tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16116874036428460672024-01-07T22:46:37.894-08:00J & LElle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-4298214358014453672016-02-14T10:41:00.001-08:002016-02-14T11:16:27.841-08:00Hongdae Guide<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you are just visiting the layout of Seoul can be a bit confusing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Head in one direction and you end up on a street with nothing but cafes, another direction only clothes, all while the alleyways twist and turn with sprinklings of tiny shops.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hongdae is known for it's clubbing scene and lots of all-you-can-eat/drink restaurants. If you can't tell, Jay and I aren't exactly the clubbing type so we wanted to share a few of the great places we like between Hongik University station and Sangsu station.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhguAaRcLuoYk7TR6rWTNyT7RJ09vdRapQtlBktUEmSammHXYSoGP3iRxeGUqf9IqGnfBvje8EzhWCsuWAWkQS3LbQaZUPDZ7UrHyJYrlB2mk5sQa_1uQm3FUwlXJnqhO0PiZEBmmLd7PgY/s1600/shops2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhguAaRcLuoYk7TR6rWTNyT7RJ09vdRapQtlBktUEmSammHXYSoGP3iRxeGUqf9IqGnfBvje8EzhWCsuWAWkQS3LbQaZUPDZ7UrHyJYrlB2mk5sQa_1uQm3FUwlXJnqhO0PiZEBmmLd7PgY/s1600/shops2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg575uaxoTH0mVONUk9rUYey_36cZqZeOxNN20HU8iOCv6S0dRXcNdaGVs1OX0A8dFvv78AxTwa0zHseuV6YPdb7kD00AvouL4teFYd5-NHr_xM36yhDIH8Tt0RSVWmImIQWHmvy3lzGgMv/s1600/hmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="601" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg575uaxoTH0mVONUk9rUYey_36cZqZeOxNN20HU8iOCv6S0dRXcNdaGVs1OX0A8dFvv78AxTwa0zHseuV6YPdb7kD00AvouL4teFYd5-NHr_xM36yhDIH8Tt0RSVWmImIQWHmvy3lzGgMv/s640/hmap.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPWOWt7V-qHapDuIBGmsmjXM0Sg-KmxO-RUGRZNBdysGKPCfTx5V5HZIn_eIr706IjoWZiLqVDcenWSE6ANUeB3_U2fZelMBXHOtya_QIYAO8SmqC1ID72OoDvqJ42vbL7JGvtLUhnOYFJ/s1600/shops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPWOWt7V-qHapDuIBGmsmjXM0Sg-KmxO-RUGRZNBdysGKPCfTx5V5HZIn_eIr706IjoWZiLqVDcenWSE6ANUeB3_U2fZelMBXHOtya_QIYAO8SmqC1ID72OoDvqJ42vbL7JGvtLUhnOYFJ/s1600/shops.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zKdfGGgWOXF0.kBySj9sLl5oc&usp=sharing" style="text-align: left;"><b>Google Map version</b></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Coffee:</b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>1. <a href="http://www.thecoffeechaser.com/coffee-lab-seoul/">CoffeeLab</a></i> - great espresso based drinks</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>2. <a href="http://www.thecoffeechaser.com/zombie-coffee/">Zombie Coffee</a> </i>- best for pour overs and lattes</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>3. <a href="http://www.thecoffeechaser.com/five-extracts-coffee/">5 Extracts</a></i> - great pour overs and specialty drinks</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Eats:</b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>4. <a href="http://cuteinkorea.com/mollys-pops-hongdae/">Molly's Pops</a></i> - ice cream based popsicle, try the milk tea or makgeolli</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>5. <a href="https://ko.foursquare.com/v/%EC%8B%A0%EC%84%A0%EC%84%A4%EB%86%8D%ED%83%95/4c95bc3cf7cfa1cd0f82c015">신선설농탕서교점 </a>Seolleongtang</i> - a chain restaurant that serves oxbone soup and great kimchi </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>6. <a href="http://seoulhophop.blogspot.kr/2014/07/hongdae-authentic-french-style-bakery.html">Paul & Paulina </a></i>- french style pastries and bread</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>7. <a href="http://gotohongdae.blogspot.kr/2014/05/chicken-beer-pub.html">옥상달빛</a> Rooftop Chicken</i> - delicious garlic fried chicken, one order is enough for 2</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>8. <a href="http://www.thebeastroseoul.com/">The Beastro</a></i> - new american bistro, a little pricey but worth it</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>9. <a href="http://www.fellncole.com/">Fell & Cole</a></i> - ice cream shop with inventive flavors</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Select Shops:</b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>10. <a href="http://en.stylenanda.com/">Style Nanda</a></i> - for 3CE cosmetics, fun colors and nice finishes</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>11. <a href="http://www.homi.co.kr/mall/index.php">호미화방 </a></i>- a fantastic art store that carries almost anything you'd need</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>12. <a href="http://www.a-land.co.kr/shop/main/index.php">Åland</a></i> - international and local designers, this location has 6 floors</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>13. <a href="http://kr.gentlemonster.com/">Gentle Monster</a></i> - high end eyewear, store space changes monthly with a new art concept</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>14. <a href="http://www.insideobject.com/">Object</a></i> - great for gifts: jewelry, cards, phones cases, magazines, homewares</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Fun:</b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>15. <a href="http://mustoy.com/">Mustoy</a> </i>- draw on a ceramic toy of your choosing, comes with a drink and no time limit</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>16. <a href="http://www.thevaultkr.com/">Vault</a></i> - escape room, dine in the dark, and drinks</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In addition to the places listed there are also streets packed with shopping (<b>as highlighted in the map in pink</b>). Often these filled with single shops and a few chains. I'd recommend looking around at a few of them before you make your purchase because they often carry the same items at varying prices.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-11251857708677050462016-01-10T08:36:00.001-08:002016-01-10T08:36:56.626-08:00To be embarrassed or not to be embarrassed?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nothing like a youtube video to let one decide. What is it about movement that makes one a bit uncomfortable? These are both quick, dirty, and easy tutorials for when you are in a dash and want to look put together enough.</div>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0y0OkY9rsX4?rel=0" width="640"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yyfu_Swo-cA?rel=0" width="640"></iframe></div>
Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-30899652353260707522016-01-10T08:20:00.000-08:002016-01-10T08:20:19.340-08:00Escape from winter blue's mountain<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://a5.files.theultralinx.com/image/upload/c_fit,cs_srgb,dpr_2.0,q_40,w_620/MTI5MDIzNTYwOTgyMjYxNzMw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://a5.files.theultralinx.com/image/upload/c_fit,cs_srgb,dpr_2.0,q_40,w_620/MTI5MDIzNTYwOTgyMjYxNzMw.jpg" height="720" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Living in the northwest for so many years brought up a strong case for seasonal SAD-ness. The never-ending gray skies meeting gray water, going to work/school in complete darkness and missing out on the only peeking of light for the day, and the constant countdown of how many months left of winter left quite a lot to be desired.<br />
<br />
A dose of vitamin D does wonders for your health and mood and I've always been convinced that that would be all I need to kick the SAD out. Thankfully, we now live in a place where I can see a bright blue sky for hours at a time and a golden sunset in January. but this year I've noticed it isn't quite as helpful as it was previous winters. Thus I'm already beginning the winter countdown.</div>
Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-21658572681131591872015-09-28T01:49:00.002-07:002015-09-28T01:57:44.589-07:00Style snapshots: Coffee date<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMrrfOsnsz__M274G8jhEtQleXHHZIx1dLU8oktiVdqFpTXu9dD__eP128sh52njv4kkd68uTMTBrquJpbQzbGMi7SX5i1v0TxRsqcO3VcUq6dGxLG7GhUAEAC4ou8IpuAy6sG7tWrqE4/s1600/IMG_0654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMrrfOsnsz__M274G8jhEtQleXHHZIx1dLU8oktiVdqFpTXu9dD__eP128sh52njv4kkd68uTMTBrquJpbQzbGMi7SX5i1v0TxRsqcO3VcUq6dGxLG7GhUAEAC4ou8IpuAy6sG7tWrqE4/s1600/IMG_0654.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>On Elle:</b> <i>glasses: </i>Style Nanda <i>sweater:</i> JCrew <i>pants:</i> H&M <i>shoes:</i>small shop in Shibuya <i>bag:</i> Sephora freebie (shh!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeYtq2hXu9i-gONvMt-usa-NhSEnLc4sRCMFKmDX1myP2ikVTbQErTgMyrfB5zy4F3bCpnB_0WWnZa5_l5tOQOYDR_B7kvI0naPle7rtSU2uiUgXyaq0StJQWRW2RUHwpG5L-tLho4uE1/s1600/IMG_063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeYtq2hXu9i-gONvMt-usa-NhSEnLc4sRCMFKmDX1myP2ikVTbQErTgMyrfB5zy4F3bCpnB_0WWnZa5_l5tOQOYDR_B7kvI0naPle7rtSU2uiUgXyaq0StJQWRW2RUHwpG5L-tLho4uE1/s1600/IMG_063.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>On Jay:</b> <i>jacket:</i> Todd Snyder <i>shirt:</i> H&M <i>watch:</i> komono <i>pants:</i> GU <i>shoes:</i> sperry top siders</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On a coffee date in Yeonnam-dong on a unusually cool day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
J. Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17581700060415534757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-64055402285408637722015-09-28T01:15:00.002-07:002015-09-28T01:17:40.699-07:00Japan: Week Two<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20810867536/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="918" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/677/20810867536_c8c6392a3e_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20843966691/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="390" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5810/20843966691_5039144370_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Could it get any hotter in Japan then our first week? Well, yes. We made our way to Tokyo for the first time! Flying into Haneda airport was one of the better decisions we made; compared to Narita airport (which we flew out of) it is a breeze to hop on a bus and get into the city.<br />
<br />
One of the dilemmas a lot of people face while travelling is where to actually stay when you haven't been there before. You want to find some place convenient for your planned activities, ideally affordable, and hopefully an interesting neighborhood. After some quick research (ahem, Googled "hipster neighborhoods Tokyo") we settled on an AirBnb in Shimokitazawa. Easily the best decision in our entire trip; its streets are littered with cheap eats, thrifts shops, and hair salons.<br />
<br />
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20214545064/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="918" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/746/20214545064_091b01bdc2_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20214545184/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="901" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5793/20214545184_8e49178f04_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
There is not as much as Kyoto in terms of temples, shrines, and palaces but they do have a few cultural attractions. Instead of temples mixed in with the tall modern buildings it seemed like every attraction encompassed many city blocks and were surrounded by cherry trees (which probably look amazing in the spring!). However, in the peak of summer it was still quite lush and provided a great amount of shade for all of the wandering travelers. Compared to Osaka and Kyoto, there was a significantly larger amount of tourists (makes sense as it's the largest and most well known city in Japan) so we spent a lot of time people watching. If you want to spend a couple hours off your feet I'd suggest to find a coffee shop that overlooks a crowded tourist destination (not the Starbucks over Shibuya cross though unless you want to wait in an hour+ line though).<br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20827619272/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="955" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/569/20827619272_c60ba9dc40_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20648797870/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="396" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/574/20648797870_863e2550a1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20649158308/in/datetaken-public/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="936" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5706/20649158308_21884d2566_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">necessary cat picture</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
We spent a lot of time in Tokyo shopping. Korea doesn't really have much in terms of buy/sell consignment shops or thrift shop.....or cotton clothes. Part of our plan was to fill up our wardrobe and we were happily surprised to be able to save the money on used clothes.<br />
<br />
Also, after a week and a half wrestling my hair I decided to walk into a random salon and chop it off to my shoulder (really I've wanted to for quite some time). The stylist was very careful in making sure she understood me; she even drew a picture of the cut before she actually did the first chop. As she went on it was mostly exclamations of "kawaii!"<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20649105170/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="918" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5819/20649105170_e5dff83f54_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20648854288/in/datetaken-public/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="442" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/634/20648854288_f2392abddb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">R-Fritters in Shimokatazawa</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In addition to shopping, we ate...a lot. Nothing like cheap in price but not quality food! Most mornings we had sushi or bento boxes and left the heavier food for the evening. We went for a mix of hole-in-the-wall restaurants and highly designed artist bakeries and bars. A few recommendations:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Coffee:</b> Bear Pond espresso (just be courteous)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Food:</b> Crepes in Harajuku, kaiten sushi on the weekends</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Drinks:</b> Flower bar Gardena</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Destinations:</b> Meiji Shrine</div>
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20843965481/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="460" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5785/20843965481_a4cfa4c573_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20648853618/in/datetaken-public/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="460" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/597/20648853618_6b2ff971c2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Intense ramen, Wine in a flowershop, R-Fritters, and a pancake pie from J.S. cafe</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
At the end of the second week we sadly made the long trip to Narita airport. Despite the long hot days our excitement to visit again didn't dissolve and we already missing and planning future trips.J. Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17581700060415534757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-7738770998441119522015-08-26T23:45:00.000-07:002015-08-27T00:33:44.160-07:00Japan: Week One<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20215860913/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="460" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5693/20215860913_e4009eb777_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<br />
I feel like we both grew up during a time of an obsession with Japan, probably all thanks to Toonami and Uwajimaya. When we went to the Kansai region last year we were excited but prepared for some disappointment for the sake of being realistic, yet somehow Japan lived up to all our 12-year-old dreams. We are lucky enough to be living such a short distance away that we can actually take quick weekend trips but decided to save up for 2 week stay in the hottest part of summer in Osaka and Tokyo.<br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20810559156/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="460" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/745/20810559156_77e1927c8b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">curry and takoyaki for days</span><br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20214235044/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="387" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5835/20214235044_484937ee17_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Starting off in Osaka, as familiarity is always a nice way to start a vacation, we set ourselves in our AirBnb and went out our for dinner and a drink while mentally preparing ourselves for how much we were going to sweat during this trip. Our biggest positives on keeping cool during the 100f+ heat was that we are not much for planning on vacations, a few places we want to go 'at some point' and mostly a long list of foods we should try to eat. This let us take everything at a leisurely pace and prevented overheated travelling fatigue.<br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20810866536/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="960" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/732/20810866536_089fbfa157_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20836851845/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="434" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/586/20836851845_0a33a297cd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">of course, floresta doughnuts</span><br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20810559676/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="426" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/614/20810559676_a63af0c94f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">orange street has a few great buy/sell/trade shops</span><br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20827310042/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="460" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5686/20827310042_e19b5ca291_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<br />
A lot of people skip over the city in exchange for Kyoto, but considering it's only a 40 min subway to Kyoto you could easily stay in one place and visit the other. We chose to stay in Osaka the whole week and had mini trips every other day. Days in Osaka were easily be spent shopping, people watching, and eating. A few of our recommendations:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Ramen</b>: <a href="https://www.google.co.kr/maps/place/%E3%82%89%E3%83%BC%E3%82%81%E3%82%93+style+JUNK+STORY/@34.6669863,135.5143121,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x6000e745c6da8d95:0x8fe6bd4e451b0669">Junk Story</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Coffee</b>: <a href="http://www.thecoffeechaser.com/giracha-coffee/">Giracha Coffee</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Foodie Area</b>: Namba station</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Shopping</b>: Orange Street for relaxed, Osaka Station, Namba</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Osaka Castle</b>: Have a picnic in the park and skip the actual castle <br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20648853828/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="402" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/754/20648853828_5a73f9936b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20214234964/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="426" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/638/20214234964_4e9211c1f2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20214235754/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="391" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5834/20214235754_7cb53036df_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20837160335/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="958" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5750/20837160335_fa96438013_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">fushimi inari shrine</span><br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20836851375/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="460" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5676/20836851375_da0809c7bd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">temple in kyoto, ice cream in harajuku, tokyo</span><br />
<br />
Kyoto is a completely different atmosphere from Osaka. Every other block is dotted with a shrine, temple, or castle. You could easily pick a direction and go on a walking tour! However, there are some great places that take a bit to get to let monkey park and the Fushimi Inari shrine (Kyoto sells 500 yen all day bus passes that are 100% worth it). When we went last year it was the beginning of April and cherry blossom season, if you ever get chance visit during that time. It is the peak of tourist season but you won't regret it when cherry blossom petals are raining all around you!<br />
<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20215861993/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="394" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/590/20215861993_61d2fe6976_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20810559346/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="460" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5628/20810559346_cbf695c725_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">monkeys roamed freely but had a special are for feeding</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/20216169733/in/datetaken-public/" title="Untitled"><img alt="Untitled" height="854" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/710/20216169733_13c24c8ddb_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">the view from monkey park</span><br />
<br />
We spent our last night in Osaka like we spent our first and go up early to make our way to Tokyo!<br />
<br />Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-23109929837935658822015-07-01T06:25:00.000-07:002015-07-01T06:25:11.504-07:00Keeping it simple<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19290926881" title="Madewell Ames Boots by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="Madewell Ames Boots" height="400" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/294/19290926881_625583e4c1_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Over the years I've figured out something that really makes shopping a whole lot easier: I am not a shoe person. If I had figured that out sooner I would have happily saved a lot of money and time; however, instead I searched and searched for the shoes that I thought would finally complete my outfit without realizing they didn't need to make a statement of their own. Truly I feel like I (and most people) can get away with about 6 pairs of shoes: tall boots, short boots, oxfords, flats, tennis/running shoes, and sandals. Of course in the middle of Seoul's humid summers I'm missing the last two. In the meanwhile here is what I have to fill the other slots:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18664509694" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Madewell Ames Boots by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="Madewell Ames Boots" height="410" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/413/18664509694_5fde5d5f7a_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">Madewell Ames black ankle boots</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"></span><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19099383080" title="Stilmoda Oxfords by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="Stilmoda Oxfords" height="390" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/333/19099383080_a7d909de53_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"> Stilmoda brown oxfords</span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"></span><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19260935336" title="Frye Regina Flats by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="Frye Regina Flats" height="396" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/542/19260935336_33d32456da_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"> Frye Regina black-brown flats</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"></span><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19290926751" title="Sam Edelman Foster Boots by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="Sam Edelman Foster Boots" height="393" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/339/19290926751_c0be4400ef_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"> Sam Edelman Foster tan knee high boots</span><br />
<br />
I find that if you want to keep a minimal shoe wardrobe it's best to keep to simple lines and neutral colors. I'm usually drawn to styles with some masculine inspiration and rich leathers (there are some great vegan leathers options available too). Something to keep in mind, the care of your shoes is key! I condition all of my shoes and make sure to wipe them clean as soon as they get wet, due to this I've noticed a marked improve in the life and wear of my shoes. Be sure to check our <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/femalefashionadvice/comments/1pt509/leather_care_basics_for_shoes_and_handbags/">this post</a> on reddit about leather care and <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/lifeprotips/comments/2z5l3j/lpt_servers_chefs_teachers_retail_people_etal_how/">this post </a>on insoles (they'll save your feet and posture).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18666433863" title="Frye Regina Flats by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="Frye Regina Flats" height="387" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/388/18666433863_019297ce26_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>J. Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17581700060415534757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-2192406235552017222015-06-23T19:40:00.000-07:002015-06-28T04:35:55.081-07:00days, months, years? part two.<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19106333841" title="IMG_8136 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8136" height="840" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/355/19106333841_3cb352d280_o.jpg" width="560" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's do some math. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
977 days or 23448 hours or 1406880 minutes since our last update.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
However, truthfully: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1668 day or 40032 hours or 2401920 minutes since our last real entry.</div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18916866519" title="IMG_8137 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8137" height="380" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/305/18916866519_487fc3c42f_o.jpg" width="560" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
As a reminder from our first post:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
This is jay. This is elle.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
We have many things in common like:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
We are the same age,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
like cheesy sci-fi b-movies,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
and think there is nothing better than a midday nap.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d1d1d; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.1999998092651px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: left;">
I can confidently say all these things are still true. One can easily argue that everything is almost the same as it was 1,668 days ago. Now we have hairline fractures on our faces, have had more haircuts then you can count on your fingers, but have settled on the same style repeatedly, and have our same little knickknacks just in another apartment.
<br />
<br />
In between then and now we've celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary, traveled to some of our dream countries, and learned how to enjoy life in any situation.
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18916606129" title="yellow by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="yellow" height="839" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/323/18916606129_421866b22b_o.jpg" width="560" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">Top: H&M, Shorts: H&M, Shoes: Sperry, Watch: Komono, Bracelet: ALand</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18915643220" title="IMG_8186 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8186" height="373" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/301/18915643220_806f9c1356_o.jpg" width="560" /></a>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18916868099" title="IMG_8153 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8153" height="344" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/537/18916868099_6291620d0d_o.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="560" /></a>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19076819896" title="IMG_8155 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8155" height="353" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/4/3803/19076819896_d0dcd30940_o.jpg" width="560" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>A mini timeline is as follows:</b><br />
<br />
We finished our road trip all the way to Seattle! That was a bit of an abrupt ending to the blog…whoops. We then spent the next 2 years living in a tiny house on Capitol hill and, in general, a bit unhappy with where our lives were going. We needed change!<br />
<br />
In 2012 we made that change and moved to lovely Korea. We spent two years living in a wonderful “suburb” of Seoul called Bucheon. The funny thing about Korea is almost every town feels like a city as the standard buildings are high rise concrete apartments and living is as condensed as possible compared to the low-and-wide feeling in the United States.<br />
<br />
Then our wanderlust took over us again resulting in a year long nomad lifestyle. We started off in Japan and fell in love with the Osaka area, moved on and WWOOFed on the big island of Hawaii, had a stint in Los Angeles, and finally visited family in Seattle and Austin. As exhausting as it was, I would never trade our experiences for anything.<br />
<br />
As of the end of March 2015, we returned to Korea! This time we are in a quieter place outside of Seoul that offers a bit more nature and a country attitude but is only 20 minutes away from the lively city.<br />
<br />
Now we, although mostly Elle, make a return to blogging because it makes us happy to look at our old pictures and read our memories.
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19076820656" title="IMG_8163 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8163" height="355" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/458/19076820656_4a8005397c_o.jpg" width="559" /></a>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19076818026" title="IMG_8139 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8139" height="356" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/407/19076818026_7550daa877_o.jpg" width="560" /></a>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19077167416" title="IMG_8168 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8168" height="775" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/484/19077167416_9025714cb4_o.jpg" width="560" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18480849584" title="IMG_8219 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8219" height="368" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/341/18480849584_9ef62b14c5_o.jpg" width="559" /></a><br />
<br />
These pictures we taken in Daehak-ro or Ehwa mural village, close to Dongdaemun. It’s worth the walk since when it comes to street art in Seoul you really have to seek it out! This more traditional neighborhood was losing business and, in a (successful) effort to revitalize it, the government commissioned local artists to paint murals all around. We spent an afternoon with friends walking up the winding hills spotted with art, coffee shops, and ice cream novelties.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/19076816886" title="eIMG_8224 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="eIMG_8224" height="840" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/506/19076816886_e1f4101048_o.jpg" width="560" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">Top: H&M, Skirt: Express, Hat: ASOS, Shoes: Frye</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18915363498" title="eIMG_8193 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="eIMG_8193" height="840" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/299/18915363498_f9d76d38bf_o.jpg" width="560" /></a>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/18480500994" title="eIMG_8164 by Jay & Laura Byrd, on Flickr"><img alt="eIMG_8164" height="351" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/531/18480500994_96f4ec722e_o.jpg" width="560" /></a>J. Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17581700060415534757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-1019140347710777212012-10-17T00:53:00.000-07:002012-10-17T00:54:19.471-07:00Korea by the seconds<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/TYnPQdFeWME" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<br />
<br />
Oh, hello blog. We've abandoned you for so long, but here we are with a short video! If you are not a close friend of ours or family you must not know we have been living in South Korea for the past 6 months. Here is a little taste of our life (notice Elle is completely absent from the video aside from her feet, I wonder who recorded it all!)J. Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17581700060415534757noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-80713327731108701582010-11-29T14:53:00.000-08:002014-12-02T19:20:18.655-08:00New York, New York<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5219351826/" title="empire by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 424px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5219351826_8c0b235c8a_b.jpg" alt="empire" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5218762777/" title="skyline by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 373px;" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5241/5218762777_f32fe811b3_b.jpg" alt="skyline" /></a><br /><br />What a wonderful town! Travel-weary and homesick we nearly skipped over this gem of the east coast, but thankfully our friend and any other New Yorker we happened to meet laughed when they heard about our "day trip to New York". Needless to say we stayed a week, exploring mostly Brooklyn and Manhattan, without scratching the surface of this city of cities.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5218762851/" title="yum by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 421px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5218762851_07e8f8f021_b.jpg" alt="yum" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5218762741/" title="clean laundry by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 390px;" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5165/5218762741_9204277e79_b.jpg" alt="clean laundry" /></a><br /><br />We could have spent days in the MOMA alone, staring at the countless beautiful paintings and video exhibitions. Another wonderful surprise was the ICP (International Center of Photography), which we did not get any pictures of, but is well-worth a visit if you are going on the museum circuit.<br /><br />We left heavy-hearted, our heads filled with the sights and sounds of New York, a trip back across the country ahead of us and the promise to move there someday soon.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5218762665/" title="New York by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 320px;" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5010/5218762665_c83e7c5924_b.jpg" alt="New York" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5219351726/" title="Moma by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 404px;" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5047/5219351726_6916a6637b_b.jpg" alt="Moma" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-19561976894748230392010-11-21T14:45:00.000-08:002014-12-02T19:20:18.612-08:00DC<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5195950687/" title="mr. president by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 369px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5195950687_ca11b1b6c1_b.jpg" alt="mr. president" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5196551446/" title="monuments by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 558px; height: 431px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5196551446_993a5b5701_b.jpg" alt="monuments" /></a><br /><br />It took us 37 days to get from Washington to Washington (D.C. that is). Our empty wallets smiled because, unlike the rest of the country, everything there is free! Allowing us to spend days wandering through museum after museum; monument after monument until we collapsed in a heap in Philadelphia.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5196551314/" title="delicious by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 429px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5196551314_8239b4869e_b.jpg" alt="delicious" /></a><br /><br />What's more American than grilled cheese and burgers! After a bit of a trek we made it to Capitol City diner and enjoyed our meals (and amazing milkshakes) making us want to take a nap on the arboretum lawn.<br /><br />We rested for awhile and made our way to The Museum of Natural History (The Best!) and squeezed our way through the crowds, gawking at their most famous pieces, and taking goofy pictures. Jay's favorite part was the giant ground sloth skeleton while I preferred the natural gemstone growths!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5195950563/" title="national treasure by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 410px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5195950563_c6c782255a_b.jpg" alt="national treasure" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5196551238/" title="vicious by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 371px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5196551238_2c35f0e787_b.jpg" alt="vicious" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-50704248058659307642010-11-11T14:45:00.000-08:002014-12-02T19:20:18.629-08:00Atlanta<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149671460/" title="Atlanta1 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Atlanta1" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/5149671460_d8deb754b9_b.jpg" style="height: 301px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
We arrived in Atlanta in the early morning which was perfect timing for tea! Luck seemed to be on our side during our trip as we always ended up finding the cutest little shops. Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party had excellent Darjeeling Tea, Vegan Spice Cupcakes and a wall of portraits. All of which gave us the energy to explore!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149065715/" title="Atlanta3 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Atlanta3" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/5149065715_db455807a2_b.jpg" style="height: 291px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149671568/" title="Atlanta2 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Atlanta2" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1178/5149671568_190db00ca6_b.jpg" style="height: 276px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Luck wasn't the only thing we had. Rhiannon of <a href="http://www.liebemarlene.com/">Liebemarlene</a> gave us an extensive list of recommendations including the very best pizza we have ever had (Sadly we were too busy stuffing our faces and the idea to take a picture came as an afterthought), an old southern plantation that wooed us, and a number of vintage shops.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149065945/" title="Atlanta5 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Atlanta5" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/5149065945_2f6b804b82_b.jpg" style="height: 410px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149671782/" title="Atlanta4 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Atlanta4" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1334/5149671782_8d9398425e_b.jpg" style="height: 412px; width: 560px;" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-54112803319761199422010-11-09T14:32:00.000-08:002014-12-02T19:20:18.633-08:00New Orleans<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149670634/" title="New Orleans1 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="New Orleans1" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1257/5149670634_44394f15f4_b.jpg" style="height: 425px; width: 559px;" /></a><br />
<br />
After a delicious catfish lunch in Baton Rouge we drove across the Bayou, dotted with small houses on stilts and sparsely growing forests, slowly entering the storybook city of New Orleans. As Seattlites we were especially excited by the promise of roasted chicory iced coffee, which did not disappoint!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149065271/" title="New Orleans6 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="New Orleans6" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4144/5149065271_6806d8c86e_b.jpg" style="height: 409px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149670752/" title="New Orleans2 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="New Orleans2" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/5149670752_5f6a16daa9_b.jpg" style="height: 365px; width: 559px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149065363/" title="New Orleans7 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="New Orleans7" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/5149065363_5355a603b0_b.jpg" style="height: 405px; width: 561px;" /></a><br />
<br />
We could easily have spent hours walking the neighborhoods, gawking at intricate ironworks and fancy french trims present on nearly every house (Oh how I wish we could transport one of those houses to Seattle). After a while of wandering we ended up in the historical graveyards that sprawl throughout the city; never had we thought we would have wanted to roam a cemetery, but the old mausoleums were so beautiful! <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149670980/" title="New Orleans4 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="New Orleans4" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/5149670980_bf2ff809c3_b.jpg" style="height: 341px; width: 560px;" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-55668334429270616302010-11-07T14:20:00.000-08:002014-12-02T19:20:18.637-08:00Albuquerque<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149670320/" title="Tinker town4 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Tinker town4" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1338/5149670320_76204902a7_b.jpg" style="height: 381px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Sometimes we were in such awe of a place that we forgot to whip out the cameras; we truely did not see enough of New Mexico with it's amazing landscapes straight out of a western movie! What we did capture was charming in it's own right, outside of Albuquerque was a tiny little place called Tinker Town.<br />
<br />
Once a man's hobby turned full time profession the little city is a woodworking wonderland. We witnessed pulley system circuses, jug bands, recycled bottle walls, old west saloons and even a boat someone lived on for ten years (and we thought living on the road for 2 months was hard)!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149064223/" title="Tinker town2 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Tinker town2" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5149064223_135ee24948_b.jpg" style="height: 416px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149064289/" title="Tinker town3 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Tinker town3" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1068/5149064289_3a66f17390_b.jpg" style="height: 369px; width: 559px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149064615/" title="Tinker town7 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="Tinker town7" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4055/5149064615_d9c919d0be_b.jpg" style="height: 392px; width: 560px;" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-14644843862552999892010-11-05T14:07:00.000-07:002014-12-02T19:20:18.608-08:00Las Vegas Pt. 2<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149669994/" title="Vegas3 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 404px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/5149669994_9f9ce23f62_b.jpg" alt="Vegas3" /></a><br /><br />Do yourself a favor if you ever travel to Las Vegas and head over to the red rocks for a bit of something real. Just a wee drive out of the city, this national park was one of the most gorgeous landscapes we saw (hundreds of pictures worth!).<br /><br />We headed over to a friend of a friend's ranch outside city bounds and were treated to a tour of the loop and the tiny town of Blue Diamond where there were 'old west' tourist traps and wild burros ran free.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149669882/" title="Vegas5 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 394px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4057/5149669882_78cc228427_b.jpg" alt="Vegas5" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149064031/" title="Vegas2 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 372px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1227/5149064031_3a82f3a755_b.jpg" alt="Vegas2" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5149669940/" title="Vegas4 by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 559px; height: 365px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1410/5149669940_c1eb299408_b.jpg" alt="Vegas4" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-23429972324910721262010-10-17T08:08:00.000-07:002014-12-02T19:20:18.617-08:00Las Vegas Pt.1<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5089201355/" title="your money is welcome by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5089201355_9be845385d_z.jpg" alt="your money is welcome" height="331" width="560" /></a><br /><br /><br />Lucky for us gambling has no allure (we like to keep our money, thanks!) so seeing a city made for it is rather bizarre! We saw Paris, New York, castles, and a pyramid but instead of brick or wood it was foam and covered in neon lights. Our stay on the strip was short but full of sweets, the almost hundred degree weather didn't get to us thanks to some much needed ice cream.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5089798924/" title="swan lake by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 386px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5089798924_7b05ae36b8_z.jpg" alt="swan lake" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5089201433/" title="help by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5089201433_d1b4f0e579_b.jpg" alt="help" height="661" width="560" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5089798988/" title="howdy partner by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 370px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5089798988_5cdbe570e3_z.jpg" alt="howdy partner" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-63927228490313559532010-09-29T20:22:00.000-07:002014-12-02T19:20:18.651-08:00santa barbara<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5038206802/" title="world tour by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 337px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5038206802_101539b618_b.jpg" alt="world tour" /></a><br /><br />After staying in a tiny little hostel in a tiny little town we headed out at 6 am to drive further south landing in Santa Barbara. The early morning payed off with vast blue skies without a single cloud dotting the sky. A word to the wise though, despite it being a town in California with beaches it is definitely not a California beach town!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Three things we loved:</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1.</span> Blood orange & vanilla frozen yogurt<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2.</span> Empty sandy beaches<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3.</span> Taking off our sunglasses when the sun finally set!<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5038207070/" title="beach bay by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 821px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5038207070_c5970f6f74_b.jpg" alt="beach bay" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5038207234/" title="ocean suds by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 374px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4146/5038207234_65f9af0a2a_b.jpg" alt="ocean suds" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5038207356/" title="alfalfa by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 389px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4153/5038207356_a1c53cac71_b.jpg" alt="alfalfa" /></a>J. Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17581700060415534757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-6291392060699264722010-09-23T19:07:00.000-07:002014-12-02T19:20:18.646-08:00Monterrey Aquarium<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5018759709/" title="jellyfish by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="jellyfish" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4109/5018759709_defd5e0d84_b.jpg" style="height: 392px; width: 561px;" /></a><br />
<br />
While in Monterrey we naturally had to visit the aquarium! As we weaved through the parents & children in maze like configurations (for a Monday morning it was packed!) we saw creatures of the deep, penguins, flamingos, and entire section devoted to jellyfish (amazing). The aquarium was so rich in sea life that we were completely exhausted by the end! Anyway there is not too much to say so enjoy the pictures after the cut!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5019365640/" title="cheesy by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="cheesy" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5019365640_54edfe984d_b.jpg" style="height: 394px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5019365584/" title="blending in by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="blending in" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/5019365584_894be46f1b_b.jpg" style="height: 374px; width: 561px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5018759825/" title="peek-a-boo by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="peek-a-boo" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5018759825_95d1880f78_b.jpg" style="height: 815px; width: 573px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5019365600/" title="'swan lake' by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="'swan lake'" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4150/5019365600_6db5830c31_b.jpg" style="height: 425px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5019365502/" title="spotted eel by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="spotted eel" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5019365502_f6418c87ac_b.jpg" style="height: 775px; width: 561px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5018760137/" title="tropical by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="tropical" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5018760137_205f6d8b24_b.jpg" style="height: 421px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5018759973/" title="sea landscape by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="sea landscape" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4083/5018759973_e5066d7f5d_b.jpg" style="height: 821px; width: 577px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5018759929/" title="clam it up by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="clam it up" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5018759929_b41d5e6165_b.jpg" style="height: 395px; width: 563px;" /></a>J. Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17581700060415534757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-12384790841530839832010-09-20T18:32:00.000-07:002010-09-21T02:05:04.798-07:00Refugio Beach<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5010440020/" title="angles by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 354px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5010440020_9ec8a67c55_b.jpg" alt="angles" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5010440816/" title="flying by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 374px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5010440816_535057c552_b.jpg" alt="flying" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5009835241/" title="oh barnacles by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 369px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5009835241_d151fa5d6b_b.jpg" alt="oh barnacles" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5010440324/" title="pacific ocean by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 832px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4113/5010440324_2e9e61efb7_b.jpg" alt="pacific ocean" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/5010440762/" title="rocky II by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 336px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4129/5010440762_ce3d7609ea_b.jpg" alt="rocky II" /></a><br /><br />If I had the skills and money I would build a tiny shack on refugio beach (there was a small patch of grass with a medium-sized lemon tree to shade our imaginary windows) it would be painted the same robin's egg blue as the abandoned life guard stands and our diet would consist of nothing but picnic fare.<br /><br />We made our way down the previous mountain and to the shores again; spotting what I had been lusting longingly for so long, climbing rocks. My strongest memories of living in california at a young age were these giant rocks on sandy beaches (while wearing an over-sized sweater and neon leggings of course) so I was craving a visit to nostalgic times, thankfully they didn't disappoint. In addition to completing lost memories, we had the joy of friendly campers! I can't help but think they took a little pity on us (with our tiny little tent and sleeping bags compared to RVs and air mattresses) lending extra wood and an axe to hammer in our tent spikes, but thankfully their kindness & conversation created the most amazing camping experience yet.Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-91155319339808798142010-09-17T10:00:00.000-07:002014-12-02T19:20:18.659-08:00laguna seca<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4993239315/" title="reflection by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="reflection" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/4993239315_6ff6b806f0_b.jpg" style="height: 384px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<br />
After leaving Monterrey (we will post aquarium pictures shortly), we found a little camping site (by little, I mean one of many on top of a mountain) situated next to a formula 1 raceway. It probably doesn't sound ideal but was easily the most secluded nature friendly campsite we've come across so far! Not to mention the view was amazing to wake up to!<br />
<br />
During the afternoon we climbed trees, hiked trails & ran away from bees, all the while listening to the distant zooms and zips of the drivers below. We finished the day as any great camping trip should: with marshmallows both flaming and toasted to a tasty golden brown. At night we cuddled up around our lamp, drifting off to sleep while the strong mountain winds ruffled our tiny tent.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">-Jay</div><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4993239249/" title="yellow peeks by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="yellow peeks" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/4993239249_983834098b_b.jpg" style="height: 383px; width: 561px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4993844534/" title="mountain view by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="mountain view" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/4993844534_851e7f0054_b.jpg" style="height: 372px; width: 562px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4993239197/" title="lofty by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="lofty" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/4993239197_926615e02d_b.jpg" style="height: 402px; width: 561px;" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-75529731915873423222010-09-15T10:35:00.000-07:002010-09-15T10:52:46.062-07:00heart's desire beach<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4974131522/" title="misty morning by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 378px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4146/4974131522_45b9ccd2a5_b.jpg" alt="misty morning" /></a><br /><br />Since we've started this trip I've gathered a small bundle of landscape shots, but rather than flood the page I thought I'd share this particularly gorgeous scene we got to peek in on the early morning of northern California (extremely soothing after a rough night of camping). And after a bit more driving we were treated to a beachy oasis and a maze-like 8 mile hike to the top of a mountain; complete with climbing structures, tightrope wooden pathways, and endless ocean breezes.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Three things we loved:</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1</span> a far-from-perfect-pathway that made us feel like we were in the Goonies<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2</span> trader joe's dried mango<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3</span> a beach that only we were on<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4974131670/" title="oasis by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4974131670_99df91a0d8_b.jpg" alt="oasis" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4973515445/" title="smirk by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 372px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4973515445_4b52bf7295_b.jpg" alt="smirk" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4973515563/" title="the cove by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 368px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4090/4973515563_6c422a55a9_b.jpg" alt="the cove" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-28283949908452770012010-09-09T07:01:00.000-07:002014-12-02T19:20:18.620-08:00northern california<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4973515323/" title="tiny eye by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 374px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/4973515323_8d5d01223b_b.jpg" alt="tiny eye" /></a><br /><br />Nothing goes better with long drives than short trips to the beach to stretch our toes. A refreshing difference from Washington shore, we got peeks of blue sky and salty winds.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />A few of our favorite things:</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1</span> bright robin's egg blue lifeguard houses<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2</span> stubby puppies barking at the waves<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">3</span> coarse ocean breezed hair<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4974131418/" title="seagull by the seashore by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 371px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/4974131418_21bd4451b6_b.jpg" alt="seagull by the seashore" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4974131482/" title="lens flare by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 376px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/4974131482_2bb7101028_b.jpg" alt="lens flare" /></a>J. Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17581700060415534757noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-34307071479180008292010-09-01T19:15:00.000-07:002014-12-02T19:20:18.624-08:00Portland, OR<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4949298831/" title="grandma's perfume by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 374px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/4949298831_09714800dd_b.jpg" alt="grandma's perfume" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4949298739/" title="backlight by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 372px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/4949298739_81de4a7a35_b.jpg" alt="backlight" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">On Elle: Cardigan: free, Top: anthropologie, Dress: jcrew, Shoes: urban outfitters</span></span><br /><br />Originally Portland wasn't part of the plan, but thanks to a broken alternator (just our luck!) we got to explore the city more than we ever had before. Turns out this city is amazing (why hello there food trucks)! Like Seattle, it's easy to find natural wonderlands without venturing far but unlike Seattle they have a <a style="color: rgb(51, 102, 102);" href="http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/finder/index.cfm?PropertyID=127&action=ViewPark">giant national park</a> not far from the city center. We devoted our first day to hiking the long trails starting with Washington Park (their showcase park) stopping to smell the roses in the <a style="color: rgb(51, 102, 102);" href="https://www.rosegardenstore.org/thegardens.cfm">international test garden</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4949892026/" title="peach by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 562px; height: 372px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/4949892026_cae36ffa83_b.jpg" alt="peach" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4949298973/" title="shakespeare's garden by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 386px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4144/4949298973_c99ea30203_b.jpg" alt="shakespeare's garden" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-size:85%;" >On Jay: Shirt: thrifted, Belt: thrifted, Jeans: urban outfitters, Shoes: jcrew</span><br /><br />We did have a little help finding the right places to be as my uncle has been living here since before I was born (funny enough due to his car breaking down while on his way to San Diego)! He took us on tour of the 'hipster' areas lined in glorious endless rows of vintage shops with spectacular danish modern furniture at crazy low prices (we dream!) and frocks priced in single digit numbers. Overall, seeing so much greatness was a little bit overwhelming and we only snagged a few things, but we will definitely add this city as a stop in the future.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4949299279/" title="hoot by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 422px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/4949299279_31cd5b3c40_b.jpg" alt="hoot" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4949299371/" title="small things by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 561px; height: 337px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4949299371_44623d9f63_b.jpg" alt="small things" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4949892130/" title="set ups by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img style="width: 560px; height: 468px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/4949892130_34e290d380_b.jpg" alt="set ups" /></a>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-37465683201129335442010-08-27T21:08:00.000-07:002010-08-27T21:25:08.983-07:00on the road<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4922185542_49ed6df0b2_b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 561px; height: 376px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4922185542_49ed6df0b2_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Goodbye Seattle, hello Austin! But first, a 2 month round trip road trip!<br /><br />We are swapping rain for shine, going down and around the entire US continental coast back to our home of Seattle. Traveling with us is my new love (sorry Jay) the itty bitty heavy duty honey yellow Volvo. The car is packed to the brim with plenty of cameras; be expecting flood of pictures coming soon!</div>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1611687403642846067.post-44348086866850614092010-08-22T01:10:00.000-07:002014-12-02T01:12:50.959-08:00we say hello<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4919188928/" title="plaid & polka dots by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="plaid & polka dots" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4919188928_8ec46971e0_z.jpg" style="height: 485px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: 85%;">hat: H&M, top: urban, skirt: anthropologie, shoes: thrifted, bag: thrifted</span><br />
<br />
After a long-winding month of constant preparations nothing is better than late night (or midday in this case) strolls through our favorite park. As you all will soon see, Jay and I are about to embark on one of the most amazing adventures in our lives! Our greatest apologies in the lack of posting due to this but expect an over load and more info quite soon!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayandlaura/4919188858/" title="leisure by jayandlaura, on Flickr"><img alt="leisure" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4919188858_02c3daba2e_z.jpg" style="height: 476px; width: 560px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="color: #999999;">button-up: H&M, tshirt: H&M, belt: thrifted, jeans: the good society, shoes: urban</span></span>Elle Byrdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02174996473458234671noreply@blogger.com2