Summer is officially here! As I sit here writing this post I’m so glad to be in the pacific northwest. When I moved here many, many years ago, the joke was that summer started on July 5th because it typically rained and was chilly up to and on the 4th of July holiday. Not so this year! We’ve been enjoying warm and sunny days with more dry and hot days ahead. I know many people are sweltering in the heat and humidity of the south or enduring smoke-filled skies or taking shelter from summer storms or still waiting for summer to begin. Wherever you are, be safe this long holiday weekend.
With summer in full swing, tourists are flocking to Seattle. Thousands of visitors come to town each week to board cruise ships, attend major league sporting events and top-name concerts, or simply enjoy the city. They spend millions of dollars at hotels, shops, restaurants and attractions. Our major league baseball stadium holds over 50,000 spectators. That’s more people than live in some small cities! And cruise ships hold over 5,000 people. That’s more than some small towns! And just last week, the news reported that 300,000 onlookers attended the recent Pride parade!
But walk just a few blocks from the iconic public market or bustling waterfront and you don’t see many tourists among the boarded up storefronts and homeless people. Those of us who live and work in the heart of the city see its darker side. I was appalled to see so much trash outside of our beautiful symphony hall. About a week ago I walked a different route to work and happened upon an impromptu memorial to a pregnant woman who was shot and killed while in her car at a red light. Such a tragic story for a local restaurant owner’s family.
I think most cities, no matter the size, have a side they show visitors and the side the residents see. I love being in this city and having so many wonderful things to do here. But I understand the reality of big-city living. We all have to consider the pros and cons of where we spend our time. Be mindful of your surroundings but don’t let the negatives stop you from enjoying life. A couple of friends have made comments about how this city has changed and about the naked Pride parade participants. I hear you and appreciate your concern. For now, I’m happy to concentrate on the positives of the city I call home.
And as we celebrate the Independence Day holiday remember those who fought for our freedom and who are still fighting to preserve our rights. You can continue the fight by getting involved in your community and using your voice at the voting booth in upcoming elections.
Last month I explored a few places I haven’t been to in many years….Dash Point State Park, Browns Point Lighthouse Park, and the Duwamish Waterway. Have you been to any new places near your home? Get out there and take a look!
All photos are the property of WanderBee Photography and may not be reproduced without permission.
photography 
Happy 4th of July Barb ! great photo’s.
LikeLike
Your writing (style) is SUPERB, and the points you emphasize are right on and well worth reminding ourselves of repeatedly.
Love reading your monthly updates, & envy the hell out of the real summer weather you’re enjoying down there! Here in Anchorage, constant clouds, rss add in & often windy. So far, only 4 days of true summer weather since”summer ‘s” calendar start…
LikeLike