Tag: pacificnorthwest

Couples Getaway: Cannon Beach, OR

When the forecast was showing 68 degrees and clear skies on the coast, Tyson and I changed all of our plans and booked a hotel.

Everyone has a specific Oregon beachtown that they love, but to me, you just can’t beat Cannon Beach. It’s quaint, quiet and clean and has so much beach to play around on.

This was the first time we’ve done the beach together without Parker. While I definitely had my moments of wishing Parker was there with us, playing around in the sand, it was such a great, quick getaway as a couple. And… so needed.


So, let’s jump right in! Today I’m sharing my couples getaway itinerary in Cannon Beach, OR. Enjoy!!

DAY ONE

12pm – Arrive to Cannon Beach and head straight to the Wayfarer for a nice lunch or grab Crepes at Crepe Neptune and take them straight to the beach.

2pm – Check into the Stephanie Inn. Make sure to pay the extra money for the oceanfront room. In the end, it is WELL worth it.

3pm – Crack open a bottle of wine that you brought or head to the Inn’s happy hour downstairs that is all complimentary. Sit on your deck, sip some wine and don’t worry about a thing, just enjoy.

5pm – Take a nice beach walk together as the crowds start to disappear.

6pm – Order room service for dinner just in time to watch the sunset from your deck.

8pm – Head to the Warren House Pub to play some pool and listen to good music.

9pm – Make your way back to the hotel for their signature “nightcaps” down in the lobby.

9:30pm – Ask the front desk for a s’mores kit and head outside to the beach to eat.

10:30pm – Lights out! Don’t forget to keep the windows all open so you can fall asleep listening to the ocean. And if it’s a clear night, make sure to look up at the stars.

________________________________________________________________________________

DAY TWO

8am – Goooood morning! Hopefully you had a chance to fully relax and get a good night’s sleep. Put some comfy clothes on and head down to the breakfast area. At the Stephanie Inn, breakfast is included in your stay. I’d highly suggest asking for a tray so you can load up your yummy food and bring it straight to the room. Once again, eat on the deck. Also… feel free to ask the front desk for some champagne if you feel like the morning calls for mimosas!

11am – After you are done eating and getting ready for the day, ask the front desk for access to their beach cruisers and take the bikes for a ride right on the sand. If you are checking out this day, you can leave your bags at the front.

12pm – Ride the bikes straight to either Pelican Brewing or Public Coast Brewing to enjoy some local caught fish and chips and a taste of Cannon Beaches great beer.

1pm – Take the bikes back to the hotel and head back home.

________________________________________________________________________________

Need any other local tips? Email me at thewellhaus@gmail.com and ask away!

!function(d,s,id){var e, p = /^http:/.test(d.location) ? ‘http’ : ‘https’;if(!d.getElementById(id)) {e = d.createElement(s);e.id = id;e.src = p + ‘://’ + ‘widgets.rewardstyle.com’ + ‘/js/shopthepost.js’;d.body.appendChild(e);}if(typeof window.__stp === ‘object’) if(d.readyState === ‘complete’) {window.__stp.init();}}(document, ‘script’, ‘shopthepost-script’);

JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.

Wellhaus Wellness Guide: Portland, OR

Image from Vetiver Acupuncture

After my first Healthy Food Guide to Portland, you all asked me about the naturopath I go to, spa recommendations, best fitness studio, etc. So, I’m here to share! Luckily, here in Portland, there is no shortage of all things that keep you looking and feeling WELL.

SPA

Blooming Moon Spa: This place might always be my favorite because I’ve been going there since I moved to Portland. They offer great, natural products and they have killer facials, nail care, massages, and waxing. Ginny, the owner, couldn’t be more talented and their new space is beautiful.

KIVA: Both a cafe and spa, they offer a really great overall experience. I prefer their facials the most!

Rumi Simone: This is technically in Lake Oswego, but if you are looking for a “luxe” experience, this is the spot to go!
MEDICAL AESTHETICS

Skin By Lovely: I couldn’t say better things about this place. Everyone there is extremely knowledgeable and talented. If you go this route with your skincare, this is the best place to do so.

FITNESS

Barre3: If you know me, you know I love me some Barre3! It’s challenging, relaxing, and full of good music, great people, and NO PRESSURE. Perhaps my favorite thing about the class is that you don’t feel like you have to be in the best shape, wearing the best outfit to show up. Plus, they are HQ’d in Portland!

YoYoYogi: This is such an awesome yoga studio for so many reasons. I love all of the different classes they offer. My only complaint would be that parking down in the Pearl isn’t always the most fun, but the great classes make it worth it!

StarCycle: Best spin class in town, no question.

NAILS

Midas: Great spot in the NW. Wine and nails? Yes please!

Finger Bang: If you are looking to do get some fun nail designs, this is the spot. Make sure to make an appointment!
Blooming Moon Spa: The best spot for a spa pedicure. All non-toxic too!

WAXING




NATUROPATH

ACUPUNCTURE

Brooke Meadows at Vetiver Acupuncture: Hands down, the cutest spot to get acupuncture. Brooke, the owner of Vetiver, has done such an incredible job with her place. Not only that, but she is incredibly knowledgeable, calming and kind. I highly recommend her as well for someone new to acupuncture. 

Sandy Reidman at Mandala Medicine: Sandy was my first experience with acupuncture and got me hooked! Her method is much different than others. She does a massage + acupuncture technique so it feels like a big bang for your buck! Plus, she is an incredible human.
HAIR

coming soon!

DAY SPAS

coming soon!

MAKEUP/BEAUTY

coming soon!

ENERGY HEALERS

coming soon!

NUTRITION COUNSELORS

coming soon!

Officially "in my 30’s"

I felt like 30 was my denial stage. Not because I didn’t want to be 30, I literally just kept forgetting. I was forever 29 in my eyes. So, now that I’m 31, I’m feeling official!

For my birthday, my mom, sister and a dearest friend of mine headed out to Stoller winery and gosh, that place is stunning. We drank some rose, snacked on a charcuterie plate, laughed, talked about life and took in all beauty of Oregon wine country.

 This is 31. 


 I don’t know about you, but life for me just seems a bit crazy lately. Not only am I at my max capacity for what I can take in news wise (fires, hurricanes, politics, etc. etc. etc), but I’m also trying to find a life balance while running my own company.

When I get a bit burnt out on life, I’m reminded of all the important things. The things that truly matter in life like family, friends, laughter, the simple things…

I just want, so badly, to defy the odds. To work hard and run a successful business, but not be that stressed out person that lives for work and no play. So, I’ve dedicated 31 to figure this out, because the stress I’ve been feeling is on another level. I was starting to have aches, pains, fatigue, and sensations that I had never even felt before. And my shoulders were (and still are) so tight that I literally feel like I have a bag of bricks on them. I’m also extremely forgetful and I’m honestly just, tired.

Stress is such a bitch like that (pardon my language).

But you know what? I’ve always noticed that when it pushes you this far, you are forced to reevaluate everything. What can I do to help myself? How can I help balance out the stress?

For that, I welcome you, stress.

Here is what I wrote in my notebook (I carry this everywhere with me so I can jot down thoughts and notes). I jotted down just a few attainable actions that I wanted to make sure I was doing.

-More time in the present. On the coast the other day, Tyson asked me to not be on my phone. Not because he was telling me what to do, but because he wanted to challenge me to just be in the moment. And even after putting down my phone, I started talking about how much being at the beach in Oregon made me miss California. Once again, I derailed from being present. I’m really good at that. So, I was forced to get back to the moment and appreciating THAT moment, not the past or present ones.

 -Meditate or breathing exercises for 5 minutes (only 5- I’ve got this!) first thing in the morning. 

-No work emails until 9am. I have been rolling out of bed and starting work from my phone first thing in the morning. Just, no…

-More Barre3. I haven’t been in so long and it truly is my happy place. Although I’m not looking forward to my first class back (ouch!)…

-More time with friends. It feels like I’ve neglected my friends all summer.  Between moving and working, it’s just been so hard, but it’s still a terrible excuse.

-More one on one time with Parker. I’ve decided that every Wednesday I’m going to start work at 11am and take the morning to do something fun with Parker. He’s just growing up so fast and I don’t want to pass this time up.

-Take a news break. I’m at a point where I just… can’t. It’s too much. I don’t want to be naive, but you also need to listen in and realize when it’s healthier for you to just take a news break.

 -Bed before 10pm. I used to be asleep by 9:30pm almost every night and it felt amazing! So, I feel like 10pm is a good place to meet in the middle. Also, falling asleep reading or writing (not on my phone) is a big goal of mine.

-More quality time with Tyson. I miss cuddling on the couch, rambling about life and dreams with him. Now it’s work, schedules and Parker stuff. I’m trying to get back to those conversations we had when we first started dating. And those moments where just laying on the couch talking was everything.

How do you de-stress? I’m also curious if you are a business owner, how do you balance work and life?

xx

Getaway: Kirkland, WA

A couple of weeks ago Tyson and I took a solo trip up to Kirkland, WA for a quick overnight getaway. Tyson is up in Seattle quite a bit for work, so any chance I get, I try to tag along. I love me some Seattle! 

This trip we took was so needed! Between moving houses and my business growing so quickly, everything just feels like a LOT lately. When I start to feel a bit burnt out, I always like to plan a quick getaway. It’s my recharge! And staying in Kirkland and at the Woodmark Hotel couldn’t have been a better place to do this. 
__________________________________________________

Where to Eat:


Where to Stay:


Things to do:
-Rent kayaks (free for hotel guests at the Woodmark)
-Rent a boat
-Grab lunch downtown
-Run/walk along the waterfront

Key Travel Notes:
-Boating, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding
-Tons of healthy food options
-Only 20 minutes from downtown Seattle 
-Great shopping close by 
-Romantic 
-Good place for kids


We headed up to Seattle on a Monday. I dropped Tyson off at work near downtown and then went straight to a coffee shop to get some work done for a bit. After working for awhile, I decided to head towards the hotel, making a pit stop for lunch in downtown Kirkland. I ate at Homegrown, which was delicious. I’m such a sucker for a good sandwich and this place has their sandwiches down (and gluten free options, which is great).

After grabbing some lunch and getting some more work done, I went to check in at the Woodmark and was greeted by a glass of champagne (yes please!). This hotel is honestly the cutest. I feel like I am the pickiest person when it comes to hotels. I just love a place that has some charm to it, and this place completely did.

So, I enjoyed my champagne, headed to the room and unpacked my things while I waited for Tyson to get back to the hotel after work. Our room was overlooking the water, and can I just say, spend the extra money for the water view!! We even had a small balcony, so we were able to open the doors and hear the water crash on the rocks. I felt so relaxed that I even took a nap (and I don’t even know how to nap usually!).

Once Tyson got back, we headed out for a walk around the waterfront of the hotel and grabbed dinner at Le Grand, right next to the hotel. We ordered just about everything off of the menu because my idea of a great vacation, always includes great food. ; )

After dinner, we walked around a bit more, and then headed back to the hotel. We had BIG plans to watch a movie, or go grab more drinks downstairs at the bar, but the reality was that we both fell asleep before 9pm and slept like babies.

So wild, I know…

The next day was spent working out and then on the water. I can’t get over how beautiful it is up there in the summertime!


Until next time, Kirkland! We had such a blast!

Pronghorn Resort (Bend, OR)

Key Travel Notes:

-Golfing  
 -Great pool
 -Great spa   
-Healthy food options
-Great for family  
-Romantic  
                  -Relaxing                    
 -Great for being active (gym, tennis courts, trails)
____________________________________________________

I have been having some major withdrawals from our mini-vacation! I honestly can’t even remember the last time I was able to relax as much as I did the other week at Pronghorn.

Although we only spent two nights there, it felt like a true, week-long vacation. The obvious is that the setting and location of the resort is just beautiful. It’s the type of place you go to and don’t really venture anywhere else. We had big plans to go other places around Bend, but we had so much to do there and we really didn’t want to do anything else but stay and play.

We basically lived at the pool. If you have a kiddo that isn’t quite swimming yet, their pool is ideal. Parker won’t spend very long at a pool because he doesn’t love using floaties yet. They have a walk-in, shallow area, that was perfect for him to play around in. They also have a small waterslide and a ton of fun pool toys. The setup there makes it really easy to hang around a pool (for both adults and the kiddos). Not to mention, they have some really tasty (and healthy!) food and drink options.

I would say that the other major highlight, is the driving range. Obviously, their golf course is one of the best in the U.S. (which my husband was able to play), but they also have a beautiful driving range that you can walk up to and hit balls at, anytime. This was a real hit! Especially for Parker and Tyson.

The other part I loved about staying there, was the room we were in. We had one of their townhouse type rooms that included a master bedroom and a loft. You also have a full kitchen, living room and outdoor patio with a fire pit. I linked the video to our room above because as you will see, it was awesome. I love having a kitchen when we travel because it makes you feel a little more at home. It also makes it so much easier if you are traveling with a kiddo.

Anyway, I could go on and on, but like I said, this was just such a relaxing place! I have been working my butt off lately, putting in some really long days, so I really needed something like this. Every time we take a vacation, especially a relaxing, family one, I’m reminded of how important it is.

We can’t wait to be back soon, Pronghorn!

!function(doc,s,id){ var e, p, cb; if(!doc.getElementById(id)) { e = doc.createElement(s); e.id = id; cb = new Date().getTime().toString(); p = ‘//shopsensewidget.shopstyle.com/widget-script.js?cb=1498935606834?cb=’ + cb; e.src = p; doc.body.appendChild(e); } if(typeof window.ss_shopsense === ‘object’){ if(doc.readyState === ‘complete’){ window.ss_shopsense.init(); } } }(document, ‘script’, ‘shopsensewidget-script’); //shopsensewidget.shopstyle.com/#/?options=%7B%22widgetId%22%3A%225957f536be7a443e429a9c4f%22%2C%22version%22%3A1%2C%22pid%22%3A%22uid3881-33682859-68%22%2C%22size%22%3A200%2C%22columns%22%3A3%2C%22rows%22%3A1%2C%22url%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fapi.shopstyle.com%2Fapi%2Fv2%22%2C%22iframeHeight%22%3A275%2C%22iframeWidth%22%3A705%7D

Brasada Ranch Getaway

Last weekend Tyson, Parker and I grabbed both sets of Grandparents and headed to Brasada Ranch for some much needed relaxation. This place has been on my bucket list ever since I moved to Portland, so you can imagine the anticipation. 
Prior to our stay, we organized our itinerary: horseback riding, golf for the guys, spa time for Tyson and I, and of course… as much time as possible at the pool. I packed my camera and some books, making a commitment to myself to be off social media (except to post the fun photos of course) and be away from my email. Trust me, you don’t want any distractions while you are there. 
As we pulled up to the ranch retreat, we received our keys to our 3-bedroom cabin from the main lodge and headed to our “home” for the next few days. Pulling up to our cabin, I felt like it was too good to be true. We were greeted by chirping birds, sunshine, a light breeze and the smell of juniper and sage; a recipe for a great vacation. 
After we all got settled in, the guys headed right out for their tee time. 
These three guys were like teenage boys at an adventure park. With permanent smiles on their face, I think it is safe to say they enjoyed the world-class golf course, very much.
Meanwhile, my mom and I enjoyed some horseback riding. 

hat: urban outfitters (similar) | scarf: urban outfitters | tank: topshop | sweater: 
old navy | jeans: gap (similar)
We had the most amazing trail guide with us that day. She took us up and around the backside of Brasada where you get to see some great views of the mountains and soak up all the natural settings around you. 
I find riding horses to be so peaceful. 

The following day was spent swimming in the pool until our fingers pruned. Tyson insisted on taking Parker down the water slide. The overly cautious mom in me said, “heeeeck no,” but ended up giving in. Needless to say, Parker was safe and one ridiculously happy camper.

The pool at Brasada is EXACTLY what we have been looking for in the Northwest. I’m from San Diego where there is no shortage of awesome pools and it is something I’ve missed a lot since moving to Portland. If only Brasada were closer, you would find my family posted there all summer long!

Next stop after the pool was some spa time for Tyson and I. I haven’t been to a spa for a massage in a long time (I usually gravitate toward facial treatments), so this was SO needed. I opted for the Sleep Well massage, while Tyson chose the Athletic Recovery massage. I’m a pretty picky spa-goer (I worked at one for 6 years!), but I was incredibly impressed with the services. My massage felt so luxurious. They also have the coziest robes for you and the softest linens on the massage table. I’m a details person, so that meant a lot to me! 
My husband went for more of a productive massage; he’s been pretty sore from running a lot and other lifting. He was so happy with his and felt like he got a lot out of it, which is exactly what he was hoping for. 

One extra great touch? They brought us cocktails after our massages. I don’t think it gets better than that… ; )

The rest of the evening was spent hanging with our family. We all went out for dinner at Brasada’s Ranch House which was perfect for a family. I went for their special which was a shrimp risotto and devoured it. All of us were super impressed with the food.

One thing you have to do, is make sure you grab some of their packets of s’mores and head to the fire pit on the property at sunset.

A desert sunset is breathtaking.

I’m really looking forward to coming back to this place. In fact, our whole family is too. It’s one of those places that you want to keep as your summer family getaway every year. However, I kept telling everyone how I would love to see this place in the winter too. For such a kid-friendly place, you wouldn’t believe how peaceful it feels. We all fantasized about living on the property the whole time we were there, so I think it’s safe to say that we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. 
Until next time, Brasada! Thanks for the great memories ❤

Healthy Food Guide: Portland

Well, it’s no secret that Portland is just about the best town there is when it comes to food. We pretty much have anything and everything here. Which also means a lot of healthy options, but also a lot of not so healthy ones.

Below, I’ve put together a list of my favorite healthy places to eat in Portland. And I give major props to this city for gluten-free and vegan options just about anywhere (even bars!).
Best Healthy Breakfast Spots

1. Prasad (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Now with two locations, this place is SO good. The Classic Oatmeal or Chili Scramble is a must-try!
2. Kure (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): This place is another great option at any point during the day. Their juices and smoothies are SO tasty and packed with nutrients. My personal favorite is the Lush Life smoothie. I’ve also heard rave reviews about the Hangover Helper smoothie and that it will help you feel like a different person. I wouldn’t know, I’ve just heard about it… ; )
3. Bob’s Red Mill (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Yes, this is at the HQ where they make all of the awesome Bob’s Red Mill products. I personally love the museli and yogurt, but there are loads of options and the food is extremely affordable. 
4. Radio Room (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Back in my single days, this spot was my favorite place to go on the weekend after a night out. They have a lot of options for carnivores and herbivores, as well as great gluten-free options. My go-to? The Classic Rocker Scramble and the pint Mimosa with blood orange (yes… I repeat… pint!). YUM.
5. Fern Kitchen (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Tons of healthy, tasty options and they use all local and organic produce. I love the “Eggs Your Way” with tempeh and New Cascadia toast.

Best Healthy Lunch Spots

1. The Whole Bowl (Vegan/Gluten-Free): I think if I had to eat a single meal for the rest of my life, it might be this. And yes, there is just one bowl on the menu and you can order it “veganized” or “full loaded.” Either way, it is so dang good. 
2. Harlow (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This is the sister to Prasad and just as tasty. I love their bowls; specifically the Urban Bowl. I also can’t leave there without ordering their Turmeric Toddy (hot). This place has a lot of space too, so I like to grab my computer and get some work done there from time to time. 
3. Jade  (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Ahhh, this place! I honestly can’t say enough good things about this spot. This place is a unique twist on veitnamese and thai food, but it is so much lighter and healthier than most places. The Minced Chicken dish is my go-to. And you have to order the sweet rice with mango for afterwards. Mmm!
4. Garden Bar  (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): If you are a salad-for-lunch kind of person, this will be your new favorite. The salads on the menu are great, but if you prefer to mix your own, you can do that too. The Bliss-Detox salad is excellent!
5. Cultured Caveman (Paleo): This place is a great spot, especially if you eat a paleo diet! I will warn you, it is pricier than most lunch spots, but well worth it. Make sure to grab some bone broth while you are there. They also have amazing chicken tenders for kiddos!

Best Healthy Dinner Spots

1. Bamboo Sushi  (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): This is actually the first sustainable sushi restaurant in the world and let me just tell you, this spot is never a disappointment. Make sure when you visit, you order everything because everything is so delicious. I also really love their happy hour menu. It’s no wonder this place is so popular!
2. Farm Spirit (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This is a multiple-course dinner place, so you are going to have to reserve your spot and pay ahead of time. But don’t worry, this is totally worth it. You are not only getting incredible food that just so happens to be vegan, you get to enjoy an amazing culinary experience. 
3. Andina  (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Talk about a culinary experience, Andina is just that. I recommend ordering a bunch of tapas to try. My favorites are the Quinoa Con Verduras and the Atun Fusion. They have a lot of fresh and healthy options, which is why I like it there so much. Oh yes, and don’t forget to order a Pico Sour! They are the BEST!

4. Park Kitchen (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): If you are looking for a great Northwest style cuisine, you won’t be disappointed here. They have plenty of healthy, seasonal options and a great happy hour.

5. Blossoming Lotus (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This place is deeeeelicious. I highly recommend the mac n’ cheese and a slice of raw cheesecake. Everything here is organic and vegan.

6. Higgins (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): Don’t be misled by the traditional decor; this place is great! It isn’t up there as the hippest spot in Portland, but this is a great, classic Portland restaurant and because of that, it has a lot of charm. They are known for their Northwest cuisine and using locally sourced ingredients. I recommend ordering their seasonal fish dishes.

7. Luc Lac (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): This place has, hands down, the BEST pho in town. I will just leave it at that!

Best Healthy Bars/Breweries:

1. Sweet Hereafter (Vegan/Gluten-Free): Ahhh, this place is great for a good drink and a vegan meal. Definitely not your typical bar food. My go-to? Old Fashioned with a Jamaican Bowl (ask for a brown rice tortilla on the side to make a burrito out of it).

2. Wilder  (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): I love this place. It has a great date night vibe and the food is super tasty. It is the perfect spot to go if there are vegetarians and/or meat eaters in the group. What to order? Wilder burger and ask for it over polenta. And don’t forget to order one of their craft cocktails. There are so many good options.

3. Ground Breaker (Gluten-Free): This is a 100% gluten-free brewery. It also has some really great healthy food options for all dietary needs!

4. Bye & Bye (Vegan/Gluten-Free): I like to head here with a large group of friends. The food is super tasty, they have great vegan/gluten-free options, and the drinks are always strong. My drink of choice: Lefty’s Prayer. Food pick: Brussel bowl. 

5. Interurban (Vegetarian/Gluten-Free): This is one of my favorite bars in Portland. They have the best old-fashioned’s and such great food. You can find a lighter meal here or a heavier one; either way, your belly will be happy : )

Best Dessert Spots:

1. Back to Eden (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This is my absolute favorite dessert spot in Portland. No matter what your food sensitivity might be, they have a dessert for you! My favorite? The dairy free yogurt in a gluten-free waffle cone.

2. Eb and Bean (Vegan/Gluten-Free Options): You will not be disappointed here. This is an organic yogurt spot that also has some great dairy-free options.

3. Petunias (Vegan/Gluten-Free): This bakery is completely vegan and gluten-free, and is my go-to for office treats, birthday treats, etc. Their black and white cake is out of this world!

I am always on the search for new, healthy places to indulge. I will keep this list updated as I find new places. And as always, please share your favorites with me! 

Camping for the Weekend

With all this crap happening in the world, escaping for the weekend was exactly what I needed. I don’t know about you, but I literally can’t seem to think of much else lately. I’ve taken some time away from social media and the news, which has definitely helped. And while doing so, I’ve clung on to spending time with my family (my happiest place) and being outdoors (the runner up).

So without a question, a camping trip seemed like the most logical idea.

And I will say, all is right with the world in the secluded mountains : )

Oregon, you never disappoint. 

Oregon Hike-In Camping








Last weekend was incredible. It was my first hike-in camping experience and definitely wont be my last. We headed to a (secret) lake about an hour outside of Sisters, OR. Sisters by the way- excellent. The town is a nice mix of country western and native american influence- essentially the blend of two things I love. You can imagine the goodies I walked away with…

After our quick stop we headed onto a long gravel road and caravanned our cars to where we had to park them to begin our hike in. Four girls, four guys, a massive canoe and all of our stuff- you can imagine that the mile hike at a high elevation was no walk in the park.

We made it! We set up the tents, opened some wine and the night began.


Dinner? Mahi mahi, sweet potato, asparagus, and a nice big glass (or uhhh, tin coffee mug) of red wine. Not bad for camping, right? Dinner was followed by good stories, brandy hot chocolates, and a sky full of stars and a roaring camp fire. Pure happiness…

I must have said I wanted to live in a tent here forever about 20 times. Gotta love simple living and some peace and quiet. Oh, and no cell phone service… thank god.

Waking up in the morning was incredible. The air was crisp and all you could really hear were the birds and the occasional fish hopping out of the water. I wake up early (like sunrise early), so I laid in bed and read my book for a bit until I heard the first person wake up. After that, some fried eggs and potatoes along with a big cup of coffee was in order for breakfast. Trader Joes coffee packets are THE BEST- perfect for camping.

The day proceeded with some time around the campfire, laying around in the sun, and taking the canoe out around the lake. It was one relaxing weekend, that’s for sure and I was lucky to spend it with some incredible scenery and a great group of friends.

Until next time…