Google Cardboard VR Headset at I/O

The biggest surprise from this year's Google I/O goes to the Google Cardboard. Because what better way to end the conference than a gag gift. Facebook has Oculus Rift, Google has cardboard.

SNOQUALMIE FALLS

Here's a shot I took recently of the Snoqualmie Falls in Washington.

HIKES | RATTLESNAKE MOUNTAIN TRAIL

Say hello to one of the most popular hikes in the Northwest, Rattlesnake Ledge. If you are new to hiking, this may be the perfect hike for you. It will take you about one hour to reach the ledge (beautiful view), and 30 minutes to walk down depending on your speed. The hike is located south of North Bend, Washington, United States. The western end is near the intersection of State Route 18 and I-90 in Snoqualmie, Washington and runs southeast about 7 miles or 11 miles by trail. Have fun!

EL GAUCHO AND AQUA EVENTS

A few days ago, I got to take a sneak peek at the new summer events El Gaucho and AQUA in Seattle will be hosting this summer. The summer series will be taught by El Gaucho Executive Chef Matt Brandsey at the Atrium Kitchen inside Pike Place Market. What makes these classes so fun is the educational and interactive components to them. Below is a list of all the "summer events" that will be going on this summer at the market, but keep an eye out for more of them on their website!

Sunday Brunch: Celebrate beautiful summer weekends with Hunt’s Brunch at El Gaucho Bellevue and SundayBrunch at AQUA. Our brunch service is new this summer and has been getting rave reviews.

June 26th and July 1st: El Gaucho Iconic Experiences at the Pike Place Market - Join El Gaucho Seattle’s Executive Chef Matt Brandsey for a culinary experience like no other. This summer, Matt will lead you through a series of dining experiences, cooking classes, and demos at Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market. Seating is limited, please call 206.728.1337 for reservations. Large groups are welcome: groups of 8 guests or more may contact Brooke Lee at 206.728.1337 or blee@elgaucho.com.

June 28th: El Gaucho Seattle Midsummer Night’s Dream Cabaret – A playful tasting menu matches the mood of a burlesque-style cabaret inspired by the Bard’s most whimsical play.

July 12th: POUR at El Gaucho Bellevue - Imbibe some of the West Coast's finest wineries, signature El Gauchobites, Taylor Shelfish oysters and Nicolas Feuillatte champagne.

August 2nd: El Gaucho Tacoma and the LeMay- America’s Car Museum Host Cars and Cigars featuring ElGaucho signature appetizers, local spirits, and live music.

August 9th: Hootenanny at AQUA – Our signature outdoor summer party featuring music, special AQUA appetizers, and wine and spirits tasting.

HIKE | SNOW LAKE

Snow Lake is one of prettiest and most hiked destination in the Northwest.  The hike usually takes about 4-5 hours depending on how many breaks you take and the type of shape you're in.  You can hike this throughout the year but I'd recommend strapping a pair of snowshoes if you're planning on going during the winter.  The scenery is breathtaking as you'll instantly be surrounded by high granite peaks, overshadowing wilderness, and picturesque views of the lake.  If you go during the summer and spring, you'll find wildflowers and huckleberries spotted around the hike.  

The best way to find the hike is to take I-90e and take exit 52.  You'll then head under the freeway and drive towards the Alpental Ski Area.  Keep your eye open as it's easy to miss the turn.  

Location: Snoqualmie Pass, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest - North Bend District
Roundtrip: 6.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 1300 ft
Highest Point: 4400 ft

Features: Lakes Waterfalls, Mountain views, Ridges/passes, Established campsites

Driving Directions:
From Seattle drive east on I-90 to exit 52 (signed for Snoqualmie Pass west). Turn left (north), crossing under the freeway, and continue to the end of the road at the Alpental Ski Area parking lot.

Difficulty Level: 3/5

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Motif Seattle Remodel is Stunning

Yesterday, I was invited to a private launch party of the new Motif Seattle hotel previously Red Lion in downtown Seattle. The new brand redefines the hotel experience in many levels for Seattle; from the fashion elements, design, music and the local partnerships. The great thing about this hotel is its location. It's smack down in the middle of everything, perfect for travelers or Seattleites looking for a staycation. For those looking to soak up the Seattle sun, you can enjoy a cocktail and bites, play ping pong or a game of shuffleboard on the 5th floor at Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails. 

I'm excited to see the Motif brand in Seattle play out and maybe even expand to other cities. With new staff and management taking over, I'm excited to see Frolik continue to transform and grow. Go give it a second (or first) chance Seattle!

Pumpkin Fried Rice Recipe

Japanese Pumpkin Fried Rice

(makes 6 servings) 

Ingredients:

- 2 carrots, 1 onion, 1 kabocha squash, 2 cups of jasmine rice, 12 pieces of shrimp or 3 sausages of your choice (or bacon), soy sauce, sesame oil, 3 garlic cloves, salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. Dice carrots, onion and green onions.

2. Cut the kabocha pieces into small cubes.

3. Boil the chopped kabocha pieces in water and add some kosher salt for taste.  

4. Sauté the chopped onion and carrots in olive oil and garlic until golden brown.

5. Scoop desired amount of rice into large pot and combine all the ingredients

6. Add desired soy sauce and sesame oil for taste. 

7. Mix all the ingredients and serve.

WALKING THROUGH PIKE PLACE MARKET

Spent a few hours today walking around Pike Place Market in Seattle. See more photos by going to my instagram account.