Town Square Park

31620 20th Ave S, Federal Way
http://www.cityoffederalway.com/facilities.aspx?page=detail&rid=37

I have to say that I kind of love Mayor Jim Farrell. Not in a creepy, restraining order sort of way. In a civic pride, nerdy sort of way. I frequently say to my husband, “You know what this town needs?” and then I go off about something that would clearly make the community better. Ever since Mayor Farrell has taken office, I regularly read about my ideas magically happening.

A great example of this is the new Town Square Park, which opened this summer. It’s right in the middle of downtown Federal Way and helps answer the inevitable questions, “where is downtown Federal Way?” or even, “does Federal Way actually have a downtown?” The park features a huge lawn suitable for outdoor movies, yoga, and doing cartwheels (my daughter’s preference); picnic tables and grills; multiple basketball courts; a pea patch; a spectacular view of Mt. Rainier; and a paved area with a Christmas tree and area for a farmer’s market and food trucks.

Just since July, we've attended a handful of events at Town Square Park, from the park’s grand opening celebration which featured live music, food trucks, face painting, and two bounce houses; to a movie night at which the mayor himself served free popcorn before the town enjoyed the Lego Movie while lying under the stars. This weekend, we will be attending a tree lighting ceremony with local choirs, hot chocolate, and Santa Claus arriving via fire truck.

This area is quickly becoming a fun hub for the community of Federal Way and I’m so glad to see this particular dream of mine come true – especially since I didn’t actually have to do anything to make it happen!

Three Trees Yoga & Healing Arts Center

204 S 348th St, Federal Way
www.threetreesyoga.com

My favorite vacations are the kind where I can relax and forget about the stresses in my daily life but still feel like I've accomplished something. Unfortunately, I don't have the wallet for such vacations as regularly as  I would like. Fortunately, I can go to Three Trees once a week and for a mere $15 (less if you buy a class pass), I can spend an hour relaxing, forgetting my stress and accomplishing some of my fitness goals.

This yoga studio is so fantastic. The instructors are very knowledgeable; the facility is beautiful, tranquil and inviting; and the building is surrounded by peaceful woods on three sides. It really does feel like a little mini-vacation every time I go in. They offer late and drop-in classes which are great if you commute out of FW and/or have a busy schedule. If you're new to yoga, there are classes that will help you get up to speed and the instructors are patient and helpful. The range of classes ensures that there is something for everyone, no matter how much or little yoga experience you have. They even have massage therapists on staff if your idea of relaxation involves someone else doing all the work!