Entre Nous.

Have you ever...

...wanted to drive across country? Who hasn't wanted to hit the open road via the highways and byways of America? I've done the half way road trip, from Washington to Minnesota one memorable family summer vacation. In the other direction, also with family, we've driven from Washington to Arizona. As an adult though, I've always envisioned taking several weeks to drive from the West Coast to the East, reverse manifest destiny style. While living in Savannah I discovered that the old US-80 will take you from San Diego straight through to Savannah. When I discovered this route, I knew when I finally took the road trip plunge, those cities would be my beginning and end. Via Pinterest, naturally, I stumbled upon Roadtrippers. It is the most amazing tool for those planning to hit the road. Their motto is "Roadtrippers is a simple but powerful road trip planner that helps you discover, plan & book your adventure. Eccentric roadside attractions, breathtaking natural wonders, or mouthwatering foodie feasts. Whatever your interests, you’ll discover your America on Roadtrippers." It's beyond brilliant and so easy to navigate. Here's the best part, it calculates approximate trip mileage, travel time, and fuel cost, saving you all those headache inducing calculations. It literally makes me want to rent a convertible, grab my best friend a well stocked iPod, and just go. 

Summerland

Every summer I try to plan a few variations on the much needed summer getaway. This summer I managed to plan four trips out of dodge to a variety of destinations ranging from day trips to a week long vacation.

  

Early in the summer I took a day trip to Vashon Island. I counted this as my “go someplace you’ve never been” excursion. Though my Mother, my traveling companion for the day, claims I visited Vashon when I was young. Since I have no recollection of said trip, I count it as a never been. In case you’re curious, one reaches Vashon by catching the ferry from West Seattle. I adore island hopping and checking out other San Juan Islands, it's such a traditional summer pastime. Originally my primary reason for visiting Vashon was to dine at The Hardware Store Restaurant, a place boasting an extensive number of options sans gluten. A good meal can be the greatest motivator. Unlike the SJI I reside on, Vashon, actually possesses an actual downtown. We first hit the farmers market, and I walked away with a gorgeous stained glass feather that now resides in my bathroom window. Then it was on to the Hardware Store, where I had the most delicious gluten free Fish and Chips. After lunch we strolled in and out of a few shops, my favorite being Giraffe,
from which I snagged a gorgeous pair of earrings. The owner of Giraffe directed us to The Vashon Island Coffee Roasterie, for the best cup on the island. There I indulged in a mocha with orange, despite the warm day. It was incredible and I savored every sip. Inside the shop the history of the coffee company became clear. Apparently the original owners founded Seattle’s Best Coffee. Adjacent to the coffee shop was also a petite ice cream shop. Both the Coffee Shop and Ice Cream shop were receiving heavy foot traffic. I couldn’t help but get a scoop to see what all the fuss was about, clearly I have an insatiable sweet tooth. The ice cream, was of course, top notch. From there it was onto the Vashon lighthouse. There one can rent out the lighthouse keepers quarters for the night or for events. I’m already planning my next excursion to Vashon to spend a bit more time meandering and exploring the island. Unfortunately though on that particular day the lighthouse was our last stop before heading back to the ferry.

What is it good for?

            

After a trip to Portland last weekend and a visit to the Chinese Garden downtown, I came to learn it's the Year of the Snake. Also unbeknownst to me, I came to do discover that the snake just happens to be my Chinese Zodiac animal. For those people who also were born under the Snake star the following applies: "(You're) a natural philosopher, the Snake is blessed with a profound wisdom. Always on a mission, they are dedicated to their chosen quest. Seductive and mysterious, many are blinded by their hypnotic charm. Snakes have an unforgettable elegance and style. The year of the Snake is said to be unpredictable and filled with chaos. A time for inquiry, reflection and exploration." Intriguing, no? Apparently even if you're not born under the Snake star you can use the information regarding the year to your advantage.

Midnight Drives

Today Macklemore and Ryan Lewis released their video for "White Walls". They practically shut down the Capitol Hill neighborhood in July when they performed for a video shoot of the song on the roof of Dick’s Drive-In, a Seattle institution. Love some Macklemore and Dick's Drive-In, I couldn't call myself a Washingtonian if I didn't.

It's that time of year

Although I'm still reticent to embrace the coming Autumn, I certainly enjoy everything it has to offer. Before I fully embrace the changing seasons, I'm planning one last summer weekend getaway (it's not officially Autumn until September 22nd after all), I'll be amtraking it down to Portland for a friends Birthday. But upon my arrival back home I say bring on the seasonal drinks and cozy blankets.