Seattle, We Smelt You! Literally. (Deanna Dorangrichia and Nicole Santalucia)

Picture taken at Pike Place Market

AWP was rockin’ Seattle’s downtown area today. We found poetry all over the clean sidewalks of this wonderful city. There were so many caffeinated writers in and out of the Washington State Convention Center and their words and energy busted out of those conference rooms and onto the street; it was almost lethal. Boom!

We hope everyone is eating well while in and out of the bookfair, readings, and panel talks. We could recommend lunch at Pear Delicatessen and Shoppe. Try any of their sandwiches, but we can specifically vouch for the Tuscan Tuna Fish, Market Veggie, and Egg Salad. Also, they have a great Clam Chowder. For quality and quickness, this is the spot. Lunch trumped dinner on day two of AWP. We were with a bunch of Italians from New Jersey and New York and went on the hunt for a little taste of home. And instead, we got a little taste of doo doo. Without meaning to be too negative, we must say that the Italian restaurant was a no go. Too much pepper and the pasta was frozen or boxed (except the gnocchi). What did we expect from a place that is not owned or operated by Italians? Can’t win them all.

The best place for coffee on the way to the conference today was Monorail Espresso. Not only was the cappuccino awesome, but the service was above and beyond. And, I made a new friend.

We did find a visual art gem. Do take a walk to Seattle Symphony located at 200 University Street and get a look at this beauty:

"Crystal Cascade" by Dale Chihuly (A Washington native) 1998 Hand-blown glass and steel. Check out more details at Seattle Symphony

 Our night cap was provided by keynote speaker Annie Proulx and Shawn Wong     who primed the stage with humor and insight into Seattle living. Keep an eye on AWP’s website for a recording of her address. She packed the house.