I am not a girlie girl.

When I was young I was always running around my block without shoes. My hair…my poor hair. When I was around 12 my hair was so long it used to touch my butt cheeks..and then in 7th grade my parents put me in a Private School called..Fajardo Community Private School…in Fajardo. Which was the next town east from ours. To this day I damn the day they sent me there. I got lice there…..lots of lice. The girls would make fun of me at the lunch line.These kids were so freaking smart. And to be honest..I wasn’t one of those. They were smart, cocky, sarcastic, and just plain rude.

Back then, I just didn’t  know how to defend myself….at all. Let’s tell a story here real quick……about this girl…let’s call her Calissa…weird name I know. She was the gang leader sort of speak. She was the popular one. The one that competed for grades, and the one in the front seat in almost all of the class rooms. She would to sit on top of my desk and eat from my potato ship bag. She would take it away from my hands and just eat it. Laughing away and making jokes……and I didn’t  hate her. A lot of my friends back then didn’t really understand how I was. But I didn’t have Malice. I would do things without thinking, and hurt certain people…..but I didn’t know it was an issue. I see this in my almost 7 year old. And it’s called being unaware, a little childish, and immature. Like when I had a little friend when I was 6 that I liked to impress, she liked to get me into a LOT of problems because she knew that I would do anything she told me to do….bad. We fed this little girl some dirt once…and the little girl went….YUMMY! We were playing house, and we were laughing about it.

Today I don’t like the girl wo would eat my lunch, because now I know that she was a bully. I wasn’t raised with anger really, and I didn’t know what being pushed around was. I would do stupid things, to impress others. That’s what she was doing as well.

That girl…you know….the bully….was killed. She wanted to be so popular that she started hanging around with Drug Dealers that were being followed by even bigger ones. They fired gun shots at their car on the road, and they killed her.

Now don’t ask me why but this was an on going thing in my life. Every time someone hurt me…they got hurt even more. Another example of this was High School. Now in high school I was…again…NOT popular at all. Everyone sort of knew who I was because my Grandfather and my Dad had a Store in our hometown. But I only had a few friends. In 10th grade I met a girl and we got interested in Talent Shows. We started training and dancing. On one of these events that we were watching..I think…One girl started throwing lighted matches my way and I realized that it was aimed at my hair. Now who was this girl?..No idea.

This is the fun part…My high school was right next to the projects. Now this didn’t affect some in any way really. Sometimes it did on the drugs issue. I remember seeing a bag full of grass…I didn’t know what it was…AT ALL. Did my parents talk to me about Drugs? NOPE.

DON’T AVOID TALKING TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT DRUGS. WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT DRUGS IT ONLY MEANS THAT THEY’LL BE MORE PREPARED TO HANDLE IT WHEN IT’S RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEM.

So this girl had it coming, but not from me. I mumbled to my friend about her throwing the matches to my hair..”Did you see what this crazy bitch is doing”?  One of the girls from the little gang heard me, she wanted a fight so she told her that I directly called her a name, and of course it was more insulting that I said the word bitch, even more so than her trying to set my hair on fire, so everyone gathered and you heard the usual…”fight, fight fight fight”. These girls were in a little gang.  The type who carry razor blades under their tongues. She slapped me. What did I do? Nothing, I was scared. I had never been in a fight in my life, not even with my own sister.

What saved me from that? Not my friends, I don’t know were my friends were or if the REALLY CARED AT ALL.

Strangers helped me.

What these girl didn’t know was that there was another gang watching. More experienced than her little girl gang. These girls came in, pulled me behind them, and said..

“If you hit her, you have to hit us”

Fight was over. The girl apologized to me the next day. That girl that slapped me said that the slap was  an accident.

That is so funny to me today. Doesn’t it make you think about all the silly things you did in high school?  A few days after she apologized, I was coming out of the  school entrance, down the hill, and I saw some commotion in the bottom. I see this big girl and I’m talking 5′9, HUGE girl….and she’s getting out of a moving car…I see her just jumping on someone, and I think…”Oh another fight..GREAT”

The girl that is getting BEATEN by this huge monster is the girl that slapped me.

And I wasn’t happy..I was actually truthfully concerned. The slap she gave me didn’t bruise me, but she was getting punched, she was going to have bruises. She finally got loose from the punches and ran up the school hill that I was coming down from, she looked at me with tears rolling down her cheek’s. It was her time to be scared. And I watched her run up that hill, scared. After that incident she never looked at me again.

“My parents didn’t talk to me about anything”

When I say anything, I mean about nothing. Relationships, sex, bullying, the pressures that comes from being a teen. NOTHING. I don’t ever recall my mom looking at me and saying, “Lucy…..you can do anything in life and succeed, if you work hard at it”. My mom was married for 30 years to my dad, and I never heard her arguing not one time. Not once did I hear her talk back to my dad when he was being an a hole. My house was the quietest house on the block when I was growing up.  My parents didn’t talk, they hardly when out together, the car rides were always silent. I mean sure, we had our trip to the beaches, after all the beach was only 5 minutes away from our house. But there was always this strange silence in my house, and I didn’t know why.

My dad was an alcoholic for years. It’s funny because everything that he did, he did it outside of the home, so we never experienced it. He would come home smelling like alcohol on certain nights I was still up, but I just though…strange smell on dad tonight.  He never drank at home…EVER. Same with smoking, he would smoke when he would go out, and in his room. We could smell it around the house, but In the 17 years that I was at my house I never saw him holding a cigarette….EVER.  He was unfaithful to my mom so many times, and later I guess my mom said…you know what pendejo, I can be a cheater as well.

I never knew about my mom being unfaithful until I was way older. I did see something when I was young..but I didn’t know what was going on. I think I was about 9 years old. My uncle had come to visit, he actually lived a few streets from us. He came over with his daughter to hang out with me. So…I remember playing around in the hallway…..{and let me tell you, I’m very bad at remembering certain things about my childhood}..and peaking in the kitchen because my Uncle {This uncle was my dad’s sister’s husband } and my mom were in there….giggling.

I remember this so vividly, it’s almost like a movie that plays in my head over and over and over again. And this happened so damn long ago, but I think because I was so young, it has stayed engraved in my mind.

She was holding a wine glass with her left hand, and smiling, and for once she was really happy. In a strange way I see now that she felt important. She knew she was doing something wrong, but also how could she deny or ignore feelings she probably hadn’t felt in 10 years.

I get it now mom. I understand. I’m sorry if I ever judge you. Damn it…

Life is here to teach us lessons.

GET IT?

What is your deal?

Do you constantly lie?

Lazy?

DIRTY?

Are you a mean mom?

Bad Wife?

Bad friend?

Bad mother?

Do you SPEND LOTS OF MONEY?

Materialistic anyone?

Do you think you are BETTER THAN THE REST?

Do you judge others unfairly?

Do you think you have no faults at all?

WE ALL DO.

What matters is that we can be aware of it. That we can move forward in truth.

]]> http://navywifestartingoverwithhonesty.wordpress.com/2009/04/09/my-days/ Fri, 10 Apr 2009 06:53:11 +0000 brownlucy http://navywifestartingoverwithhonesty.wordpress.com/2009/04/09/my-days/

OK, so I didn’t find that picture. Actually I think there’s a ghost living in my house. Things just disappear out of nowhere. Specially when it was just there. Wait….huh….it was just there! What in the world? Oh man, I’m only 32 and I feel this crazy?

No bueno, muy malo.

So my days where looking gloomy. WA, what can I say…it’s depressing. This Island girl needs her beaches, the ocean sounds, ugh…just end my misery, Deer, just walk in front of my car please! Bad Joke, I know. I’m being melodramatic. So i though Spring was here, and man I was happy! I was looking for my summer clothes, my sandals, then that 78 degree weather was here and my house was all warm and toasty….then..

Good feelings gone.

Now we’re having snow on the weekend I think? In April? Don’t get me wrong I love snow. This Winter was the worst for me only because my husband was in Kuwait and I was left with bad tires on my SUV and we have this massive hill here…oh MAN. I was mad this winter. When I slipped down the Gas Station’s hill and went smack into the highway…

Isn’t that special, could it be SATAN! (<–Saying on the church lady from SNL)

No…again…alone….in a state….were I knew no one. 2 kids and a bran new baby, and my car slipping all over the road? Lucy was not happy. This puertorrican girl does not like slippery roads. But I’m always silly Lucy, I am. I’m always trying to see the good in everything, and boy this winter was a lesson for me. But hey…come on snow! The kids will love it, that’s for sure!

Today was fun. I opened my e-mail and had 3 clients asking for more information about my Photography. I had been praying to God to send me some clients. I need to get out there. And I’m not a church person, but I believe in prayer…those favors always come my way..it’s weird.

This is how my day went today..

Made pancakes this morning. but they burned in the end. Strange because I’m usually pretty good at keeping an eye on them. The girls love them and I’m quick at making them. Not today. But I tried.

My husband’s lunch. We are saving every penny we can. So he calls me…say’s..I’m on my way, and I get cracking.  Always make him 2 sandwiches with ham, cheese, lettuce & tomato. 2 sodas, bag of potato shipd and an apple. Bye babe! Notice the Hawaiian Lunch Box. GRRRR.

Isabella is usually next to me while I’m making his lunch, making noise or banging on something.

Josh came home. Back pain set in. He got up and PINCH. He has to go to the hospital, but he doesn’t, he keeps on working…..this is not GOOD. That’s the face he makes every time he bends over.

Dinner was Spaghetti tonight…easy…but filling.

While I cooked the girls played in the Kitchen counter. Jazmine the 6 1/2 year old asking me…”Mom what color do you like 15 times and scratching the boxes in her paper, I think she was grading me. And Lily the 5 year old was drawing on her hands…how lovely…..washable marker, thank GOD.

There I am on my break after dinner, back on the computer, hey I’m multitasking! ..breastfeeding my 1 year old.

Today was a great day. Best moment?

When my husband screamed..

“You FU@#% CHEATERS!” at the Wii Game and threw the control on the couch, and the girls started to cry..

AWWWWWWWWWWW.

Your Military Relocation Guide to Naval Base Kitsap | You Are Gonna Love West Puget Sound on the Kitsap Peninsula!

This is the moving van that hauled our Household Goods (HHG’s) on our military PCS to Naval Base Kitsap from the desert of Southern California.

Every year it is estimated that one third of Active Duty Military members have to plan and execute a permanent change of duty station or PCS in military speak. The most important part of a PCS is to take charge, it’s your PCS!! There’s lots of help available but you are going to have to find it and ask for it. The military will also help with the moving expenses but you are going to have to know your allowances and your entitlements and you are going to have to request them and follow all the rules.

When it comes to a PCS you will find lots of people are going to want to tell you how to do it, they will tell you what the rules are, they will tell you what they could or couldn’t do. As with anything else even though there are strict rules overseeing the military PCS process each command at each installation are full of individuals who will interpret the “rules” a million different ways so you need to know where to find the truth. Please remember that when a person was in the military 14 years ago the rules were not the same! We still have retired members telling current members that BAH is based on how many dependents instead of with or without! Now that is scary!

I have been a Navy Spouse for 4 years and during that time I have moved three times. All three of the moves were cross the country – West Coast to East Coast, then East Coast to West Coast, then from the Mojave desert of California to the subzero terrain of Alaska. I am now “home” and will be able to stay here for several years.

I want you to know that I know what you are going through, I know what its like to move with short notice, and I know how much work it takes to have a successful PCS. I give you this information about me so you can begin to get to know me. Begin to have the confidence in me that a trusting relationship can begin to form. I know people do business with those they trust and I want to be the one person you can trust when it comes to any of your real estate needs.

Over the last 4 weeks I wrote a series of articles on relocation to Naval Base Kitsap. The start of the Naval Base Kitsap Online Relocation Package began with this post Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | IT’S YOUR PCS which outlined the NBK Online Relocation Package. Below is the final version, but be sure to read the post that started the series. Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | IT’S YOUR PCS

Week One – Take Charge | Know Your PCS

Week one featured four articles that dealt with the nuts and bolts of a PCS. Items you need to know prior to your move. I touched on the subjects of allowances, entitlements, planning a moving calendar to incorporate “to do lists”, and research of your new area with an installation overview. We also explored the local housing market and discussed the aspects of homeownership in Kitsap County.

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week One | Take Charge | Know Your PCS

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week One | Installation Overview

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week One | Schedule of Events

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week One | Kitsap County Homeownership

Week Two – Close-up | Bremerton, Silverdale, Port Orchard

Week two featured four articles about the place you are going to call home. We looked at the areas to reside, the local shopping scene, school district information and those special base amenities.

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week Two | Shop Till Ya Drop

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week Two | ABC…Easy as 123

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week Two | Fun, Fitness & Food on DECK!

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week Two | Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

Week Three – Let’s Have Some Fun | Out & About Area Attractions

Week three we spent reading about the new area you will be calling home, the beautiful Kitsap Peninsula on West Puget Sound. This week I wrote about local attractions, the local art scene, the parks and what there is to do around town and local.

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week Three | Out and About |HARBORSIDE

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week Three | Out and About | The Arts

Week Four – Make it a Vacation on the Navy | Day Trips and Mini Vacations.

I know that after I am settled in and have explored the local area I always like to find out what is on the out skirts. This week I wrote some articles about what there is to do in the “Greater Puget Sound” area. How to become a tourist in your own backyard and enjoy the so many Puget Sound attractions.

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week Four | Vacation on the Navy | Day Trips

Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | Week Four | Vacation on the Navy | Mini Vacations

Let me be the first to WELCOME YOU to Naval Base Kitsap,

on the beautiful Kitsap Peninsula of West Puget Sound!

Puget Sound Real Estate Today

Now that we have some day trips under our belt, let’s talk about some “mini-vacations” you can take on a long weekend or plan to enjoy for several days in the Great State of Washington. It’s God’s Country, you know! I had that affirmed to me while filling up at a gas station in Southern California. This woman kept staring at me and finally came up to me and pointed to my license plate. She asked if I was from Washington, I said yes I was and no sooner did I say those words did she blurt out, “That’s God’s Country”. Her plates were California plates – I can tell you she put a smile on my face and a tear to my eye! So explore, after all you’re here on the Navy’s dime!!

Tri-Cities | Kennewick, Pasco and Richland

The Heart of Washington Wine Country where you can sip, sample and enjoy the beauty of natures gift. You can choose to explore 150 wineries, or spend the day golfing in the sun, riding bikes on the trails, hiking in the hills or take your kayak on the Columbia.

You might want to explore nature by bird watching at the McNary National Wildlife Refuge or explore the Hanford Reach. Spend a sunny summer weekend on the river banks watching the hydro races. The weather is usually dry and hot during the summer so make sure to bring your SPF. If you play softball you will end up in the Tri-Cities for some type of tournament.

Leavenworth | Bavarian Village

Leavenworth is a Bavarian style town with authentic German architecture, located in a dramatic alpine like setting with awesome old time hospitality. You will find a variety of resort activities here during any of the four seasons. I enjoy Leavenworth the most during the Christmas Holidays.

You can find that “White Christmas” feeling here when you visit for the tree lighting or decide to come for the sledding. You can ride in a horse drawn sleigh through the snow sipping hot chocolate or you can rent a snowmobile and ride the groomed trails.

Accommodations are plenty and run from the rustic type cabin to the cozy bed and breakfasts or you can stay at one of the many hotels. I love walking around down at dusk with the lights on looking in all of the quaint little shops. There are several authentic German type restaurants if you enjoy that type of food.

Grant County | Moses Lake, Ephrata, Grand Coulee, Soap Lake and George

This area of Washington State will be the closest you get to a desert type area. With 10 wineries, 14 golf courses, 144 lakes, the Grand Coulee Dam (8^th Wonder of the World / largest concrete structure in North America) and the beautiful outdoor Gorge Amphitheatre, there is always something to do in Grant County!

I spent 11 years in Moses Lake and really enjoyed being able to water ski right out my backdoor! I learned to knee-board, water ski and cliff dive. My boys were born in Moses Lake so I have a special place for the small town that is now a huge tourist area.

During the summer you might be able to catch a Dave Matthew’s Band concert at the Gorge which is an outdoor amphitheater. In Grant County you can find amazing fishing – whether it be winter or summer. You can plan a camping trip to the sand dunes as long as it isn’t Memorial Day weekend – that place is too crazy for me on that holiday!! You can ATV, fish and enjoy the hot summer sun. Be sure to bring your SPF when you visit Central Washington!!

Ocean Shores | The Ocean is Calling

I love this beach! I have spent time in Rhode Island (the beach state) and Southern California where you can swim and surf in the water, but for some reason I love the beach at Ocean Shores the best. There are six miles of public sand beach with five beach approach access roads so it is easy to get to even when there are tons of people. The sound of the pounding waves is really something to experience here. There is that “roar”.

This is not the surf you come to swim or board in; this surf is just too cold and dangerous with the riptides. But you can jump some waves as they come in to catch your feet, you can do some fun wading while you search for that special sand dollar or starfish.

I love to spend time flying my kite or digging razor clams at midnight with a lantern and flashlight. On one outing I was able to watch the most amazing meteor shower while lying on a blanket on the sand staring up in the sky. Ocean Shores is the typical tourist beach town with quaint shops and eateries. Be sure to buy some saltwater taffy! You can rent bikes, go bowling or have some fun at the go-kart track. Always a fun getaway for either the weekend or a full week.

Hope you have enjoyed the Naval Base Kitsap Online Relocation Series, this will be the last article prior to my “wrap up” . If you have missed any articles you can check out the article that introduced the Naval Base Kitsap Online Relocation Package by clicking on this link Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | IT’S YOUR PCS which is updated after every new article.

HAVE A FINE NAVY DAY!!

Puget Sound Real Estate Today

Whenever you PCS you should take advantage of what the area has to offer and make sure you “Take a Vacation on the Navy”! Seeing different parts of the county is one of the many benefits of a military career.

I don’t think I would have ever had the privilege of seeing all of the nation’s monuments in Washington D.C, or seeing the spot where the real “Cheers” bar is located, or walked the Freedom Trail if not for the Navy and the PCS we did to Groton, CT back in 2003.

Nor would I have ever learned about the Mojave Desert first hand and climbed in Joshua Tree National Park if not for the Navy and a PCS to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twenty-nine Palms, CA.

I know I would never have watched the mountain race in Seward, AK on the 4^th of July or watched a real sled dog race or learned to fly fish for salmon on the Russian River if not for a PCS to Anchorage, AK! So make sure you find the tourist in you when you PCS to a new area!!

Here are just a few of my favorite day trips in the Puget Sound area. I know there are several more but this will get you started!!

The Series | Bremerton| Day Trips | Safeco Field

Moose Country? Yep, that is what I said! Mariner Moose Country!!! The Mariner Moose is the official mascot for the Seattle Mariner’s pro baseball team. Living in the area all my life I have come to see the many changes ofthe Mariners and the Moose. I remember the days of sitting in the Kingdome watching baseball on a warm sunny Seattle day – INSIDE!!

“Refuse to Lose”- I also remember the days of the greats, Ken Griffey, Jr., Edgar Martinez, Randy Johnson, Jay Buhner, Dave Valle, Alex Rodriguez and Edgar Martinez. Oops, did I say Edgar Martinez twice? I sure did! He is my all time Seattle Mariner favorite player. I personally feel he saved baseball in Seattle with “The Double” he hit during the 1995 game vs. the New York Yankees to win the game 6-5 and advance the Mariners for the first time to the American League Championship Series. I know that the tiles of the doomed Kingdome probably played a role, but it was that game on that day that grabbed all of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest and made us a “baseball town”!!!

The new stadium opened in 1999 and it was amazing. I probably attended 25 games that year!! I love to watch baseball.

When you relocate to the area Safeco Field “The House That Griffey Built” should be one of your “day trips”. You can tour Safeco Field individually or as a group.

Tour Schedule

April 1 – October 31| You may tour the stadium on days when there are now games at three different times. 10:30, 12:30 and 2:30. On days with 6 pm games there are only the first two tour times.

November 1 – March 31 | Tuesdays through Sundays at 12:30 and 2:30

Tours are approximately one hour long and cover a distance of one mile, so wear appropriate apparel.

Birthday Tours – How much fun would this be?!!

The Birthday Tour package includes the following.

• Personal guided tour for up to 20 people
• Time to play at the Children’s Hospital Playfield
• A suite overlooking the ballpark for presents and cake
• Party favors for each child
• A birthday message on the scoreboard
• Time on the field’s warning track and in the dugouts
• A present to the birthday child from the Mariners

See more tour ideas and all of the package information with costs and contact names and numbers here – SAFECO FIELD PACKAGE TOURS

The Series | Bremerton | Day Trips | Point Defiance Park

Never have I ever come across a park like Point Defiance Parkjust over the Narrow’s Bridge in Tacoma. Growing up in the area I have enjoyed this park many times, from the family picnics to the elementary school field trips. Point Defiance Park is a day trip you will revisit often. There is so much to do and see that you will probably need to divide the attractions up and visit on at least 5 occasions just see the minimum. Point Defiance Park is situated on approximately 702 acres that encompass natural forests and salt water beaches. The park offers several recreation and educational opportunities. You can have fun here, learn here and hang out with nature here!!

Gardens and Old Growth Forest

Acres of gardens | Dahlia, Fuchsia, Herb, Iris, Japanese, Native, Rhododendron and Rose. You can spend hours and hours just walking along the paths of these gardens. Several times I have just taken a book and sat in a garden and enjoyed the smells and the beauty.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Even on a rainy Pacific Northwest day you can have a blast at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. There are covered viewing areas and indoor exhibits. I love aquariums and this one is one of my favorites. I guess the reason is because it was one of my firsts. I remember as a child going on field trips to this zoo.

Five Mile Drive

There have been times I have visited Point Defiance Park just to makethe “Five Mile Drive”. These five miles of asphalt wind thru some of the most gorgeous old growth forest in the area. Along the way there are viewpoint opportunities, areas to picnic and relax and several “Kodak moments”, including Puget Sound, the Cascade Mountains, the Olympic Mountains, the Narrows Bridge, Vashon Island and Gig Harbor.

Owen Beach

This is my favorite spot at Point Defiance Park. I love the beach! Any type of beach! From the Owen Beach you can see Vashon Island, watch the ferry boats and any other water traffic. Owen Beach is perfect for a family picnic with picnic shelters, grills, tables and a large restroom area. If you are adventurous you can rent kayaks here!

Fort Nisqually

I remember as a child going to Fort Nisqually with my entire family. Over the years it has grown and improved. Fort Nisqually was originally a Hudson’s Bay Company outpost built in 1833. This is where you can travel back in time and experience life in Washington during the fur trade era. Fort Nisqually was the first European settlement on Puget Sound.

Art in the Park

Around the park grounds you can find several different sculptures to include an authentic Native American totem pole.

So no matter how much time you have, an hour or several you can find something to do that is either free or a nominal fee at Point Defiance Park. Remember, even if the weather is cloudy and raining you can still enjoy several areas of the park.

The Series | Bremerton | Day Trips | Seattle Space Needle

There is nothing like having lunch at the Seattle Space Needle. One year while living in eastern Washington I decided that it was time to take a vacation and we choose to explore Seattle. I love to vacation local. I am amazed at how many people who live in Seattle and the surrounding area have never been to the Space Needle! I decided on lunch because my kids were elementary school age and the price is lower than dinner. Many say they would never eat at the Space Needle because of the price. Well, treat it like what it is a “treat” and have lunch. Over the years the rules have changed and there is a minimum charge of $25 per person for lunch. Lunch Menu

You also will be able to continue up the observation deck. Maker sure your lunch last an hour so you will have completed a full rotation of viewing. The Observation Deck is located 520′ above Seattle and features 360º full view of the Puget Sound.

The Space Needle was the huge attraction of the 1962 Worlds Fair. Now it is the “trademark” of Seattle.

General Location:
Space Needle
400 Broad Street
Seattle, WA 98109
Located near the Monorail and Seattle Center House at 5th Avenue North & Broad Street.
(206) 905-2100

Insects, Butterflies and Dinosaurs, Oh My

The Series | Bremerton | Day Trips | Pacific Science Center

When my kiddos were in elementary school we must have visited the Pacific Science Center at least 3 times a year. This is an amazing place unlike any other science center in the world. Of course the fun just isn’t for kids, all of the adults I saw each time seemed to be having just as much fun. Of course I did everything my kids did!! I even touched living saltwater tide pool creatures! Today there are even more exhibits to see, feel and play with. I always enjoyed the Body Works Exhibit and the Science Playground.

There are over 6 acres of hands on exhibits, two IMAX theaters, planetarium, motion simulator and laser light shows everyone of every age will find something of fascinating interest.

You will want to check the Pacific Science Center website for the schedule of special eventsand IMAX and laser light show times as well as to learn what is available to do prior to your trip. This way you will not miss a thing while there. I would never spend less than 4 hours on a visit. Doors open at 10am.

List of Exhibits

1. Dinosaurs: A Journey Through Time
2. Tropical Butterfly House
3. Insect Village
4. Puget Sound Model and Saltwater Tide Pool
5. Kids Works
6. Animal Exhibits
7. Body Works
8. Adventures in 3Dimensions
9. Science Playground
10. Technology Exhibits
11. Outdoor Exhibits

Another great place to have a youngster’s Birthday Party!!!

Pacific Science Center is located under the arches near the Space Needle. Daytime entrances are on Denny Way and the main entrance and Will Call are located facing Seattle Center to the north. This is also the only evening entrance.

All Aboard… Ferry Ride!!

The Series | Bremerton | Day Trips | Ferry Rides

Take a day and ride the Ferry. Several years ago I took a day trip with my kids on the Ferry. We left Seattle and headed over to Bainbridge Island. There is nothing like being out on Puget Sound!! Once on Bainbridge Island we took a little drive and had lunch, then back to the ferry for the ride back. Riding a ferry is a very relaxing and fun experience for all ages.

From Bremerton you could ride the ferry into Seattle and depending on the weather you could leave your car on this side and then walk on over to Pike Place Market. It isn’t that long of a walk and well worth it.

Make sure to check out the Official Washington State Ferries website for more information on times and charges. Right now with all the winds and waves there has been some “ferry drama” and you might want to wait until spring.

Ferries are just not for commuting they can be used for fun too. Did you know that the Washington Ferry System is the largest ferry system in the United States? People use the ferries for Birthday parties, weddings and memorial services. Just be sure to contact the proper department to schedule your special event.

The Mountain

The Series | Bremerton | Day Trips | Mount Rainier National Park

That is what we call it. When you relocate to the Pacific Northwest you will here people talk about “the mountain”. You will hear the phrase “the mountain is out today” and”have you seen the mountain today”. The mountain they are talking about is Mount Rainier. Mount Rainier dominates the skyline from the urban areas of Puget Sound to the eastern wine country of Washington State.

I have only been to Mt Rainier in the summer time. I have hiked a couple of the trails with my boys. Even if you aren’t into hiking you will enjoy this day trip because just getting to Mt Rainier is a treat in itself. Mount Rainer is 14,4100 feet in elevation with 26 major glaciers, breathtaking waterfalls, over 100 varieties of wildflowers and approximately 56 species of mammals including deer, elk, goats, black bears, cougars, red fox and others. The park encompasses 370 square miles and is the tallest of the Cascade Mountain Range volcanoes. Yes Mt. Rainier is a volcano.

The park also offers over 240 miles of trails. There are trails for all ages and abilities. You can “stroll” a trail of less than one mile or you can go on the 93- mile Wonderland Trail. I have “strolled” the easy trail with several older family members. It is amazing what you can see.

Sunrise Day Lodge & Visitor Center is on the northeast corner of the park. This is the highest peak you can reach by car and is 6400 feet. The center is open between June to mid-September. This side of the park is in Mt Rainier’s rain shadow and has a drier climate.

Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center is opened year round and is located at Paradise. Here you can view exhibits on geology, glaciers, flora and fauna.

There are also places where you can stay for a mini vacation. National Park Inn has 25 guest rooms and a restaurant. Paradise Inn will re-open this May after a renovation project.

This is a great day trip and can also be a very great several day vacation. Check out these websites for more information on lodging and rental equipment. http://www.mt-rainier.com/ and http://www.mount.rainier.national-park.com/

Things you can do on Mount Rainier

• Back packing
• Bicycling
• Bird watching
• Boating
• Camping
• Cross-country skiing
• Fusing
• Hiking
• Horseback riding
• Hot tubing
• Hunting
• Mountain climbing
• Picnic
• Snowmobile
• Snow shoeing
• Wildlife viewing

Hope you are enjoying all the articles so far. If you have missed any articles you can check out the article that introduced the Naval Base Kitsap Online Relocation Package by clicking on this link Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | IT’S YOUR PCS which is updated after every new article.

HAVE A FINE NAVY DAY!!

Puget Sound Real Estate Today

The Art, Theater and Music scenes are alive and well in West Puget Sound. The area boasts the Bremerton Symphony at the Bremerton Performing Arts Center, the Admiral Theater with its classic and independent film series, Collective Visions an art gallery with a concert series, concerts in the park, concerts on the Boardwalk, The Bremerton Community Theatre, the list goes on and on and there is something for everyone whether you want to just observe or participate. Here is the link to the City of Bremerton’s Performing Arts web page so that you can familiarize yourself with all of the local performing arts attractions, events and organizations.

City of Bremerton Performing Arts

Bremerton Art District

Bremerton may be called a “Navy Town” by some with a connotation it might lack certain, shall we say qualities, but did you know it also has a reputation for having one of the largest arts districts in the Northwest. Downtown at the intersection of 4^thand Pacific Avenue is located the City of Bremerton’s diverse fine arts district. Here in the heart of the City you will find museums, performing art stages, several art galleries along with some very unique shops.

Bremerton actually has two days set aside every month for the “Bremerton Art Walk”. Downtown it is called the “First Friday Art Walk” which is held, you guessed it on the first Friday between the hours of 5:00pm and 8:00pm. During this time you can stroll can stroll down the street of the Arts District at your leisure. The next First Friday Art Walk will be April 4^th.

The fourth Thursday of every month is the Bremerton Art Walk – Charleston District between the hours of noon and 8:00pm.

Download a copy of the City’s Arts District & Waterfront Walking Map here ==> Click

Silverdale Art District

Old Town Silverdale Art Walk
Come enjoy the talents of the local artists along with some good food, wine, flowers and entertainment on the second Friday of the Months of March, June, September and December between the hours of 6:00pm and 8:00pm. Participating are 6 businesses and 18 artists.

Located down on the waterfront the Friday in June should be amazing. You can watch the water, listen to the sounds of nature all while enjoying your friendly neighbors while getting to know your local artists. Have some wine, buy some flowers to take home, but most importantly just stroll leisurely and enjoy the beauty of our amazing area.

Young Artist Studio – Bremerton

If you have that “artist in you” just waiting to burst out you will want to check out the Young Artist’s Studio in Bremerton. Young artist’s of all ages; children, teen and adults are encourage to explore their creative expressions in a working art studio. See the link below for The Young Artist’s Studio flyer for class information. ==> Click Here

I find the Saturday series they are doing now a wonderful opportunity for those ages 3 – 8 to find their artistic abilities. The next “Saturday Studio” will be on Arpil 19th – Painting Poetry! How fun does that sound! The price is really reasonable and if you pay in advance you can save $2.00! Regular registration is $10.00.

Concerts on the Boardwalk

Beginning July 11^th there will be four Friday nights of concerts down on the Boardwalk for this years Free Summer Concert Series on the Waterfront!! Sponsored by the Main Stream Association and funded by sponsorships of local area businesses this is the place to be on a summer Friday night.

If you are getting off the ferry after a long day at work you should plan to stay and enjoy the sounds of the summer night!

I am sure the Mayor of Bremerton has requested for the skies to be bright, blue and dry on all of these Friday nights!! I know I have!!

This year the performers are Jr. Cadillac, Trombanga (Salsa/Latin Jazz), Craicmore (celtic) and Tiller’s Folly (acoustic roots music).

Hope you are enjoying all the articles so far. If you have missed any articles you can check out the article that introduced the Naval Base Kitsap Online Relocation Package by clicking on this link Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | IT’S YOUR PCS which is updated after every new article.

HAVE A FINE NAVY DAY!!

Bremerton Harborside District

The Bremerton Harborside District opened in August of 2004. I wasn’t here for the Grand-Opening ceremony but I was still so very excited. The Harborside District is a combination of past and present Boardwalk projects. Now being all tied together and called the Haborside District.

The Harborside District is one in which you can spend a couple hours to several hours. There are things “to do” such as touring the USS Turner Joy or you can just sit on a bench and watch the sailboats or ferries glide by. You can visit a “water-park” or browse thur a museum. The Harborside District is my favorite spot in Bremerton and with the continued revitalization of the downtown hub and the Boardwalk expansion project it will be one to enjoy for many years.

USS TURNER JOY

Whenever we transferred to a new location we turn into “tourists”. We call it our new “Navy” vacation. How many families get to live all over the country and “vacation” without leaving home? The first year at a new duty station we spend most of our free time searching out the local area attractions. However, that isn’t the case with the USS Turner Joy, a destroyer from the Vietnam Era; we visited the USS Turner Joy prior to leaving Bremerton the first time. In fact I think it was a “Saturday Date”. I had never been around the Navy and so I was very excited to be going on a “ship”. I hope you have the time to head down to the Bremerton Boardwalk some day and visit this very unique historical Navy “museum”. Self tours are always the best in my opinion and that is how they have designed the tour of the USS Turner Joy.

May 1^st to September 30^th
Open Daily 10:00-16:00
October 1^st to April 30^th
Open Friday thru Sunday
10:00 – 16:00

Call for the current admission prices.
360-792-2457

Admission
Adults: $8.00
Seniors 62+: $7.00
Children 5-12: $6.00
Under 5: Free
(Verified 10/28/07)

The USS Turner Joy is closed on Thanksgiving and the day after, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Bremerton Boardwalk

On quiet days you can sit on a bench and watch the ferries come and go, on others days you can participate in local activities such as the Blackberry Festival or the summer Concert series, either way it is a fun place to be. The Blackberry Festival is held over Labor Day weekend and the “Concerts on the Boardwalk” series are held on Fridays starting in July. My husband and I have spent the 4th of July there watching the fireworks.

Located at the Boardwalk is the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard Memorial Plaza commemorating 100 years (1891-1991) of service. The memorial consists of symbolic work by Washington artist Larry Anderson and there are thousands of personalized bricks which were purchased by the community for the celebration.

There are also “pillars” with special tiles inserted – it is always fun to read these. Onmy last trip I found a very interesting tile. it was for the USS Midway – put there by the Reunion Association located in Pennsylvania. It was of interest to me because I have been on the USS Midway on a visit to San Diego. The USS Midway is an Aircraft Carrier Museum.

Bremerton Boardwalk
2nd Street and Washington

2 acres
840 linear feet of shoreline
12 park benches
Restroom
Water fountains

Harborside Fountain Park

Bremerton’s newest park addition – and all I can say is WOW!!

I had read a little about the park which opened in May of 2007 but had yet to visit. Harborside Fountain Park is at the other side of the Boardwalk. I was able to walk up the stairs to the ferry terminal and cross over. I stood up above and looked down at this amazing park. The vegetation, the stone sculptures and the copper fountains – AMAZING!!

There are these five copper fountains that “burst” water into the air at different times and different intervals. I had no idea. I was watching the water fall down the sides when all of a sudden “burst” and with this loud swishing water sound out came this large stream of water. I was so caught off guard that I screamed!! I was the only one in the park so that made me laugh!!

I know this is a place that people can “play” in the fountains and I also had read that people are debating whether the copper fountains are designed after volcanoes or whale spouts. I guess either could be right since we are on a whale “run” and so close to a volcano. When the water isn’t “spurting” they remind me of submarine sails. Guess that is the Navy spouse in me. These fountains where designed by the same company that designed the fountains out front of the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas – so you can only imagine they are amazing!

I can hardly wait until spring when every plant comes alive!! I will be spending some time at this park – it is like I said – AMAZING!!

BREMERTON NAVAL MUSEUM

The oldest building located on the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard site was relocated by the US Navy to Harborside Fountain Park to become the new home of the Naval Memorial Museum of the Pacific. The new location along with the opening of the museum was dedicated this past August.

This majestic 100 year old building is the perfect place to showcase moments of the Navy and the history of the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. Attached to the museum is the Harborside Fountain Room which overlooks the fountain park with a full glass wall. This room can also be scheduled for weddings, parties and special events.

While I was there someone was inquiring about a naval commissioning event to take place in the social room. I started into the museum, first to the gift shop and chatted briefly with the salesperson. The museum is free and staffed solely by volunteers so please if you can drop a donation in the jar in the hall.

I decided I wanted to wait to view the museum with my husband when he comes home on leave so I left the museum and wondered around to the front of the building. Once the construction on the street is finished this will be an amazing attraction to drive by.

402 Pacific Avenue

NY Hot Dogs with Attitude!

On my travels on the Boardwalk I came across what I could see as the only “on the Boardwalk” eatery. There are those that overlook the Boardwalk but only one that is “on” the Boardwalk. Uptown Mike’s, NY Hot Dogs with Attitude! First I thought to myself, “Is there a Mike?” and “Is Mike really from New York?”

So the nosey person that I am I walked into the small little building. (Later I learned it was the old harbormaster’s office on the boardwalk). There was a young man at the counter so I asked. “Is there really a Mike?” – Answer, “Sure is”, I asked, “Is he really from New York?” – Answer, “Yes he is” and he proceeded to tell me a little about Mike. Then the phone rang. I stood pleasantly by and then I could hear the young man telling someone that I was there with some questions. Yep, it was Mike. The young man handed me the phone and I was able to ask my questions to the real Mike!

Mike Lipson is the owner of Uptown Mike’s and yes he is from New York – via California. He now calls the Kitsap Peninsula home. His little stand opened this past summer. So when down on the Boardwalk, stop on by for a dog and you probably will also get to talk with Mike! Welcome to Bremerton Mike!

Hope you are enjoying all the articles so far. If you have missed any articles you can check out the article that introduced the Naval Base Kitsap Online Relocation Package by clicking on this link Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | IT’S YOUR PCS which is updated after every new article.

Later this week I will post an article about a couple of parks in the area that I enjoy that you can be at in minutes from your home.

UNTIL THEN….HAVE A FINE NAVY DAY!!

I promised this week to write an article about the different neighborhoods located around Naval Base Kitsap. There are so many different places to live it is hard to pick just a few. Here is just a partial list of the neighborhoods:

I have chosen four very diverse neighborhoods to inform you about. Blueberry Meadows in East Bremerton, Manette just over the bridge from downtown Bremerton, Charleston in the heart of Bremerton and a huge area of Silverdale called Ridgetop. I have included pictures of homes that represent the styles of the area without invading anyone’s privacy. I have also included a few aerial shots so that you can see the lay of the land of the neighborhoods. These “eye in the sky” shots really show the difference from the older and newer neighborhoods. As always if you would like any more detailed information about any neighborhood just send me an email for a hassle free response.

BREMERTON

Affordable living describes life in East Bremerton. Quick access to parks and recreation, friendly safe neighborhoods and a large selection of places to live makes East Bremerton one of the most popular areas in the Naval Base Kitsap region.

Search Bremerton WA Homes for Sale HERE

Blueberry Meadows is a very desirable community. Currently there are six homes on the market in the price range of $249,500 to $302,000. Most of the homes in this planned community were built in the early 2000’s. Here you will find 3 and 4 bedroom homes situated on nice sized lots in the Central Kitsap School District area. There are community play areas and some homes have the pleasure of being up against a greenbelt. Close to shopping, bases and transportation, Blueberry Meadows is a great place to live. If you would like to see the actual listings for these 6 homes please contact me via email and I will be glad to send the information to you without hassle.

Crossing over the Port Washington Narrows on the Manette Bridge is the electric, artsy community called Manette. Here you will find a neighborhood that has amazing views of Mt Rainer, Port Orchard and boat and ferry traffic.

There are currently 34 homes on the market in the price range of $189,000 – $695,000. The majority of the homes built in Manette were built during the 1930’s and 1940’s. Many have views and there are several waterfront properties, some with low bank.

Many of these homes are the styles of yesteryear with coved ceilings, original natural wood floors, glass door knobs and angles and spaces that add so much character to a home. There are several “spots” in Manette that you must visit.

One of my favorite is the BoatShed Bar and Grill. This is a family style restaurant located just over the Manette Bridge on Shore Drive – well unless you pull up to the dock from the water. My husband took me there on our first Valentine’s Day date. The service is fantastic and the atmosphere is very quaint.

If you would like to see the actual listings for the homes in Manette, please just send me an email and I will send them off to you. No hassle – hassle free!

In the Heart of Bremerton you will find the area called Charleston.

A neighborhood filled with craftsman charm to new age modern. Most homes were built in the 1920’s, 1930’s, 1940’s and 1950’s, however with the boom in the area a couple of builders found some lots and built some new construction homes.

There are currently 15 homes on the market in the price range of $125,000 to $299,500. Some of these homes have terrific mountain and water views. Several homes have been remodeled/restored so offer old world charm with a taste of the future. You will find homes with large room sizes, built-ins, walk-ins, original hardwood floors, fabulous craftsman fireplaces and mature landscaping.

SILVERDALE

The Silverdale area of West Puget Sound is home to some of the new home communities. Over the last several years there have been many “developments” built to include the Ridgetop area, Summerwind, Ridgeview, The Glenn at Quail Ridge and several others. There are also several newer townhouse communities such as SilverRidge and Breckenridge. Choices of home styles and neighborhoods abound in the Silverdale area.

Search Silverdale WA Homes for Sale HERE

 

During the 1980’s though the 1990’s the developments in the area that is called Rigetop were built. Most of these homes are the traditional Northwest two-story design with some splits and multi-level to keep some balance. Here you will find the neighborhoods of Ridgetop, RidgeView, SilverRidge, RidgeView II, The Highlands @ Ridgetop, Glen at Quail Ridge, VistaRidge and several others. In the Pacific Northwest we love to name our neighborhoods!!

Currently on the market are 20 homes in the price range from $250,000 to $515,000 (this one brand new). These homes feature 3,4 and 5 bedrooms, usually a bonus/family-room and at least 2 baths. The size varies by plan and builder but the norm is 2,000-2,400 sq ft. The neighborhoods and homes are well cared for with up-grades added as the years gone by. You will find extensive landscaping and some real garden paradise. We love to BBQ here and so you will be thrilled to see different types of BBQ areas, some on decks, some on patios and some built into a gazebo in the yard.

Hope you enjoyed all the articles for week two. If you have missed any articles you can check out the article that introduced the Naval Base Kitsap Online Relocation Package by clicking on this link Naval Base Kitsap |Online Relocation Package | IT’S YOUR PCS which is updated after every new article.

Next week – Week Three – Let’s Have Some Fun | Out & About Area Attractions

Week three you will spend reading about the new area you will be calling home, the beautiful Kitsap Peninsula on West Puget Sound. During this week I will be writing about local attractions, the local art scene, the parks and what there is to do around town and local.

Until next time….Have a Fine Navy Day!