June 17: A few nights before we left for vacation. That day was warm and maybe even humid. Everyone had gone to sleep, I was busy tying up loose ends, and I remember wanting to drink something cold. Naturally, I found the closest thing to winter – a picture of my dog-in-law, Graham. In my mug:  Bourbon and branch, my late-night drink of choice nowadays.

June 24: Very quiet morning on our vacation. Part I: Leavenworth, WA. My sister-in-law rented a beautiful lodge for all of us to stay in. Twelve of us altogether (missing two others, bummer.) This was also where my pink eye was wreaking havoc. Terrible. So, I exiled myself one day and rested.

Spent a little time thinking about what I might do, if I could spend my day doing anything and money was no object. Easy to do out in the woods and no internet. Once again, my thoughts wandered around: art studio, designing with paper, designing fabric, teaching classes, or maybe owning a kitschy lifestyle-home shop. What about combining bikes, coffee, art…

July 1: Traveled to Woodinville, WA for a day trip with my husband, kids, niece, and nephew.  Traded in my mug for a wine glass  and relaxed at Chateau Ste. Michelle.

(Columbia Winery is just across the street, but too grown-up/clubhouse-y for the kids. Note to self: visit next time without them.)

July 2: (bonus) Coffee at a favorite spot, Valhalla Coffee Company in Tacoma, WA. It’s like they knew I was coming that morning – the music playlist included Chicago, Air Supply, Bee Gees. Awesome. Of course, that doesn’t mean my husband immersed himself in nostalgia, but that’s okay. He seemed to enjoy me geeking out, and we talked vinyl records and open playlist night with another customer who owns a local bar.

That morning Valhalla offered a Uganda Bukonzo off the regular menu. My husband and I could not get over the unique cherry flavor. It wasn’t too acidic, and not too fruity, either. Fantastic balance. So we brought home a pound.

July 8: Relaxing back at home with a bin full of mail and tea in my favorite little footed mug.