In which Jeff and Louise adventure through Gold Rush Country whilst contending with condensation, mold, and a new mattress!

LINKS

• Fernando's
• Rumpelstiltskin Yarn
• Cali Quilt Company

In today’s episode, Jeff and Louise sit down with Courtney Blake, owner of Blake’s Books, for a thoughtful conversation about life, books, and community on the Northern California coast. 🌲📚

Courtney shares her journey from a fast-paced career in Washington, D.C. to owning a small, community-centered bookstore in Humboldt County — a place shaped by rugged beauty, quiet isolation, and a strong sense of belonging.

We talk about the realities of running an independent bookstore, the rewards of creating a welcoming space (right down to cozy carpets for kids and adults alike), and why this corner of California feels like a refuge from city life.

And yes… the bookstore is for sale, making this episode especially intriguing for anyone who’s ever imagined a different kind of life by the coast. 🌊

🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

LINKS

• Blake's Books
• Larrupin Cafe
• Lady Bird Johnson Grove

In which Jeff and Louise wander the northern coast of California and gaze upon the majestic redwoods. Really, they are amazing! Also, an opportunity for anyone who's ever wanted to own a bookstore on the Northern California Coast!

LINKS

• Blake's Books
• Kamp Klamath RV Park and Campground
• Trees of Mystery
• Redwood National and State Parks
• Sushi Spot
• Yurok Tribal Visitor Center
• WWII Radar Installation B-71
• Arcata Town Square

In which Jeff and Louise get rained on - surprise! - whilst exploring the central Oregon Coast.

LINKS

• Whaler's Rest Thousand Trails
• Devil's Punchbow State Natural Area
• Yaquina Lighthouse
• Newport Waterfront
• Oregon Coast Aquarium
• Local Ocean Seafood
• Depoe Bay
• Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint
• Bullard's Beach State Park

In which Jeff and Louise explore Mt Hood, Portland, and have some of the best burgers they've ever had!

LINKS

• Mt. Hood RV Village Resort
• Naan and Curry Mt Hood
• Close Knit
• Bollywood Theater
• Starlight Knitting Society
• Skeleton Key Odditorium
• The Freaky But True Peculiarium.
• Killer Burger
• Mt. Hood National Forest
• Draper Girls Farm
• Multnomah Falls
• Zigzag Inn
• Fiber Rhythm
• Powell's Books
• For Yarn's Sake

Part 2 of our interview with Arlington, WA locals Dustin and Jem, aka our daughter and son-in-law!

In which Jeff and Louise continue their adventures in Wilbur, Washington.

Links

• Thai Thai Cafe
• Banyan Tree (Kent Station WA Thai)
• COA Eatery and Tequileria
• LaConner Tourism Website
• Purl Diver
• Snohomish Pie Company
• Downtown Snohomish Tourism
• Grilla Bites
• Quilting Mayhem
• Oso Memorial
• Centennial Trail

In which Jeff and Louise interview their daughter and son-in-law about Arlington, WA (and environs!).

In which Jeff and Louise return to (one of) their previous homeland - the greater Seattle area - and visit with family, have TONS of amazing food, and do not once set foot anywhere near Pike Place or the Space Needle!

LINKS

• Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
• Leavenworth, WA
• Bamboo Sushi
• Snohomish Valley Golf Center
• PCC
• Yarn Outfitter
• Vivace
• Wild Fibers
• Calico Creations Fabric
• Skagit Valley Coop
• Double Barrel BBQ
• Arlington Hardware
• La Mas Fregona
• Gyro Stop
• Bahama Breeze
• Carpinito Brothers
• East India Grill

In which Jeff and Louise explore the town with less to do than Sleeping Buffalo, but visit the tremendous Grand Coulee Dam (seriously - check it out, it's fantastic!)

Update: We did, in fact, make it to the anthropomorphic Billy Burger. It was, like all the well-rated restaurants in small out-of-the-way places so far, mediocre. Better to stop here than a chain if you're on the road, but not a destination spot - Guy Fieri will not likely darken their door.

Links:

• Goose Creek RV Park
• Grand Coulee Dam
• Dry Falls State Park
• Stitch!
• Billy Burger Yelp Page (they have no internet presence)