A Christmas riddle: What is the most precious gift this season? It’s often in short supply. It’s impossible to buy it at the store. Can you guess? It’s time.
I can certainly appreciate a lavish present wrapped in shiny paper, but I am most fond of the gift that promises to create an experience. The thrill of going off on an adventure, whether it is grand or tiny, brings me great pleasure. Financially, you can spend as little or as much as you wish. You might need transportation to get you where you want to be, but there are plenty of choices for fun activities here in Thurston County. Here are a few ideas.
At no cost, you and your friends and family can tromp around our local parks. Pack snacks or a lunch (and probably an umbrella) and get ready for exploring. Priest Point Park, off East Bay Drive, has play equipment and walking paths. Venture down to Budd Bay for bird watching or sloshing around on the beach. I’m also fond of Watershed Park. Parts are a bit steep but manageable. I’m always amazed that I feel deep in the woods, even though I’m practically in downtown Olympia. Lots of neighborhood parks have structures for climbing. You might be frowning thinking parks are for warm summer days, but give them a chance to show you their winter beauty. For more Olympia park and trail choices click here. There are also many possibilities in Tumwater and Lacey.
You get a lot of mileage from buying a lipstick. Whenever I’ve visited the cosmetic counter at a department store, I’m reminded there’s a lot to be said for getting help. I learn about new products and skin care. My aging skin has different needs than before. I’m sure that the sales people are interested in my purchasing their wares, but I’ve never felt pressured. And since I don’t typically wear much make up at all, I like getting a few tips from those who do. I leave with a color that looks right on me. This activity is perfect for a rainy day. Capital Mall carries many lines of cosmetics.
After you’ve found your perfect shade of lip color, you might be in the mood to go out. Our community is rich with live theater throughout the year. Ticket prices begin under $10. Here’s a quick reminder of a few of our production options. There’s Harlequin Productions, Olympia Little Theater, Olympia Family Theater, The Washington Center for the Performing Arts, and South Puget Sound Community College’s artist and lecture series.
Consider all our high schools, too. Just because you don’t have student in high school doesn’t mean you can’t attend a show. There are theatrical and musical events throughout the school year. For example, Capital High School will be performing Of Mice and Men in January and Grease the spring.
I asked my adult son Kosta his idea for an experience as a gift. He likes to invite a couple of friends over for a dinner that features a new recipe. Everyone is up for a free dinner and happy to be guinea pigs. Making the time to break bread with friends is a great way to spend time.
Life gets busy. Life is busy. The old adage says we all get the same number of minutes each day to spend as we choose. As I get older, I place higher value on actually seeing and being with my friends and my family.
Let’s go out for a spiced chai or get side-by-side pedicures. Those create forever-memories.
Happy Holidays.
