UW students create virtual college campus in Minecraft video game

As of Sept. 22, they have about 80% of the campus built to scale.

Section 221 at T-Mobile Park is filled with cardboard animal cutouts

The crack of the bat. The pop of the glove. The sweet sounds of Mariners baseball. The action on the field looks pretty much the same as any other season, but instead of fans - the stands at T-Mobile Park are filled with cardboard cutouts, and section 221, well it's home to some of the M's furriest supporters.

Commit to your future with a written retirement plan

Does thinking of retirement planning bring thoughts of fear and uncertainty? It doesn't have to be that way! The Retirement Solution works with people who are nearing retirement to help bring clarity to their dreams and equip them with the knowledge to transition with confidence. If you're thinking about retiring, your vision can become a reality when The Retirement Solution shows you how to navigate the planning process.

Photos: 8 products that make remote learning a little easier

Welcoming a Baby During a Pandemic: The Riley Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Photos: Candlelight vigil in Seattle honors life, legacy of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Photos: 'Peace & Love March' honors Jimi Hendrix 50th Anniversary Memorial

Documenting Love: Arielle & Blake's Story

Photographer/blogger/genius Alexandra Celia has devoted her career to documenting love in its purest and most original form — which you'll see in her photos. 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.

Review: In 'Antebellum,' 19th century atrocities have never felt closer to home

The title alone makes you pause. The word "antebellum", broken down, means "before the war", but it's hard not to feel its connotations, particularly with the social and cultural upheaval of the last few months. "Antebellum" is often used, by some, with fondness about a period of time in our nation's history where society was high, innovation was rampant... and human beings were enslaved.

Private tours take off at Seattle's Museum of Flight

If having the entirety of The Museum of Flight in South Seattle to yourself sounds like a good time - read on! The museum is offering private experiences for groups of four or less in some of it most beloved galleries starting at about $50 per person. “This gave us an opportunity to show off the museum in an entirely different way that we couldn’t do before,” said Ted Huetter from the Museum of Flight. (Image: Seattle Refined)

'In This House' sign company raises $75k+ for largely WA charities

Rather than waking up feeling hopeful on New Year's Day 2017, Tara Clark instead felt heavy and disenchanted by the barrage of news stories filled with uncertainty, fear and hatred. The former Peace Corps volunteer, mother of two boys and self-employed photographer could not allow herself to give in to the hate and fear and instead decided to foster connection to humanity and change.

Donate Now: Washington Wildfire Relief Fund

We are joining KOMO-TV and KOMO Radio and partnering with the Salvation Army's Northwest Division to collect money for “Sinclair Cares and The Salvation Army: Washington Wildfire Relief. ”The fires have scorched several parts of eastern and western Washington, threatening property and homes for the state's residents. If you would like to donate to the effort to help those affected by the wildfires, your monetary gift will be appreciated. Donate online now.

RUFFined Spotlight: Solcita & Lana Linda the Baby Alpacas

Welcoming a Baby During a Pandemic: The Rice Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

'Moving Food Where It's Needed': Local nonprofit gives rescued crops to those in need

EastWest Food Rescue, a recently established nonprofit organization in Woodinville, evolved out of a Facebook post trying to rescue a ton of crops to distribute to food banks. In the first 15 days, the team had already rescued 217 tons of food. With a mission of "moving food where it’s needed," the organization purchases surplus food from farmers and distributes it to those in need.

Photos: Surreal scenes from Seattle as smoke douses city

The Wandering Ear music program is 'dedicated to delivering the feels'

WhenDaniel Mathia went to theUniversity of Arizona four years ago, he didn't really listen to music, aside from Christian music. But when a friend introduced him to Spotify, his world opened up. The now 24-year-old started listening to indie, indie-pop and other genres, slowly but surely expanding his music catalog. From there,Mathia's passion for music grew and grew. He ended up leaving college to come home to Kent and said the situation was stressful. He turned to music.

Artist of the Week: Jason Matias

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

Photos: Mask Parade features hundreds of masks by Seattle's best artists, designers

Snoqualmie Casino partners with Eighth Generation to offer authentic Native American art

With new safety guidelines in place, Snoqualmie Casino is welcoming guests again to the entertainment capital of the Eastside. When you decide to visit Seattle’s closest casino, you’re probably expecting the wide selection of slot machines and table games, as well as delicious dining options inspired by award-winning chefs. You stay for the buzzing atmosphere, but before you leave, don’t forget to stop by the Sno Shoppe and discover the newest addition to Snoqualmie Casino.

Photos: Rent a 'Private View' at Sky View Observatory for the perfect high-end date

Archie McPhee Delivery, Its Van-Tastic!

Archie McPhee now offers local delivery of your favorite toys, gags and other fun items! They've also recently introduced a bevy of new products sure to put a smile on your face. Watch the video to learn more! WARNING: Racing actual roaches not recommended (if you watched the video you'd be in on the joke). Watch it!

Dave Matthews to perform at virtual benefit concert for local farms

Dave Matthews and several other Pacific Northwest musicians are coming together in support of local farms. Love the Land is a virtual benefit concert taking place Wednesday, Sept. 30 and hosted by theWashington Farmland Trust, a nonprofit protectingthreatened farmland, and Viva Farms, a nonprofit preservingsustainable farming out ofSkagit and King counties. Joining Matthews on the lineup is Luz Elena Mendoza of Y La Bamba, Torno Nakayama and Naomi Wachira.

Photos: Touring Seattle's quirkiest, most unique landmarks

RUFFined Spotlight: Ginger the Samoyed

Expecting During a Pandemic: The Weber Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Artist of the Week: Jing Jing Tsong

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

Review: Live-action 'Mulan' is unrecognizable for fans of the original

There is a lot of pressure riding on "Mulan", Disney's latest live-action adaption. For one, its $200 million price tag, even with a traditional release, would have required a lot of Millennials to rush to the theater. Factor in a global pandemic, a sliding economy and no tangible end in sight, and Disney's best hope in recouping their money is by charging $29. 99 to those who already pay for a Disney+ subscription. I understand it. I support it. I just wish the film wasn't so tepid.

5 gorgeous dog-friendly hikes to do this fall

With summer winding down, we’re now entering the ideal hiking season in the northwest. The temperatures stay warm, but not hot, the mosquitoes are starting to hibernate and the crowds dwindle as the kids go back to school. Many of the more popular fall hikes don't allow dogs, but fortunately, there are still plenty of dog-friendly hikes outside of the restricted areas to enjoy fall colors with your four-legged pal by your side.

How to throw an epic QuaranTeen birthday party

Things have definitely been different the past six months, but there is still plenty to see, do and celebrate. We've shared some awesome ideas like100 Things to Do in Seattle Right Now or Very Soonand even a destination for 'little' overnight vacation atLeavenworthTiny House Village. And speaking of fun things - birthdays are still happening and they deserve to be feted just like they were in the 'before times.

Flowers Just 4-U has served Seattle with love for 36 years

If she had to choose, Mary Wesley would say Alstroemeria is her favorite flower, with sunflowers following close behind. But when it comes down to it, all flowers are her favorite flower, she said. It's what she's dedicated the last 36 years to — her floral shop on the corner of 23rd and Cherry. "I love flowers," saidWesley. "I was always playing around with sticks and stones and flowers at my home. I think this is something God has given me, and I got to give it back to the community. "

RUFFined Spotlight: Rusty the Chow Mix

A Surrogacy Journey During a Pandemic: The Hepton Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Artist of the Week: Erica Daniels of Emazing Photography

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

Electric Feel: Seattle's Best Neon Signs

Sneak Peek: Salish Sea Tours debuts brand new boats

During the summer, Seattle is usually a hotbed for tourism - but that's of course taken a serious hit because of the health crisis. One struggling spot includes Pier 57 on the waterfront, home to Miner's Landing and the Seattle Great Wheel. And on top of the health crisis, the seawall also needs some emergency work done. But when things are back to normal again, the people at Pier 57 have a new attraction in the works that will make a big splash. And we got a sneak peek.

Dealing with stress during demanding times

COVID-19's impact on society has made times as difficult as ever. Businessmen and women, stay-at-home parents, and students young and old are all battling the unknown during this ongoing pandemic. Stress can significantly impact how you live your life, and learning to deal with it effectively can go a long way toward maintaining your mental health while scientists continue to work on coronavirus therapies and vaccines. How does stress impact the body?

These Peep Shows are turning the heads of neighbors (in a good way!)

Christie and James Kearny create weekly displays with marshmallow peeps to make their neighbors smile. Each show, starring a lineup of iconic characters. "So, I just took all the books out and I was just standing there staring at it and I just had this idea," said Christie. "It was about Easter time, right. So, I just had this idea of doing a Peep Show. " From Super Peep to Jaws, to Wizard of Peeps - these shows are turning the heads of neighbors, who love the welcome distraction.

Hollis Wong-Wear, Valerie Jarrett to headline YWCA's annual [virtual] Inspire Luncheon

Like basically everything else this year, the YWCA Annual Inspire Luncheon is happening virtually — but, hey, it's happening — with Valerie Jarrett, an author and former White House advisor, as the keynote speaker. This will be the YWCA's first fully-digital luncheon, taking place Thursday, Sept. 10. The focus will beWomen Rising Boldly, celebrating those who have used their voices to impact their communities and uplift others.

Artist Keegan Hall has drawn on his talent to give $425,000 to charity

The detail and definition are stunning. There's jubilation in the smiles of Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson, contemplation in the eyes of Ken Griffey Jr. and determination in the stances of Jewell Lloyd and Sue Bird. "I like to typically work from a number of different photographs as references and ultimately create my own composition," said artist Keegan Hall. They may look like snapshots, but they're drawings, created by Hall.

#ShareTheMedicalMic: West Coast doctors reflect on amplifying Black voices in medicine

Many of us were wowed by the recent #ShareTheMicNow campaign, a day during which famous white women handed over their social media platforms to Black women. So we were thrilled to learn that this effort to expand the reach of Black women's voices sparked a national initiative for female physicians, too. For #ShareTheMedicalMic on July 22, two physicians, Dr. Renee Paro and Dr.

Photos: Epic views from the Sunrise side of Mount Rainier

A recent trek on the Sunrise side of Mt. Rainier had photographer Maile Anderson gaping at the views!

This downtown Seattle hotel has been lighting up the skyline for months

When Hyatt Regency Seattle first lit up its rooms in the shape of a heart, social media was buzzing with people sharing photos and videos, most of them accompanied by #WeGotThisSeattle or #SeattleStrong. "During these unprecedented times, we hoped it would serve as encouragement and spark joy for our local community," saidTom Wolf, the managing director for Seattle Hyatt Collection. "Especially to those on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. "

Welcoming a Baby During a Pandemic: The Reynolds Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

RUFFined Spotlight: Bennie the Black Mouth Cur

Bennie (and the Jets) is a 7.5-month-old Black Mouth Cur (and somehow 6 percent Dalmatian) pandemic pup from a rescue litter in Temecula, CA.

Sorry humans, this gelato is just for the dogs

For the majority of her life, Debbie Hendrickx has been passionate about two things: dogs and fashion. “I never believed doing something with dogs was a valid career option, so I chose a career in the fashion industry,” saidHendrickx. She spent 18 years working for Nordstrom, starting on the sales floor and working her way up to headquarters. Swell, Gelato for Dogs was born from Hendrickx’s love for the smooth richness of gelato that “makes you close your eyes in bliss at first lick.

Artist of the Week: Tori Kirihara

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

Mask pop-up at Seattle Center features designs by local artists

If you need to up your mask game, look no further than the mask pop-up at Seattle Center this weekend, hosted byThe Vera Project and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Local artists fromThe Vera Project will be screen-printing their designs on masks at this pop-up for the next three weekends in a row. People can watch the process (from a safe distance, of course) and buy a mask for $10. New designs will be offered each weekend.

About To Review: Local podcast aims to amplify diverse voices in film & media

When John Reviewer came across a Kickstarter campaign on Twitter a couple of years ago, he had to reach out and invite the creator on his podcast, About To Review. That person wasMatthew A. Cherry,and the Kickstarter was for his short film, "Hair Love. " Earlier this year, he won an Oscar for it. "It was pretty crazy to think that I had him on my show way before any of that was even a reality; when it was still just in its infancy on Kickstarter," said Reviewer.

Photos: Seattle Kraken opens flagship store in South Lake Union

Review: 'Chemical Hearts' is an angsty young adult mope fest

If your bad poetry from high school about unrequited love for that boy in second period was made into a film, it would be "Chemical Hearts"- an angsty young adult mope fest that beats the cliches of teenage soap operas to a plaid-wearing, meet-in-an-abandoned-factory pulp. Yes, the teen love interests do in fact escape to an abandoned factory housing a mysterious (yet romantic, no? ) pond filled with koi fish.

Virtual conference hopes to advance the careers of technical womxn, diversify the field

Ivette Cortez is the Program and Community Manager of ChickTech, a non-profit organization that supports womxn and girls in tech with community, education and inspiration. We checked in with Cortez ahead of the organization's annual ACT-W Conference to see what is different this year, and what opportunities (spoiler alert, there are many) are still the same... Seattle Refined: Ivette from ChickTech, thanks so much for talking with us today, I want to hear all about ChickTech.

Vortex Music & Movies really sucks you in

Struggling to find your groove on the east side? This Kirkland store may be your salvation — enter the Vortex. "[It's a] conglomeration of vinyl, CDs, DVDs and Blu Rays," said Daren Compton. "I kinda keep an equal balance, with an emphasis on the vinyl. " Compton went into the record business around 2012 and stocks a little bit of everything. (Image: Seattle Refined)

Understanding the benefits of having a written retirement plan

Does thinking of retirement planning bring thoughts of fear and uncertainty? It doesn't have to be that way! The Retirement Solution works with people who are nearing retirement to help bring clarity to their dreams and equip them with the knowledge to transition with confidence. If you're thinking about retiring, your vision can become a reality when The Retirement Solution shows you how to navigate the planning process.

Movers & Shakers: Shae Frichette has mastered the perfect blend

Welcome to Movers & Shakers; a series where we look deep into PNW life for people who are making moves, doing big things, and who are just - in general - being rad. Seattle is full of multi-talented and multi-faceted people, many at the intersection of technology and the arts. How do they find the time? What's their secret? Well friends, we're here to find out. Meet Movers & Shakers; aka Seattle Refined attempting to capture the not-so-secret lives of impressive locals.

Lily Cornell Silver's 'Mind Wide Open' is helping people talk about mental health

Let's face it. For most people, these are some very challenging times. Since the health crisis hit the Seattle area in March, Refined has been bringing you information to educate, encourage - and hopefully inspire you. That includes advice on staying positive withTips from a Life Coach on Dealing with these Difficult Days, and ideas of how to help kids navigate learning with0 to Homeschool Real Quick. Mental health was a struggle for many folks even in 'The Before Times'.

When can we do The Time Warp again? Tacoma theater's loyal fanbase wants to know

Just six months ago, dozens dressed in fishnets, sequins and exaggerated make-up routinely lined the sidewalk in front of Tacoma's Blue Mouse Theater for the 1975 cult classic, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show. " Months later, the theater once filled with costumed strangers, close friends and the buttery smell of popcorn is nearly vacant. The last Rocky performance was Feb. 22.

'The Goonies' drive-in movie night at Washington State Fairgrounds

The Washington State Fair may be off this year, but the fairgrounds are still being put to use — like for their third annual drive-in movie nightwith the Puyallup Food Bank! Pack up the car with blankets and good company for a screening of "The Goonies" on Saturday, Aug. 22, in honor of the classic film's 35th anniversary. The event is free with a suggested food donation to thePuyallup Food Bank. And a total bonus — theFisher Scones Wagon will be there!

Welcoming a Baby During a Pandemic: The Wilson Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Artist of the Week: Jennifer Loomis

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

Seattle Dance Company releases five short films produced in quarantine

We all wish we could be as productive as the Seattle Dance Collective, which has produced a series of short films capturing dance performances all while in quarantine! You can watch all of the projects known as "Continuum: Bridging The Distance," plus a cast party right now on their website(or at the bottom of this article). Elizabeth Dougherty, marketing and communications director for SDC, said the idea was born out of necessity but has been a joyous one to see come to fruition.

Seattle Kraken may be the first team named after a meme

Not only does Seattle now have its own hockey team, but the internet does as well. Surely it's only a matter of time before an emoji and a GIF get a franchise of their own. The Kraken has obviously long been a major cephalopod-like myth in seafaring folklore, and yes, the original "Clash of the Titans" movie featuring it came out in 1981. But without the Liam Neeson remake and thousands of Kraken memes on the internet, we'd probably be calling them the sockeyes or some other fish thing.

Photos: The Wild Horse Monument along I-90, entering Grant County

Virtually audition for 'American Idol'!

Call it a social distancing sing-off! If you’re at home right now and between the ages of 16-28, you might as well take the time and virtually audition for “American Idol” and come face to face with a producer. The most recent winnerJust Sam and other top contestants sang their hearts out from their homes in the final rounds of last season. They say the experience was life-changing. "I can actually not believe that I , Just Sam, am the new winner of 'American Idol! '" said the artist.

ChickTech is inspiring girls & womxn to pursue STEM

Govi Pusaroa had always been interested in tech but was scared to pursue it — the 19-year-old said she hadn't seen many females in the industry, and she wasn't interested in coding. So, that was that, right? Wrong! An advisor her freshman year of high school suggestedPusaroa look into ChickTech, a nonprofit aimed at encouraging womxn* and girls to pursue STEM-based careers. Pusaroa went to a kick-off event, made a mini-robot that she programmed to do a little dance — she was hooked.

4 ways to safely social distance on the water, without owning a boat

With social distancing required this summer, it has been referred by many as the "bummer summer. " However, with a little forethought and a tad bit of creativity, you can easily make this one of the most adventurous, fun-filled and memorable summers you have experienced in Seattle in a long time.

World's last Blockbuster in Bend, OR turning to an Airbnb for three nights only

The owner of the last Blockbuster in the world (located in Bend, OR) just announced that for three nights only she's listing the entire store on Airbnb for the epic sleepover of your dreams.

Touring the Alpaca Farm vacation rental on Camano Island

Ah, Camano Island. Only about 60 miles away from Seattle, but a world apart. Especially at the Alpaca Retreat, a one-of-a-kind vacation rental with some unusual neighbors. “We are a hundred acre farm located on the north side of Camano Island," said owner Karen Byram. " We have alpacas here, we used to have over 800, we have just about 50 now. And a lot of peace and quiet. ”

Photos: Views of Seattle from the sky, during Golden Hour

In photography, the golden hour is the period of daytime shortly after sunrise or before sunset, during which daylight is redder and softer than when the Sun is higher in the sky.

Walk to End Alzheimer's 2020

The Walk to End Alzheimer's is this month! To ensure the safety of all involved, a large gathering will not be held. Instead, the Walk will be everywhere — on every sidewalk, track and trail! On Walk day, event participants will: Livestream the local Opening & Promise Garden Ceremony. Walk on their own, with family or friends in a location of their choice while others in the community do the same.

RUFFined Spotlight: Duckie the Bali Duckling

Expecting During a Pandemic: The Anderson Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Photos: The Barbie Pop-Up Truck has arrived in Seattle

The hot-pink Barbie Pop-Up Truck continued its West Coast Tour this weekend with a stop at Westfield Southcenter Mall in Seattle

Artist of the Week: Tsehaye Hadish

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

Photos: Two-year, multimillion dollar Pacific Place renovation is now complete

Spend Like It Matters: Small biz directory wants you to be Intentional with your dollars

When Laura Clise moved back to Seattle five years ago, quite a bit had changed in the nearly 20 years she had been away – especially in terms of technology. But our city's growth wasn't the only thing she noticed. There was a tension between the Seattle she came home to and who still had a place physically in the city. Tuning into this tension got Clise thinking: "How do we harness technology in support of a sustainable, inclusive economy?

Photos: Dallas Cowboy owner's $250M megayacht docks in Seattle

Tag, You're It: Everett exhibit explores Graffiti Art from the streets, to the canvas

Many things are temporarily closed this summer and that includes most museums. While you can still get your creative fix on by checking out public art - like the murals of the International District or Capitol Hill, but there aren't many opportunities to check out old-school exhibits. That's why Schack Art Center in Everett is so special. You can still get your art fix with their new exhibit 'American Graffiti: From the Streets to the Canvas' through September 5th.

Best Alpine Lakes to Take a Dip in this Summer

When the temperature starts to rise in the city, do what any smart Seattleite would do and head for the mountains!

Documenting Love: Kristen & Stephen's Story

Photographer/blogger/genius Alexandra Celia has devoted her career to documenting love in its purest and most original form — which you'll see in her photos. 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. Stephen: Kristen and I both grew up in Marietta, Georgia, and we met in high school at age 17.

Want a little overnight getaway? Try the Leavenworth Tiny House Village

This summer, road trips and day trips are where it's at! Refined visited Seabrook(a beach town on the Washington Coast), took a scenictour of Seattle sculptures and shared some ideas forthe best picnic spots to socially distance. But in terms of a 'little' overnight getaway, there is a charming place in Leavenworth where you can go and have an huge adventure - all while maintaining social distance from others.

Best Picnic Spots to Social Distance this Summer

Now more than ever we crave a change of scenery. From long and sometimes isolating days of working from home, to entertaining children, whipping up countless meals and everything in between. With all this time spent at home you wouldn't think we would need a break, but we do! There is something so invigorating about packing up a meal or grabbing some take out and setting outside for a little adventure.

Welcoming A Baby During a Pandemic: The Leehan-Schmidt Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Gnomes! There's so much to gnow

In the late 1970's, a most unlikely book rose to the top of the bestseller list, "Gnomes. "The more than two hundred pages of this "non-fiction" reference-type book are filled with detailed descriptions of everything to do with gnomes. How they eat, sleep, make their signature pointy hats and more.

We found a baby hummingbird in distress, here's what happened

While walking in the neighborhood, my husband and I were stopped in our tracks by a faint peeping sound. I looked down to see a tiny baby hummingbird in the middle of the sidewalk. She was in obvious distress and clearly hungry, tilting her head back and opening her mouth. We searched the nearby trees for a nest or another hummer but didn't find any.

Artist of the Week: Bonnie Hopper

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

Photos: Boating Life on Lake Washington, past and present

The Story of the Traveling 'Pandemic Quilt'

Will Stich, a high school student from Acme, WA - is making his way across the states with his traveling "pandemic quilt"in hand. What is a traveling pandemic quilt you ask? Let me explain. With extra time on his hands due to COVID,Stich took up sewing. "My mom taught me how to run a website, how to start a go-fund me and and how to sew a quilt," said Stich. "My mom calls it the School of Mom but I call it The School of Hard-knocks. " With his new found skills, Stich got to work.

Photos: Seattle's only independent farmers market looks a lot different these days

5 must-follow TikTok accounts from people in the PNW

Ever heard of TikTok? Duh, of course, you have. It's taken the world by storm, and there's truly something for everyone on this app — dancing, TV show commentary, education, body positivity, modeling, humor (so much humor), acting, storytimes, cooking, really attractive people doing normal things, the list goes on. And the more you're on it, the more tailored your "For You Page" becomes — well, just For You.

Lower stress, boost immune function with the experts at Dreamclinic Massage

2020 has been a year for the history books. After everything that's happened, stress reduction is critical, whether you're an essential worker pulling crazy hours to help others or dealing with worry about the future. The award-winning team of massage therapists and acupuncturists at Dreamclinic knows the importance of including self-care in your regular routine, especially now when so much is uncertain and it takes extra effort to stay positive and resilient.

Gigi Hadid's home boasts pasta decor from this popular Seattle artist

You've likely seen Gigi Hadid's Instagram post revealing her newly-renovated apartment in New York City. The fashion model posted 10 pictures of her "dream spot" last weekend, and right in the middle of the mix (slide #4 below! ) is a photo of colorful kitchen cabinets created with different shapes of dyed-pasta — which actually happens to be the work of Seattle pasta maker and artist Linda Miller Nicholson, US Weekly reported Tuesday.

Scenes from a Summer Camp with No Campers

Photos: The best bike trails in Seattle

Welcoming A Baby During a Pandemic: The Mendez-Wilson Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Artist of the Week: Earnest D. Thomas

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating? Earnest D.