The Weekend {in pictures}

This weekend could be the perfect summer weekend.  It started Friday night with a BBQ at Greenlake, and Saturday I spent all day at Maddie's parent's pool with Maddie and Autumn, eating great food, lying on floaties, and getting sunburnt.  Sunday, my dad finally cashed in his bday present and we went to Spud Fish & Chips and the Greenlake Pitch & Putt.  It was all so much fun, and made me so happy that summer is finally here to stay.

BBQ

Zeke wanting to chase a squirrel

summer swimming

cheese and meat plate by the pool

steamed clams courtesy of Maddie's mama

fish and chips - so yummy

wasting time on the very slow course

happy late bday dad!

xoxo,
stephanie marie

Chicago {Hancock Tower & The Purple Pig}

it started out as a warm sunny evening...

After our first (long) day in Chicago, Leslie and I met up with Josh for drinks, food, and lots of laughs.  We started out at The Signature Lounge on the 96th floor of the Hancock Tower, where we sipped martinis and took in one of the craziest storms I've ever seen.  The tower was swaying and at one point, we couldn't even see out the window.  Though a bit scary, it was one of my favorite things I experienced on the trip.  After drinks, we headed to Chicago's newest hot spot, The Purple Pig, for wine and tapas.  We were drooling over each course and the atmosphere in the restaurant was cozy and familiar.  I would highly recommend it.  But the best part?  Spending the evening laughing and reminiscing with Josh, who I don't see nearly enough.  I love that guy :)

then it got darker...

and the clouds started rolling in....

and this is what we saw out the window!

afterwards, we watched the craziest lightning storm over the lake

The Purple Pig with Josh

milk braised pork shoulder w/mashed potatoes & roasted beets w/whipped goat cheese & pistachio vinaigrette

running home in the rain storm

miss you, Josh!

xoxo,

stephanie marie

Chicago {Boat Tour & Navy Pier}

One of the things that everyone had been telling us to do in Chicago was to take an Architectural Boat Tour through the city.  When we got to our hotel, we immediately snapped up the last reservations the tour had for the holiday weekend, and I'm so glad we did.  Though the weather was quite gloomy as we waited for our boat (Leslie even had to run to Walgreens to get us t-shirts so we wouldn't freeze!), the tour was definitely worth the wait.  It taught me a lot about the city and all of it's amazing architecture, and I found new areas I want to explore the next time I'm there.  I would highly recommend the tour, and a few hours at Navy Pier if you have a chance (though maybe not with the lightning so close next time).

our boat

storm coming

xoxo,
stephanie marie

Chicago {Cubs & Ben Harper}

In need of a vacation, Leslie and I headed to Chicago last weekend for 3 days of fun in the sun (and thunderstorms).  Though we went 72 hours with very little sleep, we crammed in more than I could've possibly imagined.  After checking into The Drake Hotel (fabulous) we immediately set out for Wrigley field and a Cubs game.  The atmosphere was so different than what you get at Safeco Field - there is just an organ player (no rap music to be heard), barely any concession stands (except for, of course, Chicago dogs), and no big screen in the outfield for the Hat Trick or Hydroplane Races.  I actually loved feeling like I was at a game back in the good old days, and I was so grateful that we had tickets under cover (it was HOT).  Friday night, we headed to Lincoln Park to watch Ben Harper play at The Vic Theatre.  Wow - that man can play.  I loved how small and intimate the venue was - we felt like we were right up there with him.  And though our feet were killing us after 3 hours of a standing room only set, we couldn't resist stopping off for some infamous Chicago deep dish pizza.  Mmmmm.....



chicago dog (there is a hot dog under there somewhere)

new shirts to support our team

Wrigley Field

Ben

concert pics courtesy of Leslie's awesome camera

enjoying the concert

late night deep dish

xoxo,

stephanie marie

4th of July {Samish Island style}

The 4th of July is my favorite day of the year.  We all gather at our cabin on Samish Island for food, drinks, a parade, fireworks, a golf competition, and great company.  It's the perfect small town celebration, and this year was no different.  I love bringing friends to the island to let them experience it, and most end up becoming regulars like me (Maddie).  It was the perfect way to end a long vacation weekend, but I'm already missing it.  I hope everyone had a fun and safe holiday!

Dad and his famous oysters

the annual ladies picture

parade dog

awesome

candy hunting

brother and sister

shaun at the golf tournament to hit a ball in a row boat

xoxo,
stephanie marie

Happy 4th of July

Happy 4th of July!  I'm off to spend the day at one of my most favorite places in the world with friends, family, a parade, lots of hot dogs, and fireworks.  Hoping your day is as fun and happy as mine!

xoxo,
stephanie marie

Happy {late} Birthday Griffin

Happy late 6th Birthday to the coolest little guy I know!  I can't wait to come out and spend some time with this little munchkin in September - it's been way too long!  I love you Griffin!  Love always - Auntie Stephie

xoxo,
stephanie marie