Microfiber cloths are a must have cleaning item.  These soft but textured cloths are made for buffing cars so they won't scratch surfaces.  When used with your all purpose cleaner they act as a sponge and drying cloth in one, for a quick job to wipe dirty wall spots, light switches, kitchen tables, cupboards and more.  Use them for dry dusting to avoid stirring up dust into the air.  I love using them and you will too.  Buy them HERE!

Spider Meadows had been on my backpacking to do list for a few years and I finally got around to it this past weekend of late August.  We arrived at the trailhead Friday evening to try to beat the crowds on this popular route.  Despite the surprising number of cars at the trailhead we didn't encounter the hoards of hikers we imagined.  We hiked over the glacier and down towards Lyman Lakes, camping at the upper lakes as Lyman Lake was still a ways off.  The next morning we trekked back up over Spider Gap, took a lunch break at Phelps Basin, and headed back to the car.  Probably about 21 miles all together and my feet were ready to be out of those boots!

Spider Meadow

Lyman Lake

Camping at upper Lyman Lakes

Heading back up to Spider Gap.  Lyman Glacier on right.

Church Mountain

This was my first time doing this hike to Church Mountain.  I went with a couple girlfriends and two well behaved dogs.  If you are looking for a rigorous hike with spectacular views this is a great one.

It starts with a series of brutal switchbacks and eventually opens up into a meadow that, at this time of year, was filled with flowers.  There were lots of biting flies but I managed without bug spray and only sustained one bite on my back.  

At the top there weren't many bugs fortunately, so we were able to relax and take in the view .  There are excellent views of Mt Baker, Glacier Peak, and even the Canadian Rockies!  Total mileage round trip is 8.5 miles with 3700 feet of elevation gain.  More info on WTA: 
 http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/church-mountain  

Meadow after the switchbacks

Dogs cooling off in the stream.  The flies were brutal here.

Looking towards Canada

Great views in all directions

             Esmerelda Basin Hike

If you're looking for a moderate hike (we ambitiously took my friend's 5 month old!), try Esmerelda Basin located near Cle Elum.  It's about 7 miles roundtrip through a pleasant flowery basin and up to a gorgeous view point.  There are a few small stream crossings where you either get your boots wet or step rock to rock.  It was a beautiful day and we enjoyed staying at a cabin in nearby Roslyn for the weekend.  Find more info on the hike here.
http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/esmerelda-basin

Favorite Products

Having owned a professional cleaning business for 10 years, I have come to have some favorite products that I am happy to share with you.  The product I use the most is Red Juice all purpose cleaner.  Why do I like it?  It is unscented so you are not getting a headache while cleaning, it is non toxic (no petro chemicals!), and the USDA gave it an A1 rating for use around food.  I use it on counters, shower walls, toilets, wall spots, refrigerators and baseboards.  You can order it online from the Clean Team.



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