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Arts & Entertainment

Post Holiday Mini Getaways

Lift your spirits with some post-holiday fun!

After a long and wonderful, yet possibly challenging, month, it might be time to take a little mid-holiday break. Here are seven ideas to help you energize and help you to achieve your weekly dose of entertainment and inspiration.

If you need a little bit of laughter in your life, two great places to "get your laugh on" is The Parlor at Lincoln Square in Bellevue and Laughs, in Kirkland. Research has proven that one of the best ways to reduce stress and stay healthy is to laugh, and laugh a lot. Take a friend, your spouse or your book club and enjoy!

Get in touch with your creative side at The Museum of Glass, in Tacoma. You will delight in; seeing glassblowing demonstrations; participating in hands-on activities; learning about the Science of Art and viewing the ever-changing exhibits on display.

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Calling all speed demons! If you prefer indoor racing to Pacific Raceways, head to the nearest Go Kart raceway and enjoy the thrill of the adrenaline rush as you race your spouse, your friend or your entire family. Or, if you'd rather, you can even take a class to improve your time or technique. K1 Speed Indoor Go Kart Racing, in Redmond or Skykart, in Tukwila are less than 30 minutes away and both are open 7 days a week.

When all else fails, you can indulge your senses at Red Hook Brewery, in Woodinville, where you can find a variety of ice cold refreshments. Or, if you need a chocolate fix, head straight to Dilettante Chocolate, in Seattle, where chocoholics unite. You will need an incredible amount of willpower to deny yourself treats such as Mousse Au Chocolat, Truffle Torte or a Fortified Ice Cream Shake. So, why deny yourself? Give in and live a little. After all, the New Year will be here before you know if, and you can always start your resolutions next week! Happy New Year Islanders!

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