there is something about the level of thought that is put into all the details and character of retail and dining in these Northwest cities. I swear it makes me eat more and they sell more. Nevermind you feel fabulous while you are doing it because you are eating new tastes in a novel setting you have never quite seen before with a server who seems entirely unique and other patrons that peak your curiousity with a menu that has great fonts and color and wine/coffee that always seems to taste just right.

truly, i am inspired and amazed that there are little neighborhoods in both Seattle and Portland that have disctinct feels and thoughtful layouts that invite you in. from a food cart food court that backs right up to stringed lights and a beer garden to a store entirely dedicated to lightbulbs or socks (no lie), to a store (pictured below) that sells salts, chocalote, wine, and flowers, to a open kitchen that is filled with female chefs, to an ice cream shop committed to homeade ice cream sandwhiches. i really love it. i hope it never gets old to me.

i confess as we drove back to Seattle tonight, i felt like i was driving to my house, and not quite home, but it felt good, and as the city broke out in view, i felt a twinge of gladness that this was our spot. thank you Jesus. I also confess that as i walked in it set in that a new week begins and after the rawness of last week, i am a little afraid and i will beg God tomorrow for new strength, new ideas and new friends.

hope you all had a nice long holiday weekend and soaked up some good vitamin D.