When flowers say it best

Valentine's Day is bigger than any holiday where "saying it with flowers" is concerned. That's why it was essential to go down to Cugini Florist and see what they had for everyone's sweethearts. That place just makes me want to remember where I hid my plastic - again.

The gift selection is always a treat - and there is something for both a little moola and a lot. (I mean, how good is your honey to you these days? How good do you want them to be? Hmmmm)

Aside from all the red and pink and sweet all over, Cugini's has spring in the air - everywhere.

These strawberry mugs and whatnots are on my radar. I'm sorry - I just can't help myself.


Valentine's Day is on a Sunday this year, folks and Cugini's will be open from 9-5 to assist you with your sweetheart pleasing needs. Remember, shopping local is cool and helps our town economy to refuel.


Cugini Florist and Fine Gifts
413 South 3rd Street
Renton, WA 98057
(425) 255-3900
Get directions

Black History Month at the Renton Public Library

Librarians are beloved creatures. They help us find books we didn't know how to find and remind us of books that we should consider reading. Black History Month is being celebrated at Renton Public Library with a special cart full of goodies for us to peruse.

This cart is found near the front counter and is full of interesting check-out possibilities for the avid reader and library goer. I immediately took one home. I love being challenged to read new books.

Tomorrow marks the last and final day for voting on Prop.1 in our local special election for whether we keep our library local or farm it out to KCLS. I say, Vote No and let the librarians who know us all so well continue serving us and our greater community.

Renton Public Library
100 Mill Avenue South

When friends get creative

We all have needs. For some of us it comes in the form of a coffee bean. Good friends know just what we need and that it might come in a cup with some milk foam peeking out from the top.

Ruth made this for her friend, Krista the other day who was seen proudly wearing it at Jet City Espresso while the two were sharing stories over cups of good caffeine.

Creativity, coffee and friendship - it is what makes the world go round. At least in my book it does.

Jet City Espresso
Corner of 2nd and Main

Coffee in Georgetown

Love a good cup of coffee - and I seek out the coolest locales and the best cup of joe in whatever neighborhood that takes my fancy. This recently opened espresso spot in Georgetown has the best decor, and why shouldn't they? Owner Brigh Wright has a great eye and also owns 24 Karat Vintage Interiors on South Bailey. It is such a treat to plop down and take in an eyeful.

Ground Control Espresso serves Lighthouse Coffee (beans hand roasted right in Fremont) and claims they have the best Americanos in Georgetown. They offer pastries. sandwiches and the renowned Top Pot Doughnuts besides the "jet fuel" we all need and want.

The little tables, the decor that is all for sale, just hit the right cord with me. Loved it. Will go back. They had coupons worth a free 12 oz. French Press Drip with purchase of pastry or breakfast item and have Wi-Fi and punch cards for the frequent refueler. Georgetown is a great way to get beyond your neighborhood for a bit of something new, without spending all day getting there. Try it.

Ground Control Espresso
Airport Way and 13th Ave.S.
Georgetown
Open Daily 8-4

First Friday Block Party - go kick it

Charcoal drawings, the buzz from caffeine, booty shakin' tunes and an artist to meet. That is what First Friday Block Parties at Liberty Cafe are all about. Don't miss the one tonight.

Antonio U. Lovett will be on hand to lead you through his mostly monochromatic world of charcoal pastels on paper. Born to a painter, Antonio has been living the life of an artist since his earliest days. This show, which I have seen him call the Shadow Life and The Pale Moonlight Show is always changing. New works rotate in frequently. Never the a dull moment with Antonio at the helm and worth a new look with each visit to the cafe.

Originals and prints are for sale, so there is something for all size of pocketbook. Just ask.

Antonio U. Lovett

DJ Phil Anthony will be rockin' the house with his well played tunes, there will be beverages and nibbles. Head over about 6:30ish and let the fun begin.

Antonio U. Lovett
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Liberty Cafe
926 S. Third Street
(425) 235 - 1400

Birthday Greetings

A few days behind, but still wishing you all the best for this next year girl.

Art at the Theater

Artist Michelle Waldele-Dick has a show hanging in the reception area of our local Carco Theater, and her oil paintings are a joy to view. Using a classical realist approach to her subjects of landscape and still life, Michelle paints what she knows and loves. Views of the Pacific Northwest, flowers native to the area around us and other subjects are on view through the end of March.

Michelle hails from the well known Gage Academy and presently teaches art to both youth and adults at Arts Umbrella in Bothell, WA. Personally, I am wishing she was teaching right next door at the community center.

There is no admission fee to see her show and mid-month, there will a an artist reception where refreshments will be served and you can meet the artist in person. Save your calendar for Friday, February 19th from 6pm - 8pm. I always liken these events as a great way to soak up a little culture and meet with your mate outside of the four walls you call home. Make it a date night.

For more information about the artist, please visit www.mwaldelefineart.com.

Carco Theatre

1717 SE Maple Valley Highway
425-430-6706
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For more information about the Renton Municipal Arts Commission, visit ArtsCommission.rentonwa.gov.