However, Seattle is still a really neat place to live and thanks to the Great Harvest Bread Company of West Seattle, the Flying Apron Bakery in Fremont, and the Trader Joe's of West Seattle, I am remaining true to my adoration of grocery shopping and discovering new foods.
I know I already mentioned the Great Harvest in my last post, but I keep finding new treats and breads there. Their gluten free and dairy free Cinnamon Raisin bread is filled with plump raisins and swirls of warming cinnamon and is a swell addition to breakfast. I also found an allergen free lemon poppyseed bread the other week and it was the best I've ever had! It had the consistency of a muffin and was even better when slightly toasted in the oven for a few minutes. ( I did it that way because it was too sticky for the toaster. ) Their Buckwheat Dakota bread has remained a favorite of mine and they are probably starting to think I am a bit nuts as I am becoming a frequent purchaser of it. As well as their molasses cookies. Its always a weekend treat for me and is usually accompanied by a glass of ice cold almond milk.
As for the Flying Apron Bakery, I discovered it whilst wandering around Fremont during the Solstice festival back in June. Which can be described as: a parade with naked bicyclists painted up to remain somewhat camouflaged, a spaghetti monster float with giant meatball eyes, marching bands and drum lines that make you want to dance your skin right off and crowds of sweaty people packed together on the street. It was quite an experience but at least I got to indulge in some allergy free lasagna and sugar cookies from the Flying Apron!
And, Trader Joe's. Its a wonderful place to buy gluten free products at a discounted price, as well as honey, olive oil and other baking products. Their produce section has great prices as well, but not the best quality I have discovered. The local farmers' markets are the best for fresh and local produce. I look forward to buying some carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes and maybe even some eggs at the West Seattle market this weekend.
So despite missing Montana and my family, Seattle is a really diverse and exciting place to live and work. Leaving home and family is never as easy people think it is. I've sunk my roots into Missoula and Montana for the past 25 years, calling it home and being filled up with love and beauty and community. My heart will hold Montana close to itself, beating with the rhythm of the winds and rushing waters and love for a place that nothing can compare to.
