Nicole Klauss is a journalist-turned-marketer who is passionate about storytelling across platforms. She lives in Ellensburg, Washington and plays roller derby in her spare time.
  • Drive the Kittitas County Barn Quilt Trail

    Kittitas County is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities like fishing, hiking and a lesser known gem — Washington state’s first barn quilt trail. The Kittitas County Barn Quilt Trail features more than 100 painted quilt squares up on barns from Roslyn to Ellensburg. While social distancing is in place, this is a great way…

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    Spending a Weekend in Ellensburg

    Ellensburg, Washington, is just a two-hour drive from Seattle and is one of the hidden gems of the Pacific Northwest. Located east of the Cascade Mountain Range off Interstate 90, Ellensburg offers outdoor recreation like biking, fishing on the Yakima River, hiking and more. The charming city is home to around 20,000 people, and is…

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    A Weekend in Ocean Shores, Washington

    Ocean Shores, Washington State is the perfect destination for fun with the family, a romantic weekend, or a relaxing solo getaway. This charming ocean city is known for its long Pacific beach and fresh seafood. I’ve been to the city of Ocean Shores several times for gatherings with friends, and I always find something different…

  • Visiting Owens Meats in Cle Elum

    Editor’s note (April 2026): This article was originally published in June 2020. The Point Ruston location referenced below opened but has since closed and been sold. Owens Meats today operates from its single flagship location in Cle Elum, along with its meat machines around Washington. The history, products, and Cle Elum details below remain accurate….