Updated 9/20/12 (it's still summer!)
Like many northwesterners, I am superstitious about talking too much about an amazing stretch of good weather — as if I personally had the power to scare it away. But, ahem, just in case this September summer continues to stick around, here are a few ideas for how to make the most of our weather hall pass.
1. Go blueberry-picking: If you thought blueberry-picking season was over, think again. Bellevue's Mercer Slough blueberry farm still has a few (better for jam at this point, but still!). Or to make a day of it, head to Finnriver Farm and Cidery in Chimacum on the Olympic Peninsula for artisan cider-tasting, tractor gawking, and more.
2. Go for a last dip in a spray park. A few Seattle spray parks are still Miller Community Center and Lake Union Park (through Oct. 15!).
3. Take a free public sail on Sunday at the Center for Wooden Boats in Seattle. Warning -- arrive early to snag a spot!
4. Head to one of these fantastic family beaches for sunny sand digging. Since Jetty Island is closed, I'd replace it with highly recommended Dash Point State Park near Federal Way.
5. Take one of these two classic summer hikes that involve getting wet.
6. Throw the kids in the car for a spur-of-the-moment road trip. You could start with one of these four top scenic routes in Western Washington, from Chuckanut Drive to the northern Olympic Peninsula.
7. It will, of course, be an amazing weekend for outdoor festivals, including the Fishermen's Fall Festival, and Fremont's Oktoberfest.
