Every July, Sequim hosts the Lavender Festival of Washington. The timing of my visit didn't coincide with the festival. Instead, I visited a local farm to see what it's like. The lavender at Jardin du Soleil was so beautiful. The round bushy lavender plants were so cute, and I had no idea that there were so many varieties of lavender! I'm not sure what the red flowers are called - they added a beautiful contrast amongst the different purple-colored lavender hues. There's also a delightful gift shop that sells lavender by the bunches and other lavender-infused products. There are some u-pick lavender farms too. Take a pick as Sequim is host to many lavender fields.



Jardin du Soleil: 3932 Sequim Dungeness Way, Sequim, Washington

For a bite to eat in Sequim, check out The Oak Table Cafe. This family-run restaurant makes delicious eggs benedict with potato pancakes, with applesauce and cream cheese side. My friend likes their apple pancakes.
The Oak Table Cafe: 292 West Bell Street, Sequim, Washington (second location in Silverdale)


Happy travels!
Cat

Pike Place Market is one of those must-visit places when visiting Seattle. Sure, the market is touristy, but it's still a functioning market that sells local products, seafood, flowers, and delicious eats. I've compiled a couple places that are my favorite. Check them out!

Piroshky Piroshky
1908 Pike Place, Seattle, Washington
This small shop is stocked with delightful pies filled with different flavors of sweets, savories, and vegetarian style too. My friend loves the smoked salmon pate while I prefer the beef and onion
(pictured below). This became my must-visit place every time I visit Seattle!


The Crumpet Shop
1503 1st Avenue, Seattle, Washington
Crumpets are like bready pancakes, and The Crumpet Shop is a perfect place for any sweet tooths. They do have savory options as well. Below is the Hazelnut Chocolate Spread with Ricotta Cheese.


Biscuit Bitch
multiple locations in Seattle, Washington
My friend and I visited the one on 2303 3rd Avenue, Seattle, Washington in the Belltown neighborhood. There was a smaller line and ample seating available. I recommend ordering any of the ones with gravy (not pictured).



Other places that I've heard were must-go places
Ellenos Greek Yogurt: 1500 Pike Place, Seattle, Washington (at the corner opposite the Pike Place sign)
Beecher's Handmade Cheese: 1600 Pike Place, Seattle, Washington
Original Starbucks: 1912 Pike Place, Seattle, Washington
Gum Wall: Pike Place Market, Post Alley, Seattle, Washington

Have you been to any of these places? Let me know your thoughts!






Happy travels!
Cat

The interesting thing about a plebian is that we often fancy and dream of the high life, the fashion, the glamour, the fame, the riches, and all that comes with being a celebrity. Oscar de la Renta, a fashion designer, designed gowns for people whom all you need is their first name to recognize. His whole life-career was devoted to dressing women and he relished living in the modern era, declaring that "never in the history of the world have women been more in control of their destiny." His expertise focuses on vibrant colors that speak with such an arduous love for life and of materials and prints for outfits that command undivided attention without overwhelming its wearer. To see Mr. de la Renta's style at this special exhibition that the de Young museum hosted as he progressed through the years was an emotional moment. Thinking about historical events over the span of his life while observing his style and design was a gift in itself. How did he approach the changing hemlines and the changing attitudes? How did the women he dressed evolve as they tackled powerful events and ceremonies and celebrations in their life? Why did he choose this style when exploring that period in that particular region? So many questions abound and we may never know the true answers. Even in death, his clothes will speak for him, full of vivacity, while keeping the secrets of the designer and the wearer.





After a trip to the museum, I stopped for dessert at b. patisserie in the Pacific Heights neighborhood. This popular spot, known for its open-kitchen concept and highly tempting sweets, is worth a visit. Though seating is limited, it doesn't really matter because each piece will be scarfed down in a couple bites. Ah, I'm kidding - finding a seat to sit down and relish each bite makes each piece a lot more delectable. The crispy flaky crust and the soft doughy inside of the kouign amann is heavenly. As is the chocolate almond cake.










de Young Museum: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, California
b. patisserie: 2821 California Street, San Francisco, California

Cheers,
Catherine

(museum and bakery visited in April 2016; both the Oscar de la Renta and Bouquets to Art exhibitions at the de Young museum are over)