Salem Beer and Cider Festival

Mmm. Local beer and cider. What could be better on a balmy September evening? I hope this event is an annual one like they're planning.
The third floor of the Mission Mill Museum is a good spot for it, with the windows open to the breezes. It would be great to have it outdoor since its so warm, but at this time of year I understand the need to prepare for inclement weather. One way or the other, it's a fun event, where I have run into all kinds of friends and acquaintances.

Oh, Salem, you're growing up!

The f/stop Fitzgerald - A Gem in Salem

I've been meaning to write this post for the last week, but life got a little busy and time got away from me.

Salem's teeny, tiny, cozy little pub with the great patio had it's one year anniversary this month. Yay for f/stop Fitzgerald! It is a wonderful and welcome addition to Salem's beer and cider scene. They now have eight beer and cider taps and have a great selection of local brews. Plus, its where all the cool kids hang out.

If you've never been to f/stop, you should really make it a goal to get there and check out the laid back, cozy atmosphere with a friend, a group, or just by yourself. People are friendly and welcoming in this little establishment and on most evenings you will find a fire out in the firepit on the patio.

The f/stop is a little off the beaten path, but that's part of what makes it so neat. It is a neighborhood pub, north of downtown, smack dab in the middle of a neighborhood and an industrial area. It's in an old house, so it fits right in and its hardly noticeable unless there are a load of people drinking around the firepit outside.

It's a destination pub, if you don't happen to live in the neighborhood, but, in my oh-so-humble opinion, it hovers right up there at the top of the best places to hang out in Salem, Oregon.

So, check it out. Just don't steal my seat by the firepit!

f/stop hours: Wednesday through Sunday 4:00-Whenever people wander home (11 or 12ish or later if its busy)
Location: 335 Grove St NE Salem, OR 97301

Car Washes and Chocolate Surprises

Ladies Night isn't just for drinks anymore. Now, at the Blue Elephant Car Wash in West Salem, you can get a car wash discount on Tuesdays, just for being a lady! (I don't know what requirements they actually have to be considered a "lady").

I had seen the advertisement for their Tuesday Ladies Special, so I waited patiently, letting my car get dirtier and dirtier. Then after work today I swung by to get my car washed and lo and behold, I got $2 off, PLUS a piece of dark chocolate with almonds. Seriously, I don't know why, but that little piece of chocolate totally made my day. It's the little things in life that bring me joy, I guess.