Heartbeat Yoga & Healing Arts

I once took a yoga class at a YWCA where the instructor was so far beyond my conservative sensibilities that I just couldn't relate. I could follow the poses, but I couldn't relax because the instructor was so "out there." My friend and I kept giggling every time our teacher said something off-the-wall (the violet drains in the floor will carry away your stress...) Anyway, I shied away from yoga after that but was reintroduced to it last year, when I met yoga instructor and co-owner Linda Lapping of Heartbeat Yoga & Healing Arts. I started with the viniyoga beginner series and loved it. Not only is Linda a wonderful instructor, but she's calm, patient and grounded not to mention incredibly flexible! The classes are small enough where she can give each student individual attention.

Her studio on First Avenue South in downtown Kent is also beautiful with its hard wood floors and soft lighting. In addition, to the yoga classes, the studio features spa services including massage by co-owner Roxanne Lapping. I have not had one of her massages yet, but a friend has and said Roxanne is wonderful. If you are looking for a yoga class with an experienced teacher or a relaxing massage, check out Heartbeat. You will love it!

The Grape Adventure

If you are a wine lover, check out The Grape Adventure on 132nd in Kent. Owned by Scott and Katie Jones, this wine shop has something for every wine lover. The store features an amazing selection of wines, wine serving items, glassware and accessories as well as gourmet chocolates and cheeses. The Grape Adventure also features a great tapas bar open for lunch and dinner. My fiance and I went last weekend to enjoy an afternoon out. We each tried 3 different wine flights (2 oz. pours), and we shared the cheesy garlic bread and cheese plate with fresh fruit and nuts. And, of course, we brought home a few bottles of wine to enjoy later. It was a nice treat!

Antique Automobile Show and Ice Cream Social - August 9 (11 a.m. - 3 p.m.)

The Kent Historical Society Presents the Antique Automobile Show and Ice Cream Social featuring music by “The Sundowners” and classic cars from the Golden Era Automobile Association. Saturday August 9, 2008, 11:00am-3:00 pm at the Kent Museum at 855 E . Smith St., Kent. Tickets: $10/Children 7 & under $5—includes food from Rocco’s Hot Dog Stand, ice cream sundae, face painting and family fun! Call 253-854-4330 for more information. www.kenthistoricalmuseum.org

The Perk-Up Place: Coffee, Sandwiches & More

If you don't know to look for it inside Titusville Station (corner of Gowe and First Avenue), you might miss The Perk-Up Place, but it is worth seeking it out. For breakfast, the deli has some great coffees and teas, and I love their whole wheat honey bagel. Perk-Up Place also offers lunch and catering. I've been to several events featuring owner Shelly's wraps and sandwiches. She has a great selection of fresh items and she always serves it with a smile. As an added bonus, the food is affordable! You can easily have lunch for $8 or less.

A Few of My Favorite Kent Restaurants

Downtown Kent has a handful of locally-owned restaurants. Here are a few of my favorites:

Spiro's Greek Isle - Open for lunch and dinner, this restaurant on First Avenue South has delicious, affordable Greek food. I recommend the gyros, Greek salad, baklava and the interesting selection of cocktails.

Archa Thai Bistro - Located on East Meeker across the street from Renaissance Yarns, this Thai restaurant has an elegant decor and the tastiest lunch specials. My favorite - Garlic Chicken. You can enjoy a nice lunch for less than $8.

Maggie's on Meeker - On West Meeker, this diner has the best breakfast sandwich in town and the entire staff is friendly, cheerful and remembers each and every customer. For an affordable breakfast you can't find anywhere else, check out Maggie's for breakfast or lunch.

Do you have a favorite spot in Kent? If so, post a comment and share your favorites!

Shindig - Kent's new martini bar!

The Kent Downtown Partnership announced last week that Shindig, a new martini bar, has opened at 222 First Avenue South in downtown Kent. I hope to visit soon and post a review. If you beat me to it, please leave a comment!

Marie Haggin Accessories

Since Marie Haggin Accessories was on First Avenue, I've been a fan of both Debbie and her designs. She's got the most fun collection of accessories for the home and body - many of which grace my home and my jewelry box. From the beautiful handmade jewelry to Debbie's exquisite taste in home decor, I've got some unique pieces that you won't find anywhere else in Kent. Debbie's now in Kent Station next to Dave's MiniHobby Shop, so stop by next time you're at Kent Station. You won't be disappointed!

Renaissance Yarns

If you are a knitter, or know someone who is, you will love Renaissance Yarns on East Meeker in downtown Kent. This shop has anything and everything for the creative knitter in a stylish, boutique setting. Owned by the bubbly and knowledgeable Nancy Skorupa, this charming store is not your grandmother's knitting store and it certainly outshines the giant "big box" craft stores. If you are looking for the right materials, ideas for a project, or a knitting group to join, check out Renaissance Yarns. Nancy will lead you in the right direction!

Topaz - A New Boutique at Kent Station

If you haven't visited Kent Station in downtown Kent, put it on your "to do" list. This trendy urban village is full of unique shops, great restaurants, outdoor fountain, free concerts and a 14-screen movie theater.

One of its latest treasures is a new boutique called Topaz, owned by a trio of business women who also own Peridot Nail Salon (also at Kent Station) and Peridot Boutique, a stylish boutique in lower Queen Anne in Seattle. The latter is known for its new merchandise and its fun, helpful sales assistant who love dressing up their clients.

This new boutique features affordable fashion in classic and contemporary styles for the woman who wants to show off her own personal look.

The boutique is holding a VIP preview Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26 from noon to 8 p.m. Be sure to check it out for complimentary refreshments and VIP discounts!

Why I Love Kent

Originally from Indiana, I moved to Washington State five years ago. I lived in Bellingham for two and a half years and moved to Kent nearly three years ago. Kent isn't for everybody, but I love that it's close to Seattle while retaining its small town charm and diversity. It is a unique place with great people, wonderful restaurants and unique shops. I created this blog to tell people more about Kent, so they can learn about all that this town of 85,000 has to offer.