LOCK

1) fasten or secure (something) with a lock
2) make or become rigidly fixed or immovable

Although these pictures are late from our Mother's Day Celebration -- which is already over a month ago! -- I couldn't help but share. 

We had absolutely beautiful weather as we set out to the park to celebrate Mom. We wanted a park that had water/a view, a park area (for sitting or frisbee), and a nice walk -- which lead us to Chambers Bay. Our favorite part was the pedestrian bridge because people have begun to put love locks on the cables -- almost as cool as the bridge fencing at Paris' Pont des Arts. Getting a love lock is definitely want to do someday with my sweetie and it provided some nice symbolism for our family as we talked about the love we share. 

If you are looking for a park recommendation, you should check out Chambers Bay. And while you are grabbing your picnic blanket and kite, don't forget a love LOCK. 

SAMPLE

1) to take a small part of anything or one of a number, intended to show the quality, style, or nature of the whole
2) to experiment with a subset of a population in order to study the total population.
3) to take a sample or samples of; test or judge by a sample

Sometimes, I am thankful for social media. When Facebook serves its actual purpose of sharing things (events, milestones in your life, pictures, etc.) you are doing with with your friends -- cool things can happen. 

Without a friend sharing this event on Facebook, I would have never heard of the Gig Harbor Beer Festival. Thank you Brianna (and as an added bonus her boyfriend was playing in one of the bands)! Also, thank you for making sure we bought our tickets ahead of time -- because this event sold out!

Although we weren't too sure about the weather (you never know with Seattle spring), we ended up having gorgeous blue skies and fairly warm temps. We also weren't too sure about the location, as it was set up in the middle of the Uptown Gig Harbor shopping village -- but we ended up really liking it! This allowed for easy parking and a variety of options for our post festival meal. 

We ran into old friends and made some new ones; we tasted eight sips from local breweries; and we not only soaked up the sun, but also music from local talent. My favorite was Siren's Call from Narrows Brewing (seen in the bottom two pictures) because they use dried hibiscus in the brewing process which gives it a lighter cider taste and adds a pink hue. 

Next time, we are definitely making pretzel necklaces to eat while we SAMPLE. 

STRIDE

1) to walk with long steps, as with vigor, haste, impatience, or arrogance
2) to walk with long steps along, on, through, over, etc.
3) to straddle

I don't know about you but I have had an extra pep in my stride ever since February -- not because I joined the quarter century club, but because THE SEAHAWKS WON THE SUPERBOWL.

(Feel free to relive it here. I know I can't stop smiling about it.)

When I heard about the Seahawks 12k, an event that combined my love for the Seahawks with my new-found hobby of running (always training for that half!) -- I was quick to sign up! And I was lucky enough to have Roz sign up with me. She happens to be a 49ers fan -- but is a good sport and loves races. 

Race day was GORGEOUS! It was the first spring day that reached over 70 degrees and there wasn't a cloud in the sky! We seriously could not have had better weather. Not only was the weather perfect, but the course was hard to beat. We started at the Renton Landing with a confetti send-off, then ran out to the Virginia Mason Athletic Center along Lake Washington Boulevard, and back (side note: if you are ever at the Renton Landing you MUST go to World of Beers). Trust me, VMAC is the most beautiful training facility in the NFL. 

Although my pace was a slow 10:48, resulting in a net time of 1:22:34 -- I was still in the best of moods. My day involved my running bestie, Seahawks, sunshine, a new experience, and a new race length -- so in the words of Matthew Wilder,  "ain't nothin' gonna to break my STRIDE."

SAVOR

1) to give a savor to; season; flavor
2) to perceive by taste or smell, especially with relish
3) to give oneself to the enjoyment of

Dave Matthews Band. At the Gorge. Labor Day weekend.

This has been on my bucket list probably since I started my bucket list. But really, this event should be (and probably is) on every concert go-er's "must see" list (I mean it is Dave's favorite venue, so how do you top that?). I was lucky enough to not only get to see DMB at the Gorge with a wonderful group of friends, but I got to spend the whole weekend in the paradise that is Sunland. 

Sunland is just as stunning as it sounds, a slice of heaven that juts into the Columbia River -- just far enough of a drive from Seattle that you are anxious to get there, but no so far that it takes away from the fun of a long weekend. The weather was perfect for Labor Day, HOT and dry.

Between the outstanding company and the plethora of activities, my face was not without a smile for three days. We went tubing, boating, cliff jumping, swimming, and jet skiing, then ate, hooped, slacklined, and slept -- over and over again. I haven't spend this much time in my bikini since I went to Mexico!

When the days felt like they couldn't get better, we "one-upped" ourselves by heading over to the Gorge for DMB (just a short little seven minute drive away). This was my first time at the Gorge, and it took my breath away. The view is beyond incredible, and add a concert venue to it -- WOW! The folky Head and the Heart opened and then we jammed the night away to DMB -- seriously, so much fun.  

The craziest part of the whole weekend was that I didn't plan any of it. It was so fun be a free bird for a change, without keeping an eye on the time or checking my phone. I was in total relaxation mode, which allowed me to soak up the sun, enjoy quality conversations, sit back and SAVOR. 

MEANDER

1) to proceed by or take a winding or indirect course
2) to wander aimlessly

It was a bright, sunny Sunday and Sebastian and I were ready for a day trip. This time our sights were set on the Berry Barn in Mount Vernon, WA for the biggest hedge maze in North America. 

We hopped in the car, turned on some Head & the Heart, opened the sun roof and soaked up the scenery on our drive north. After we stopped to get a quick bite to eat -- it was off to the hedge maze. 

The Berry Barn is an adorable farm, complete with a red barn and an American flag flying high up on a flag pole, truly picturesque. Upon arrival, we checked in and got our map for the maze. One of the workers gave us a quick run down and suggested we started with the rope maze. 

We took her advice and found the rope maze (which is much smaller and has paths that are fully visible) to be more challenging than we initially thought it would be -- a good reminder to let your ego go when approaching something new. After we took a step back, started communicating better and conquered the rope maze, it was time to head into the hedge maze. 

Sebastian was in charge of the map and I had the trivia page. I was very proud of the way we tackled the maze with a game plan and a lot of patience. Although we did not remember to start the timer when we started, we found ourselves at the finish much quicker than I anticipated. 

If you are looking for a fun, sunny day activity, you should check out the Berry Barn.Take time to get outdoors and challenge your brain, but don't be afraid to just MEANDER. 

SAIL

1) to move along or travel over water
2) to manage a sailboat, especially for sport.
3) to begin a journey by water
4) to move along in a manner suggestive of a sailing vessel
5) to move along in a stately, effortless way

It is rare that my family gets out to our beautiful boat (my father's "first daughter") that is moored in stunning, little Gig Harbor. And it is even more rare that we actually sail -- but this day trip with Joy was different. 

We got down to the marina early in the day, and it looked as though the sun was not going to make an appearance. After we got underway, we motored around the Commencement Bay area with no real destination. As we all relaxed, I took to the deck for a nap.

The next thing I know -- we are tacking, the sun is shinning, blue skies are out, and the wind is ready to deliver some speed. GLORIOUS!

What a change the break in a day can make -- and what a wonderful day we had out on the water. 

With Pacific northwest weather, you truly never know what you are going to get -- and the same goes with life. So take each day as it comes and make the most of it; be prepared to adjust your sails and keep in mind that smooth seas never made a skillful sailor. I am thankful that my parents applied the lessons that we learned on board to our every day lives. Life won't always be a breeze, but remember it's how you adjust your sails that determines where you SAIL!

HOOP

1) to use a hula hoop in the exercise of flow movement
2) to express one's self through artistic movement and dancing with a hoop (or hoops) used as a prop

3) to practice technical moves and tricks with freestyle or technical dancing
4) to rotate the hoop around parts of the body other than the waist, including the hips, chest, neck, shoulders, thighs, knees, arms, hands, thumbs, feet and toes

About a month ago -- my soul sister took a journey across the United States from Morgantown, Virginia to San Diego, California and I was fortunate enough to have almost four days with her as she swung by Seattle on her cross-country road trip (side note: her blog is WAY funnier than mine so you should check it out HERE for some laughs!)

I met Kaitlyn in college, as she was a transfer student and I was trying to rush her for my sorority. The funny thing is the more time I spent talking to her at the open house, the less it became about my sorority and more about how interested I was in wanting to make her my best friend immediately. You know those people that are simply captivating -- she's that kind. 

Kaitlyn did end up pledging, and even though we are sorority sisters -- we are much more than that. I have Kaitlyn to thank for stirring my soul, feeding my curiosity, praising my playful side, and most importantly, keeping me honest, genuine and real. OR maybe most importantly, teaching me to hula hoop. This girl is such a keeper. 

I cannot even explain how happy I was when I saw a text on my phone that said "I am trekking across the U.S. again and taking the northern route! I think I'll be in Seattle July 20th-ish." WHAT GREAT NEWS!

I started planning immediately and at the heart of my planning was one question "where are the best places for us to hoop together"?

We had a wonderful time, between Dick's Burgers at Kerry Park (past vegetarians unite!), sight-seeing/visiting places from 10 Things I Hate about You, soaking up the sun at bluegrass festival, and laughing at anything and everything. Some things never change -- and I am thankful for that. 

I am hoping that Kaitlyn has a big place in her heart for Seattle and will come back to visit soon (for longer!) since she is on the best coast now. Until then I will keep HOOPIN'.

EMBRACE

1) to take or clasp in the arms; hug
2) to take or receive gladly or eagerly; accept willingly
3) to avail oneself of: to embrace an opportunity
4) to adopt
5) to take in with the eye or the mind

We are already two weeks into July -- and I haven't had the chance to recap June! I am coming to the realization that I just need to give in and embrace life as time files by. There is no stopping time and rather than wishing I could slow things down I need to receive each moment gladly and eagerly. 

If you remember, May's focus was to give everything a "try" and to learn how I can better deal with "trying" situations. I want to continue that this month by embracing whatever comes at me, embracing whatever my situation is, and embracing those I love.  

I embraced a lot of change in June: my car celebrated its first birthday, Sebastian started Law School, another class of graduates entered the "real world", I painted my wall (more to come on that still!), and much more...

But by far the biggest change I experienced was having my work teammate, mentor, and friend go on maternity leave. 

For the majority of projects at work, Lisa and I work together -- everyday. She has taught me everything I know about working at HMG, she has trained me on everything I have learned client services related and she has sharpened me to become the Account Executive I am today. I have her to thank for my professional growth and development thus far in my career.

Not only do we work closely, but we have developed a friendship over the last year and a half that I am absolutely loving. This lady keeps me on my toes and has more zingers than anyone I know. Plus, anyone who can watch "Kittens Inspired by Kiittens" or "the falling Girl Scout Girl" daily, has a special place in my heart.

On June 24th, Lisa and her husband welcomed Hadley Makenna to the world at 8 lbs 10 oz and 20 3/4" tall. She is a beautiful, healthy baby with the longest fingers I have ever seen! I am so thankful that I could be in Lisa's life as she transitioned into motherhood and I am looking forward to watching her raise little Lisa Jr. Thankfully she sends a lot of cute pictures, which makes her maternity leave a little more bearable. 

For now, I look forward to the day I get to meet LJ in person, and squeeze her in a loving EMBRACE!

June Photo-a-Day Recap

Match with above!

HUNT

1) to chase or search for for the purpose of catching
2) to pursue with force
3) to search for; seek; endeavor to obtain or find
4) to search thoroughly
5) to scour in pursuit of game

My New Year's Resolution of running five 5k's has caused me to keep an eye out for any and every fun, active events in my area. 

A few weeks ago I was shopping at Lululemon and they told me about their 4th Annual Adventure race. The premise is as follows: 

"Celebrate our local downtown studios and community with a multi-stop, high adrenaline foot race. Teams will be sent on a wild trek through [South Lake Union] and visit a variety of our participating studios. At the studios, instructors will lead teams through a 5 minute workout showcasing what they do best. Celebrate the finish with refreshing drinks, tasty eats and high fives..."

HOW FUN, right!? How often is your workout a scavenger hunt?! Well it ended up being fun -- but WAY harder than I imagined. My girlfriends and I made a few wrong turns in our hunt, sweated like crazy through the stunning 90 degree day, and burned some major calories (which were replenished with Whole Foods catered food and the highly coveted cold beer). We started with a cross-fit workout, then went to barre, yoga, two bootcamp workouts, and ended with an ab series...running in between each workout...

Despite the fact that this was much more physically demanding than I initially imagined -- I would definitely do it again and I am looking forward to next year's adventure. Until then, I will continue to keep my eyes open for another fun and out of the ordinary activity -- I am on the HUNT!

CRUISE (Part IV)

1) a pleasure voyage on a ship, usually with stops at various ports
2) to move slowly through or visit

Now we reach the end of the cruise saga as we approach our last port, Cabo San Lucas. 

Unfortunately we did not have very much time to explore Cabo (which means we have to go back right!). Actually this would probably be our only complaint about our trip, as we tendered in at 8am and the last tender back to the ship was at 2:40pm -- totally not enough time!

But the time we did have in port we REALLY enjoyed. As soon as we were in the marina, we hopped on a "glass-bottom" water taxi and headed out to Land's End to explore! I had been waiting for this ever since we passed el Arco from the Pacific on our second cruising day. 

In one word, Land's End is spectacular. From the dramatic rock formations that have been created through the teamwork of tides and erosion to the crystal-clear water on the warm sandy beach, we were truly content on this peninsula.

Our water taxi showed us the pelican and sea lion colonies, then brought us up close and personal to the rock formations (I was a little unnerved at a few points because the current is fierce in these waters...). He explained what each one was called and how it got its name: el Arco, Window to the Pacific, Lovers' Beach, Divorce Beach, etc. 

After our tour we were dropped off for a few hours of exploring and sun bathing. There is no shortage in things/people to watch as you relax on Lovers' Beach, as there is plenty of wildlife and people engaging in activities (one reason I really want to go back to Cabo is for the kayaking and paddle boarding in the Land's End area).

Once our taxi came back we only had time to grab lunch and do some last minute souvenir shopping -- then it was time to head back to the ship for our sail away party. We still had one more day at sea, but this last day was filled with choppy waters -- which meant we were more than ready to get off when the time came! 

All-in-all, we had a fantastic vacation and I think that was due to the fact we were cruising with Holland America Line. They truly uphold their tagline "Signature of Excellence", in every manner. We have now added the Caribbean and Alaska to top places on our travel list because these will be perfect locations to explore on our next CRUISE!

CRUISE (Part III)

1) a pleasure voyage on a ship, usually with stops at various ports
2) to move slowly through or visit

Our second port of call was Loreto -- a small, cozy town that provided a wonderful morning walk followed by a lazy day of reading on the beach. After all of our excitement and activities in Puerto Vallarta, it was nice to simply enjoy a relaxing day on the beach. 

Our itinerary has back to back port days, Loreto followed by Cabo San Lucas -- more to come on our last port as we continue to CRUISE.

SEIZE

1) to take hold of suddenly or forcibly; grasp
2) to grasp mentally; understand clearly and completely
3) to take possession of by force or at will
4) to take possession or control of as if by suddenly laying hold

April truly went by in the blink of an eye (I feel like I start every post with HOW FAST time seems to be flying). I can't believe we are now starting the fifth month of the year!

If I had to dedicate a phrase to April it would be "seize the day". From parasailing in Mexico (yes that post will be coming!) to dancing to our favorite Macklemore songs at Whitney's wedding or making awesome improvements around the homestead, April was the month to do it all. Take a look below! Carpe diem!

April photo challenge daily topics (L to R, top to bottom):
Day 1: "your reflection"
Day 2: "colors" - bikinis ready for Mexico!
Day 3: "mail" - a postcard from a bestie

Day 4: "someone who makes you happy" - this boy who doesn't mind twinning!
Day 5: "tiny"
BONUS: Cheers to our vacation! (at the airport before our flight)

BONUS: El Arco in Cabo San Lucas - so stunning!

Day 6: "lunch" - salmon salad on the cruise
Day 7: "shadow" - catching some shade on the beach in Loreto
Day 8: "inside your wallet" - all out of money after our vacation!
Day 9: "younger [crazier] you"
Day 10: "cold" drinks on the beach
Day 11: "where you ate breakfast" - room service on our cruise
Day 12: "stairs" - after 1,311 stairs I was happy to see a view with NO stairs :)
Day 13: "something you found" - towel monkey in our room
Day 14: "how you feel today" - sleep and sad, post vacation :(
Day 15: "sunset" - view from the plane

BONUS: DMB tickets arrived!
Day 16: "flower"

BONUS: Remember last month when I said I really wish I had a watch? I got one!
Day 17: "something you hate" - our old, dirty carpet

BONUS: our NEW carpet!
Day 18: "hair"
Day 19: "orange" - HMG's colorDay 20: "something you drew" - a note in my planner
Day 21: "bottle" - Vapur, the anti-bottle
Day 22: "last thing you bought" - new Hunter rain boots
Day 23: "vegetable" (carrot sticks)
Day 24: "something you are greatful for" - my faith in a higher power
Day 25: "looking down"
Day 26: "black and white"
Day 27: "somewhere you went" - Skagit Valley Tulip Festival!
Day 28: "1pm" - baby shower!
Day 29: "circle" - aerial view of my water bottle
Day 30: "something that makes you said" - my current read, The Poisonwood Bible

CRUISE (Part I)

1) a pleasure voyage on a ship, usually with stops at various ports
2) to move slowly through or visit

Finally -- a chance to tell you about my vacation!

A few weeks ago I look my first trip out of the country (oh you know, not including Canada, which we frequent to visit family) which was an 8-Day Mexican Riviera cruise with Holland America Line. Not only was this my first time  visiting Mexico but also my first time on a cruise. And honestly, I could not have had a better experience. 

Our cruise was round-trip San Diego which was: 1) super convenient and 2) allowed us to see my Aunt and Uncle (you know, THE Uncle Tiger) before and after the cruise. I brought some items from the Big Climb to my Uncle and I couldn't help shedding a few proud tears as he put on the "relentless" LLS bracelet that I brought for him. Aside from the quick but wonderful family time, San Diego was also good to us on the weather front -- a clear blue sky send off that made us that much more anxious for the beaches of Mexico. C'mon Zaandam, l-e-t-s let's go!

From San Diego we had two days at sea before reaching our first port, Puerto Vallarta. When looking at the itinerary, I recalled thinking "sea days are going to be terrible..." but we REALLY enjoyed them  (in fact, it ended up that we were very thankful for sea days in between port days as they allowed us some resting time). 

Holland America Line has a plethora of events, activities, classes, dinning, etc. -- or lovely places to enjoy doing nothing at all. Our first sea day, the weather was no so great (which our captain PJ told us is common until we passed a certain longitude...uh huh...), but this allowed us to try many of the on board activities that we might not have tried had we had the chance to sun bathe by the pool. 

Our second day at sea provided some scenic cruises of Los Cabos. This time on the bow not only provided striking views of Land's End, El Arco, and Divorce Beach (oh! and delicious sangria!) but it allowed us to see all of these sites from the Pacific Ocean side. Later, once we stopped in Cabo San Lucas, we were able to explore these sights -- taking a closer look. 

That's all for now. I will continue with our first stop...Puerto Vallarta (which includes swimming with dolphins and parasailing)! Look for more to come as I continue sharing my CRUISE!

FLEX

1) to bend, as a part of the body

2) to tighten (a muscle) by contraction

Last weekend LivingSocial took me on another adventure (I really think I should reach out to Groupon and LivingSocial to ask if they need an official spokeswoman...). Although this outing was something I had never even heard of before -- I can proudly say that taking trapeze and aerial arts classes definitely prepared me for what was in store (how often does someone get to say that?!).

I am sure you have figured out by now that I love trying new things. Emerald City Trapeze introduced me to my current love, the silk apparatus -- but unfortunately I have used up my circus freak punch card, so I have had my eyes peeled for something to fill my silk void. Lo and bold! Knotty Yoga came into my inbox!

Last Saturday was the first warm and sunny spring day that 2013 has delivered! I woke up to hear birds chirping and the sun beckoning me to open my curtains. Such an energizing start!

If the beautiful weather wasn't enough, Jo and I have been super excited to take this class together, having no idea what to expect. The Knotty Yoga studio describes itself as "a mixture of yoga, aerial acrobatics, strength training, and Thai massage". Woah what?!

Before we we even touched the silk, our instructor Mason, gave a complete background on the inception of Knotty Yoga. At the time it felt like a long-winded explanation of how he created the playground of my dreams but looking back I've realized it was very important to understand how these perceived "different" styles of physical activity can come together in the synergy that is Knotty Yoga. Without trying it for yourself (which I HIGHLY recommend you do!), the best way I can describe it is "similar to TRX Suspension Training but on a WHOLE different level". This was one of THE BEST core workouts I have ever had in my life, bar none, and he even taught us how to use tension with the silk to work out deep knots in our muscle tissue.

Jo and I could not believe how quickly our introductory 90 minute workshop flew by and we are already looking forward to our second class. In addition, Mason had "introductory offers" so Jo and I are sharing a 4-class punch card (yay! a new circus freak punch card!) so we can explore this studio a little more. 

If you are looking for a great workout to cure you of your gym blues, let me encourage you to give Knotty Yoga a try! You will not only have an amazing workout, but you will be sore in places you didn't know had muscles. Those "hidden" muscles are just waiting for the chance to FLEX!

DISTRACT

1) prevent (someone) from giving full attention to something
2) divert (attention) from something

I have been meaning to write this post for weeks! But here we are, better late than never... 

In mid-February two of my best girlfriends and I road tripped our way to Yakima to meet up with two of our other besties who are living in Eastern Washington. As much as I was super stoked beyond belief to have a weekend get-away and mini-road trip with my girls, I think what made me the MOST excited was having the chance to be a distraction for our favorite med school student for the weekend. 

Our future Dr. Quach does it ALL and she has been doin' it all ever since I can remember. She definitely makes my top ten list of "go-getters I am secretly a little bit jealous of". After becoming friends with her and watching her kick high school's butt, to fostering a long distance friendship as she took names in college, and now supporting her as she fulfills her dream to be a doctor -- I could not be happier to be one of her biggest cheerleaders. Let me also add, that despite the fact that she is a accomplished student, world traveler, and more, she is also one of the sweest, most down to earth and humble individuals I have ever met. 

So the the name of balance, and in upholding my life's mantra "work hard, play hard" - my high school besties and I spend the weekend with Dr. Quach in the name of fun. The aim was definitely to keep her mind off of school (ok...except for when we asked for a tour of her school), from a morning at the spa and a thrift shop themed wine tasting, to a sun-shine filled walk in the foothills and a PJ party watching Pitch Perfect - we helped our girl unwind. 

Here is the part where I get mushy, and say things like "you have no idea how thankful I am for my group of girl friends who are beautiful inside and out" and "we are the true definition of support system" or "I do not know where I would be with out my best friends"...but as cliche as they sound, I mean every word. I know not everyone is as lucky as I am to have such good company, so I aim to work every day to keep our bonds strong. If I meant even half the amount to them as they mean to me, I would be happy.

Dr. Quach, I am over-the-moon proud of your and your ability to stay true to yourself and your dreams. I hope as med school gets busier and more stressful, that you can think back at our hilarious moments over President's Day weekend and have a little laugh break. And when things get overwhelming, you can bet we will be right back there with you in Nola Loop, armed and ready to DISTRACT!

EXPLORE

1) to traverse or range over (a region, area, etc.) for the purpose of discovery

2) to look into closely; scrutinize; examine
3) to investigate into
4) to search for; search out
5) to engage in exploration 

Every year I use January as my "ramp up" month, where I flush out all the ideas, wants, hopes, needs, and dreams I have for the year ahead. The aim is to "have it altogether" by my birthday...the beginning of "my year". Today I looked back at my New Year's resolution post (you can read RESOLVE here!), and I recalled how my focus for January was to keep things simple. January was used to set the precedent for the year: life is simple, savor the day, the joy is in the journey, etc. After a month of focusing on my "be here now" mantra, I let myself use February to EXPLORE. 

Here I am at 24 with so many amazing experiences in my memory's catalog -- and so much in front of me that I can't help but jump out of bed each morning with excitement. In February explored hot yoga, aerial arts, painting, new relationships (did I mention HMG hired two new girls?!), Yakima, sleeping in, new blogs, the rave scene, new books, pushing myself, new firsts, new recipes, old traditions, and more. I let exploration manifest itself in big and small ways, which was a good challenge in keeping an open mind. 

One fun way I explored February was with my Instagram app, capturing my life one small frame at at time. So here is a visual look at my EXPLORING. 

February photo challenge daily topics (L to R, top to bottom):

Day 1: lockscreen photo - a favorite photo from our first time at the batting cages (yes -- that was a Groupon!)

Day 2: best friends - my sisters are two of my very best friends. 

Day 3: outfit of the day - the outfit I wore to my first aerial hoop class

Day 4: role model - my cousin Deanna, as well as Malone women in general 

Day 5: current favorite song - I really cannot get enough of the contrast of Calvin Harris' dance beat and Florence Welsh's haunting voice in Sweet Nothings   

Day 6:  food - this is my daily breakfast at work

Day 7: selfie

Day 8: pet - I miss the best dog ever, RIP Draven

Day 9: smiles - with the beautiful smiles of my sisters

Day 10: quote - this was a gift from my little and it says "though delicate they may seem...your wings are much stronger than you know... SO FLY"

Day 11: black and white - the hounds tooth pattern from one of my dresses

Day 12: screen shot - while this term generally applies to phones, I was slammed that day and I had no time for my phone...

Day 13: someone you love - this OF COURSE is my momma bear

Day 14: my valentine - 5 years running

Day 15: handwriting 

Day 16: something new - I loved this stained glass window panel (although I did not actually buy it)

Day 17: weather - we truly lucked out with warm weather and stunning blue skies while we were in Yakima

Day 18: breakfast - complete with my NEW favorite mug that was a birthday gift

Day 19: mirror pic (ah! you caught me wearing a blazer...again)

Day 20: outside - this was the view from under my new umbrella (thanks sister!)

Day 21: fashion - I keep up on fashion trends by watching the ever-changing downtown storefronts 

Day 22: special moment - is ADORABLE gender reveal was for my coworker (and FAVORITE blogger)  

Day 23: family - this picture quality may not be the best, but the memory from my shore-side dinner in Laguna Beach with my cousins is perfect

Day 24: celebrity crush - this really requires no explanation 

Day 25: jewelry - this statement piece was a gift from my mother 

Day 26: bedroom - just a peak into my sanctuary 

Day 27: night time

Day 28: favorite candy - I miss Reeses because I gave up candy (among other things) for Lent! 

The word for next month is TACKLE. February pulled a fast one on me as I enjoyed exploring it's days, and now I have many things that need accomplishing before this month's end.

GLAMP

1) To camp in style, comfort, and/or luxury while still experiencing the great outdoors; to go glamping 

Photos (clockwise L to R) — 1: Tally, our little watch dog 2: The camper 3: American Lake 

4: Hobo Pies, because steaks would have been pretentious 5: Luxury s’mores, 

named so because we upgraded from Hershey’s to Dove (OK — that got a little pretentious)

OK — admittedly this definition comes from UrbanDictionary.com rather than Dictionary.com but the word “camp” does not truly describe my latest adventure.

As the end of September came to a close, my family realized that we really should take advantage of the record breaking “indian summer” we were in the midst of (we almost made it to 50 days without rain?! shhhh…don’t let that get out!).

The challenge was to coordinate five busy schedules and in the end we figured a quick overnight/weekend trip would do the trick! In order to get the most time possible in the great outdoors, we chose a close location. American Lake was perfect for our needs: close enough to start our stay-cation early on Saturday, yet the peaceful lake made as feel like we were worlds away from the daily hustle and bustle of the Seattle-Tacoma area.

We had a great weekend full of family, sunshine, relaxation, food, games, football, and laughter — all in the comfort of my sisters luxurious camper (bathroom, shower, memory foam mattress, electricity, you name it! oh wait…I forgot to mention the flat screen TV! We were, after all, going to be “glamping” on a Sunday when the Seahawks were playing!)

Camping is no longer “in tents” (read: intense), but rather plush and all-inclusive. I must say, once you glamp you never go back. I highly recommend that next time the sun comes out you head out for a weekend and…

GLAMP!

JET

1) to travel by jet plane
2) to move or travel rapidly

If I had to use two words to describe my “jet-away” to Laguna Beach last weekend they would be “short and sweet”, without a doubt.
I have found that the older I get, the busier I find my schedule (and if you know me well, you may find this hard to believe — was I born busy?!). Despite the fact that this trip was only Friday afternoon thru Monday morning, I am thankful we all were able to carve out some family time in our schedules. 

These four days were filled with family, sun, sand, saltwater, laughter, and love. It was much needed change of pace that came at the perfect time. I love my family and truly cannot wait for the next time we can all come together.

We are definitely all busy, but clear out some time in your schedule to…
JET! 

Photos (clockwise L to R) — 1: Cousins, oldest to youngest 2: sisters at the airport
3: 70’s party! 4: LA at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre 5: Laguna Beach lifeguard station 6: Laguna Beach