Snip

*Image by Anna Luiza Fischer

Today is the day of the long-awaited haircut. I can't tell you if I'm nervous or excited. Maybe both. I think there is a bit of nostalgia clouding my brain and a rush from seeing so many people I care about in one place. Now, I get to make a slight transformation before I head home.

The Queen

*Image by hello! Lucky

I've been walking around with a sticker for the Choke Shirt Company since my last visit to Seattle in September. I saw this shirt at the Fremont market and it immediately reminded me of Colleen. When we were in track together she always had a bag of carrot sticks on hand for munching. I think she got triple doses of vitamin A daily. Funny, that my best friend always reminds me of vegetables. Well, vegetables and outfits and definitely shoes. Happy Birthday to you. I am overjoyed to be able to celebrate your day playing together. What a great year to turn 30.

Curly

From that to something like this?

*Image via Chiggy, heatherjeanay, kellianna

My lovely friend is also getting her hair cut. She is not afraid of the dramatic chop, and always comes out looking more brave and stylish then I do. I know of at least one person who objects to this chop idea, and the objection has been duly noted. All I know is that some hair will be cut, how much is not up to me. Hopefully someone enjoys the inspiration...

Homeward

*Image by marusica

Bright and early, I am on my way to the Emerald City. I am always so giddy to fly into town and to see all of the sights of home. I cannot wait to hug friends, drink tea, eat soup, walk around neighborhoods, know three alternate routes to each location, and celebrate. If you run into me (maybe literally) blissfully roaming around town, pull me off of my cloud and say hi! Coming home is such a pleasure. My only wish is that my husband was flying into town with me instead of staying home, green with envy. I will apologize for light posting in advance. I am so excited to be back!

Packing

*Image by vee*

Wahoo! Laundry has been conquered and I have probably over-packed for my trip. I've got a carry on with too many shoes, but plenty of options. I am usually pretty good with packing, especially when I know I am visiting girlfriends with expansive closets. My suitcase is going to be much heavier due to some drearier weather in the Inland Northwest. Maybe I'll bring along the sun. What do you always make sure to pack for a trip? What do you typically over-pack?

Vacation

*Image by Pink Sherbert

Can you tell that I am in vacation mode? Yesterday I finished off my day laying out by the pool, finishing a good book. Not too bad if you ask me. The weather here is pretty perfect, I'll take an 80 degree Sunday anytime over the sweltering heat of last summer. I wanted to bake a pie to celebrate Pi day but it was too nice to bake and possibly have to turn on the AC. Instead, I focused my attention on enjoying the beautiful day.

To Market

*Image via Pearl Farmer's Market

Hopefully I score something tasty at the farmer's market today. I've had to wait for far too long to check this out because I've been teaching Saturday school. Fresh herbs are on my mind, my patio would be a perfect place for them today. The first day of vacation is something I have been very much looking forward to.

Relaxation

*Image via Anthropologie

In less than a week this will be me. (Maybe even sporting the same nifty top?) I can see myself sitting down to some tea at one of my favorite shops, chatting with friends. I truly cannot wait to be back home. I only wish the vacations were more frequent and longer. I'm especially glad to know that so many of my friends are willing to host me. It would be hard to visit without a good home base, which I luckily have. I can't wait.

Feathered

*Image by wip-hairport

I would love to have such a soft feathery hairstyle. It looks so pretty, but I am sure that my lazy morning routine would need many extra minutes to make myself look acceptably polished. I guess when I consider that I give my hair a whole 5 minutes worth of attention in the morning. I wonder if there are any websites dedicated to beautiful 5 minute hairstyles?

Sleek

*Image via Harvey Faircloth

Part of my brain is already in Seattle. I'm thinking about all of the people I get to see and a fancy birthday celebration. I've been mentally picking through my closet thinking about what I'll be wearing. Yeah, super girly of me but when you're packing light and you get to be fancy out in public it matters. I can imagine myself in this beautifully simple dress, surrounded by friends feeling fancy.