A New York City rain

xoxo

Some quick love from NYC to let you all know that aside from two very lazy days in our hotel room, we are safe and sound, and that hurricane Irene has passed the Big Apple. The 6 Columbus has taken great care of us, as have the overpriced selection of Dean & Deluca snacks in our room.

It's the most interesting phenomenon to be exploring the sights and experiencing the energy of Manhattan one day, and the next day to not see a soul on the streets. No subway, no Starbucks, no Chelsea Market, no food trucks, no shopping in SoHo. It's very bizarre. And definitely a travel experience to remember.

We had a few days of amazing fun before the storm and look forward to enjoying the rest of the week once the city starts bustling again. We are thankful to be safe and dry.

Love captured

It's exciting to share with you a wonderful photo shoot Chris and I did with our new photographer friends, Genevieve Renee and Blair Inkster. I find inspiration in many parts of my life, but it's most encouraging and exciting when the source is in a friend's passion for their work.

My hubby was a great sport- as per usual when dragged along on my random escapades. Wet grass and bugs included, we had a blast shooting with the talented and creative ladies. I'm not partial to blogging self portraits, but these images are too good not to share. The light, the detail, the environment, and yes, the love. It brought back beautiful wedding day feelings posing with my groom.

Enjoy a little love captured.

All images by Genevieve Renee.

Seattle times

A few days in Seattle and I'd eaten more amazing food and drank more amazing coffee than a girl ever should. When vacationing, our days typically consist of brunching or lunching, walking and shopping, coffee and dessert-ing. We attempt to see the sights, but not without a latte in hand and an awaiting dinner reservation.

Seattle proved us right with divine local cuisine, freshly roasted java on every corner and boutique shopping galore. We stayed at the lovely 1930's inspired Hotel Deca in the University District, but mostly stuck to hanging in Capitol Hill, Ballard and downtown Seattle.

Like good Seattle tourists, we thoroughly enjoyed all that the Pike Place Market has to offer, including beautiful wildflower arrangements at insanely low prices, fish and chips at Jack's Fish Spot, Rhubarb jam from Johnson Berry Farm, and Beecher's handmade mac and cheese.

We also explored a list of coffee spots compiled by my barista brother and sampled Americanos and cappuccinos all over the city - Victrola, Stumptown and Caffe Vita. Breakfast at Top Pot Hand-forged Doughnuts was a close second to the mini macaroons and chai latte at Fresh Flours bakery cafe.

We came home with three gorgeous vintage prints, mid-calf suede boots (hers), a Japanese watch (his) and beans from every coffee shop we visited. And of course, with memories of another wonderful city explored together. Where to next?