One of the reasons I like Chicago O’Hare so much is that it’s filled with so much art. This is a walkway from the terminal to the train station.

While it may be a more touristy choice than loco moco, I’ll take macadamia nut pancakes any time I’m visiting one of the islands of Hawaii.  Add some coarsely chopped macadamia nuts to your pancake batter, then plop them on the griddle as usual.  Add some slice fruit and more macadamia nuts on top and serve with maple (my preference) or coconut syrup.  It’s a little taste of the islands even when you’re at home.

I know that there are all sorts of made up holidays, but National Cabernet Day is one I can get behind.  One of the world’s most popular grapes, it’s a cross between cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc grapes.  While the Bordeaux region of France is home to some of the best cabernet grapes in the world, you’ll also find a nice selection much closer to home – in Napa.  Don’t rush out to buy a card for this holiday, just raise your glass in appreciation.

On a warm Seattle day, I’m happy at home just walking around the neighborhood. See – it doesn’t rain here all the time.

If you think a beach view isn’t important, just think about how relaxing it is to enjoy a glass of wine or cup of coffee and look at this view from your hotel balcony.

Some of the hundreds of floating homes (don’t call them houseboats) on Seattle’s Lake Union.  Permits are limited, space is at a premium, and these homes go for hundreds (and hundreds) of thousands of dollars.