When you’re considering a treat for your Valentine, chocolate is a popular go-to choice. Of course, I’m not one to turn down a rich bite of chocolate, but I’ve uncovered an impressive range of fun, local treats that bypass the sweet tooth. They still say love – just no sugar.
Green Thumb Enthusiasts
Plan a visit to the Eastside Urban Farm and Garden Center. Entering its second year, Eastside Urban Farm and Garden Center is a veritable cornucopia of products, ideas and services. “We sell everything you need to grow everything you eat,” said Virginia McCabe.
You’ll find plants, seeds, and tools whether you’re hoping for a modest window garden or getting ready to cultivate your entire back yard. Maybe your Valentine could use a new pair of gardening gloves. It’s also the time of year to think chicks. The popularity of urban farming continues to rise as people make space in their lives and yards to grow food that is both clean and secure.
Owner Brighida Devargas has done a splendid job of including local talent to showcase candles, handcrafted herb and spice infused oils and kitchen tools. The variety is amazing. Eastside Urban Farm and Garden Center is also a resource for classes, neighborhood meetings, and equipment renting. Check out their website for more information.
Personalized Art
Calligrapher, graphic designer and artist Sally Penley maintains a well-supplied art studio in downtown Olympia where she is “surrounded by things that bring me joy.” She uses her talents to make a difference. For example, the exhibit “Out of the Silence,” which she created, addressed bullying of LGBTQ and other vulnerable, suicidal teens. The donated art from across North America raised over $10,000 for Pizza Klatch.
Penley teaches classes and also designs tiny books with inspirational thoughts and words that will tuck into an envelope for your far-away Valentines. After a career as communications director at Weyerhaeuser, she now loves being able to do her art when she pleases. Penley designs personalized gifts, such as quotes or vows on painted backgrounds. Call ahead to meet her at her studio. It’s easy to see that her first love is art.
Treasure Chests
Dale Baird expresses his patience and talents through wood. His exquisite boxes are natural wooden treasures made from furniture scraps or from pieces that people give to him. “I look at the piece of wood. The top is important to me,” explains Baird who does all the work in his garage. Each box is made without metal – the latches are wood. Baird, who comes from an artistic family, made clocks at one time. He makes about 300 boxes each year. Each one is a work of art.
You can reach Baird Boxes by calling 360-701-2480 or by sending him an email dalecbaird@hotmail.com. He’s also at the Olympia Farmers Market.
Jewelry and More
Maurrie Aukland is a full-time teacher at Elma High School, splitting her time between teaching English and art. She supplies her stall at the Olympia Farmers Market with fused glass jewelry – beaded earrings and necklaces.
She’s also been a fervent seed collector and has a vast collection of seeds for fruits and vegetables. For $20, you will get you five packets of open pollinated seeds, which are enough to get you a proper vegetable or fruit garden. “You can start your seeds in your window sill,” said Aukland. She also made up large pots with bulbs. They’re wrapped and ready give to your Valentine – just add water. You’ll find Maurrie at the Olympia Farmers Market. You can reach Maurrie’s Garden at 360-482-4875 or by writing to maurriesgarden@gmail.com.
Expand your ideas for Valentine’s Day. Hand crafted earrings, personalized love notes, and garden delights are sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. My waistline will surely appreciate all those ideas. However, if you find a singularly lovely piece of chocolate…you can include that, too.
Eat Well – Be Well
