2014 may possibly go down as the busiest year ever in the Lawrence household. It began with a Seahawks SuperBowl victory and celebration, and included a wedding, a move, and a back injury (all in the same month). And it seems like a steady flow of guests ever since. After all that, Arlyn and I did carve out some time to explore some of our own beautiful State of Washington. We explored the Yakima Valley and the gorgeous hidden jewel that is Walla Walla and all the sites and tastings that the east side of our state had to offer.

A nice meal in downtown Walla Walla, WA (which is on Fodor’s List of the 10 Best Small Towns in America)

We toured the Westside’s urban landmarks with our amazing British friends and we explored the pebbled shore of the Dungeness Spit in the wind and rain.

We also took delight in sharing some of Washington State’s culinary treasures. Have you ever been to the Oak Table Cafe in Sequim, WA? As we speak they are opening a new location in Silverdale to replace an existing location in Kingston, WA. However, to get the true, authentic experience you MUST try the original location in Sequim. And as part of the experience you must try the apple pancake. It is a huge, molten, puffy delicacy of apples and brown sugar that will remind you of an apple fritter on steroids. It is far to large for most people but order one for yourself because the leftovers are amazing.

Friend Peter visiting from the UK tackled an Oak Table Apple Pancake!

If you don’t have the time to drive to Sequim, I do have a suitable substitute that I am willing to share with you for the right price: Free, of course. 🙂

I have used this recipe a couple of times and it is easy to adapt if you are so inclined, I like the fact you can put it all together the night before if needed. I made this a couple of weeks ago for a house full of high schoolers and it received great reviews. Click on this link for Baked Cinnamon Apple French Toast.  You’re in for a treat.

Enjoy!