Thank you for the hospitality

Dear Olympia, I want to thank you for your hospitality on a recent visit and enthusiasm in welcoming me to your distinctive community. I made the journey to experience first-hand what was rumored to be a diverse, family-friendly community with exceptional public schools and overall excellent quality of life. Your honest and colorful characters won me over with their warmth and willingness to share stories of the enchanting landscape and tales of native living.

I wish to especially thank Genia Sutter, Scott Euteneier, Will at Old Town Bicycle, Mya and Christian MacMillan (& the Ram Brewery in Lacey), Cal & his son Doug (& Vic’s Pizza), the friendly folks at the New Moon Cafe, staff of the Olympia Westside Food Co-Op, fit bodies of Crossfit Olympia, the hard-working nurses and aides of Providence St Peter Hospital (who took a break from their break), and assorted cyclists, pedestrians, and pooches I interacted with along the Chehalis Western Rail Trail — these local spirits displayed true affinity for their home region and were both entertaining and endearing.

In short, I’m not certain of the road ahead for me and my family, but at least I know there is a northern neighbor of great promise and opportunity. My sincerest thanks for sharing a wonderful weekend with me.

This story was originally published November 11, 2016 at 5:01 PM with the headline "Thank you for the hospitality."