeeze a few more things on your calendar in these upcoming weeks, right?  Here we go..

Before we get to the fun stuff, we'll start with a little 'biz' about Park Lane, because if you have opinions to share, now is your chance to do so.  The debate of whether to close this award-winning street permanently to vehicles and parking is back on the front burner.  There's plenty of history to catch you up on right here, and I welcome you to get involved in upcoming meetings on January 26th and 27th.  There are consultants doing a study right now, and results and decisions will be made in the coming months.  

Sat Jan 28th, 12-2 pm in the Fountain Court at Kirkland Urban: “Come Together” to Kirkland Urban for the second annual (free and public) musical celebration inspired by the original surprise Beatles Rooftop concert in 1969. The event will feature a musical performance by one of Seattle’s favorite Beatles music experiences, Good Day Sunshine, who will perform every song from the original Beatles Rooftop Concert. Attendees will enjoy photo moments with Beatles-inspired costumed characters, themed Instagram-able moments, and groovy giveaways (while supplies last.) 

Aprés-Ski Patio Pop-Up at The Heathman's Hearth Mon-Sat 5-9pm through Jan 28th- Experience Aspen vibes in downtown Kirkland with alpine fare and comfort classics paired with hot cocktails.  It's like a little staycation- crab deviled eggs, hot toddies, table-top smores and even a shot-ski for you adventurous peeps! Reservations recommended 425-284-5900.

Feb 10th 5-9 pm is the Downtown Kirkland Wine Walk: It's 90's themed, so get your half shirts and mullets ready (which weirdly are sort of back in style). Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door.  This is always a fun stumble around town to see what's new with your favorite friends, or just meet new ones there.

If you haven't booked your Valentine's Day adventure yet, you'd better hurry!  How about a little relaxing? The Woodmark Hotel & Still Spa is doing a "Love is in the Air" package that includes luxury accommodations, $250 credit towards a 60 min couples massage w/aromoatherapy, a bottle of sparkling wine, and rose petals with signature Bath Butler (that would be a little strange if that were actually a person?! LOL) Promo code: LOVE23 to find out. 

Citrus in June recently opened in Kirkland Urban to bring you joy in all of your plant, flower, and gift-giving needs. You should know this adorable shop exists because it's not super obvious.   You'll find Citrus in June on the second floor of Urban, right next to Dough Zone, which happens to be one of my favorite lunch spots at the moment. As a matter of fact, that is what you should do.  Apologies, I'm getting a little off-topic here, but grab a friend and go to Dough Zone.  I used to really struggle with the word 'dough' in its name because I'm feeling doughy enough as it is.  But you can get an excellent not-so-doughy lunch for two people for about $28. I'll even tell you what to order to share: A-choy w/sesame dressing (ask for light dressing), broccoli (it's always perfectly prepared), chicken soup dumplings, chicken & vegetable wontons with chili sauce.  You're welcome!

After lunch, then stroll next door to Citrus in June (#220).  A rainy afternoon pairs nicely with a belly of warm soup and some plant shopping.  This shop is the 'little sister' to their full-service shops, Columbia City Bouquet and South Lake Union Bouquet in Seattle.    You'll find fresh flowers in the case each day and plenty of plant varietals in every size and shape, or you can always order a custom arrangement for pickup or delivery.  Poke around a little more to discover glassware, cards, candles, journals/pens, stickers, and plenty of other treasures and gifts.  I was pretty excited they carry my favorite super soft/absorbent dishtowels by Geometry that come in great patterns I always had to buy online, but now I can get them locally (a great hostess gift!).   They will be in this space until at least June, so let's show them some love. And check your mailbox, there was a recent local mailer with a "25% off any one item" coupon in it.  

500 Uptown Court, Suite 220,  425-577-1485, @citrusinjune

It doesn't feel like that many years ago that I was chipping ice off the boat's windshield to waterski in early December.  I must have been crazy. Just like all of you polar plungers!  The City of Kirkland's official "January Jump" scheduled for  January 7th was canceled due to a lack of sign-ups.  But I have a feeling you die-hards don't want to plan that far ahead and pay $15 to jump in a public lake.  So go ahead and do what you always do, the ole regulars and the newbies can all bond in their skivvies as they charge into 2023 AND Lake Washington at Marina Park at 1pm on January 1st.   A bathing suit/towel, hat, shoes that can get wet, and your defibrillator is all you'll need for this unsanctioned and invigorating Kirkland tradition.  The water temp of Lake WA is around 40 degrees now, which seems balmy compared to this crazy lady in Antarctica.  Stay warm friends, and happy new year! 

Is there family in town for the holidays? Perhaps you need a place to hide from your kids or in-laws with a cold local beer to unwind? I've got you covered! Check out this little gem and take an extended stroll (bring the dog!) down to Side Hustle on Lake Street where you can enjoy a crisp local brewsky and relax.  Nestled in the space formerly occupied by Asher, you will find beers that have been sourced directly from nearby breweries and kegged the same day.  And the vibe is comfortable, approachable, and non-pretentious. 

Owner James Whittaker and his wife Sharon (photo) are cutting out the middleman and bringing fresh craft beer varieties directly to their welcoming Kirkland location.  James explained how true local craft beers are usually found in out-of-the-way or uninspiring locations, while walkable downtowns typically offer industrial beer disguised as a true craft.  His goal is to bring a great ambiance AND super fresh craft beer to one place. Side Hustle is only for the 21+ crowd, so you'll be leaving the kids home for this one.   There are currently about 9-10 breweries in their co-op, most of which don't distribute broadly, so check out the taplist and pricing here.  The Stout from Watts Brewery has been a best seller.  In addition to beer, there are also ciders, and wine from Morgan Lee and 425 Cellars.  I tried the pineapple hard seltzer ( alas, I'm not a beer girl) which was crisp fruity and refreshing.  And the Two Vintners Cab Sav was also right up my alley. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, there are unique options for you too, such as Lolo Hop water (sparkling water made with hops) or Zentopia CBD seltzer (nighty night!).

       
Side Hustle is a spot where you could bring your laptop and work all day or meet up with Friends, in an unofficial "Cheers" of Kirkland type of way.  Mind and board games are stacked by the tables.  The staff is super friendly and they even have a reclaimed wood bar with a resin pour in the shape of Lake Washington!   Once a month they will host events such as comedy performances (Andrew Rivers on January 19th!), or the infamous Kirkland Wine Walks.  There's no food at Side Hustle, but you are welcome to order or pick up from elsewhere and bring it in.  Reach out directly  if you'd like to host lectures or private parties (max 66 ppl) in this excellent space. Hours are M-F 3-10 and Sat 1-10 and Sun 1-9. Ohhh, and don't forget Happy Hour which is $1 off any drink 3-6pm. They also have a "Mug Club" for your mug... $100/ year that gets you free special event admission, 20 oz pours, and other fun perks. 

Contact 425-898-4136 or contact@sidehustletaps.com. Insta: @sidehustletaps  

Since I'm admittedly not a beer connoisseur, I'll rely on you all to ''brew' up some feedback to share.

Sweet Serenity,  formerly located in The Village at Totem Lake (they still have a flower cart at the Village!), is now permanently moved into their space at 140 Park Lane.  This adorable plant/flower/candle shop feels fresh, and airy, and gives happy vibes when you breeze through.  Light splashes through the big corner windows where the plants soak it all in.  Sweet Serenity has fabulous plants in many shapes, sizes, and presentations. They also do flower arrangements and custom-made bouquets, along with soy wax candles that they make and pour every few days in-house.  

The interior is organized by scent, with each awning having its own featured smell.  Their most popular scent is "Happy Hour" (that sounds about right to me), followed by "Winter's Night" which is cozier. There are plenty of great hostess gifts and creative foliage pick-me-ups to make someone's day.  Sweet Serenity also offers classes, such as their wreath-making class that is coming up on 12/16, which looks like it even has a few spots left! 

Sweet Serenity hours are Mon-Thurs 11 am- 6 pm and Fri/Sat 11 am- 7 pm. 425-588-8575.  Go pop in and 'buy local.' 

The last Halloween Snickers bar had barely hit our treat bags this year when everyone flipped on their holiday lights! Turns out, this is really helpful since it's dark by 4 every day now and I'm in my jammies by 6.  COVID struck me down last week, which is entirely un-fun, so I'd recommend staying rested, boosted, and properly liquored up to fight off any potential incoming infections.  Holiday happenings are starting to crop up, so I thought I'd share these few with you now...

Fri Nov 18th is the Ugly Sweater Kirkland Wine, Beer, & Spirits Walk. You start at the Heathman Hotel and troll around to various local merchants from 5-9pm while sipping and laughing at each other.  Always a fun time! Tickets are $30 now or $40 at the door.  Or you could always volunteer to be a door monitor if that's more your style (we appreciate you!). 

Frostival at Kirkland Urban- Every Saturday from 11/26-12/17.  This is a free community event that includes snaps with Santa, a gingerbread selfie suite, snow on the promenade, holiday pop caroler, caffe ladro coffee + cookies, and festive giveaways from 11-2.  And from 10-2 you can enjoy the KDA's winter market where you'll find artisan crafts, gifts and seasonal delights.  Who doesn't love a delight?

Kirkland Kiwanis Tree Lot- opens Nov 25th at 10am and sticks around each day until they're all gone!  Same prices, same spot with fresh trees, wreaths, garland, and candy at Juanita Beach Park.  

The Village at Totem Lake- keep an eye on their event page for upcoming carolers, ladies night out gingerbread house-making (11/30, 12/7, 12/14), and photos with the big guy in the red suit. 

Winter Wellness at Woodmark Hotel- Get prepared for the holiday stress, and use PROMO code "WINTER" on your luxury accommodation + 60 min massage with white cranberry back scrub (must stay between Nov 1-Dec 30). Also, 12/13 is the Still Spa's Passport event from 3-8pm where you get 2 express spa treatments, expert skin/beauty advice, discounts, and more. You can get your tickets here.  And don't forget Thanksgiving, where Carillon Kitchen can help you with their to-go options (pretend you cooked!), you must order by 11/17. 

Have you been to the Kirkland Downtown Association office in Kirkland Urban? Ziply Fiber is sponsoring a Toys for Tots Box, so there's a great excuse to drop by and bring along a new toy donation.

(photo cred: Google)
On Friday, December 2nd,  Google’s Annual Musical Holiday Lights on the Cross Kirkland Corridor (CKC) will be back, with a free family-fun celebration that includes a petting zoo and hot chocolate.  Google Kirkland engineers have programmed a show featuring 10,000 LED lights and holiday music.

And somehow we seem to have glossed over Thanksgiving, which should never be the case. Always take those moments to be grateful and relax with friends and family.   If you don't feel like cooking, you can order your Thanksgiving to-go meal from Carillon Kitchen ($75/pp).  Just order by Nov 17th and pickup Thurs 11/24 between 10am-2pm. Hearth at The Heathman is also doing to-go ($70/pp)  or dine-in for your Thanksgiving fixings.