It’s always good to hear that these columns are appreciated, and recently I met a nice couple in Chehalis, Natalie and her husband Yvon, who said they clipped my column from earlier this year, “A summer checklist of our area’s top spots,” and tried to hit as many of them as they could.
“So when are you going to have a list of winter destinations?” they asked.
I’d love to compile something like that. Would you all be willing to help me?
Obviously heading to the high country for some snow is going to be high on the list. White Pass and Mount Rainier are probably near the top (by altitude if nothing else). Tell me how and where you enjoy those spots during the winter, and what are some other places you go once things get cold and wild?
It’s been a long time since I’ve visited the Ape Cave and other lava tubes. Anyone have any recommendations about whether those are good winter spots to visit?
I’d also love to hear about some destinations down here in the low country. Some of our best hotspots shut down seasonally for the cold and wet (see you in the spring, Lewis & Clark State Park), while others are open but muddy.
Hit me up with your winter destinations, trails and excursions. Getting outdoors is still important even in the rain, wind and snow. Maybe even more important!
It’s the most wonderful weekend of all
And speaking of getting out and having fun, we’re entering a busy and rewarding time of year.
As we soak up the last delicious gravy of the Thanksgiving spirit, we’re also saving plenty of room for the delicious cookies and pies of Advent and the Christmas season.
Our first big serving of sweetness comes next weekend, which might be the busiest one of all.
The 74th annual Chehalis Santa Parade brings a “Rock and Roll Christmas” to the Mint City. The parade starts at 11 a.m. It’s always fun to see the variety of floats and the extreme excitement when the star of the show rolls in on the final float. Rain, snow or shine, this is a must-do for the Christmas season.
Stick around Chehalis for the third-annual Community Tree Lighting at the Lewis County Historical Museum starting at 1:30 p.m. with carolers, seasonal cheer and hot chocolate provided by Shona's Food Company. It’s all free.
Afterward the museum will host its annual Author's Afternoon, which is a great time to meet local writers and look over the books they’re written. This is always a blast.
A few miles west of Chehalis, the Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Chilvers Road is hosting their annual community-sing along of Handel’s “Messiah.” This is a heavenly experience, whether you’re listening or taking part in the choir.
If you have done much singing at all in your life, I highly encourage you to be part of the choir. The piece is challenging, but you’ll be alongside experienced singers who can guide you and uplift your part in one of the finest pieces of participatory music available.
The choir rehearsals are December at 7 p.m. this Tuesday and Thursday, and a final run-through Saturday at 2 p.m. before the public performance at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday.
The day concludes with Napavine’s 46th annual Christmas parade starting at 6 p.m.
There are many other Christmas and holiday events across the region on this busy weekend and in the days to come. I encourage you to find a local event and dive into it. You’ll find your spirit brightened as you both give and receive the gift of community celebration.
Brian Mittge is feeling merry and bright in Chehalis. Contact him at brianmittge@hotmail.com.
