When you live in a place like Washougal, a Home is more than a home

I was reminded yesterday how homes can be a great gathering place and the center of some of the best times.

My day started off with one of my best childhood friends, the beautiful, smart, kind, and talented Suzy Levy, coming to my place to watch the sunrise and have a coffee. Another day Ill write a post about the important work she is doing and link her thoughtful and timely book called “Mind the Inclusion Gap”. Suzy had travelled with her daughters from her home in London to visit family in Washougal and I was fortunate enough to get to see her.

We gathered in the living room and sat on the floor and caught up on life, and our children, and watched the clouds roll in over the Columbia River. Suzy is the type friend that would visit me in a tent, but it was nice to have a space that allowed us to be comfortable and enjoy our mutual love of the beautiful outdoors.

After some afternoon work, I made my second stop of the day at another one of my favorite Washougal homes, my brother and sister-in-laws close in acreage. They have owned the home for almost 10 years and it has. been a gathering place many times for holiday parties, campouts, and most recently- some fabulous shop parties. Yesterday we celebrated a family birthday with kids, relatives, and family friends, in the comfort of the shop. There is a fireplace tucked into the corner with a bench in front of it that is a favorite spot for all. There were tables of food, drinks, a basketball rim for the kids, and lots of seating to watch the motor-cross race. The adults have as much fun as the kids, probably more. Im so glad my brother and Lindsay have this amazing spot that allows them to host.

6:00pm comes around faster than we would have liked. Some families head home to make special Valentines meal’s with their families, and some of us continued into the evening and another one of Washougal’s best- the Dewey house. I met Natalie and her family my first summer year back in Washington at my mom’s pool. She was so fun to talk with and friendly. Like most of my friends I have made since returning to Washington, she was already friends with my family. She told me about the epic Mardi Gras parties she hosts and invited me. I have been going every year since and it is such a fun mix of people having a great time together. The location is at the Dewey’s beautiful rural Washougal home. This home is made for entertaining and Natalie does it big! Decorations everywhere, authentic food, and a costume contest are some of the highlights of the evening.

3 special Washougal homes in one day. The settings, the people, and the relationships and friendships make this place special. Thank you for opening up your beautiful homes!