I don’t know about you but I am so happy to be entering the holiday season! Seems like everyone I talk with and everywhere I turn, people are tired and feeling burned out. Another thing that is very evident is how much people are taking stock of things to be grateful for. We’ve all been through the absolute wringer lately, but coming out on the other side is great cause for numerous shouts of hallelujah!
My gratitude is great for being ensconced in and surrounded by great art and great people. This past year has given me the opportunity to experience so many incredible humans sharing their love and crafts, and they have inspired me to start a "Favorite Things" list. Please enjoy this short list of things to do and places to go that will inspire you and fill you with gratitude this holiday season. And, if you are reading from outside Seattle, make a note to visit some of these places when you are in town:
I have a friend that keeps a standing weekly reservation at Marjorie so I always know where to find him and where to find a good time. Owner Donna Moodie is perhaps one of the best hosts in the entire world. She is warm, always welcoming, and always makes space for her community. Indoor or outdoor dining, the food, and drinks are always on point. Donna fills me with gratitude whenever I am in her presence and Marjorie is the place I love where everybody knows my name. Food for the soul and company for the spirit.
Literally, our home is the meaning of Wa Na Wari and home is what this always feels like. Whether it’s a drop by or a special event, this is the familiar home for art and culture, in the heart of the Central District. You just never know who you might run into there but you can always be assured that you will be warmly welcomed and made to feel at home. They consider themselves “a container for Black joy,” which is what I always feel whenever I am there. Stop by and also sign up for their newsletter to be in the know about happenings.
Another place to be at home is Communion – that is if you can snag a reservation. Lauded as one of the best restaurants in the world, this is the place to relax and let all of the worries of the world be washed away in, oh let’s say an August Wilson Eggplant Salad, some Neck Bone Stew, or Betta Than Yo Grandma’s Mac & Cheese. Them’s fighting words, but we bet your fight will wane after the first bite.
You can walk off some of those hard-earned calories by visiting these exhibits:
northwest Black - through November 28th at Nepantla Cultural Arts Gallery
Packaged Black – Barbara Earl Thomas and Derrick Adams, through May 2022 at The Henry Gallery
Unspoken Truths exhibit – through January 15, 2022 at King Street Station
And wrap yourself in some ultimate personal care by indulging with QueenCare products. I highly recommend The Spa Experience Set and The Indulge Set Deluxe. Luxurious oils, soaps, candles, and creams to get your mind and body right for the holidays.
I’m grateful for you, our readers, and wish you a holiday season filled with rest, relaxation, self-care, and new experiences.