Thrifty Thurston - ThurstonTalk

Thrifty Thurston Checks out Disc Golf at Delphi Golf Course in Olympia

If it’s summer, it is time to get outside, and one way to do that is to enjoy a round of disc golf. While...

Thrifty Thurston Reads a Book By Local Thurston County Authors

There is nothing like a good book. Whether you like fantasy, murder mysteries, romance or even comic books, reading is a great escape from...

Thrifty-Thurston-Board-Games-Olympia-Captain-Little

Thrifty Thurston Beats Boredom with Board Games

Whether it is a weekend snowstorm or the nine-month rainy season, they are plenty of reasons to cozy up indoors in Thurston County. In...

Thrifty Thurston Shows You How To Make Dog Treats

Going a bit stir-crazy? If you are bored at home, why not try this fun activity that the whole family, even the dog, will...

Bittersweet Chocolates Valentine's Day Selections Passion Fruit Hearts

Thrifty Thurston Finds Valentine’s Day Activities in Thurston County During COVID-19

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and for many, it’s a day where we spend some extra quality time with our special someone. COVID-19 might...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates Pi Day with a Slice of Pie

Founded in 1988 by physicist Larry Shaw, Pi Day is celebrated annually on March 14 by people all over the world. This day...

Thrifty Thurston Takes a Winter Walk Through Watershed Park

By the time March rolls around in Thurston County, most of us are ready to get outside and get some fresh air,...

Thrifty Thurston Visits Black Dawg Farm and Sanctuary in Rainier

Nothing pairs better than kids and animals. At Black Dawg Farm and Sanctuary, an animal sanctuary in Rainier, your children can tour the farm,...

Thrifty Thurston Goes to Plays for Children and Teens

This spring, Thurston County has several plays and musicals running around town that you don’t want to miss if you've got...

Thrifty Thurston Plays Disc Golf in Olympia and Surrounding Areas

Disc Golf is a fun sport that any member of your family who can throw a disc will enjoy. It’s also an inexpensive way...

Thrifty Thurston Eats Pizza in Thurston County

Pizza is a versatile food – a crowd pleaser, a snack or a meal in itself. The crust of carbs, cheesy goodness...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates Valentine’s Day with the Kids

While you may see Valentine’s Day as just a commercial holiday to get people to buy jewelry, chocolate and roses two months after Christmas,...

Thrifty Thurston Hosts a Fun and Affordable Super Bowl Party

Break out the jerseys and foam fingers for the grand finale of football season, even though the trip to Hard Rock Stadium in...

Thrifty Thurston Grabs a Waffle at Honeycuspe

Olympia and Lacey residents may have noticed a recent addition to our town’s growing food truck scene. Located off of Pacific Avenue, Honeycuspe...

Reading statue outside Lacey Timberland Library

Thrifty Thurston Goes to Literary Readings in Olympia

From book clubs, to open mics, to author readings, Thurston County is home to a vibrant literary community with its many independent bookstores and...

Thrifty Thurston Figures out What to Do with Your Christmas Tree

As the holidays come to a close, it’s time to start taking down all of the twinkling lights, dangling ornaments and that shining star...

Thrifty Thurston Visits Tolmie State Park: A Place for Everyone

There is a park just north of Olympia full of lush trees, beautiful hiking paths and all the oyster harvesting you can imagine. It’s...

Thrifty Thurston Grabs a Seasonal Drink at Olympia Cafes

This season, instead of getting what you normally get, try one of the seasonal drinks at one of the Olympia cafés. Olympia is home...

Thrifty Thurston Goes to the Movies for the Holidays

This holiday season in Olympia has movies to offer those looking to get out and about this winter. With the temperatures dipping down into...

Thrifty Thurston Shops Local for the Holidays

The days following Thanksgiving are some of the busiest shopping days of the year. After the turkey and pie is eaten, it’s time to...

Thrifty Thurston Gets Take Out for Dinner

There are just some nights of the week you don’t want to cook. The work day is long, the kids have a handful of...

Volunteer for Holidays with Volunteer Services

Thrifty Thurston Volunteers as a Family for the Holidays

Since it is the season of giving, wouldn’t it be nice to spread the cheer with those in need right here in Thurston County? The winter season...

Thrifty Thurston Creates Holiday Memories at Home

With the holidays approaching, this time of year becomes extra busy for many families. To combat that stress, it’s wonderful to take the time...

Photos with Santa Olympia Capital Mall (2)

Thrifty Thurston Takes Photos with Santa

One of the best holiday traditions may be taking the time to get a photo of your growing family, altogether, in festive attire. For...

Thrifty Thurston Savors Fall Treats and Sweets

Autumn is absolutely a wonderful time of year in Thurston County. The beautiful scenery as the trees change color and cooler temperatures make it...

Thrifty Thurston Creates DIY Halloween Costumes

It’s that time of year again. The leaves are falling, and the family is gearing up for Halloween festivities. Part of Halloween's popularity is...

Thrifty Thurston Makes Fall Leaves into Art

The leaves are slowly changing from a vibrant green to burnt orange and red. It’s just another sign of fall in Thurston County. Those...

Thrifty Thurston Finds 10 Ways to Celebrate Friends

Friends are the family you choose. Sometimes, friendships are more fulfilling than familial relationships. The act of deciding to be around intentionally, rather than...

Thrifty Thurston Gathers Apples

Apples are the state fruit of Washington. With more than two thousand varieties ranging from sweet to tart, apples have become popular across the...

Thrifty Thurston Takes a Fall Hike on Hood Canal

The days are getting shorter and the air is getting crisper as fall takes hold of the region. While many residents see summer as...

Thrifty Thurston Preserves the Summer Harvest

During harvest season, the farmers markets are ripe with fresh food. Savoring a juicy peach or lovely berry is one of the best parts...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates Grandparent’s Day

Author Alex Haley said, “Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children.”...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates the End of Summer

Labor Day is the last long weekend of the summer. Before the kids return to school and cool weather sets in, get the most...

Thrifty Thurston Pays it Forward

Anne Frank said, “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single minute before starting to improve the world.” Random acts of kindness...

Thrifty Thurston Saves on Back to School

Back to school season is right around the corner and with that comes the cost of getting ready for the school year. According to...

Thrifty Thurston Beats the Heat and Stays Cool

With the temperatures consistently above the 80-degree mark, summer is in full force finally. While we here in the Pacific Northwest make the most...

Thrifty Thurston Takes a Walk During Super Low Tide

Many people have to drive hours to get to a beach or an aquarium to get up close with underwater ocean creatures, but residents...

Thrifty Thurston Packs a Picnic

A picnic is one of the best ways to take advantage of the sunny, warm days ahead. Grab the picnic basket and hit some...

SS YMCA and Olympia High School Swim Team

Thrifty Thurston Goes for a Swim

Loren Eiseley said, “If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” Summer is here and the water is calling. For...

Thrifty Thurston Saves on Safety Prep

Natural and man-made disasters can strike at any time. It's important to have a planned response at home or on the road. Summer is...

Thrifty Thurston Goes Camping

Camping in the Pacific Northwest offers the opportunity to reconnect with nature, spend time with family, and have fun without the expense of a...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Free Summer Events

Summer just started and fun in the sun doesn’t have to be costly. There are plenty of events in Thurston County that are free...

Thrifty Thurston Saves Money on Date Night

Date night is important to all relationships and helps keep a connection going. Couples married 50 years or just going on their first date...

Thrifty Thurston Gets Crafty with Lost and Found Crafts

Michelle Isaacson’s lifelong love of crafting inspired her to share her passion with others in a more affordable way. Recently this thrifty crafter opened...

Thrifty Thurston Reels in a Big One on Free Fishing Weekend

June 8 and 9, 2019, is Free Fishing Weekend in Washington, and if you’ve never gone fishing before, now is a great time to...

Thrifty Thurston Makes Art at Hummingbird Studio

Hummingbird Studio is an inclusive community art space in the heart of downtown Olympia, located next to Gallery Boom. Founded on the belief that...

Thrifty Thurston Spring Cleans and Declutters

As the weather warms up, it’s a great time for spring cleaning. Organizing the home can reduce stress, create a healthier environment, and is...

Thrifty Thurston Kicks off Summer Barbecues

With the weather warming, it’s time to get outside – even for dinner. Either for an easy meal during the week without messing up...

Thrifty Thurston Starts a Backyard Garden

While walking around Olympia in the warmer months, you can’t help but notice the abundance of homes with garden beds. Backyard gardening is a...

Mother and Children by Cast + Forge Photography

Thrifty Thurston Finds Fun, Events, Food and More for Mother’s Day

Mothers don't get nearly enough gratitude for all the hard work they do so that makes it all the more important to properly celebrate...

Heart of the Deernicorn Thursday Game Night

Thrifty Thurston Plays a Story Game in Downtown Olympia

If you find yourself in downtown Olympia early one evening on a Thursday, you might walk past an unassuming storefront. The door will probably...

Thrifty Thurston Rescues a Pet

For many residents of Thurston County, our pets are important parts of our families. During a trip to the dog park, or a walk...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates Earth Day in Thurston County

With spring in full bloom, many of us are looking for outdoor experiences to share with our families. Earth Day is a chance to...

Thrifty Comedy in the Box at Washington Center

Thrifty Thurston Gets a Laugh

Humor adds spice to life, and this spring, Thurston County offers several venues and production companies to catch live comedy shows and even workshops...

Strawberry Picking at Helsing Junction Farm

Thrifty Thurston Visits Thurston County Farms

Does your child know where the fiber from their wool sweater comes from? Have they seen a white lavender plant or picked their own...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Spring Garden Savings

Spring is just around the corner and it is time to starting planting and planning. A few early preparations for spring gardening will bring...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Along with stunning nature, Thurston County is home to an abundance of wildlife species, and a community that fosters the value of protecting and...

Thrifty Thurston Checks out a Book at Little Free Libraries

Walking down the sidewalk, I spied a small wooden structure ahead of me, down my neighborhood street. At first, I thought it...

Thrifty Thurston Gets Glammed at Local Salons and Spas

In today’s busy world, pampering sometimes only happens when there is a special occasion. But slowing down and taking some “me” time is key...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Amazing Sunset Spots in Thurston County

When was the last time you watched a sunset around Olympia? For some, watching sunsets is nearly a nightly ritual – the dwindling daylight...

Thrifty Thurston Golfs for Free with Wild Bill

The Gate Ranch Golf Course is a labor of love. The dream of two brothers, Jim and Bill Dunson, began as a cow pasture....

Pokemon Go Community Day Percival Landing

Thrifty Thurston Catches Pokemon During Monthly Community Days

Did you think Pokemon Go had run its course? Not so for many who gather around various hotspots in Thurston County for Pokemon Go...

Thrifty Thurston Plans 5 Free Valentine’s Day Dates

Spending Valentine’s Day with your special someone doesn’t have to break the bank. After all, the most important thing is being with the one...

Thrifty Thurston Takes a Tour of Mexican Restaurants

Mexican food is widely popular in the United States. Why? Maybe it’s the spiciness or the fact that cheese does make everything better. Either...

Thrifty Thurston Investigates Local Milkshakes

Without a doubt, milkshakes are a sweet staple in restaurants across America. I wanted to see what Thurston County had to offer in regards...

Thrifty Thurston Takes a Hula Class

Each time the catalog of class offerings for the Olympia Community Center (OCC) came out, Jane Brody noticed Hawaiian dance listed as one of...

Thrifty Thurston Tries Something New for 2019

Olympia and Thurston County are full of great artists and knowledgeable people who share their skills with others. This new year, find fun classes...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates New Year’s Eve on Hood Canal

Fireworks of color explode against the dark, crisp skies. Champagne glasses cling as friends and family cheer to the new year. The end of...

New Year's Breakfast and Brunch 2019 McMenamins Spar Café

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates with Breakfast and Brunch on New Year’s Day

2019 is almost upon us. If your New Year’s plans are all wrapped up in the midnight party, you might not have thought about...

Thrifty Thurston Goes Santa Spotting on the Hood Canal

The sound of bells jingle lightly in the cold, crisp December air. Homes are all aglow with multi-colored lights in stunning displays. Holiday music...

Thrifty Thurston Looks at Christmas Lights

Christmas season has many hallmarks that make it such a magical time of year: the smell of pine needles, wrapping presents for loved ones,...

Thrifty Thurston Explores 12 Winter Activities to Keep Kids Busy

Now that the weather is chilly and rainy, parents are limited in how to keep kids busy and active. Thankfully, Thurston County is a...

Thrifty Thurston Watches Waterfalls after Fall and Winter Storms

As gray skies return to the Pacific Northwest and the sun starts setting around 5:00 p.m., it’s easy to fall into a habit of...

Thrifty Thurston Goes Holiday Shopping at Local Bazaars and Fairs

Craft fairs are the ideal places to shop during the holiday season, and with a variety of events in Thurston County, be prepared to...

Thrifty Thurston Buys from Local Farms This Holiday Season

One of the highlights of late fall is undeniably a harvest meal. As days get shorter and leaves change color, local farms are also...

Thrifty Thurston Volunteers for the Holidays

Are you looking for a way to give back to your community and demonstrate positive values to your kids this holiday season? I’m always...

Thrifty Thurston Explores McLane Creek in Winter

Set against the backdrop of the Capitol State Forest, where eagles and hawks soar over salmon runs and beaver ponds, McLane Creek is one...

Thrifty Thurston Reveals the Secret World of the Mushroom Hunter

Fall rain in the Northwest brings more than snow to our mountains. That rain is germinating mushroom spores scattered on the forest floor. But...

Thrifty Thurston Spots Salmon around the South Sound

There are few things more Pacific Northwest in spirit than the annual salmon migration each fall. That is why, each autumn, when the leaves...

Thrifty Thurston Makes a Fall Bucket List

As the leaves turn orange and brown, the air gets cool and crisp, and we turn our calendars to October, the beginning of fall...

Thrifty Thurston Scores Free Stuff

Buying everything new can not only be expensive, but is also harder on the environment and can create unnecessary waste. In a community as...

Thrifty Thurston Gets Away at Five Unique Fall Staycation Vacation Rentals

Fall is in the air and before the holiday season begins, now is a great time to have a fun staycation. Rates are lower...

Thrifty Thurston Offers Tips to Make Packed School Lunches More Fun

It is still dark out, and the brightest light in the house is coming from your open refrigerator door. While your child sleeps, you...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Hoodsport

An hour north of Olympia, there is a town on the edge of Hood Canal known as Hoodsport. Its quaint size and beautiful scenery...

Thrifty Thurston Offers Tips for Back-To-School Sustainability

Going back to school is often a time to set resolutions such as organization and good study habits, but those resolutions can also be...

Thrifty Thurston Finds End-of-Summer Fun for Teens

What’s the point of having summer break if you aren’t doing anything fun and exciting? Unfortunately, teen activities can get expensive. Shopping, going to...

Thrifty Thurston Goes out for Breakfast

Breakfast is said to be the most important meal of the day. It should be spent with the most important people in our lives,...

Thrifty Thurston Teen Finds Thrifty Back to School Shopping

Back to school shopping is expensive. In addition, it can be more complicated for teens. Finding affordable clothing that fits our personal style can...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Thurston County in 24 Hours

Out of town guests arrive at your doorstep and want to see everything Thurston County has to offer. The catch, they only have one...

Thrifty Thurston Visits Repair Cafe Olympia

Did you know that over the course of their lifetime, the average American throws away 600 times their body weight in garbage? Repair Cafe...

Thrifty Thurston Gazes at the Stars

Show of hands: who has never seen the Milky Way? That is the question master observer at the Hurricane Ridge Astronomy Program John Goar...

Thrifty Thurston Creates a Summer Bucket List

As the summer months come upon us, sunshine and longer days invite adventure in Thurston County. Our local area is full of activities that...

Thrifty Thurston takes a Country Drive around the Skookumchuck Valley Loop

Our country drive begins in Tenino, goes out the Skookumchuck Valley and returns to Highway 507 by way of Johnson Creek Road. In all,...

Thrifty Thurston Hikes Wildflower Trails

Along with warmer temperatures, sunshine and longer days, another perk of spring is the blooming wildflowers. Our local area offers many hikes that are...

Thrifty Thurston Learns about Urban Farming in Thurston County

While Thurston County is home to beautiful, rural farm lands with picturesque landscapes, it is also the location of sprawling growth. New homes and...

Thrifty Thurston Escapes the Crowds on Local Hikes

Like a switch being flipped, the weather is getting warm, the snow is melting in the mountains, flowers are blooming, and we are all...

Thrifty Thurston Stops to Smell the Flowers at Gardens in Thurston County

One of the highlights of spring in Thurston County are the blooming flowers that pop up from the ground after a long winter hibernation....

Thrifty Thurston Visits the WET Science Center

Located just north of downtown Olympia, the WET (Water Education and Technology) Science Center serves as a destination to educate the community about water...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Fun at Lacey Spring Fun Fair 2018

Special events are what bring our community together. They allow us to immerse our families in a common space and enjoy each other’s company. The...

Black River - Mima Prairie Glacial Heritage Preserve

Thrifty Thurston Views Wildflowers during Prairie Appreciation Day

Make your way to south Thurston County for free tours, hayrides and educational activities during Prairie Appreciation Day on May 12 from 10:00 a.m....

Thrifty Thurston Visits Farmers Markets

Spring is in the air. With warming weather comes the opening of numerous farmers markets throughout the region. Some markets, like the Olympia Farmers...

Thrifty Thurston Visits Nurseries around Thurston County

As the sun makes a miraculous return to Thurston County after a long winter, residents take their first steps outside to their unkempt gardens....

Thrifty Thurston Finds Fun at Arts Walk and Procession of the Species

Spring Fever is definitely upon us. Cherry blossoms are out, the days are warming up, sunglasses dusted off and Spring Break gives kids an...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates Earth Day Along Hood Canal

The Pacific Northwest is full of stunning natural beauty, with seemingly endless outdoor recreation potential around every corner of The Evergreen State. For most...

Thrifty Thurston Raises Backyard Chickens

Spring is here and with the longer daylight hours, “Eggs for Sale” signs will begin popping up along the roadways. But have you have...

Thrifty Thurston Enjoys All-Ages Live Music at Local Craft Breweries

Want to break up your after-school or after-work routine? There are a couple new destinations to consider when picking a family-friendly outing with the...

Thrifty Thurston Hikes the Tenino Trails Loop

The Tenino City Park Trail, the nearby Creekside Conservancy Trail and a portion of the Yelm Tenino Trail interconnect to form a three-mile loop,...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Green Hikes on St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner and before we know it, we will be seeing green around town. During this time, we...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Easter Egg Hunts and Events around Olympia

Easter is almost here. That means time for family, food and lots and lots of eggs. The Easter Bunny made sure there will be...

Thrifty Thurston gets Dinner Delivered: Local Restaurants That Come to You

Very few things make a long day longer than arriving home only to remember that you still need to make dinner. Luckily, many neighborhood...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Nature with Perri Rae Davis of Get Outside Olympia

Childhood memories are funny, we don't remember everything and some things we remember better than others. “If you think about elementary school, what do...

Thrifty Thurston Explores the New Tumwater Historical Park Playground

One of the reasons I moved my family to Tumwater was because of its historic roots and convenient location relative to the rest of...

Thrifty Thurston Shares Five Ways to Celebrate A Non-Traditional Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day, on its surface, is a day for jewelry, chocolates, flowers and a fancy dinners. That’s all fine if you have the money,...

Thrifty Thurston Shares the Olympia Area’s 2018 Major Events and Festivals

Living in Olympia, there is never a lack of things to do. Our region is full of fun, whether it is in the forest,...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Dance Classes Around Thurston County

When my four year old daughter showed an interest in learning to dance, I was ecstatic. She was ready to focus her sights on...

Thrifty Thurston Plans 18 Outdoor Adventures for 2018

Thurston County makes for a great basecamp for outdoor adventures. In every direction, adventures for all ages can be found in the wilds of...

Thrifty Thurston Gets Moving with 12 Months of Healthy Activities

January is the time of the year when many people make grand New Year’s resolutions resolving to change their lives, get healthy and, in...

Thrifty Thurston Plans a Winter Birthday Party

Those celebrating winter birthdays not only compete with the weather, they also compete with holiday budgets and schedules. For savvy party-throwers who want to...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates “Around the World” for New Year’s 2017

Across the globe, customary foods, clothes or activities are associated with ringing in the new year. Those of Polish decent believe eating pickled herring...

Thrifty Thurston Finds the Snow on Winter Day Trips

One of the best parts of winter has to be snow. As a kid, I’d dream of the chance to join forces with the...

Thrifty Thurston Keeps the Kids (and Adults) Busy Over Winter Break

Winter break is right around the corner and if you’re a parent like me, you might be wondering what to do to keep the...

Thrifty Thurston Finds 2017 Holiday Lights Around Olympia

Holiday lights viewing is an ideal way to spend time with friends and family no matter the weather. With twinkling homes and neighborhoods galore throughout...

Thrifty Thurston Learns How to Dig Razor Clams

Just an hour or so from the comfy confines our our homes in Thurston County, a coastal adventure is awaiting you and your family....

Thrifty Thurston Visits Thurston County Christmas Tree Farms

A chill has returned to the air, meaning that the holidays are quickly approaching. Throughout Thurston County, signs of the season are out in...

Thrifty Thurston Shares Five Volunteer Activities in the Nisqually Watershed

Did you know that the Nisqually River divides Thurston from Pierce County? This river is created by a glacier on Mount Rainier and you...

Thrifty Thurston Sees the Circle of Salmon at McLane Creek Nature Trail

Just a few miles from the pavement and cars of downtown Olympia, hidden in an enclave of newly reclaimed forest, sits McLane Creek Nature Trail....

Thrifty Thurston Finds Indoor Fun around Olympia

Because it’s fall in Washington, when you read this article the weather could be seventy degrees and sunny or pouring down rain in buckets....

Thrifty Thurston Finds Five Fall Adventures and Three Fall Overlooks on Hood Canal

Washington is beautiful – we all know that. From the coast to the mountains and even out to Eastern Washington, beauty can be found...

Thrifty Thurston Trick-or-Treats Around Olympia

Halloween is a holiday that means different things to different people. For some, it’s an evening of spooktacular frights and a dark autumn night....

Thrifty Thurston Uses Olympia’s Interactive Capitol Campus Map

Olympia is perfectly located on the I-5 corridor. Seattle and Portland are an easy jaunt, and after a short drive you can find your...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Fall Arts Walk 2017

One of the highlights of living in Thurston County is the variety and frequency of festivals celebrating our history, lifestyle and, in this case,...

Thrifty Thurston Picks the Perfect Pumpkin at Thurston County Farms

The seasons have changed in the Capital City. Trees that only weeks ago boasted hearty green leaves have taken on hues of red, orange...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Fall Family Fun around Olympia

Fall in Thurston County is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year. The leaf colors become brilliant as the late afternoon sun shines...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Stroller Walks in Thurston County

As a stay-at-home parent, I know it is important to get out of the house. Hunkering down with your little one is perfectly fine...

Thrifty Thurston Views Migrating Salmon: Where Northwest History, Culture and Education Meet

The Pacific Northwest is defined by water. Whether falling from the skies or providing endless opportunities for exploration and play, we love all it...

Thrifty Thurston Makes and End of Summer Bucket List

The sun is setting earlier, the back-to-school displays have been launched in the front of every store, and those leaves in the trees of...

Thrifty Thurston Sends a Tribute to Tugboats during Harbor Days

The Port of Olympia has always been a place to spot boats of all shapes and sizes. Some of these boats are for leisure...

Thrifty Thurston Gets a Breath of Fresh Air at the Nisqually Reach Aquatic Reserve...

Across from the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge are two little-known gems. One is mostly under water – the Nisqually Reach Aquatic...

Thrifty Thurston Heads to the 88th Annual Pet Parade

It’s a tale as old as time, song as old as rhyme, beauties and beasts of Thurston County are about to hit the streets!...

Thrifty Thurston Gets Moving with the Rain Warriors 5K Club

Angie Maxwell is a physical therapist – one that believes in “realistic fitness.” “You have to be realistic,” Maxwell said. “You have to make it...

Thrifty Thurston Heads Beyond the Mounds at Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve

Looking for an easy day hike in Thurston County the whole family will enjoy? Have you already seen the natural phenomenon in Littlerock known as...

Thrifty Thurston Explores the Hidden Wonders of the Hamma Hamma

On the eastern slopes of the Olympic Peninsula, where banana slugs and mountain goats outnumber people, there is a river valley full of adventure...

Thrifty Thurston Picks 4 Segments of the Chehalis Western Trail Not to Miss

Stretching over twenty miles through the prairies and forests of Thurston County, the Chehalis Western Trail is a local gem. Ideal for a day...

Thrifty Thurston Checks Out Five Hikes with Stunning Views

All around social media, it seems like we see the same images of our friends and family members out in nature. Scrolling through our...

Thrifty Thurston Lounges during Olympia Summer Sunsets

Watching the sun set is a pastime as old as the ages. It can be enjoyed from any place around the globe and is...

Thrifty Thurston Picks Berries at Thurston County’s U-Pick Farms

My three-year-old daughter and I love taking in the sunshine of summer and savoring bites of the fresh produce available to us. Eating seasonal...

Thrifty Thurston Explores the Hiking Trails of Priest Point Park

Olympia has a special relationship with nature and its parks. For generations we have found ourselves taking friends and family members out into nature,...

Thrifty Thurston Lists 25+ Family Friendly Activities for Your 2017 Summer Bucket List

Warmer temperatures are upon us and when school is out, I sometimes hear these three little words, “Mom, I’m bored.” Whether you have lived in...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Olympic National Park’s Staircase This Summer

The greater Staircase region of Olympic National Park was the seventh most-visited national park in America in 2016 and is sure to be a top...

Thrifty Thurston Travels on 7 Hikes Perfect for Families

The Pacific Northwest is full of natural beauty, yet another reason we all love calling the area home. Around every corner, along each river...

Thrifty Thurston Celebrates Mother’s Day across Thurston County

Being a mother, I’ve finally realized the work it takes. It’s not just about getting my daughter dressed and fed, but instead it’s a...

Thrifty Thurston Picnics in the Sky at Overlook Point Park

Thurston County is a beautiful place to live. We have the Puget Sound, lakes, rivers, valleys and forests. Along with this incredible terrain, our...

Thrifty Thurston Chases Waterfalls on Spring Day Trips

As the daylight hours grow longer and mountain snow finally starts to melt away, signs of spring can be found around every corner. Trillium...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Spring Arts Walk

My birthday falls on or around Spring Arts Walk in Olympia each year, so I always make it a point to wander downtown in...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Egg-cellent Easter Egg Hunts in Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater

As a kid, Easter egg hunts were the pinnacle of competition. My entire family would get involved, snatching the colorful eggs and counting their...

Thrifty Thurston Looks Back at the History of the Civilian Conservation Corps at Millersylvania...

Millersylvania State Park, an 842-acre area in south-central Thurston County, is one of the county’s greatest parks. Consisting of Deep Lake and its surrounding...

Thrifty Thurston Enjoys the Outdoor Green this St. Patrick’s Day

When one thinks of Ireland, the mind drifts toward natural landscapes full of green, breath-taking stretches of coast and waterways that capture the imagination....

Thrifty Thurston Explores the McLane Creek Nature Trail

As we all know, the weather in western Washington can be a bit fickle most months of the year. You never know what weather you...

Thrifty Thurston Tours Washington’s Historic Old Capitol Building

Looming large over Sylvester Park in downtown Olympia, one of Washington State’s most iconic and historic buildings has caught the eye of the passersby...

Thrifty Thurston: Shark Eyeballs and Orca Food – Discoveries Await at South Sound Estuarium

Olympia’s maritime history is as old as language, with Salish people telling tales and weaving memories of the abundance of sea life and waterfront...

Thrifty Thurston Lists Activities for Presidents’ Day Weekend

Presidents’ Day weekend poses an exciting opportunity to enjoy a mid-winter break. While many families head out of town to somewhere warm, there are plenty...

Thrifty Thurston Sleeps in a Remote Olympic National Forest Cabin

Around the wild and remote Olympic Peninsula, endless adventure can be found. Lurking in the woods on all sides, wilderness awaits you, hoping you...

Thrifty Thurston Rediscovers Wildlife at Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

On the northern edge of Thurston County, where the Nisqually River mixes with the Puget Sound, one of our region’s natural wonders sits, waiting...

Thrifty Thurston Plans a Year in Nature with Local Hikes

A new year is upon us, meaning we have new goals, an optimistic outlook, and an opportunity to accomplish this year’s hopes and dreams....

Thrifty Thurston Explores Washington’s National Parks on 10 Fee-Free Days in 2017

Here at the bottom of the Puget Sound, surrounded by the beauty of Washington State, we have access to some of the most iconic...

Thrifty Thurston Lists 17 Things To Do in 2017 around Thurston County

After a year for the history books, we welcome 2017 with open arms and hopeful spirit. Instead of making a list of resolutions, I’ve...

Thrifty Thurston Travels on 5 Day Trips to Enjoy Nature Just an Hour or...

Winter is here, bringing with it chilly weather that fills residents of the South Sound with a desire to stay warm, dry and indoors....

Thrifty Thurston Goes Outdoors with Hike It Baby Olympia

Cold, rainy days can be hard on even the strongest Washingtonian, but what if you have a new baby or toddler at home? Suddenly, your...

Thrifty Thurston Gets a History Lesson with a Walk around Capitol Lake

Even though I grew up in Olympia, I’ll be the first to admit there is still plenty to learn about this community, and it...

Thrifty Thurston Sleds Down Mount Rainier

Looming high above the horizon to the east, standing tall like a silent giant, Mount Rainier captivates our imaginations every day we can see it....

Thrifty Thurston Drives a 2016 Christmas Light Tour around Thurston County

Scarves, coats, and hot chocolate are secured in our car before heading out on one of my favorite family traditions…the holiday light tour. Each...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Holiday Music Concerts Throughout Olympia

If you’re looking to keep your family entertained during the Holidays, there is no shortage of free and low cost music and family fun...

Thrifty Thurston Lists Plenty of Places to Take Family Photos in Thurston County

Snapping the perfect family photo can be challenging - weather, kids, dogs all impact gathering that ideal image of a smiling family. Local photographer...

Thrifty Thurston Runs Off the Beaten Path – 6 Trail Runs for the Whole...

Olympia has a rich running culture, as displayed by the constant stream of runners along the paths, streets and trails around the South Sound....

Thrifty Thurston Spots Salmon Spawning at Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail

As you drive up Highway 101 toward Shelton, it’s easy to miss the turn off for the Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail, but seeing the fall...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Family Fall Activities around Olympia

The sun of summer has set and the leaves have changed from green to a deep, autumn orange. Pumpkin spice lattes are warming the...

Thrifty Thurston Travels on 4 Haunted Hikes within a Short Drive from Olympia

The crisp, cool air has returned with the rain, letting us know that fall has returned in full force. With pumpkin spiced lattes being...

Thrifty Thurston Treks around the South Sound on Fall Hikes

Experiencing the majesty of autumn around the South Sound is an annual tradition that we all know and love. As the taste of pumpkin...

Thrifty Thurston Explores 4 Pumpkin Patches in Olympia

Each year, my neighbor throws an awesome pumpkin carving party. She lines her kitchen floor with plastic, plunks down the pumpkins, and everyone goes...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Fall Road Biking Inspiration

Fall is upon us. The days are a bit shorter, the evenings cool and crisp, and the leaves changing. But just because winter is...

Thrifty Thurston Follows Fall Foliage around Thurston County

School busses line the streets and the brisk air has begun to blow through turning the seasons from summer to fall. One of the...

Thrifty Thurston Logs the Best Seat in Town for Watching Migrating Salmon near Olympia

In the Pacific Northwest, salmon are beloved in our waterways, artwork, cuisine, and the occasional crosswalk. The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office acknowledge...

Thrifty Thurston Coordinates the Grande Finale of Summer During Labor Day Weekend

Back to School advertisements are around every corner, the leaves are beginning to fall and the hot, summer sun is fading. These signs can...

Thrifty Thurston Logs Beginner Geocaches in Olympia

My ten-year-old daughter celebrates her geocaching “anniversary” on International Geocaching Day. This year, it happened to fall on August 20, 2016 and we made...

Thrifty Thurston Launches Olympia Pets into the Limelight during the 87th Annual Pet Parade

Almost 150 years ago, George Eliot said, “animals are such agreeable friends—they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms.” Like her longstanding truth, the...

Thrifty Thurston Brings Generations Together through Crabbing at Hood Canal

I associate summers at Hood Canal with equal parts waterskiing, clam digging and crab catching. Along with my siblings and cousins, we would dive...

Thrifty Thurston Wheels into Rainier Vista Community Park

Cruise on up to the chain-link fenced-in world that is the skatepark at Rainier Vista Community Park, and stare in amazement at the only half-pipe...

Thrifty Thurston Jams to a Free Outdoor Concert on Sunday at the Capitol Campus

Olympia Symphony Orchestra (OSO) Administrative Assistant, Jennifer Hermann, says "Olympia is a vibrant arts community with diverse music and dance groups of all genres...

Thrifty Thurston Explores Olympia’s Art

Olympia has so much art work around the city that it's often easy to just drive right past. We see it every day and...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Frugal Lakefair Fun

In 1957, a small carnival began on the shores of Capitol Lake to beat the heat and boredom of the summer. The tradition continues...

Thrifty Thurston – Local Beaches Promise Frugal Fun

School’s out, the weather is warming, and nothing says “summer!” like a day at the beach. And for the family on a budget, the beach...

Thrifty Thurston Shares Fire Safety During Olympia Fire Department’s Movie Spectacular

Just because school’s out for the summer—or for good!—doesn’t mean we stop learning. This is especially true for practical, universal information like fire safety....

Olympia’s Music in the Park is Music to My Ears

Summer’s official start can be confusing. Is it the first heat wave, solstice in June, or last day of school? Personally, I think it’s...

Thrifty Thurston – 6 Ways to Cool Off Your Dog during Warm Summer Days

The sun is shining. Dog lovers around Thurston County have great opportunities for taking their companion out to enjoy the warm weather. Here are...

Thrifty Thurston Finds Free Summer Fun with the Lacey in Tune Children’s Entertainment Series

“When life gets rough, I like to hold on to my dream, of relaxing in the summer sun, just lettin’ off steam…” While Olaf’s...

Thrifty Thurston Tours Craig Kinnaman’s Free Museum

If you have horses or other farm animals, then you probably know Kipert’s Korner Feed Store just south of the Olympia Airport on Highway...

Thrifty Thurston Finds 20 Free Things To Do with Kids this Summer in Olympia

This summer, we’re packing your calendar full of free, family activities throughout Thurston County. From parks to tours and museums, you are sure to...

Thrifty Thurston Enters 5th Year, Shares Top 5 Articles

Readers - let's celebrate! Thrifty Thurston is turning four today. For the past 208 weeks, ThurstonTalk has published a Thrifty Thurston story every Thursday morning....

Thrifty Thurston Wanders through the State Capitol Campus during Memorial Day

How do you celebrate Memorial Day? While some families may take a quick trip out of town to the coast or explore a nearby...

Thrifty Thurston Bounces into the Lacey Spring Fun Fair

Entertaining my family on a beautiful, sunny day is one of my favorite things to do during spring. However, many events around town can...