Here & Now

Pacific Northwest Highlights

In the beginning, John and I called our trip to the west our trip to Seattle.  However, after visiting, I have to call it our trip to the Pacific Northwest - because, in reality, we loved Portland the most out of the cities we visited and because we traveled far beyond the Seattle city limits during our few days between Washington and Oregon.

Seattle's Famous Pike Place Market

The views of the mountains (Mt. Reinier, Mt. St. Helen's and Mt. Hood, pictured) where some of the best sights throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Portland's International Rose Test Garden was an awesome sight, even with few roses in bloom.  We enjoyed an awesome picnic of area food (salmon, strawberries, bread, cupcakes, wine) underneath 80+ degree temperatures in this park - it was a highlight of our time in Portland.

Going Green

With reports of gas running out by 2010 and a different global warming special on every night (all of which John DVRs), "going green" has been a necessary thing.  It might not always be natural, but it is a must-do as time moves on.  I have been trying to adapt my thinking - and way of life - lately to ensure that I am doing my part to contribute to the global effort of saving the globe.

• I purchased my first recycled paper towels
• I am trying to buy plastic bottles only when necessary (and then always recycling them)
• I now have a paper recycling bin underneath my desk.
• The CFL bulbs remain bright where they can in my apartment.
• I am slowly replacing my cleaners with natural options.
• More and more goes into the recycling bin every single day.

"Going green," I've learned so far, is a lot about becoming conscious about your decisions.  A little more work, but a lot more rewarding!

From the Northwest to the Southeast

From Seattle on Sunday ... to Miami on Tuesday. 

Loving

Loving a few things:

• The Sex and the City buzz.  I.can.hardly.wait.for.this.movie.  I am starting the DVD re-watching tonight.  This review is worth reading.
• "Dancing with the Stars."  I am happy with all of the final four contestants!
• This photo, taken by the newest love of my life: my camera.