The Legion of Boom...

I am a little late with this post, but it was such a great experience that I had to share.  We finally made it to Centurylink field last weekend to watch the Super Bowl rematch between the Seahawks and Broncos.  We found great tickets last minute on StubHub and it turned out to be a beautiful day. 

  

Since this was our first visit to Centurylink stadium, we were not prepared for the earth shaking noises that echo throughout the stadium nor the plethora of Hawks' themed costumes.  Seahawks fans are a dedicated bunch and go to great lengths to support their team.  We felt a little under dressed with just our jerseys, but gladly joined in with the noise making.  :)

It was a great game and it was so exhilarating to watch the action live.  The majority of the game was touch and go, but the final plays of the game made the day; even going into over time.  We were also present for the unveiling of a newly designed Blitz and addition of a new mascot: Boom. 

Photo: Fox 13

It was a hell of a game with the Seahawks outlasting the Broncos in OT. Go 'Hawks!  

Here Comes the Rain Again...

It's been raining here in Seattle for the last few days.  Determined to not let the rain wash away my style, I've put together 3 different outfits this week to tackle the soggy streets.  So for all my fellow fashionistas and for one of the most stylish people I know back home, today's post is all about style.  

For this casual rainy day outfit, I started with a chambray shirt (similar) and paired it with a simple pair of black skinny jeans; I wore an old pair from Anne Taylor.  Since the rain was just a drizzle Tuesday, I wore black leather Frye ankle boots (similar here), a bib necklace (similar), and a vibrant tote (similar here).

Business Casual

Wednesday the rain was relentless, so out of necessity I broke out the rainboots (similar) and gortex jacket.  Underneath the raincoat I wore a JCrew boyfriend blazer-no longer available (similar), a simple white t-shirt (here), House of Harlow Sunburst necklace-no longer available (similar), and a hat (similar).  

Street Casual

I've worn jeans almost everyday this week, so in the mood for something a little different today I paired this shirt style dress with a turquoise tassel necklace (similar), a waterproof jacket, and a pair of bourdeux boots (similar).  

Dressy

Hostess with the Mostess

Photo: Rustic White

Today's post is part DIY and part shout-out to my Southern gals.   While Seattle has wonderful views, great trails and lots to do...there is one key component that I miss; good ole' Southern hospitality.  So with house guests on their way to visit, I decided to share a few wonderful things that my Southern friends do to make their guests feel right at home.  

I've omitted names; however, I hope that my special people know who they are. 

Photo: Food Network

Cocktails

 Flying can be stressful, so take a note from my friend's play book and greet your guests with cocktails to toast a kick off to what will hopefully be a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

Photo: RentCafeBlog

Welcoming Persona

A welcoming persona is a key component to making guests feel at ease.  At my sister from another mister's house, you will find guests gathered around the kitchen as the family prepares dinner and discusses the day over a nice glass of chilled wine.  As their guest you are made to feel like family and are empowered to help yourself to anything you may need during your stay.  I always enjoy the lively conversations and on occassion a piece of venison.  

Photo: Davis Enterprise

Little Details 

When visiting someone's home, little details make all the difference.  My somewhat Southern friend ensures that her guest bath is always fully stocked with not only the necessities, but also lovely toiletries from her travels around the world.  She keeps them neatly in a basket for guests to use, so there is no need to feel uncomfortable asking for a bar of soap.  Extra touches like warm slippers, accessible toiletries, magazines or a great book are thoughtful and appreciated.   

Photo: DIY Design

Presentation

When it comes to presentation, my friend delivers every time.  She ensures that the right presentation makes all the difference and certainly knows how to make her guests feel right at home.  The guest room is always inviting, nice linens are on display in the guest bath, quality pillows line the beds and delicious food is always on the table!  And a visit to her home would not be complete with out her famous Charleston Dip.  Yum!  

Photo: Stockholm Vitt Interior Designs

Flowers

When you enter this friend's home you are always welcomed with a gorgeous fresh arrangement and delightful scents of the season.  Not to mention that her home looks like you step into the pages of an interior design magazine; welcoming, warm and gorgeous!  

Under the Sea

The Olympics is a spectacular place!  Just 20 miles from the Hoh Rainforest, we found ourselves surrounded by striking views of the Pacific Ocean.  We drove along the scenic Pacific Coast highway and stopped at what seemed like a typical beach reststop; Beach 4.  

We headed down the steep trail and were astounded to find such breathtaking sights.  As we trodded along the sand, we spotted what looked like jagged monsters peaking through the fog.  These monsters turned out to be tightly folded rocks petruding from the choppy waters. 

  

After climbing on a few of these interesting formations, we noticed the tide was out and headed further down the beach where we discovered tidal pools brimming with life.  As we scrambled over rocks, we gawked at the shallow pools filled with giant green sea anemones, sea urchins, starfish, and hermit crabs.  

After a few hours exploring, we finally said good bye to our new sea friends and headed back to continue on our journey.  

Welcome to the Jungle...

My husband has wanted to take a camping trip for some time,  so with the promise of fire roasted s'mores and maybe an overseas trip... I finally caved.  Thursday, we loaded up the car and headed towards the great outdoors; the Hoh Rainforest.   The rainforest is about a 5 hour trip from Seattle, but it is a great drive with lots of beautiful scenery along the way. 

 The place seems other wordly with lots of flora and fawna.  It is a place where you would expect to find fairies flitting about or trolls scurrying out of caves.  The pictures really do not do this place justice.  The water is turquoise and the trees are vibrantly green.  If trees aren't your thing, there are lots of creatures big and small to keep you entertained; shrews, elk, black bears, a range of birds, squirrels, spotted owls and so much more!  Like these cute little guys...

...banana slugs!

There are lots of trails; one for all skill levels.  The trails are well maintained and there isn't a whole lot of elevation gain.  We chose to hike to Five Mile Island, which is a 10 mile hike round trip.  Along the trail we experienced the old growth grandeur as well as views of the beautiful rain forest river.  

After camping in the mud with very little sleep, we packed the car and headed towards civilization.