7 Things to Love about Thurston County

0 Shares

 

By Kate Scriven

VCB logoI’m in love. Yes, with my husband and children, but I have a secret (ok – maybe not so secret) love. It’s an ongoing affair I’m having with where I live. I have lived here for 13 years and never see myself living anywhere else. This year, I’m sending a Valentine to my town, my community, my county. And I don’t think I’m alone in my adoration of Thurston County.

There are several categories of people who live, work and play in Thurston County. First are “The Lifers.” These people were born and raised here and even after living elsewhere for college or a job, they are back and they are staying. Love for Thurston County oozes from their pores.

kayak summer
Grab a paddle and explore the Puget Sound shorelines from Olympia.

The second group is “The Transplants.” These people, me included, have moved to Thurston County in early or mid-adulthood to settle. We may be even bigger fans of the area than the Lifers. We are converts who have found a haven to call home.

Lastly, are the “Retiree Re-locators.” These seniors have worked, and lived, elsewhere for most of their lives and in retirement have chosen to make a home in Olympia. The reasons are many, from lower cost of living and lots of space to following their “transplant” children and easy access to all the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

No matter your category, or maybe you’re thinking of relocating, we all love it here. So, here is my Valentine to you, Thurston County. I love you and these are my Top 7 reasons why. If you need to foster your relationship with your town a bit, read my list. Engage in some of the activities. Visit some of the places. You’ll be buying Thurston County a dozen roses before you know it.

1 – It’s the Water – Hundreds of miles of Puget Sound shoreline are accessible to the public throughout Thurston County. Parks with beaches and public boat launches along with access to kayak and paddleboard rental allow everyone, resident and visitor alike, to enjoy my number one favorite thing – the water.

2 – Perfect Access – After years of living in the hustle and bustle of Seattle, and slogging through traffic no matter which compass point I was turned towards, I relish the easy access to the mountains, the forest, the ocean, and, well, Target. Let’s be honest. I just like getting where I need to go without adding a 30-minute contingency for traffic.

3 – Community Spirit – Never have I lived someplace with so many free and open community festivals. Not only does it engage me with my neighbors and local businesses, but it pushes me beyond my comfort zone When I involve my family in these festivities – Pet Parade, Procession of the Species, Yelm’s Prairie Days, Capital City Pride – it broadens their horizons and fosters acceptance for all our differences.

upick farms
Plenty of Thurston County farmers offer u-pick options throughout the berry picking season.

4 – Lots o’ Farms – Need organic veggies? How about perennial seedlings? Maybe raw honey or artisan jam? Want to U-Pick your own berries? Need to stock the freezer with grass-fed beef or pastured pork? No problem. Thurston County is teeming with farmers dedicated to the land and sharing it’s bounty with us. Whether you access it through a farmers market, a farm-to-table restaurant or direct from the producer, our region provides.

5 – Live Theater – Our area has an ample number of live theater venues. How do we have so many quality opportunities to experience this ancient art? I don’t know the answer, but I love it. From family time at Olympia Family Theater to consistently excellent shows at Harlequin Productions to Broadway shows at The Washington Center, there is something for everyone. Add in the programs for budding actors and actresses and you have a sustainable theater community we all can enjoy.

6 – Olympia Farmers’ Market – A community gathering spot. A venue for local artisans and farmers. An anchor for our waterfront activities. An incubator for small business owners just starting out. The second largest market in the state (Seattle’s Pike Place is first) has been an Olympia gem for over 38 years and a place we are all passionate about. Mark opening day April 2, 2015 on your calendar or visit on a Saturday throughout winter.

Orcas occasionally visit Budd Inlet during the winter months.  Photo credit: Chris Hamilton
Orcas occasionally visit Budd Inlet during the winter months. Photo credit: Chris Hamilton

7 – State Capital Diversity – Thurston County houses not only our state government but one of most progressive state colleges in the country in The Evergreen State College. The diversity brought together in our common spaces, where legislators mingle with free spirit students and moms with lattes, is something I cherish and actively embrace with my kids. Those of us who live here love our place, and its people, because of our differences, not in spite of them.

I’m a transplant, but I’m here to stay. And, this list serves as only a start of the things I love about living in Thurston County. So as Valentine’s Day approaches, give kisses and hugs not only to your loved ones, but to the place that wraps it’s arms around you each day. The place you call home.

 

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
0 Shares