The Journey Continues: Goodbye, Seattle

I'm sitting on the balcony of my now-empty Bellevue apartment enjoying the sunrise and sipping warm coffee. I can't help but be so happy that this is how I am spending my last moments in Seattle. I begin to think of things that I'll miss most about this rainy city.

• Americanos are ordered more than regular coffee
• Everyone says "gal" when they're referring to a lady
• No one uses an umbrella
• All the people unravel from their homes during the summer and spend their days outside
• Coffee is not a beverage, it is a lifestyle
• The sky's lovely overcast shades of grey
• "Hella" and "no worries"
• Ellenos yogurt
• Randomly seeing Mt. Rainier

My mom always told me that she never worried about me finding my way. She said that as a child I would take charge and learn by doing, not by observing. Her favorite story is when I burnt my hand on the stove because I wanted to find out why it was turning a beautiful, bright red color. Now I am in my mid-20's, still placing my hands on beautifully lit stoves. As the years go by, my hands become tougher and more interesting with all the scars from previous burns.

I take this next step by choice, so that I can grow and become more than I am. As the years go by, I realize that my mom was right. I am not someone who will ever be observing. My heart is happiest when I am exploring the unknown and meeting all different kinds of people along the way.

“Remember that wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure.” 

― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

So friends, stay with me in this journey and let's share wonderful food along the way.

Summit Lake And Memories

Yesterday I went on the most incredible hike to Summit Lake with my good friend, Ranee. Located in Rainier territory, this hike is a low-key, relaxing hike with incredible views. I loved spotting Rainier poking his head out of the clouds as we drove up to the trail head. Unfortunately, it was too overcast by the time we climbed the mountain, so we didn't get a good view of him at the top.

While hiking, I thought about the incredible journeys I've had so far and how many more are yet to come. I thought about friends I've made, relationships I've had and how I miss many of them terribly. I felt moments of sadness and regret, but smiled with my memories. There are people who will stay in my heart forever. It is hard not having these people in my everyday life, but I am glad that I have these moments of brightness to think back on. My mom taught me that you can learn something from every single person that you meet. This has always held true and I feel so lucky to have learned so much from so many different kinds of people.

The future is not clear, but I do know that I continue to glow because of the ones I've met along my adventure. Enjoy these photos. They make me smile.

She is such a bright light

Rainier is behind those clouds. 

If You're Going To San Francisco, Be Sure To Wear Flowers In Your Hair

Dear Friends,

I am moving to from Seattle to San Francisco to take a step forward in my career. This process started earlier this year when someone asked me what my 5 year plan was. I didn't have one at the time, but that question got me thinking and I quickly mapped out the next few years.

A month ago I was sent to work in our San Francisco site for a couple weeks. I saw opportunity to advance myself and take on a new roll that will guide me towards the finish line of my 5 year plan. I feel proud of my ability to do this, like a little nomad with passion for the unknown.

I'm looking forward to more sunshine, new adventures and the ability to explore a new area.

Have any suggestions for a new blog title?

Karli