In recognition of Mother’s Day, the Lynnwood Times hosted a family-friendly scavenger hunt for our readers. 

Between May 1 and May 9, participants used 18 clues to search for 18 Mother’s Day-themed decorated rocks within six Snohomish County cities. As people discovered the rocks, they submitted a picture to the Lynnwood Times’ Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram pages. The rock was then placed back where it was found for subsequent participants to find. 

Each photo submitted equated to one entry in the drawing for a Mother’s Day package. The Lynnwood Times received over 700 photos but only four winners could be chosen fro the scavenger hunt.

Prizes included a gift certificate and product basket from Salon Zuberenz worth $325, a gift certificate and product basket from Elle Marie Hair Studio worth $180 and gift certificates from Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant and Red Cork Bistro worth $100. 

Winner Jamie Taylor received the package from Salon Zuberenz. She told the Lynnwood Times that she and her mother have always enjoyed solving challenges and puzzles together, so this was right up their alley. 

“While hunting for rocks, I discovered new places in my local area that I will definitely visit again,” she said. “I would have been satisfied enough with the fun of doing the rock hunt and spending some quality time with my mom, but to win a prize is truly amazing. I am a full-time working mom of two young kids, so prioritizing time for myself doesn’t happen very often! I haven’t cut my hair or been to a salon since before the pandemic started, so this is the perfect Mother’s Day surprise.”

Winner Ramir Esther received the second package from Salon Zuberenz worth $325. A part of the community for approximately 20 years, Esther says the Lynnwood Times scavenger hunt brought out her inner explorer, allowing her to learn more about the area.

“I enjoyed solving the riddles, but the fun part really started once my daughter and I explored these new locations that we’ve never been to or heard of,” she said. “We truly enjoyed spending time outdoors, feeling the excitement and accomplishment of finding the rocks, and watching the kids enjoy themselves during the current situation with the virus. Being one of the four winners is just a bonus treat to this scavenger hunt.”

Lori Carlene Wentz, another winner, received the gift certificates from Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant and Red Cork Bistro & Catering. She completed the scavenger hunt alongside her beloved dog. 

“I love the adventure of hunting for painted rocks and this event was a cool way to search in multiple Snohomish County cities,” said Wentz. “Doing a scavenger hunt is like treasure hunting. I want to thank the Lynnwood Rocks group (especially Heidi Marletto) for painting and hiding these “Mom” rocks. I may only be a “Dog Mom” but my fur baby and I loved doing this adventure together. Thank you to Lynnwood Times and the various businesses who sponsored this event! I’m looking forward to sharing the wonderful gift card to Lombardi’s this summer.” 

Our final winner Kristina Kay Janssen received the product basket from Elle Marie Hair Studio worth $180. She really enjoyed participating and getting to solve the clues and be outdoors with her daughter.

“My daughter and I have been involved with participating in Lynnwood Rocks activities. We love painting little treasures for others to find and finding painted rocks always puts a smile on our faces. Thank you so much Lynnwood Times and Lynnwood Rocks! Working as a nurse this past year has been stressful and this gift is much appreciated. I am so happy to be living in such a wonderful community.”

Special thanks to Heidi of Lynnwood Rocks and Sharon, for their talent in decorating the Mother’s Day rocks. This Mother’s Day Scavenger Hunt was possible because of these generous sponsors. Click a logo to learn more about each!