Seattle Weekend

It was a brisk early morning with fall colors cascading over the road. The winding city street offered quick glimpses of the water through the bright yellows and reds of the foliage. Vampire weekend was playing in the background and the city lay ahead. As I glanced at Logan, I realized he was thinking the same thing. Cities are magical, and Seattle did not disappoint. We were making our way downtown to soak in the views and to enjoy the iconic Pike Place Market. With the whole weekend ahead of us and our kids at home, we were ready for some time together.

As you can guess, Logan and I spent the weekend in Seattle together. Logan was scheduled to begin an NNOHA (National Network for Oral Health Access) on Sunday and we decided to go early to get some much-needed time together and catch a Seahawks game. Walking out on the boardwalk near Pike Place provided an immediate high. That feeling stayed with us as we strolled around looking for a lunch spot with a view. We ended up at Lowell's, a seafood restaurant that did not disappoint. While we were there, a man named Greg joined us at our table (it was large with plenty of room). He was from Hayden and was also in town for the Seahawks game. We had an enjoyable conversation that added to our day. People are pretty cool. Logan and I walked up and down the streets of Seattle into the evening with no shortage of good conversation. I quite like that guy!

On Sunday, we woke up bright and early to go find a local café for breakfast before Logan had to head to the conference.  The café we found was unexpected as it was located inside of a posh Whole Foods-type store. I love that Seattle has great coffee because when general expectations are high, all of the coffee will be wonderful.

After I dropped Logan off, I headed to Vertical World to get some climbing in. I climbed hard for two hours before calling it a day. When I can't get halfway up an easy climb, then I know it has been a good session and it's time to stop! Unfortunately, our schedules didn't quite work out to climb together, but Logan got his fill of climbing after I flew back home. 

The afternoon plan was to meet up at the Seahawks game after Logan's conference. I decided to head over and park early to give myself a chance to walk to the stadium and have some time before kickoff. I arrived at the game to the sound of live music and excitement in the air. It was magical. I stood outside of Lumen Field and took in the sights and sounds, marveling at how sports have the ability to bring a variety of different groups of people together with one common interest. Nothing else mattered that evening except that there was an incredibly large group of people feeding off of each other's energy. Logan arrived, the game began, and we joined in and became one with the crowd. I must mention that this game was definitely the best of the season. Lumen Field- goodbye for now, until next time.

 Monday morning dawned bright and early. Too early. We woke, got ready for the day, and headed to the conference. After a tight hug, I drove off to find a cute café to write our catch-up blog. From there I took the train to the airport to head home. Seattle- goodbye for now, until next time.

That is a lovely summary of what we did. Looking back, what really stands out to me was who I was with. Logan is a pretty incredible guy, and we had an endless string of conversation that began on the drive and didn't stop until I dropped him off. Life has had crazy ups and downs this past year, and Logan has been there balancing it all. This was a much-needed trip for us, and looking forward, we might need another one next month! 

Taking pictures was not at the top of our priority list, but we got one!

Meanwhile, back and at home:

Adalie was in charge while we were gone. The kids had a picnic in the living room, a Halloween party full of baked goods they made themselves, party games, and a movie, and some of them even dyed their hair together. Lots of fun was had, and I arrived home to a very clean house --even the garbage was brought out to the curb. I am pretty lucky!

Homemade party treats!

A few updates from the kids who sent me stuff:

Evelyn

Ev has been mostly studying and working, but she is trying to sneak time away with friends whenever she can. Here are a few pictures from her week.

This is her bike commute to work. I am a bit jealous!

She is pretty easy to spot. 💜

These pictures are from a few parties with friends.

Adalie

BBQ Dad/Soccer Mom day at school --I think Faith and Addy nailed it! 

Shortly after getting her license, Addy discovered a perfect little coffee shop for studying.  You can find her there with Faith, Jack, or alone most days of the week.

Jack

Jack has wanted to go to Scarywood for a long time. He finally got the chance with this fun group of friends. Apparently, Scarywood did not disappoint. 

Have a good week!