A Week in the Pacific Northwest

Living in metro Atlanta for so long, you can often forget life outside the bustling city where something is always happening. You have to adapt to a fast-paced lifestyle very quickly and buzz through moments you wish you can savor before it vanishes. So when my family and I decided to vacation in Portland for a week, we were almost culture shocked at how unforgettable the experience was.

View from the plane

This was our first time ever venturing to the Pacific Northwest and seeing the stark contrast compared to our home state could not be put into enough words. Immediately, we were enraptured in a surreal world of greenery and nature we only dreamed of back home. A simple drive down the interstate gave you an overwhelming view of Mount Hood and surrounding rolling hills. The beautiful mixture of city life and scenery was perfection that couldn't be beat.

When we wanted to get away from the city, we were close enough to escape to what nature had to offer. Multnomah Falls, the Columbia Gorge, and Cannon Beach were all impeccable sights that can only truly be captured with the eyes. The air was fresh and the sky was clear, making those moments perfect to savor.

In the city, there were a lot of small shops and restaurants that lined the streets, from bridal shops to ice cream parlors, and we couldn't resist experiencing Salt and Straw. Such delicious ice cream it was! I didn't want to finish my ice cream cone. As we all ate our treats, we sat down and watched the city move around us. Everyone was vibrant and enjoying their day in no rush. It was so fun to people watch!

Haystack Rock

Tillamook Rock Light off in the distance

Since Seattle was not that far away, we decided to get in the car once more and head up north to Washington. Having a stroll through Pike Place Market and such an abundance of fresh seafood and flowers, I was amazed! Watching butchers throw fish into the crowd was a sight and sampling produce and other treats surprised me.

Being back home safely, we still cannot stop thinking about Oregon and Washington. We miss the views of mountains and seeing so many people biking through the city, but it made us appreciate the little things we forget to cherish in our town. Our vacation was a blast and we will definitely see the Pacific Northwest again!

N.Y.C. and H&M Home

Hello friends, I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season.  I spent the holidays visiting with family and friends in New Jersey.  It was an enjoyable trip with my daughter.

While visiting N.J. we took the train to N.Y.C.  I made a promise to my daughter for her 18th birthday we could explore New York.  My sister, niece and cousin tagged along making the entire experience even more memorable!

We visited on December 26th, so all the Christmas decorations were still up.  The streets were crowded, but there was so much to see.  N.Y.C. is seriously so beautiful at Christmas time. 

My niece!

My cousin!

My daughter!

My sister!

I've been admiring H&M's home furnishings for months, online.  I was so excited to visit their flagship store.  The entire fourth floor is dedicated to their home collection.  Lots of beautiful home decor ideas.  It's easy to stay within budget with their affordable prices.

Me!

Thank you N.Y.C. for such a great time!