Belles of the Sound

I can’t think of a more perfect way to tease Seattle. Or the entire Pacific Northwest for that matter. All little giggle for a rainy Tuesday.

But I mean, I know me and my Northface go on tons of… Damn it. We don’t go on any adventures. Unless you count trips to the grocery store and Woodsky’s as adventures. In that case I’m the most adventurous person I know. Take that Northface meme!

Here is the latest in our series, Belles’ Man on the Street, featuring the advice and experiences of new-Seattleite, Henry Fitzgerald.

Though it’s easy to pass off burglaries and home intrusions as nothing more than scary TV plots, the truth is that Seattle saw over 5,500 burglaries, 1,100 robberies and 19,600 larceny incidents in 2011 alone. Whether in Seattle or any big city, burglaries are a real threat – a threat that’s usually recognized a bit too late. 

But, wait. It’s not hopeless just yet!

While burglaries are a prevalent crime in the Seattle area, they are also one of the easiest crimes to prevent. By taking a few simple precautions, you can minimize your house or apartment’s likelihood of being burglarized. You’ll be able to rest easier knowing your life, your expensive electronics and personal mementos are less likely to fall prey to a burglar.

1. Install a Home Security System

While you may feel secure enough with your loyal dog and deadbolt lock, installing a home security system is the ultimate security blanket. An ADT security system will give you peace of mind and 24/7 monitoring. Additionally, ADT pulse allows you to arm and disarm your system, check sensors and even watch pre-recorded footage of your home right from your smart phone. Even a simple sign in your front lawn that indicates the presence of a security system can deter burglars from attempting a beak in. 

2. Use Light Timers and Trigger Lights

Imagine you’re a burglar sizing up potential homes to break into. Would you choose a house that seemed occupied throughout the day and night or one with the front porch lights on? It probably wouldn’t be your first choice. If you travel often and for long periods of time, investing in lights that are timed to give the illusion of your daily and nightly routines can help dissuade burglars from entering under the presumption that you’re not home. Motion sensing lights placed around the perimeter of your home can also make burglars nervous enough to re-think targeting your home for their nightly break-in.

3. Keep Items Out of View

A burglar who can clearly see your brand new 65-inch TV from the street or sidewalk is similar to you trying to pass up the urge to buy the shoes on sale in the window – the shoes you’ve been wanting for weeks. It’s just too tempting. By using shades, drapes and other window treatments, burglars won’t even know what you own, making a break-in less worth their time and risk. 

4. Secure Windows and Doors

You’d be surprised how many people still leave their doors unlocked and spare key under the front door mat. Don’t be one of those people. Start by always locking your doors and windows at night and while you’re away. Never leave your spare key in predictable locations like flowerpots, ledges, mailboxes and doormats. Don’t leave your keys in the front door, even on the inside, as burglars can easily break the glass and let themselves into the house.  

5. Buy Renter’s Insurance

As a renter, it’s your responsibility to make sure your belongings are covered by insurance – not the landlord’s. Renter’s insurance will protect your personal belongings from theft and damage and often costs no more than $20 a month. Though your sentimental items can’t be replaced, it’s comforting to know that your other possessions are covered if stolen.

With these few tips your home or apartment will truly be your safe haven!

Well, I got married last weekend, and am taking off for my honeymoon this coming weekend, so admittedly, I’m a bit behind on my exciting local events for the coming weeks. However, I did have a little gem in my inbox that I thought I would share this week.

On Thursday, February 9 at 6:00pm, Seattle Greendrinks, a local community networking group designed to connect environmental professionals, is holding a fun event called Vodka Wars. Hosted at Local 360, Vodka Wars will showcase and pit two local Washington distilleries against two Oregon distilleries. Attendees will be able to taste four wonderful local vodkas and enjoy food pairings by Local 360.

Tickets are $30, and tickets are not sold at the door, so you must purchase in advance. You can pick up tickets at strangertickets.com.

The two Washington vodkas featured will be Peabody Jones from Woodinville Whiskey Co. and Mischief Vodka from Fremont Mischief. The two Oregon vodkas featured will be Indio Silver from Cottage Grove and Dog Watch from St. Helens’ Ye Ol’ Grog Distillery. And, if that’s not enough to get you interested, distinguished mixologist, Paul Ritums, will be on hand to create, shake and stir a fine assortment of Vodka drinks plus introduce a bonus spirit: broVo.

Read on for the latest in our Belles’ Man on the Street series extoling the adventures of Henry Fitzgerald as he moves from Florida to the Emerald City. 

Five months ago I moved from the Sunshine State all the way across the country to Seattle to start a new job. I had recently graduated from UCF and was looking to get out into the real world and make it on my own.  I didn’t know much about Seattle aside from the fact that it rains a lot and the SuperSonics moved from there. Still, I hired some movers, packed up my few possessions and set off to meet my future.

Once I arrived in Seattle and settled into my apartment, I figured it was time for me to get out and explore. Of course I didn’t exactly know where I should go since I had only been there briefly for an interview and I didn’t have much time to find anything.

This next part might take away from the excitement of the story, but it definitely came in handy for me. Instead of going out and just wandering around town, I decided to get on social media and see what I could find out about Seattle. I figured I could find some nice spots to eat at and different spots to check out on the weekends. I was right.

Seattle Restaurants @searestaurants

I found a Twitter account dedicated only to posting information about different places to eat in Seattle. It was love at first Tweet. I love to eat and to tryout different cuisines from various cultures. I was able to find a spot to eat that first night at a diner that was mention in a post and the food was great.

After that I decided to try this out again and see if I could learn more about the Seattle nightlife.

Seattle Places @seattle_places

The Seattle Places Twitter account posts about spots around the city that have events or parties going on. Another great thing about it is many of the posts list discounts for various places. It has something for everybody too. I saw a post with 87 percent off of a massage and another one for 55 percent off of guitar lessons. They post about various bars and clubs too. I’ve been to a couple of spots the account recommended to get some wings and watch the college football bowl games and some NBA action.

Daily to do list

I also came across a page on Facebook called 365 Things to Do in Seattle. This turned out to be another great resource for me to find different activities that are taking place here. If I have a question, I can ask right through the site and get an answer right back from other locals. I have come across some really helpful and friendly people through the Facebook page who keep me posted on different events that they hear about, which makes the service even better.

Social media has made my transition to a new state and city much easier. Not only was I able to find places to go that I enjoyed, but I also save money in the process and met some cool people. I’m not sure I could have adjusted as well to a cross-country move before the Internet and sites like Twitter and Facebook.

I’m a musical theatre nerd. I remember seeing my very first roadshow of Cats in Portland when I was just a wee little kitten. I fell in love with Les Miserables before I was old enough to understand all the historical situations and adult plot lines. When I was in college, I participated in an open call audition for a Broadway show in New York. I was vastly underprepared, but I certainly had heart and a never-ending love for musical theatre.

In Seattle, I’ve had the opportunity to see several shows at the 5^th Avenue Theatre. I’ve been impressed with every show I’ve seen there. I’ve wanted to do season tickets for years, but my wallet doesn’t always agree. If you are like me and love musicals, but don’t have a thick pocketbook, I have the deal for you!

5^th Avenue Theatre is doing a 3 for $99 promotion for the rest of January. For only $99 you get a ticket to three upcoming musicals; Oklahoma!, Damn Yankees and Rent. And these aren’t the cheap seats in the back. All the tickets are the best available orchestra seats! My sister and I decided to do this deal and I got our tickets in the mail yesterday. Our seats range from the third to eight row. That’s pretty awesome considering we got all three tickets for not much more than the cost of one single ticket would cost!

Below are the full details from the website. If you’re a musical theatre fan, this is a don’t miss! So call today!

A Smash Putt obstacle. Photo via SmashPutt.com

Do you enjoy putt-putt, but are maybe looking for a little change of pace? If so, Smash Putt may be for you! Smash Putt is a seasonal mini golf experience unlike anything you’ve seen before. This year’s theme is “2012: The Final Apocalypse,” which sounds like an absolute blast to me. It features unbelieveable obstacles such as the golfball cannon or a new one featuring scratch and sniff technology according to the website.

Once you are done putting, feel free to stick around for cocktails. Smash Putt has an on-site lounge, as well as a viewing room so you can watch others tackle the putting elements. The also have group rooms for rent if you want to through a private Smash Putt event.

You MUST get tickets in advance. Every night sells out. The catch is that they only sell tickets for the upcoming weekend, so you have to be on top of your game. Go to this website to select your tee time and purchase tickets. Note that some times are strictly 21+. Tickets cost $12 or $15 depending on your tee time.

Smash Putt is located at 2764 6th Ave. S in SoDo. It’s open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting this weekend through the end of February!

Don’t miss out on this wacky putting adventure.

Can you believe its almost 2012!! Oh my, the time does fly.

If you are still lacking NYE Party plans, I’ve got an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for you, literally. The popular Underground Tours by Bill Speidel (located in Pioneer Square, for those of you less familiar) is hosting a special version of it’s popular 21 and over tour, the Underworld Tour. According to its website, the Underworld Tour is ”an historic guided tour of sin and flimflam in Seattle’s infamous old red-light district.”

This tour of Seattle’s dark underbelly kicks off at 10:00 p.m. and includes a cocktail served at the end of the tour in Doc Maynard’s old house. ADDITIONALLY, you get a glass of champagne at midnight on the house. It is recommended that you reserve your tickets in advance, which are $25 each. Please note this tour is strictly 21+, and don’t forget that you can continue the fun at any of the fun bars and clubs within walking distance of the tour!

The Belles and I wish you all a happy and safe new year, and look forward to the exciting things to come on this blog in 2012!

 Here is the latest installment from our local man on the street, Henry Fitzgerald. Enjoy!

I’m determined to make my first Christmas in Seattle epic beyond measure. While most people call spending the holidays away from home an “orphan Christmas,” I’m digging the idea of checking out the winter festivities in my new home. 

Back home, Christmas was all about attending Tampa’s annual Christmas events, eating at our favorite restaurants and watching “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” 

So, pretty much ever since I secured my new job and called the moving company to pack up my house, I’ve been hunting for holiday events and delicious restaurants to put a Seattle spin on my favorite Christmas traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned native or a Seattle novice, I think my holiday to-do list is worth a look. 

The Events

• Garden D’Lights: First things first, I’m downright mesmerized by lights. Especially colored lights. It’s a weakness of mine with unknown origins, but I was stoked to find out that Seattle’s Garden D’Lights will allow me to indulge my inner 4-year old and stare at lights without judgment. The Garden D’Lights takes place in the Bellevue Botanical Garden, which pretty much means they drape bright lights on every green surface imaginable. 
• Christmas Ship: Maybe it’s just me, but I can’t think of anything more pleasant than sailing around for an evening on a lit up cruise ship, eating a hearty meal and listening to Christmas carols. Argosy Cruises offers several short Christmas-themed cruises and allows other personal boats to follow along in the festivities. To me, it sounds like a holiday parade on water. 

The Food

• La Panier Very French Bakery: What’s a bakery if it’s not French? No, that’s not a joke, and it doesn’t have a punch line, but something about the words French and Bakery sandwiched together conjure up visions of chocolate croissants, macarons, éclairs, and a baguette to go, which I’ll eat late in the night with a jar of Nutella while I watch “Christmas Vacation.” I may or may not order all of the above items when I go. Only time will tell.
• Café Campagne: Since I’m having dessert at a “Very French Bakery”, I thought it only right to eat a French restaurant for Brunch. The Holidays are, after all, the perfect time to enjoy brunch. You don’t have to be up early, you can get away with eating a buffet in the morning, and they always have comfortable chairs. Gathering with friends and family to enjoy French breakfast/lunch food on a lazy Sunday morning during the Holidays is what life’s all about, right? 

New Year’s Eve

• Noc Noc: Baffling name aside, this downtown dance club sounds like it could be a good place to ring in the New Year, or at least to get the party started. I’ve heard it’s pretty cheap and that the happy hour specials are phenomenal. I’ve learned that planning a schedule for going out on New Year’s Eve always proves unsuccessful, so we’ll go to Noc Noc and then just use the Force to guide us from there. 

Who says  holiday away from home has to be an orphan Christmas? I’m going to have a good time in Seattle this year, whether Tampa likes it or not!

The Seattle Christmas Ship Festival starts today! For those unfamiliar with the musical, brightly lit flotilla of holiday spirit, the Seattle Christmas Ship Festival is a 62-year old Northwest holiday tradition involving boats, lights and carols. Great, right? Each night through December 23rd, Argosy ships adorned in Christmas lights sail to various waterfront locations where choirs on-board sing 20 minute caroling performances that are broadcast via a speaker system for all to hear.

I experienced my first Christmas Ship Festival last year and really enjoyed it. Not to be cheesy… but I’m going to be… the lights, music and sense of community really brought out the holiday spirit warm fuzzies for me. This is time of year is for family, friends and celebration, and the Christmas Ship Festival brings all those things together. And it’s on the water, which makes it even better because anything involving water or boats automatically gets extra brownie points in my book. There are a few ways you can experience the Christmas Ship holiday spirit warm fuzzies, and as the good blogger I try to be, I will share them all with you.

On shore: Thousands of people gather on shore at the waterfront destinations around large bonfires to see the ships and listen to the carolers. For a list of waterfront destinations by date, visit the festival website.

On a boat: If you’re the lucky owner of a boat or the lucky friend/family member of someone who does, you can join the Christmas Ship conga line. Decorate the boat with lights and join the many others who follow the Argosy ships to their destination and watch the show from the water.

On board an Argosy Christmas Ship: Climb aboard one of the Argosy Christmas Ships and be right in the middle of the action. Visit the festival website for tickets — note the cruise includes dinner. Yum, yum.

The best part about Christmas Ships? A portion of all ticket sales benefit The Seattle Times Fund for the Needy, an annual program that raises money for charitable organizations in the Puget Sound area. So c’mon! Get your holiday spirit on and check out the Seattle Christmas Ships. You might even catch yourself dramatically singing a carol like someone I know did last year….

So much holiday spirit. Some might even say too much... [Christmas Ships 2011

Please enjoy the latest in our Belles’ Man on the Street Series by new Seattleite Henry Fitzgerald:

Seattle cuisine tops the list of the many great things about the city. With bold flavors and unique tastes, eating in Seattle has become a highlight of my life. Trying new foods, infusing Asian elements into cooking and taking a few risks in the kitchen are among the things that distinguish Seattle cooking and cuisine.

If you can’t cook, or remain unconvinced that it’s necessary, check out these reasons to finally learn how to cook.

If you are the resident chef or a certified foodie, by all means, skip ahead to “Places to Shop”.

Three Reasons to Finally Learn How to Cook

1)    Save Money: It’s no secret that eating out constantly really adds up. The burgers you scarf down with a friend during lunch run at $8 a pop. The swanky dinners run much higher and you haven’t even factored in a tip, sales tax or a glass of wine. At the end of the month, you’ve spent over $100 on food, but have nothing to show for it. Grocery shopping can save you a lot of money. Sticking to your list, creating a budget, creating a menu and securing food coupons means you can feast on Seattle’s best food without breaking the bank.

2)    Stay Healthy: All those meals out not only add up in terms of money, but also in calories. While eating out every now and then is fine, the calories in restaurant meals run at over 1,000 per meal at the least. Learning how to cook now means your shorts will still fit come spring.

3)    Make an Impression: Every girl loves a guy that can cook. Even if it’s just a simple pasta dish or a gourmet grilled cheese, being able to go into the kitchen with ingredients and emerge with a finished product is a dazzling feat. The sooner you learn the better.

Places to Shop

Seattle features amazing grocers and farmers markets with fresh plenty of ingredients. Though many farmers markets are seasonal, there are a few that are open year round. Buying produce from farmers markets helps support the local economy and often means you can score the freshest veggies at a great price.

The city also has a great mixture of specific and general grocery stores. As far as basic groceries that also carry specialty items, the Metropolitan Market in West Seattle and the Quality Food Center in the University District have just about everything you could imagine – and then some. For more unique items you can’t find at your basic grocer, you can check out Uwajimaya or the Hau Hau Market, both in the International District.

Use your shopping as a chance to branch out and try new things. Look up recipes before you go shopping, and choose similar recipes to save money and avoid wasting ingredients!

Dishes to Prepare

If you are unsure of where to begin looking for recipes, you’ll be pleased to find out that Seattle is full of foodies. There are many local food blogs with plenty of beginner friendly recipes.

Here is one my favorites, and one of the first dishes I learned to cook, just to get you started:   

Toasted Israeli couscous

This healthy dish combines bold flavors with an exotic flair. So Seattle. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients can be found at any grocer.

Serves 4

Prep and Cook time: 30 Minutes

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter

1 medium shallot, sliced

1 small butternut squash, diced into 1-inch cubes

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

2 cups Israeli couscous

2 tablespoons dry white wine

1 3/4 cups water

2 cups salad greens

1 cup small fresh mozzarella balls, halved

Salt and pepper to taste

Peel and dice the butternut squash. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and add the shallots, diced squash, nutmeg and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the shallots are soft. This step should take about five minutes.

Add the couscous and toast until lightly browned, about three minutes and stir often to prevent burning. Add the white wine, stir and simmer until it’s reduced. Add the water, another 1/2 teaspoon of salt and bring to a gentle simmer until the water is absorbed and couscous and squash are both tender. This step should take about ten minutes.

Stir in the salad greens and toss. Cook until greens are wilted. Remove from heat, season to taste with salt and pepper, then stir in the mozzarella balls before serving.