The Weekend Report: What's Cookin'

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Friday, January 18. Tacoma RV Show. In the market for an RV?!

Review: In true Shyamalan fashion, I can't tell you much about 'Glass'

‘Unbreakable’, the 2000 film starring Bruce Willis as a security guard who learns he has powers one might attribute to a comic book super hero, has a cult-like following. I don’t quite understand it. The film is good. The story works, partially due to the acting but also because movie master and twist ending aficionado M.

Where's Steve? The Pool family opens up about health, hope & an emotional six months

As KOMO TV's lead weather anchor, Steve Pool is used to forecasting the future, but he couldn't have predicted the health news that would change his life. "I was on vacation and I got a call from my doctor on my cell phone," said Steve. "And I fully expected him to say, as he always does, 'Hey - you're fine, go forth and be good. '" This time was different. He had prostate cancer. "I can't even say it because , you know, it makes me emotional," the anchor swallowed. "That was a shock. It was.

'Dear Evan Hansen' announces $25 lottery ticket system

It's lottery time, baby. A couple weeks ago the Paramount Theater announced that Dear Evan Hansen is will be coming to Seattle from January 23 to February 2. Many of us in the office have been pouring over ticketing sites, looking at prices and feeling our wallets cry a little bit. Sound familiar? The good news is - 'Dear Evan Hansen' announced a digital lottery opportunity for fans to enter for a chance to purchase a limited number of $25 tickets available per performance.

5 Amazing Hot Springs in Washington State

Relaxing in a hot spring either tucked away in nature or in a more luxurious location is one of life’s greatest pleasures. We’ve gathered our favorite hot spring locations in Washington state, ranging from family-friendly spots with lots of pampering to pr

RUFFined Spotlight: Floyd the Corgi

10 great books to cozy up with this winter

We haven't exactly felt the brutal winter chill yet, but with snow in the forecast this weekend, it may be time to hunker down under the blankets with an arsenal of good reads! So grab your cocoa and cuddle up with these 10 page-turners -- three you still have to wait a few weeks to find in stores but we promise they are all well worth the read! 1. Becoming. Author: Michelle Obama. Publisher:Crown Publishing Group (2018)

Is there anything more PNW than a Skagit Eagle Festival?

What is it about the bald eagle that is so awe inspiring? Is it their gigantic wingspan? Their regal appearance? Their amazing eyesight? Whatever it is, it doesn’t surprise me one bit that the bald eagle is the emblem of the United States of America. These birds of prey are AMAZING! And, many of them call our dear state of Washington home! During the month of January, bald eagles are especially prevalent in and around the Skagit Valley.

Bachelor Roundtable: 'People don't realize how difficult Night 1 is'

The gang is back together! Of course we’re talking about our fired up Bachelor Roundtable to talk about Colton's new steamy season on the ABC reality hit "The Bachelor". And there’s a new member joining our Refined team today who you may recognize Seattle local and Bachelorette alum Jason Tartick sat down with our crew. You may remember, Tartick had his heart broken during Becca’s season, but has quickly become a favorite of Bachelor Nation. Now he’s sharing some intel on his friend Colton.

Photos: Saucy new Triple Door show takes you on a sexy, absinthe-filled journey

How to ease "The Squeeze" with THIS app

Starting on January 11, the longest major highway closure Seattle has ever seen will begin (**insert scary music**). It's no secret that traffic is horrendous already, and with the viaduct closing, people are preparing for the traffic nightmare this closure is bound to bring. But ReachNow, a car-sharing and ride-hailing service from BMW, is making lemonade out of lemons.

Review: Kevin Hart & Bryan Cranston have surprising chemistry in new film 'The Upside'

We kick off the new year, not with a bang, but with a whimpering dramatic comedy called ‘The Upside’, a film that feels a little too strategic, a little too perfect in its plot and characters, and, ultimately, a little too forgettable to recommend. Kevin Hart, the man of the moment – not for his career which has seen better box office numbers, but for last month’s infamous canning as Oscar host – stars as Dell, a deadbeat dad with no drive, skillset or work ethic.

Confirmed: Jason Tartick taking Bachelorette Kaitlyn Bristowe on date this weekend

We saw on enews that ex-Bachelorette Kaitlyn Bristowe and Jason were supposedly going on a date this weekend, so when he stopped by the office to film one of our weekly Bachelor Roundtable discussions, we obviously ambushed him about it. “I’m going to Denver this weekend and we’re going on a date,” said Tartick. “Kaitlyn’s an amazing girl, beautiful inside and out. So we’ll see what happens. ”He wouldn’t get too specific with us, but we know wine is involved.

The Weekend Report: What's Cookin'

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Saturday, January 12. Onesie Bar Crawl 2019. Here's another Onesie Bar Crawl for ya!

Rainy? Check. Gray? Check. 7 ways to kick that seasonal SADness

You wake when it’s dark and by the time dinner is ready, it’s dark once again. Sound familiar? The days are short right now. So very short. Thankfully, now that Winter Solstice has passed, they’re getting a little longer as we work our way toward spring. Still, the darkness and dreariness can be overwhelming this time of year. In fact, this winter weather can be downright depressing!

Documenting Love: Lauren & Josh's Story

Welcome to our Documenting Love series where we capture people's love stories through photos and the written word. This may be one of our favorite weekly series! Check out the gallery and read the couples love story below. Keep in mind that we ask the couples to answer the questions separately so we can draw parallels between their experiences and, you know, say a collective, "Ahhhhhhh!

Danny Bonaduce: From 'The Partridge Family' to a Peaceful Life in Seattle

It's morning drive time at Seattle's classic rock radio station.I'm Danny Bonaduce and you are listening to KZOK.Being on the radio seems to strike perfect note for the former child actor.I'll tell you what I love about all of this - is it's what I'm best

This local brews up fresh art - one coffee spill at a time

The subjects are wide-ranging, from 'Mangia' - an ode to eating - to majestic mountains. and even a woman wearing a glamorous gown. The themes may be different but the medium is the same. For artist Jon Norquist - there's no use crying over spilled coffee, when you can create with it! He uses it in place of paint to make art. So how much coffee has he used or abused? "Some people think it is abuse," said Norquist laughing. "When people say that I tell them 'It's decaf - don't worry. '"

RUFFined Spotlight: Loki the Kitty Cat

Report: Seattle not best city for coffee lovers in America -- or even in Washington

SEATTLE -- Aside from the rain, Seattle's caffeine-crazed reputation includes the notion that there's "a coffee shop on every corner. " While that might be mostly true, a new study out says there are a few cities in America that have more coffee-related businesses per capita than the Emerald City. Apartment Guide says Seattle ranks 4th nationally at 1 coffee business per 2,308 residents, ahead of Portland (5th) at 1 per 2,322 people.

Seattleites Guide to Fly Fishing West of The Cascades

For more serious fisherman with the hopes of landing a bit of trout, West of the Cascades might appear over populated and un-fishable. Just east of the Puget sound is home to several neighborhood rivers and opens a secret hub to nearby plentiful rivers, creeks, and lakes that will keep you fly fishing year round. The majority of Seattleites aren't aware of the fact that local fly fishing is even an option on the west side of the Cascades.

A Seattlelite's Guide to Fly Fishing West of The Cascades

The majority of Seattleites are clueless to the fact that local fly fishing is even an option west of the Cascades. Just east of the Puget Sound is home to several neighborhood rivers and opens a secret hub to nearby plentiful rivers, creeks, and lakes that will keep you fly fishing year round. As an avid fisher myself, I’ve made it my mission to find local spots, and I’m here to share them with you. With winter upon us, let's hunker down and prepare for what less rainy days will soon hold.

Justin Timberlake reschedules Seattle tour stop for February

The Man of the Wood has finally solidified his Washington tour stop, and will be touching down at the Tacoma Dome on Monday, February 11! If you can recall a few months ago, Justin Timberlake announced the cancelling of his Tacoma shows back in November due to injured vocal chords. Poor baby boo boo. But - he's back and rescheduled and is officically making his way to the Evergreen State. Hallelujah! Check out the Facebook page for information and ticket options.

The Weekend Report: What's Cookin'

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Sunday, January 6. 3rd Annual . 5k Fun Run. Flatstick pub is hosting their 3rd Annual .

Lady Bosses: A not-so-secret group for women in business

If you’re a female entrepreneur looking for inspiration and community, Lady Bosses is for you. If you're thinking about selling or starting a business and need some encouragement, Lady Bosses is for you. And if you just want to connect with awesome women and share your journey, you guessed it - you’ve got to check out Lady Bosses! We sat down with founder, Alysondra Duke to find out more about this community of badass women she's created and how you can get involved!

'Dear Evan Hansen' comes to Seattle for short 15 day stay

Broadway at the Paramount just announced that the popular "Dear Evan Hansen" is coming to Seattle for a short (but sweet) 15 day stay starting in late January! From January 23rd through February 2nd, the Tony Award winning show will take the stage here in Seattle and will most likely ~blow your mind~. Tickets start at $50 and are available now, if you click riiiiiight here.

Documenting Love: Alyssa & Daniel's Story

Welcome to our Documenting Love series where we capture people's love stories through photos and the written word. This may be one of our favorite weekly series! Check out the gallery and read the couples love story below. Keep in mind that we ask the couples to answer the questions separately so we can draw parallels between their experiences and, you know, say a collective, "Ahhhhhhh!

RUFFined Spotlight: Brisket the Mix

Photos: Thousands take Seattle's annual Polar Bear Plunge into 2019

PNW Concert Guide: January 2019

If you are a music fiend like me, you pour over ticketing websites at the beginning of the month to see who is bringing their tour to our city. Without further adieu, I bring you our monthly concert guide so you won't miss your favorite artist when they come into town. Obviously I had to shorten and consolidate this list for the sake of saving time (although I could spend my whole work day just plotting out which concerts to go to) so please let me know what I have missed!

The Weekend Report: What's Cookin'

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Friday, December 28. Land of the Sweets. Enjoy a racy Nutcracker performance at the Triple Door!

RUFFined Spotlight: Klaus the Yorkie Mix

Review: 'On the Basis of Sex' is sweet, inspiring & safe for the entire family

I’ve covered a handful of clever, covertly-feminist films this holiday season with strong female leads and powerful stories of what it means to be a woman in this world. While those other films (please see reviews of “The Favourite”, “Mary Queen of Scots” and even – don’t laugh – Jennifer Lopez’s “Second Act”) certainly detail the fight for equality, none can really compare to the mother of all fighters, the OG trailblazer: Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

The Weekend Report: What's Cookin'

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Sunday, December 23. Seahawks vs. Kansas City Chiefs. Go Hawks!

Review: My grandmother is going to love 'Second Act'

I’ll start by saying this: my grandmother is going to love “Second Act”. This is not a dig to the film or my grandmother; it’s pretty much a fact. She is going to love Jennifer Lopez, her forever crush. She’s going to eat up the plot that twists and turns into convenient avenues that lead full-circle by the end. She will most definitely leave the theater beaming from the heartwarming message that acts as an undercurrent throughout the film. And did I mention Jennifer Lopez?

Top 5 gifts for travelers

Are you still hunting for the perfect gift for the smart traveler in your life? You can’t go wrong with these popular travel accessories! We’ve rounded up the top five travel goodies that every adventurer will love. These best-selling items are all personally recommended by Kathleen Collum, AAA Washington’s travel store buyer, and are available at a AAA store near you. So, avoid the mall and grab your perfect present at AAA! 1. Pacsafe bags.

The 'Lion King' Roars on stage with passion and pageantry

"The Lion King"has been ruling the stage for more than 20 years. The Tony Award winning tale about a lion cub named Simba and the 'Circle of Life' is full of passion and pageantry. "It's a great story, it's a universal story," saidBen Lipitz is Pumbaa, a warthog who is BFFs with a meerkat named Timon, and eventually Simba. "I think because we see ourselves in all the different characters we keep coming back to it fresh every time we see it. "

Documenting Love: Madison & Brandon's Story

Note from Seattle Refined: We could not be more excited that photographer/blogger/genius Alexandra Celia has joined our team here at Seattle Refined. She has devoted her career to documenting love in its purest and most original form - which you'll see in her photos. Every now and then she will share her work with couples: their love story, their commitment, their passion.... and of course, their photos. Think of her as our Love Guru. She loves love, and is here to share it with the rest of us.

Your favorite sitcom cast of the '90s is coming to Emerald City Comic Con

Arguably one of the best casts of our childhood is gracing Seattle with their presence. The cast of "Boy Meets World"will be here in Seattle for the Emerald City Comic Con taking place March 14th-17th! OHHHH MR. FEENY! MR. FEENY! Will Friedle, who played Eric, recently posted a video on Instagram announcing that Mr. Feeny will be joining the star-studded cast at the Washington State Convention Center this spring.

RUFFined Spotlight: Bobo the Corgi

A Christmas Poem for Santa Claus

It was just before Christmas and all through the store... People were shopping with boxes, bags and gifts galore! But in a secret location, just out of sight... Santa was getting set to delight. He pulled on his boots and put on his cap... This was no time for a long winter's nap! Said Santa: "Me and my elves are busy making toys but I always have time for good girls and boys! "And just outside--- folks were waiting in line... To visit with Santa, and have a good time.

Spicy, sweet and sentimental, 'In the Heights' soars

Spicy, sweet and sentimental. 'In the Heights,' currently on stage at Seattle Repertory Theater, celebrates the human spirit through soaring songs, dance and dialogue. Sophia Macias plays Nina. "'In the Heights' is a story about a neighborhood in Washington Heights-- a particular neighborhood block of Latinx persons," she explained. "It's the story of their struggles their daily routines and how they function in the world. "There are a lot of hopes pinned on 'Nina.

Sam shares his struggle with OCD through candid melodies

When Sam Foster steps onstage, guitar in hand, he lights up the room with his confident presence. Yet behind his poised demeanor is a painful truth that begins to unravel as he lets his lyrics flow through the microphone. Sam has battled with obsessive compulsive disorder, or OCD, most of his life. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, OCD is a common, chronic and long-lasting disorder.

Photos: Stumbling Santas get Sauced in Seattle for Annual Pub Crawl

Review: 'Mortal Engines' is a lifeless fantasy epic that is mildly enjoyable at times

There is no leniency for a lackluster plot. Ever. If a bad film is lucky, it will manage a handful of mediocre reviews, a decent return at the box office and a steadfast retirement into Netflix’s catalog. The problem “Mortal Engines” will face is not that it is “bad” per se. It’s simply not very good, and the parts that aren’t terrible are because you are hopefully seeing it in IMAX, if not on a regular theater screen, and the visuals are enough to keep you mildly entertained.

The Weekend Report: What's Cookin'

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Saturday, December 15. SantaCon. The best event of the year is back and better baby!

Review: 'Mary, Queen of Scots' wouldn't work except for Saoirse Ronan

Thrown into the mix in a year filled with films featuring varying degrees and differing messages of female empowerment is “Mary Queen of Scots”. Unlike the other British monarch, pseudo-biopic, “The Favourite” which is also in theaters and which details a different English queen with a heavily sarcastic, darkly comedic script and tone, “Mary Queen of Scots” is your more traditional period piece that, nevertheless, brings girl power to the 16th century.

The Secret Life of Randy Hawkins: Cubicle by day, wrestling ring by night

It's just after 8 a. m. and like most people Randy Hawkins is already hard at work. Randy is a team lead at Amica Mutual Insurance's Bellevue office. "[On] a typical work day I'm answering questions from our customers, I'm helping out co-workers, reviewing files, that sort of thing," said Hawkins. "It's an 8 a. m. - 5 p. m. corporate gig at Amica, but it's great. " Coworkers use words like "calm", "collected" and "mild-mannered" to describe him.

Let's Go Places: Discover dazzling light displays at this Christmas festival

From twinkling lights to tiny reindeer, you can’t help but smile when you see Griswold-worthy Christmas decorations in your neighborhood. You too can have a “fun, old-fashioned family Christmas” without the hassle of hanging 25,000 lights from your own home. Just make the short drive to Stanwood for the Lights of Christmas Festival!

Documenting Love: Raechelle & Todd's Story

Welcome to our Documenting Love series where we capture people's love stories through photos and the written word. This may be one of our favorite weekly series! Check out the gallery and read the couples love story below. Keep in mind that we ask the couples to answer the questions separately so we can draw parallels between their experiences and, you know, say a collective, "Ahhhhhhh!

RUFFined Spotlight: Sassy the Cat

Matilda: The Magical Misfit with a Message of Empowerment

It sounds like a big order for a little kid. "Matilda is the story of a young girl who lives in some unfortunate circumstances," explains Kathryn Van Meter, the Director and Choreographer of "Matilda", currently on stage at The Village Theatre in Issaquah. "Through the power of story and getting lost in books and understanding how expansive the possibility of how a world could be, uses her mind triumph over evil. "

Photos: We went to a holiday party hosted by an Insta-famous dog. Jealous?

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Photos: Deck the Hall Ball 2018 at WaMu Theater was fa-la-la-la-fabulous

Seattle Goodwill is THE place to go for festive fashion on a budget

Seattle Goodwill is your one stop shop for festive fashions for holiday season. Jessica Branning from Styled Seattle showed us great ways to incorporate the hottest trends at prices that are fraction of what you'd find at the mall. "There are so many great holiday trends," said Branning with a grin. "I wanted to focus on the key trends, and right now-- velvet is the hottest trend for holiday 2018. "

Michelle Obama is [be]coming to the Tacoma Dome February 2019

MICHELLE OBAMA IS [BE]COMING! The always chic, fabulously-real, and flawless former FLOTUS is bringing her "Becoming" book tour to the Tacoma Dome on February 8th and folks are STOKED. You can get your tickets to her speaking tour this Saturday, December 15th at 10 a. m. , so it looks like you won't be sleeping in this Saturday, baby! SORRY 'BOUT IT. Attendees at Mrs.

5 ways to take the stress out of holiday travel

‘Tis the season for holiday parties, visiting relatives, and gift exchanges. But of course, whether you’re heading to Grandma’s house or to ring in the New Year out on the town, you’re going to have to get there (and back) somehow. Cue: holiday stress. Don’t let the logistics of travel bring down your holiday spirit. With the new ride-hailing service from ReachNow, you can get where you need to go, without all the stress.

Photos: Hot Air Balloons take flight at Green Lake's annual Pathway of Lights event

Hopping in a Lyft? We have a pretty good idea of where you're going...

Ladies and gentletoads, welcome to the fourth annual iteration of the Lyftie Awards where Lyft, the ride sharing app, recognizes the most popular destinations in cities across the country! So which Seattle locations were awarded the 2018 Lyftie award?! Let's *break it down now.

A holiday gift guide from Verizon for the whole family

Gift-giving is exciting. But choosing what presents to give everyone on your list can also be incredibly stressful. You try SO hard to find the perfect gifts that will make everyone’s eyes light up, but always end up picking out another sweater or gift card year after year. The good news? Verizon is here with gift-spiration that will brighten up the holiday for the whole family! They make it easy to stay connected, start the New Year off in style, and stuff stockings the right way.

Review: 'Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle' is not the Disney film you watched as a kid

Andy Serkis has delighted us for decades with performance capture art, a technique he’s mastered and perfected with characters like Gollum in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, Caesar in the reboot of "Planet of the Apes" and Snoke in the newest "Star Wars" films - to name a few. You may not know it by its name, but you surely have seen it used more and more over the past few years. Actors don spandex suits attached with numerous sensors and act their hearts out. No set design. Nothing flashy.

The Weekend Report: What's Cookin'

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Sunday, December 9. Jingle Bell Run. Come decked out in holiday gear for this year's Jingle Bell Run!

Review: 'The Favourite' is a stunning, salacious, sharp look at female power dynamics

Nearly 24 hours after seeing "The Favourite", I am still unpacking it. There’s a lot to dissect, and I’ve found myself going back to it over and over again during the quiet moments of my day, replaying scenes and reciting dialogue and trying to wrap my head around what message it is sending its audience, both overtly and subliminally. What I have so far boils down to this: women helping women works as long as both sides are getting something from the deal.

Seattle actor/writer/director debuts film about Seattle actor/writer/director coming home

Seattle is a great place, and we get our fair share of films set here, highlighting all the wonders our city has to offer. So there is no shock that a local would want to make a film about his own return. Brock Mullins was born and raised in Seattle and is an UW alumni. He began a career as a sportswriter before foraying into the world of short films. “Return to Seattle” is Mullins’ first feature film as writer-director.

Spin for wins at Tulalip Resort Casino

The slot machines at Tulalip Resort Casino are perfect for all types of casino players. Their gaming floor is home to about 2,400 machines and more than 240 types of games. The game variety ranges from entertainment-style, lower payout options to big-time player, high payout machines. There’s something for everyone. And no matter what you choose, Tulalip has one goal in mind: to make sure you have fun!

Documenting Love: Rhea & Jumar's Story

Welcome to our Documenting Love series where we capture people's love stories through photos and the written word. This may be one of our favorite weekly series! Check out the gallery and read the couples love story below. Keep in mind that we ask the couples to answer the questions separately so we can draw parallels between their experiences and, you know, say a collective, "Ahhhhhhh!

There's an indoor dog park SLASH bar that will probably save your life this rainy winter

Hi, my name is Britt – and I had a full-blown breakdown in my car last week. Like – a crying, hyperventilating, alarming breakdown. And it was all because of my dog. Remi is a 1-year-old Staffy-Shepherd mix who is usually the light of my life. But the girl needs exercise - a TON of exercise - before her angelic qualities can really shine through. Otherwise, it’s full on puppy tantrums. Anyone with a youngster (human or canine) has been there, and knows what I mean. But – come on.

One Seahawk player's custom cleats tell a powerful story of hope

The lights are bright, the noise deafening. Football is a physical and mental battle. On this day in early December, some 69,000 raucous fans packed CenturyLink Field to watch the Seahawks dismantle the San Francisco 49ers. Yet, the Hawks know, the game they play provides a platform to do something bigger than themselves. If you needed proof, all you had to do was look at their feet.

PNW museum adds iconic, rare WWII machines to its campus

The Flying Heritage and Combat Armor Museum in Everett is now bigger and better than ever. “This is the finest museum of its type - in the world," said Adrian Hunt, the museum's executive director. "You can see superb planes and magnificently restored tanks operating. " And the museum has just added a brand new aircraft-hanger-sized expansion to their campus - filled with iconic, super-rare machines from WWII. There is a Dodge Military Ambulance, U. S.

Sparkle Squad: Mercer Island's unified cheerleaders are committed to inclusion

It's the day before a big football game and the Sparkles are putting the finishing touches on their routine. But this is no ordinary cheer squad - it's an extraordinary one. "Sparkle Squad is at Mercer Island High School. We are a cheer squad that cheers along with the Mercer Island cheerleaders," said Jami Blumenstein, the Sparkle Squad Coach.

RUFFined Spotlight: Biggie the English Bulldog

1 in 8 Washingtonians are hungry. Here's how you can help.

Did you know that one in five Washington children lives in a household that struggles to put food on the table? A surprisingly high number of our neighbors, friends, and families are in need of nutritious food. Luckily, there are local businesses fighting hunger in our community. Western Washington Honda Dealers has partnered with Northwest Harvest this holiday season to feed families and schools in need.

The sun will come out...through Dec. 30th at the 5th Avenue Theater

It's the heart-warming story of everyone's favorite orphan - Annie. Timothy McCuen Piggee plays Daddy Warbucks, and there are two talented young ladies taking turns starring as Annie at the 5th Avenue Theater this holiday season. "I think Faith and Visesia each bring something unique to the story," said McCuen Piggee. "They guide the journey, the ship and so I think each night is a special story depending on who's helping tell it. "Both Annies have favorite parts of the iconic show.

Babe in Blue: Refined chats with Nathan Fillion, star of 'The Rookie'

Another day, another star to interview! Refined's Malia Karlinsky had the chance to chat with Nathan Fillion and Melissa O'Neil of ABC's newest hit show, "The Rookie". Seattle Refined: What's been happening on "The Rookie"? It's my new addiction this season. Nathan Fillion: Boy - lots of excitement. Some excitement stuff, some stakes - a little bit of humor going on there, some relationship tensions happening...

PNW Concert Guide: December 2018

If you are a music fiend like me, you pour over ticketing websites at the beginning of the month to see who is bringing their tour to our city. Without further adieu, I bring you our monthly concert guide so you won't miss your favorite artist when they come into town. Obviously I had to shorten and consolidate this list for the sake of saving time (although I could spend my whole work day just plotting out which concerts to go to) so please let me know what I have missed!

30 times Russell Wilson stole our hearts

Find everything you need for the holidays at this one-stop-shop

Need an ugly sweater for your dog? Or a Millennium Falcon waffle maker for the Star Wars fan on your list? For years, locals have flocked to family-owned Bartell’s for their unique gifts, many of which are made in our very own Pacific Northwest. If you need some inspiration for that hard-to-buy person on your list, here are a few of our favorite quirky gifts, shopping brands, and present ideas—all of which can be found at Bartell’s.

The Weekend Report: Winter beer fest, holiday lights and more....

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Sunday, December 2. Hanukkah. Happy Hanukkah! Hanukkah begins at sundown.

Documenting Love: Austin & Jordyn's Story

Welcome to our Documenting Love series where we capture people's love stories through photos and the written word. This may be one of our favorite weekly series! Check out the gallery and read the couples love story below. Keep in mind that we ask the couples to answer the questions separately so we can draw parallels between their experiences and, you know, say a collective, "Ahhhhhhh!

RUFFined Spotlight: Pepperjack the Pomeranian

Polaroid Exhibit develops at Bellevue Arts Museum

A new exhibit at the Bellevue Arts Museum is an ode to the Polaroid. “I’m a collector of photography and I love the Polaroid because of the vivid colors, though some are black and white," said Robert Jackson, photography connoisseur. "I love just the texture of them. "

Can you guess Seattle's average holiday budget?

Before I tell you what the average gift budget is for this holiday season, I have to tell you the first word that popped into my head... "HA! " According to a report by Wallethub, the average holiday spending budget in Seattle is $1,334. Wallethub used metrics such as income, age and saving-to-monthly expenses ratios, to estimate the maximum spending amounts for consumers. Here are the numbers for the average consumer in Seattle: Monthly Income: $7,235. Monthly Expenses: $5,397. Savings: $6,674.

12 things even the non-outdoorsy person will want from REI

Some people like to camp under the stars. In the wilderness. Where the wolves howl. Some people prefer a tent. Others are more cabin folk. Then there are the non-outdoorsy people. The ones who might consider an RV style camping trip, but only if the scenery is really, truly spectacular. And they get cell service. Just because someone lives in the Pacific Northwest, it doesn’t guarantee that they’re constantly in hiking boots and always planning their next trip to the backcountry.

Take a Look: Safeco Field just turned into an enormous Snow Globe

Shop Local: A Washington Small Business Gift Guide

When it comes to shopping local, Washington is home to so much goodness. Here, unique businesses abound and creative products are everywhere. Traditionally, folks imagine salmon and apples, coffee and computers when they think of Washington products, but, we are home to so much more! As the holidays approach, consider adding some of these fantastic products to your shopping list!

Photos: It's the 28th Annual Macy's Holiday Parade in Seattle

Move over Rudolph - baby reindeer are visiting Pike Place Market!

Meeting Santa's Reindeer? You can check this one off the list! On Saturday, November 24, 2018 - you can meet Jingle Belle and Willow, two baby reindeer from 1 p. m. - 3 p. m. at Pike Place Market! These babes come from Santa's Reindeer Company (SRC) and are the best of friends. The half-sisters are five months old, born just hours apart on June 14, 2018 in Leavenworth, WA. While they have different mothers, their daddy is the same - a lovable guy named Sven.

The Weekend Report: What's Cookin'

Welcome to the Weekend Report - where we tell you what's up in Seattle this weekend, the things you definitely don't want to miss. Why should we have all the fun at these events? Most of the things we are previewing here, we will be at - so if you see us say hi! We're guaranteed to miss some, so definitely email us hello@seattlerefined. com if there is something wonderful we need to know about! Thursday, November 22. Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!

Photos: Behind-the-Scenes at the dress rehearsal for George Balanchine's 'The Nutcracker'

'Instant Family' director talks new film, foster care and family dynamics

In Instant Family, Pete and Ellie's decision to start a family sends them stumbling headlong into the world of foster care adoption. They initially plan on taking in one child, but when they meet Lizzy, a rebellious 15-year-old, and her two siblings, one child suddenly becomes three. For co-writer and director Sean Anders, the story is inspired by his own experiences. "About seven years ago my wife and I adopted three kids out of the foster care system.

RUFFined Spotlight: Phil the Bernese Mountain Dog

Soap for Hope: Donate toiletries and give someone a fresh start

A few years ago, a high school girl was living with her family in a cramped van. She was trying to keep up with her studies, fit in with her friends, and have a normal high school experience. When the homecoming dance was announced, she knew she wanted to go – but it seemed like an impossible fairy tale. Luckily, her school district’s McKinney-Vento coordinator stepped in to help.

Photos: $5k Harry Potter-themed tree is the highlight of the Fairmont's Festival of Trees

Find festive features (and creatures!) at Woodland Park Zoo's WildLights

Seattle’s wildest holiday lights festival is BACK with more than 700,000 energy-efficient LED lights, faux snowball fights, up-close animal encounters, hot chocolate, and more! Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLights, presented by Sound Credit Union, runs nightly from 5:30-80:30 p. m. , beginning November 23, 2018, and ending January 5, 2019*. You’ll find sparkling lights that recreate wild animals and wild places in two and three dimensions along the zoo’s pathways and North Meadow. But, that’s not all!