two star hotel

Snow and Snow.

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

Last week was a lame one for posting. And the week BEFORE was all about snow. Snow in the city and snow in the mountains! For Tyson's birthDAY we braved the city (not-plowed) streets to get to the Fremont Brewery for libations with friends. Never mind the 100+ bars in our actual neighborhood. We had our priorities straight because their beer is goooooood. Plus Tyson wore his 80s

Denny Way, Capitol Hill

2012-01-20T12:15:00.000-08:00

This is just one hill, in one neighborhood of the many. In this fantastic video, my friend Randall captured the spirit that is Denny Way street sledding - the street that on any normal day is the main artery for getting on the hill. Sledding. It brings so much joy. Denny Hill . Capitol Hill . Seattle . 2012 from randall statler on Vimeo. Have great weekends! Back next week with tales from Mt

two nine.

2012-01-19T14:53:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Sweetie! I hope this year is your best yet! I love you to bits. In honor of Tyson's big day, we are off to Mt Baker for the weekend to surf in the white powder! In light of the recent Seattle weather, I think it's safe to say we will have a great time. Nine of us. Good food + good items to sip on. And a hot tub to boot. Oh and here are the current conditions as posted

Snow Day ||

2012-01-18T14:42:00.000-08:00

A white blanket of snow has covered Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods. As we experienced several years ago, the city shuts down and debauchery ensues. Seattle becomes a place of hapless hilarity in times of snow. Any semblance of an incline becomes a sledding hill. The rarity of snow means people are delighted to play. The city comes alive in a totally different way = of course sledding

Snow

2012-01-17T10:18:00.000-08:00

Its snowing here in Seattle. A rarity, and oh so good. And on that note, a cozy house for snow days. From here.

Ptown.

2012-01-12T15:09:00.000-08:00

I'm heading to Portland this weekend! My Minnesota pals are heading west yet again! A college girlfriend, Bbo, lives in Portland and three of us are converging on Ptown in a girl buddy explosion. I cannot wait! I'll pick up coffee and hit the road Saturday morning for the 2.5 hour drive south, and I'm looking forward to good music and news in the car and maybe even some telephone banter. A grand

January.

2012-01-09T15:57:00.000-08:00

Wow. So simple and so effing cute. I can tell I am already shopping for spring/summer fashion. This is not a good sign considering its January. On the bright side of January, a pack of us headed to Crystal Mountain this past weekend and whizzed down the slopes. Though conditions weren't superb, the group chemistry made up for it. We all had a ball riding/skiing together. On

Burn & Ring.

2012-01-04T13:27:00.000-08:00

I'm a Minnesota gal. I grew up on a farm and my parents have been hosting a New Year's Day bonfire there for probably twenty years. This is no wimpy bonfire and in fact most years the flames reach thirty, even forty feet into the air. They collect items for the burn pile year-round and then invite all of their friends to come and burn the old, ring in the new. In years past, it was not uncommon

New and Shiny!

2012-01-03T14:58:00.000-08:00

Its a whole new year! Crazy. Just like that. Someone recently asked if I have any regrets from 2011. A missed opportunity perhaps. A learning. Or maybe something I did, and wished I hadn't done. Well, I'm not really a regrets kinda gal! Yeah we didn't go on a single backpacking trip - absolutely a missed opportunity. I didn't do a lot of writing, and as a result I have a hard time writing even

happy holidazeeeeee

2011-12-23T13:20:00.000-08:00

For all of you who check in from time to time, I hope you have glorious holidays. I hope there is a moment within the madness where you can at least step back, take a breath, and realize something to be truly grateful for -be it a laugh, a hug or a glass of the good stuff.

vintage. aspen.

2011-12-21T09:57:00.000-08:00

I saw these photographs on Tomboy Style and it made me wish I could go back in time and snowboard in Aspen back in the day. Well ok, I suppose there weren't snowboards back then. So I guess I'd have to settle for the Apres ski portion (see below). Fine by me. Having met Tyson in Aspen, I've been back several times and have hugely fond memories of the magical place. Though its not as

no reason to be doom and gloom...

2011-12-20T14:49:00.000-08:00

What a fresh and completely adorable man. Pure in delight and in his love of fashion.

bounty.

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

Carrots! From the husband's deck gardens. Small yet powerful. ****Happy Friday!********

Human.

2011-12-15T09:56:00.000-08:00

A most bad-ass speech indeed. Whether you're a HC fan or not, take the time to watch. Its important. GOOD NUGGETS: "...Now, raising this issue, I know, is sensitive for many people and that the obstacles standing in the way of protecting the human rights of LGBT people rest on deeply held personal, political, cultural, and religious beliefs. So I come here before you with

occupy.

2011-12-12T23:26:00.000-08:00

These are images from the west coast occupy movement groups. Times they are interesting in this country. I really respect people who can stand up for what they think is right. Its not always easy and certainly not safe or warm and fuzzy. Whether this is the best use of their energy, I'm not sure its immediately evident. But again, props for standing up for what you believe in. I

Nada.

2011-12-09T07:15:00.001-08:00

Its Friday! Wham! Pow! Let's see, pretty productive week in terms of 8-5 job type things. I'm actually driving in to work today vs. taking the vanpool (commuter van where multiple people ride together), which, literally feels like such a luxury. Seat heaters and my own music! Damn! No big plans for the weekend. Must try to leverage the productive-ness of the work week into the weekend. Hoping

'tis the season

2011-12-08T07:13:00.001-08:00

Tree getting' <<<<<<<{ (****Our quest into the forest was thwarted this year on account of waist-deep snow and low morale for the two-mile hike. There and back. Oh, and I didn't have snowshoes. Alas, a tree farm it was. At least we chopped it. That tree smells so darn good.) Lemon zest in the cookies. Painted like Santa Clause.

Sinterklaas.

2011-12-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

Sinterklaas Sinterklaas is an elderly, stately and serious man with white hair and a long, full beard. He wears a long red cape or chasuble over a traditional white bishop's alb and sometimes red stola, dons a red mitre, and holds a gold-coloured crosier, a long ceremonial shepherd's staff with a fancy curled top and he also has a ruby ring. He carries a big book that tells whether each

make.

2011-12-06T05:32:00.000-08:00

Lately we've been making a lot of things and its awesome. I wish I had, perhaps, more than the 600 square feet I currently live in right now. Ideally a big workroom complete with various saws and drills and clamps and maybe even a welding device. I don't know how to weld. Yet. Maybe my Papa will teach me. Last weekend we made a bedside light, which, I actually couldn't believe how simple and

btw, this was SUPERB

2011-12-02T13:02:00.001-08:00

The National. At the Neptune. Finally. A sing-a-long encore. Enjoy.

cheese a.

2011-12-02T08:57:00.001-08:00

It's December and we are officially geeky for the holidays. I could do without the Black Friday deals** and consumer message overload during this time, but I'm happy to report that this weekend will overflow with cheesy holiday activities because that's who we are and that's what we do. Some people don't get into which I think is totally cool. I just happen to be one of those people who think

First Turns.

2011-11-28T06:28:00.001-08:00

Considering the zillion calories consumed over the Thanksgiving holiday it was practically a must that we head straight to Mt. Baker for some first-time turns of the season. The day was so fab < sunny, powder-y and we had tons o'fun. Mt. Baker is such an amazing place because of the views of Mt. Shuksan in the distance. That and the fact its just a wee bit old school so if you're feeling

Danke.

2011-11-24T07:12:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for: + My new husband! He is the best! + Our incredible whirlwind year, complete with our magical wedding day where I've never felt so much love in every direction as I did in those 12 hours AND our totally BOMB-tastic honeymoon in Greece and Italy. + My family << we've had a pretty big year with some health scares, two weddings - one resulting in a brand new

The Holiday Season

2011-11-23T16:03:00.001-08:00

Well, working for a retailer I've been feeling the holiday season looming for about six months now. And, its finally here! I am a cheesy lover of all things classic when it comes to holidays: + multiple holiday parties with both family and friends + going out and actually cutting down our Christmas tree + listening to holiday music - any good, new suggestions? + sipping spiced apple cider +

Power.

2011-11-22T10:08:00.001-08:00

So, I'm taking a powertools class tonight at the West Seattle Tool Library. Yup. I like how its titled: PowerTools 101. Lose your fear, not your fingers. Love it. The class is described as the following: Join instructor Amy Ecklund, as she welcomes you in to the basics of using small powertools such as circular saws, jigsaws, powerdrills, impact drivers, nail guns, and miter saws. As part

Bad Ass.

2011-11-18T11:36:00.000-08:00

Let's face it, women rule. I'm working on trying to incorporate a weekly post on bad ass women because: A) they are everywhere around me, and around all of you I'm sure of it, and B) they inspire me; helping me to realize my potential, to continue going after my dreams and to be proud of who I am. c) because I'm so so proud to be a WOMAN! To kick things off, check out the totally awesome

List.

2011-11-16T11:51:00.001-08:00

I spoke to my mama last night. She rules. At one point she asked me what's on my Christmas list. Oooooh, the can of worms has been opened. On the spot I can never seem to think of anything. But here I am, less than 24-hours later and sure enough I thought of a few things. + Unbroken, by Laura Hillenbrand + Bossypants, by Tina Fey + A subscription to The Week + This chunky throw blanket + A

Heavy.

2011-11-15T09:42:00.001-08:00

We celebrated the third annual Seattle Friends Thanksgiving last Saturday night - this is not to be confused with the MN Friends Thanksgiving tradition of which I believe is in its 10th year this year, and I have only missed a few since moving to Seattle. Both are fab events for sure. Here in Seattle its always a stellar lineup of glutinous eats, ultra competitive Pictionary and the wine flows

Weekend.

2011-11-11T11:49:00.001-08:00

Its supposed to rain here all weekend. All. Weekend. I'm actually somewhat ok with it as we have plans to attend a Thanksgiving dinner party with friends which will entail good food, wine + cozy games like Pictionary. Have a cozy weekend! And for now I'll leave you with these warm-weather adorable outfits taken from the The Sartorialist. Next week I'll regale you with stories from a

Gals.

2011-11-10T13:56:00.001-08:00

I'm feeling kinda blue today. Not even sure why, which, is part of the problem. Its one of those days where I wish I could invite all of my favorite girlfriends over for a super girlie dinner party and just laugh and chat and drink wine. Why does that help so much? Because girls rule. Let's take this a step further and plant those girls having the best time ever in one of these dining rooms.

Honeymoon {Rome, Italy}

2011-11-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

Two weeks after our wedding, two of our best friends were married just outside of Chicago. Tyson was the best man. It was a stunning ceremony and a fabulous party. The following day we jetted off to Greece. Two days after that, they were off to Italy. Our original honeymoon brainstorm included Turkey and Greece, but when we learned that we could possibly meet up with these fabulous pals

Worry.

2011-11-07T08:25:00.000-08:00

I had an interesting conversation with a girlfriend the other day. Sparked by this post, we launched into a chat about worrying. You sort of assume, I suppose, that everyone worries. But I found myself surprised by the things that this friend worried about. Things I would NEVER guess. And she expressed the same about my admitted fears, and things that give me anxiety. And I can usually tell (

Daylight. Savings.

2011-11-04T10:46:00.001-07:00

Isn't it an interesting title? = Daylight Savings. Save it up! Anyway, enjoy an extra hour this weekend...that is, until 4pm rolls around next week at work and its black as night outside. I need a good laugh. Like a belly laugh where you can't even stop if you tried. This picture (from pinterest) made me want to take a trip to see far away friends. Specifically, my friend Haley. Who makes

Honeymoon {Santorini, Greece)

2011-11-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

So I said that the honeymoon felt {surprisingly} really long all due to those aforementioned Segments. By the time we reached Santorini we felt like we'd had a whole honeymoon already. And that honeymoon was superbly chill and tourist-free. We skipped off the boat alongside what felt like hundreds of other people and were immediately herded into a stressful line for a coach bus taking us from

Rustic Modern.

2011-11-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

Fall. Cooking and chopping things and sipping tea. Or Wine. These cozy rustic kitchens would be great to hole up and do just that. From Living etc.

Crabbing.

2011-11-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Lindsay had a birthday last week and her boyfriend planned a flawlessly covert crabbing excursion for the weekend. She knew she was going crabbing, THAT was hard to disguise. She just didn't realize others were coming until we jumped out and screamed like hell in surprise. Surprises rule. So five of us hopped into our teeny boat. The pots were all baited. Through the

Pattern.

2011-10-31T07:32:00.000-07:00

First of all, I HATE being cold. I would much rather be super duper hot and sweating than shivering. Warm, to me, is usually associated with good and happy things like summer + vacations + beaches + sunshine...and maybe enjoying a cocktail outside. This time of year, if I wake up cold, its really hard for me to get out of bed and get dressed. And even harder for me to try and thwart the nagging

Wedding << sneak peek.

2011-10-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

Heather and Jon of One Love Photo posted a little sneaky peek of our wedding on their blog a few days ago and I am sort of freaking out about it. Wedding photos are so interesting because its OBVIOUSLY a big day in your life and so you hire people to capture it. Then you wait and wait and it all sort of builds up. Anticipation. Holy hell, its totally worth the wait when you set eyes on truly

Carved.

2011-10-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

A group of us made the annual trip to the patch last weekend. GOOD STUFF! Even though Fall is sort of getting me down at the moment. A change in the season always seems to shake me and mess up my mind a little bit. I get so frustrated too because for me I really believe that your mood is something you can totally manipulate if you want to. But lately, I've just been a big baby grump. Maybe

His Lobster.

2011-10-25T14:53:00.000-07:00

So, for forever my older brother declared he would never marry. I guess that statement usually stands until you find the one who makes you want to marry them. Enter Jamie << the coolest chica on the planet. The gal will bow-hunt and clean her own, she's a flight nurse (bad ass!) AND she adores my brother. All good qualities. We were in MN recently for their wedding and it was a total blast.

Honeymoon {Folegrandos Island, Greece}

2011-10-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

At the suggestion of our new friends on Milos, we decided to stop for a night on the island of Folegrandos en route to Santorini. Super remote. Super farm-y. It was really spectacular to be in such a sleepy, beautiful place. We opted for a little hike and then some more delicious food and drink. Life doesn't suck when you're on your honeymoon and you don't have much to do or really an agenda. I

Falling.

2011-10-21T07:44:00.000-07:00

Now that Fall is officially upon us. Meaning, we are no longer planning a wedding and honeymoon and have arrived home to GASP! grey skies and falling leaves. I must say, I wish I had this bedroom to curl up in and read my book. Stay tuned for the next honeymoon island <<< Folegrandos!

Honeymoon {Milos Island, Greece}

2011-10-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sitting in our seats en route to Athens I had that dreamy almost sedated feeling of anticipation. A Trip. Trips are so magical and also so rare and special that sitting in my seat I tried very hard to ground myself in the various points of the itinerary. Segments. And even now I think back on the experience in those segments and how very unique and special they all were. Our trip

Holy DIY.

2011-10-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

I recently stumbled upon a furniture site that featured lighting fixtures by Lindsey Adelman. I don't know, maybe people cooler than me know all about her. I sure didn't! Her lighting is crazy and whimsical and I adore how soft yet industrial it is. And when I went to check out her site I couldn't believe my eyes when she had DIY instructions! She even lists where to buy all of the parts

Bath.

2011-10-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

(Photo taken from Apartment Therapy) This bathroom is so soothing and clean < I love it. It needs some love with regards to a thing or two on the walls but otherwise sign me up for a bath, please.

Scooter.

2011-10-13T22:57:00.000-07:00

Posts they are a'coming. For now, here's a taste of one of the greatest aspects of the Greek Islands - the scooter. Sigh, we had so much fun on those things. We zipped around EVERYWHERE via scooter and it made me so happy every second. How so much happiness can be packaged in such a simple machine is beyond me. Freedom! And we were only attacked by a rabid dog once whilst zooming through

Mild Obsession.

2011-10-12T09:21:00.000-07:00

I've been looking at houses in Seattle lately. Gasp! Nothing new actually considering I'm obsessed with looking at real estate. My city, your city, or just a random city, I do not care. I'veinto looking. More than just online though I've actually been popping through some open houses and working with a realtor too. The reality is I don't think its going to happen, but as the saying goes, its

Coming back.

2011-10-10T07:47:00.000-07:00

Well hello there. Hello? Is there anyone even reading after what seems like a year since I last blogged? Frankly, it’s been a poor showing for several months now – the result of a looming wedding followed by our honeymoon. We just returned from Greece and Rome and it is the oddest feeling knowing that my time is now just that, MINE. No more sleepless nights, my mind a constant swirl of details:

A Deux.

2011-08-14T15:40:00.000-07:00

So, we all know about the best night ever that took place earlier in the summer in MN for my bachelorette party. Well, lucky (and greedy) little me got the pleasure of celebrating bachelorette party x2 with my Seattle gals on Friday, and I must say, yet another BEST NIGHT EVER! Totally awesome Claudia hosted a little person (saucy) shower at her new house complete with delicious appetizers

Catch up, Post #1.

2011-07-30T08:29:00.001-07:00

Ok, I am officially in the home stretch of wedding planning and I have to say that it is taking over like a bank robber and a hostage situation. It is all fun and exciting and good stuff, it is just all-consuming. My brain is a constant swarm of "I need to do this, and then this, and then after that I have to do those twelve things." So yeah, no blogging. Which, actually bums me out quite a

Handmade Life.

2011-07-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

I came across a NYtimes article featuring this woman and her incredible hand-knit pieces a year or so ago and was totally mesmerized by her creations but also her unique and beautiful self portraits.Here she is now talking about her craft and also the way she approaches living life and doing the things you feel drawn to.(seen on Dull Diamond, my friend Emily's blog featuring her very own

Rod and Gun.

2011-06-30T06:25:00.000-07:00

Just came across a little spot mentioned in the NYTimes that seems like a cool place, but also a great concept. Brooklyn Rod and Gun, as stated in the article, is a social club on Kent Avenue in Williamsburg, and was started by a handful of fathers as a place to play music and talk about their outdoor adventures.Um, sounds awesome.At its root, Brooklyn Rod and Gun is a place to hang out and

Stolen.

2011-06-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

I stole this post from Cup of Jo, but I just had to get on board with her movie recos. I LOVE these kinds of movies! They remind me of other gems such as: 500 Days of Summer and Away We Go (if you haven't seen it, please run to the video store). Good. Stuff.My Idiot Brother:50/50:

Damn cute.

2011-06-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

Could she look any more effortlessly cute!? Hair all balled up. Shirt "just" tied in a knot.Love. It.Note to self when packing for Greece...

Proud.

2011-06-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

My future hubs was off on a mountain adventure last weekend as the culmination to his Bushwacker's Mountaineering class that he was taking all spring. They were attempting to summit Mt Baker as well as learn some crevasse rescue techniques and he and his fellow classmates totally rocked it. I was so happy for him as you never know what the weather is going to do here in the Pacific Northwest and

Weeeeeeeeeee!

2011-06-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

Claude and I signed up for a trapeze lesson through a groupon offer a few months back. We cashed in on it last Thursday and I had no idea what was in store for us. I'm sort of glad, because otherwise it might have been impossible to get me to go!Trapeze!I must say it exhilarating, terrifying, stressful, exciting and empowering all wrapped in a nice little package.They start you off with a nice,

New Yak City.

2011-06-25T14:03:00.000-07:00

I was witness to a shop in Yakima by the title: New Yak City. One of the many pun-heavy signs in a city of drastic dichotomy: folks in giant trucks blaring country music contrasted by the stunning natural backdrop of mountains and orchards and people flocking to wine taste in the rolling vineyards in the area.I'll just say it, we made Yakima our bitch last weekend. As Tyson was hot to summit Mt

Orange Jello-shots.

2011-06-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

So my bachelorette party was the weekend before last in Minnesota, and though I knew it was going to be great, I had no idea it would facilitate an evening of total dreamy awesomeness.All of the details - from the drive up north catching up in the car, to the late night chatter, to watching my Mama laugh with my girlfriends - were so special, and I would catch myself from time to time just being

Home.

2011-06-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

So yeah, I feel bashful in writing because frankly I haven't written in so long I feel like I am no longer skilled in conveying emotion or capturing experiences. This is so frustrating! The constant flow of wedding tasks and details is what takes the extra space in my brain that used to be allocated to creativity.With that said, I did just experience one of the best weekends of my entire life. I

Connect.

2011-06-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

Having coffee with a friend today I expressed that I really haven't felt like writing lately. I so don't feel like writing. And what's most sad/scary about it all is that I used to get really excited to write, to blog, to take pictures, to edit photos and to express myself. It never felt forced or cumbersome, it was truly something I looked forward to and enjoyed the mental space I occupied when

Welcome.

2011-06-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

So Lisa has been taunting those of us who happen to be older than her about how young she is, comparatively. Especially when it comes to the great divide of being in your 30s or still livin' in your 20s.Well, those jokes no longer apply because Lisa has finally turned 30. We celebrated during a camping extravaganza a few weekends ago complete with fake mustaches, heaps of rain and an epic pot of

Oprah.

2011-05-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

So, Oprah's show is ending after 25 years. I must say, I'm not a huge Oprah fan, largely because I haven't really watched her show as I'm working when it broadcasts and I don't have up-to-date technology for "taping" scheduled programming. That said, devout fan of her show or not I think she is kinda the bomb. Is bomb up-to-date? I'm not sure it is.I find I am slightly mesmerized by her and even

Good stuff!

2011-05-10T20:28:00.001-07:00

It just so happens that lately we've had an abundance of culture on the social calendar, which inevitably always makes me say some iteration of, "Why don't we do more stuff like this?"First I was invited to the opera by the little (awesome) girl that I mentor, Willa. Having never been to the opera I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. It was SO interesting. From the moment I stepped into the

Mama.

2011-05-08T07:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to my darling mother, Debbie. She is the best! And I love her dearly.Thanks for spending a week with me in Seattle, Mama! I miss having you around! You are so awesome! Big HUG.

Booked.

2011-05-03T19:55:00.000-07:00

I love writing that title.Booked indeed. We booked our honeymoon a couple of nights ago! We will spend ten days hopping from island to island in Greece, and then zip over to Rome to spend our final four days in non-work paradise with our good friends, Dave and Jen, who will also be celebrating their honeymoon in Italy. I think having the opportunity to travel and be abroad with friends and fellow

Honey.

2011-04-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

So, I've become completely obsessed with honeymoon planning. Its a problem. Because, really we aren't leaving for another five-ish months. And we need to plan a little something that happens first called a wedding. But alas, its lovely to picture myself wearing items of the like below as we sip wine in the cafes of Rome, stroll the streets of Athens and zoom on scooters to the beaches of the

When Death Comes.

2011-04-20T10:30:00.000-07:00

I work with a spirited lady who turned me on to some good poetry the other day. Never one to read or find interest in poetry, I was curious to read a recommendation from someone who is into it. Simply beautiful!When Death Comes, by Mary OliverWhen death comeslike the hungry bear in autumn;when death comes and takes all the bright coins from his purseto buy me, and snaps the purse shut;when death

Girrrrrl.

2011-04-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

Oh goodness. This is my spectacular friend Lindsay after a few cocktails and a drag show during our visit to Portland a few weeks back. Can she be any more smiley and happy? I like to look at this image because it makes me more happy.

C'mon.

2011-04-18T15:30:00.000-07:00

I've been extremely antsy for spring, a mistake I am making even writing about it in this post. After six years in this city, I should be schooled in the ways of the devious little weather who taunts us and then sneers with delight in the event we ever believe that summer will arrive before July 5. In any case, in an effort to will spring and summer Tyson and I geared up in all our outdoor *

Surf

2011-04-16T09:50:00.000-07:00

Its Saturday morning. I've already been on a six-mile run and now I'm sitting here listening to This American Life and sipping coffee. Does it get any better than this?The fact is, I think I have come out of the fog. In the various places I've worked since moving to Seattle I've encountered folks who ask for those special lights in an effort to thwart the effects of the endless cloudy days.

Pineapple.

2011-04-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like all of a sudden you don't know who you are or what you're doing in life? It may not hang around, this feeling, but sort of pops in to the corners of your brain and for a brief period messes up your psyche and makes you question all kinds of stuff. I'm SO notorious for being susceptible to this type of thinking when I travel, too. New and different surroundings, and people

Up.

2011-04-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Things were looking up today. As the day drew to a close so did the clouds and rain, and alas a sunny evening landed in our laps. Per my conversation with Gma Peg the other day I suppose I need to start blogging again. "I got on the computer today and there is was, and I thought to myself 'Not that damn graham cracker still!'" She sure is feisty that darling Grandma.Sigh.All I seem to do is

Homemade.

2011-02-24T15:01:00.000-08:00

So I totally copied the gal who writes for Cupcakes and Cashmere and we made homemade graham crackers the other day. I just say, SUPER FUN! And not that easy. Likely a beginner's problem as just like anything it gets easier the more you try something. But boy are they delicious. And when you tuck one in to side of bowl of vanilla ice cream you might as well surrender to the fact that you will

Love.

2011-02-15T09:48:00.000-08:00

Hello!I've never been one to get into Valentine's Day. I can't really decide if it is one of those things that I want to be into, but feel as though its a little silly...or that really, I'm just not that into it. I mean, never one to shy away from a love note or a surprise, I do love thoughtful gestures. But I guess I prefer things to be genuine and not forced. Or given because one should give,

The dream continues.

2011-02-11T09:57:00.000-08:00

House dreaming. I was just talking to someone about how much time I spend thinking about houses and house design.Right now I'm loving design mixtures of traditional and modern.

Photographer

2011-02-09T09:20:00.000-08:00

As wedding planning continues, I'm happy to report we have one more thing to check off the list. And the biggest thing in my book: Photographer. I must say, this process was a slightly dramatic one on my part. Wedding guides say to do your research, narrow things down, and then meet with your top THREE before making a decision. Any more than three, the magazine said, is just a waste of valuable

Belated tribute.

2011-02-07T05:24:00.000-08:00

As a continued tribute to my Pops, here's some visual proof of our merry times together after he recreated the Oregon Trail route.

We Came To Say

2011-02-06T09:25:00.000-08:00

So some time last fall I met with a professor who teaches English courses at the University of Washington. The plan was to meet at a Tully's coffee shop in Wallingford, and she was then going to deliver her critique of the twenty pages of my book I'd submitted to her the week before. Nervous, I sat waiting at a small wooden table and peered around the room wondering what the various clientele

Baker!

2011-02-05T09:25:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we were able to get out of town on account of those aforementioned wheels. It is so great getting out of town on the weekends because in my opinion, it makes the weekend feel incredibly long. Nine of us rolled in on Friday night eager to crack open a brew and relax by the fireplace. We played an intense game of Apples to Apples and then it was time to get some shuteye before a big

Dresses.

2011-01-29T12:05:00.000-08:00

So, the process of getting married has so far ruled. I love it! Planning is a bit overwhelming, but for the most part its really, really fun. We've been able to really nail down a lot of the details pretty quickly, and Tyson and I have had shockingly easy time agreeing on things. I'm waiting for the big ole bomb to drop, but alas, maybe it will not!One thing came to fruition totally out of

Freedom.

2011-01-28T11:42:00.000-08:00

So, we got a car. After nearly fourteen months without wheels, my ever so darling Papa made the trip west in our new-but-old 2003 Volvo wagon last week. From Minnesota to Seattle, Washington. That's right, five mountain passes and a whole lot of time alone with his thoughts. We cannot thank you enough, Pops! Plus, it was totally great having a few days afterward to just sit and gab it up with him

greedy.

2011-01-17T09:19:00.000-08:00

I follow a blog called Greedy Girl, and frankly, I become a greedy girl myself because all the things she is greedy for I become equally greedy.Like, for instance, this super cool fish necklace:And are you kidding me with this dress? Amazing.This gal's effortless-looking style is adorable:And then there are the inevitable house-envy photos I've collected for inspiration as of late. What I find

He asked.

2011-01-15T10:21:00.000-08:00

In the days before the holidays - on Tuesday December 21 to be exact - Tyson and I got engaged. This was not a surprise in that we had been talking about getting married since the days we zipped around in a rental car logging hundreds of miles road-tripping in both New Zealand and Australia last spring. We would talk about who we would want to stand up for us, "definitely need to have your

Little people rule.

2011-01-11T14:44:00.000-08:00

Cormac turns ONE! One. Year. Old.And he demolished his cake until he eventually rubbed it into the cavern of his nose. It was both hilarious and adorable, and a bit sad as I don't think he was loving that part too much. But up until that point, to quote his mother Kes, he was even above average at destroying his very own little birthday cake. Happy Birthday, Cormie! I can't wait to see what

Good Morning!

2011-01-10T14:46:00.000-08:00

When visiting MN, I've been known to pack up to four things into the agenda for the day. I realize this schedule isn't for everyone, but for me, I sincerely love it. I love seeing all the people who mean a lot to me and just as everything in my life, I like to pack it all in and squeeze everything out to the last drop.This particular visit proved to be complicated in terms of the schedules of my

True.

2011-01-08T14:34:00.000-08:00

We've all been to a ton of weddings. Probably a ton of really great weddings, even. But never have I been to a more touching wedding than that of Jora and Adam's, of which took place on New Year's Eve in Minnesota.I've known Jora for nearly my entire life. Just as I tearily tried to explain in a joint speech with Kes at her rehearsal dinner, Jora has been a part of nearly every single major event

yum.

2011-01-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

Tyson made homemade chicken noodle soup last night. Like, made the noodles and everything. Rolled them out on the countertop.I think this has inspired me to start blogging again. Plus it was delicious.Stay tuned.

Fam.

2010-12-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

Tyson's family was in Seattle for nearly a week over Thanksgiving I must say it was nothing short of crazy. I say that with the utmost of love and affection though, considering the following is a list of all who stayed under one roof for at least one evening, and a combination of this list for all subsequent evenings: Two grandmothers, four brothers + three wives and a girlfriend (me), a sister

Hearts breaking all over the world.

2010-11-21T11:52:00.000-08:00

First things first, Jora at the beginning of the night:My oldest friend of 20+ year, Jora - who also happens to be one of my best friends still - is getting married on New Year's Eve. What I can never fully convey in a blog post is the love for which most of the planet has for this woman. Jora is truly a remarkable person and someone I can easily label as, "One of the nicest people I've ever met.

Not so much.

2010-11-08T14:18:00.000-08:00

Well, as if I need to say it. Here goes: I don't really feel like blogging.Lately its all, throw a few photos up and call it a day. No thought. No writing. No reflection or message or real creativity.In my free time or rather, in the time I have designated for writing, I do not have the time to write on my blog at the moment. Or the creative energy. I AM writing. Just not here. And though it

Half.

2010-11-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

My friend, Anita, and I signed up for a half marathon a few months back. Its safe to say that she is my best pal at work thus far. I really like her as a person, and I really like that she likes to run as much as I do, meaning several times a week over the lunch hour. Its also fun to hear stories about her daughter, Hannah, who has officially entered high school as a ninth grader. Who Hannah is

Weekend bits.

2010-11-02T09:33:00.001-07:00

Smith Tower, Seattle.

2010-11-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

People actually live in this place. High atop the Smith Tower in downtown Seattle. Wow.

Mt. Rainier

2010-10-24T14:32:00.000-07:00

We went on a hike for work the other day - a perk of the job. The fall colors, and of course Mt. Rainier, were amazing.We ran into this gentleman on the trail. His name is Gary and he was the SIXTH employee of REI. The sixth person ever to work for REI back when it was a teeny company located on Capitol Hill. He went on to work for REI for 36 years. There he was just hiking along the same trail

punkins.

2010-10-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

I'm cheesy. I'll just say it.Its Fall and we made sure we celebrated accordingly last weekend.+ Tailgating before the UW football game.+ An 11-mile run with Tyson kicking crispy leaves in the sunshine.+ Brunch and Sunday morning football complete with Top Pot donuts and mimosas. + A trip to Fall City Farms for a carving pumpkin. + Carving said pumpkin all while making butternut squash soup AND

Desert Play.

2010-10-22T14:13:00.001-07:00

Utahhh.

2010-10-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

Less 'ahhhh' in terms of a sigh-like pronunciation because well, we were scared. So instead, perhaps UtaHHHHHHH! Backpacking and bathing in a river - the trip had inspired rugged whimsy and I think this hike was all part of the package. Simply put, we were doing it and we were hardcore.Regardless of our thwarted original plans, we had always intended on hiking Angel's Landing in Zion. We were

Utahhhhhh.

2010-10-15T07:06:00.000-07:00

Part 1.We flew into Seattle on Tuesday night and noted the green landscape below. Definitely different from the orange and gold arid landscape of Utah. We really had the best trip. As far as the landscape and scenery, the photos speak for themselves. Just as good though was the company and laughter woven effortlessly throughout the entire trip. The group dynamics, at times shockingly comfortable,

"Makin' banana pancakes, pretend that its the weekend now."

2010-10-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

"...we could pretend it all the time."Jack Johnson concert at the Gorge. Sunny + 80s temps and a cold beer in-hand. Camping with Rob and Claudia. Pumpkin pancakes in the morning. A sunny and leafy drive over to Leavenworth = a Bavarian-esque town in the mountains that doesn't mess around when it celebrates Octoberfest. A beer + sausage and sauerkraut and we were happy as clams. A coffee + apple

Surprise!

2010-10-05T08:23:00.000-07:00

Because I have had a crazy week at work.Because I am leaving tomorrow morning for Utah and have not packed.Because I cannot sit in front of the computer for another second...I will keep this post short.However, it is with great weight I must stress that my birthday, of which has not even happened yet and will actually arrive this Saturday, has been totally stellar so far.If I can start by saying