Eastside Trains

This place is hard to miss in downtown Kirkland as it is contained in a train depot like building. A fun place to be at any time to observe model railroad action or talk to the informative staff. They carry all the major brands of models, magazines, books, posters and train related items.

Gasworks Park Kite Shop

I was a stunt kite newbie and went into this store to buy my first kite. Wow, I was amazed at the many different kites I saw there. A very friendly staff helped me narrow down my choice and got a reasonably priced one ($50 Beetle) to start with. She also taught me the different wind scales, and what kind of conditions are good for kite flying. I highly recommend this place to any kite flying enthusiast.

Marmot Mountain Works

Marmot Mountain Works maintains a very good printed catalog, and they have seasonal sale which are of very good value. If you are on their mailing list, you will be informed of the sale in advance. I like to shop for backpacks and sleeping bags there, as they carry a lot of brands not found anywhere locally. Their ski rental program is good too. I did a quick comparison with its and REI's for a week of rental and found it much cheaper.

Grange Supply

I was on my way to Boehms Candy when I hit this store. This is really a nice found. This store, located right off downtown Issaquah, sells gardening supplies, bird seeds, pet food and horse feed. The gardening supplies (fertilizers, soil amendments) are much cheaper than elsewhere, e.g. nurseries. Staff is friendly too.

Classic Nursery & Landscape Co

Classic nursery is in northwest Redmond. It carries a very nice selection of perennials. I am a member of their color club (frequent buyer program) and find it of good value. They also tend to sell gift certificates during Mothers' Day at reduced price ($75 for a $100 certificate). Combining this with their regular sale, and you can find some real bargains.

Their staff is helpful and knowledgeable.

Swansons Nursery

When I want to do gardening shopping, the first place I go is often Swansons. The nursery is not very big, nevertheless it carries a lot of high quality plants in vast varieties.

The September (fall) sale is an event I often look forward to, as shrubs and many plants are 40% off. I also like to take advantage of the bareroot sale in spring, because it is much easy to haul bareroot and dormant plants home.

A lot of the plants in my backyard are from Swanson and they are all very healthy and vigorous.

Environmental Construction

Environmental Construction Incorporated is owned by Tom, a very friendly and enthusiastic landscaping professional.

From the initial consultation to the subsequent on-site meetings and work, Tom demonstrated professionalism. He was always punctual in meetings and email/phone follow ups, and gave me prompt updates on project progress.

The work (grading, installing lawn and other hardscapes) performed by his landscaping team is very satisfactory.

Salon Pello Bellagio

I had my haircut in this salon several times. Lisa the owner is very friendly and appointments within the next couple days are not difficult to make. Both Lisa and her hairstylists are great, and can initiate a conversation on many subjects. Price is average (around $50). If you go there, make sure not to park right next door as it is a private lot.

Timothy Coogan Law Office

I was referred to Tim Coogan's office by an auto enthusiasist forum. His associate Mario was friendlly and helped me defend successfully for a 15+ speeding ticket. His price is extremely competitive (way cheaper than other traffic lawyers in the Greater Seattle area). I would highly recommend Tim's office for his legal service.

AutoNation Volvo Bellevue

I wanted to get a price quote on an Audi and I emailed Barrier Audi. I also filled out the online form from their website. They didn't respond to me. I also tried to call them up for a quote over the phone and was told to leave a message. I finally got a competitive quote from another local dealer and went ahead to purchase my car there.