In the middle of one of the busiest seasons of the year at work, I managed to steal away for a peaceful and inspiring long weekend. Last November, when I saw my friend Ashley's photos from outdoor creative retreat for women at Salt Creek, I immediately began dreaming of attending the next time the event came around. Watercolor and writing workshops by a toasty, crackling fire accompanied by serene views of misty Pacific Northwest coastline? Yes please! However, when tickets went on sale for the 2018 retreat, I suddenly found myself waffling. It would certainly be worthwhile, it wasn't something I needed. Thankfully, Andy intervened and practically demanded that I go. After managing to get through a busy weeks work in just 4 days, I got an early start Friday morning to head for the coast with Ashley. After catching the first ferry, we had plenty of time to enjoy our day before any workshops began at Salt Creek, and after reading all about Pippa’s Real Tea on a mutual friend’s blog, we agreed that our first stop of the day should be Port Townsend. The power may have gone out shortly after we arrived (county-wide apparently!) but that didn’t stop Pippa herself from making us each a delicious cup of tea! Steaming cups of tea in had, we explored a few of the shops that were able to stay open even with the power outage - including a bookshop I’d love to return to when the lights are on - before heading to Crescent Lake for a short hike to Marymere Falls, which I’ll be writing more about soon!
Read moreLife: Week 44
And suddenly, it was winter! The week started off stormy, with wind and rain tearing most of the remaining vibrant foliage from the trees. They lined the sidewalks in brightly colored drifts that I can never resist stomping through. There's something so satisfying about the crunch and rattle of leaves punctuating each step. By Friday morning, much to everyone's surprise, the rain had turned to snow - one of the earliest snows the Seattle area has ever seen! It snowed off and on for most of the day Friday, but by late afternoon, it had warmed enough to melt away the light dusting of snow. Sunday morning, we woke to snow again. With only a few hours, I headed for the nearby Evans Creek Preserve again. By the time I made it out the door, the snow had almost entirely melted away, but the woods were magically misty, and it was astonishing to see how dramatically the forest had changed in just one week!
Read moreLife: Week 44
I'm still in shock over the results of the election yesterday, but I can talk about that later. For now, I'd like to share the wonderful week I just spent with my family and try to focus on how lucky I am to have so many positive things in my life.
Read moreLife: Week 44
This week was all grey skies, spectacular sunsets, and vibrant fall color. After my short trip to LA last week, I was exhausted. Andy and I barely left home the entire weekend! Throughout the work week, the weather alternated from brief sunshine, to dull grey skies, to pouring rain. The only consistency was the almost wintry chill in the air. Perfect late fall weather! Mind-week, we decided to take a last minute trip to Whidbey Island for the weekend. We both left work a little early, and made it to the Mukilteo Ferry in time for a truly stunning sunset. The week came to a perfect end with bacon, egg & cheese burgers and a dark winter beer.
Also, I finally gave in and tried the cookies atone of my favorite lunch spots. Salted dark chocolate chip - SO delicious!