It’s safe to say that the PNW is a heavy favorite of mine. Shawn and I have talked about moving out there for what seems like a dozen years, but obviously remaining with our roots here in NJ. When my dear friend + travel companion, Christina Lilly, was taking a quick trip out to the beautiful state of Washington for work, I took it upon myself to tag along. This was my first solo trip away from my girl, but I knew I was in dire need of some mountains and the west coast.

This place is truly magical, even in the dead of winter. With only a suitcase full of film + sweaters, we ventured out to the scenic Olympic Peninsula with zero plans other than to take it all in, breathe deeply and explore, explore, explore. The beauty is difficult to put into words, let alone capture it through a lens. But I tried. And my word, is it beautiful.

Focusing on yourself plays second fiddle when you become a mom, and this time away was exactly what I had needed. I visited a friend and her daughter out in Vernon, catching up while standing under giant bridges and along ocean side cliffs. We shared coffee and a chat with Aran Goyoaga, who has fueled my inspiration for many years.  We took the short amount of time we had and filled it to the brim with quality life experiences (and really good salted chocolate chip cookies.)

Until next time.