Our first stop on the honeymoon road trip was Arkansas, which may not seem super glamorous, but it didn’t disappoint! Here are some of my favorite photos and “highs, lows and buffalos” from the first state on our journey:
Highs
Our AirBnB in Russellville was amazing! 10/10 would recommend the home. Seeing Linley run around in a yard was a big plus, too.
Hiking in the Ozarks was amazing! Although rainy at first, this was an underrated hiking spot that everyone should check out at least once.
The distillery we found in Little Rock was amazing! They had the best service and St. Patty’s Day drinks, and we ran into some kind strangers there and along the way.
Lows
Our county was a dry county, and we had NO idea! We tried ordering margs at two different places, only to realize the nearest liquor, beer or wine was at least 40 miles away! We still have a good laugh about it haha…
Of course some family stuff had to go down during this leg of the trip, but so it goes. Alex and Linley are my family, and that’s all that matters. 💛
Buffalo
Alex was whistling while we walked through a creepy Dollar General, and the cashier commented and said it felt like a horror movie. Way to go, Alex, for creeping out a complete stranger! 😅
Alex and I are recovering from a nasty case of the flu (we’re incredibly lucky we’re vaccinated!), and the sweats make me wish for another snow day. Here in Atlanta, snow is rare but we were blessed with two winter storms that made me feel like we were suddenly in Michigan.
Linley and I certainly missed this snow, but what made the first snow day extra special was spending it with Alex. The three of us have never had a fun-filled day in winter wonderland before, and we hope to have many more!
I lay awake with back pain, uncertainty with my current job interviews and applications in flight and some anxiousness around the holidays, but I’m also excited, hopeful and am feeling inspired! I don’t have much else to say; I simply wanted to share these photos because I love the big leaves and raindrops at our place. 🙂
I can’t help but feel incredibly blessed lately. I have an amazing group of friends — afar and in Atlanta, I’m enjoying my new job at a different organization, therapy continues to go great and I’m seeing major progress with acceptance lately, and the quality time with Alex and Linley post Lin’s surgery couldn’t be better.
Last weekend, we hopped in the car (I was a little hungover from a fun night with Evelyn before, but I don’t regret it!) and drove down to Savannah, Georgia. It was a lovely belated birthday/early Halloween celebration and everything about the weekend away was wonderful.
After a long drive and some interesting OPL podcast episodes, we finally arrived and walked around Savannah while we waited to check into our Airbnb. We went to one of our favorite brunch spots, Collin’s Quarters, and grabbed a drink and lunch after a beautiful walk through historical Forsyth Park. Luckily Linley was exhausted, so once the Airbnb was ready, Alex and I were able to walk through a historical Civil War cemetery, enjoy a nice seafood dinner and some drinks — followed by a nightcap at a rooftop bar overlooking the river. I love spending time together and walking around with Alex, laughing and getting excited about plans, and checking out new places together.
After a great night’s sleep at our Airbnb, we got ready for another great day at Hilton Head. We arrived at the beach where Linley could run free and enjoy the calm water. We met a lovely couple who Lin kept running up to, but for the most part he was by our side the entire time. I love taking Lin to the beach and it’s really special to share these moments with Alex, too!
The beach was extra special this year because I proposed to Alex. 💛 I’d known I’d wanted to do this for a while, and knew this trip – specifically on the beach – would be the perfect place. Unfortunately, I left my note and ring in the bag at our spot, but while walking with Alex, I told him my intentions — sharing that he’s the best gift I’ve ever been given. I don’t want to wait for our forever to begin. Alex said yes and after our family walk, I gave him the ring and letter from my bag. I could tell Alex was surprised but flattered; all I wanted him to feel was special. It was such a lovely morning all around!
We went to our favorite restaurant afterward: Hudson’s on the Dock. The drinks are delicious and the food is seriously amazing. It’s probably the best seafood I’ve had at a more casual, local place before. Linley enjoyed the sun and meeting other pups on the dock while Alex and I enjoyed some oysters, crab, and other delicious food.
After the hour-long drive back and a solid nap we all needed, we wandered around with Linley once more before heading out on our cemetery tour. Our guide at the Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah was incredibly knowledgeable and the cemetery itself was gorgeous and full of history. We heard stories about the Free Masons, different witch doctors in the south and sadly, how young children was buried there due to lack of medical advances leading up to the 1920s and 30s. I would highly recommend doing a tour of Bonaventure if you ever visit Savannah!
The rest of our evening was great! Alex and I ventured back to the Irish pub we visited last year, saw some friends from Atlanta and met their friends, and enjoyed a nice nighttime walk together. Next year, Alex and I decided that we’ll make our own pub crawl, and each pick a couple bars we want to check out one night.
The next morning was lazy but much-needed before the drive back home. We grabbed coffee then strolled through Forsyth Park once more and dressed Linley up as a ghost again. He did much better in the costume this year, and even got some encouragement from strangers who walked by!
Both trips to Savannah and Hilton head have been lovely, and I’m super excited for next year already!
Media taken Friday, October 25 – Sunday, October 27, 2024.
My mom visited Alex, Linley and me last weekend — and we had a blast exploring north Georgia! I’d been to some of the wineries before, but actually staying in a cabin in Ellijay and walking around Blue Ridge was so much fun with my mom, too.
The four of us enjoyed a beautiful cabin with a view of the mountains, and it didn’t disappoint. We made s’mores in the oven (because it rained both evenings we were there), played cards, watched the Olympics, drank coffee outside on the wrap-around porch and laughed until we cried. It was the perfect stay and I’d recommend for anyone who wants to escape city life for a weekend.
Prior to even seeing the cabin in the woods, we stopped by Roo Mountain Vineyards — which is now my new favorite winery in Georgia! The drinks were delicious, the view was incredible and the quality time was priceless.
Blue Ridge was another cute town we stopped in since it was super dog friendly! We checked out some shops, took Linley to Blue Ridge Adventure Dog for a good run, some photos and toys, and had good coffee under a patio during some rain. We had great food for lunch and dinner, too!
It was great having my mom here in Atlanta and up in north Georgia, and we can’t wait for next time!
I wrote about visiting my best friend, her husband, baby girl and pup in Alexandria last time. What a special reunion that was! And it was nice that Alex and I had a good chunk of the weekend to pop into DC and check out the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History together.
We had a blast in the museum learning about gems, our ancestors and even where the planet’s going (scary, for sure!). I loved having Alex by my side — commenting about what we saw and having a personal comedian along the way! Our favorite part by far was the butterfly pavilion, where I made a new friend Buddy.
Buddy the butterfly hung out on my hand for about 15-20 minutes! He was truly a friend by the end of the experience, and I was really sad when he finally decided to fly away. I’m grateful Alex snapped these pics to capture the moment and how beautiful Buddy was. Alex also had a temporary visitor, whose name goes unknown…
Honestly, it’s all the little things with Alex. It’s the butterflies landing on us. It’s the first subway ride we took together. It’s the realization that you’re walking in such a cool city together. It’s the fact that I didn’t have to visit Carolyn and Ryan by myself this time. All those “little things” truly add up to larger ones.
We headed to the wharf after strolling through the museum for a much needed seafood lunch and some good drinks. We may or may not have had three or four each — including the most expensive espresso martinis we’ve had (stupid bartender… but worth it!). What a great nap we had afterward haha!
Of course, Lin wasn’t too happy that we didn’t bring him along, but he probably would’ve panicked in the pavilion!
Have you ever had those days where you never want it to end? Where everything is perfect and almost dream-like? That’s how Sunday was for me. Our friends Ariel and Pardon – along with their sweet pup, Tater – joined our family of three for a day full of hiking along Sweetwater Creek in the Atlanta area. Although Linley and I enjoy hiking very much, we haven’t done too much of it since moving down here — and it felt great to hit some new trails with Alex and our close friends!
After some epic hiking, we went back to Ariel’s and Pardon’s place for some delicious espresso martinis (my new favorite!). We kept the afternoon going at our favorite spot for brunch/lunch and dinner, where Linley continued to soak up the sunshine.
I look forward to many more days like this — full of laughter, smiles, good views, great conversation and nice weather.
You heard me; I believe this place and the people here are magical! And here’s why…
December gave me a new love for the holidays and Christmas spirit — one I hadn’t felt in a few years. Alex and I had so much fun before and during the holidays that I’m genuinely sad they’re over!
St. Louisa’s for organ karaoke
I haven’t sang or listened to karaoke in years, but our buddy Quinten told us about this old church-turned-bar with organ karaoke… and we couldn’t miss it! Alex and I have been twice now, and I’m sure 2024 will bring us more singing, dancing and laughing here — as well as pretending to be ping pong pros!
Botanical Garden for Christmas lights
We’d been to the Botanical Garden with our friend Emily in September, but visiting during the holidays was a completely different and unforgettable experience. Although the drinks weren’t cheap, they were good and the music, light variety and company were great. 💛 Alex and I were super impressed with the coordination of the lights with the Christmasy jazz playing.
Kat’s Cafe for jazz music
Sticking with the jazz theme, Alex and I enjoyed ourselves at this dive club in Midtown. This wasn’t as upscale as Cliff Bell’s in Detroit, but it didn’t need to be! The music, atmosphere and martinis were amazing.
Cirque du Soleil for an incredible show
Seldom am I speechless, but this show blew me away! The acrobatics, comedic bits and overall production took my breath away. I’m beyond grateful that Alex made my first show so special, and even though he’s been quite a few times, it was special for him too!
Christmas Market for a friend date
After Thanksgiving I made a new friend at the dog park, and we finally hung out before the holidays. Ariel, Alex and I had a blast drinking mulled wine, laughing our butts off and getting to know each other!
Roswell Mill for a family hike
On New Year’s Eve we took Linley on a hike just outside of Atlanta — which was just right for all of us! We look forward to more adventures and hikes as a trio. 🤗
Atlanta is the most dog friendly place Linley and I could’ve landed in! We’ve been loving all the dog park and pool time adventures—and Alex has fully embraced being a dog dad. 💛
We all look forward to more family adventures together… and stay tuned for more October posts that I’m behind on! 😉🙈
I love Alex. I love Vancouver. I love Seattle. I love all the memories made and food we ate and drinks we downed and laughs we shared. This adventure couldn’t have gone any better. As bittersweet as it was to leave Vancouver – and inch toward concluding our trip altogether – I know my move to Atlanta is approaching and I couldn’t be more excited about my/our future.
Alex and I stopped at a Chinese bakery on our way out of the city on Sunday, and ironically ran into Uncle Joe and Aunt Trish again! We shared some quick hugs and laughs regarding the situation, then bounced to get through customs and return the rental car in Seattle at a decent time. When the representative at customs asked how we knew each other, we both looked at one another and said, “We’re dating,” all giddy like we were kids again haha.
Our afternoon was spent wandering around Pike Place after dropping off the car and our bags, and I started to feel like myself again (my nightmares and wildfire smoke ingestion made me feel like I’d been in a fog all morning). Another Irish pub drinks and food, along with enjoying Alex’s company through the market as we checked out different stores, made everything better. I’d been to that area only once before, and holding Alex’s hand this time made for a much different and insurmountably fulfilling experience. We freshened up, met his cousin Jason for drinks at a local bar, and even made a new stranger-turned-friend Jennifer!
As enjoyable as a day I’d had with Alex, the best was yet to come; Alex had been on a boat tour a few days prior but recommended we go together at sunset this time. It didn’t disappoint! In fact, it was nothing short of magical (sorry, Disney!) With white wine and chips in tow, Alex and I snuggled up next to each other and soaked in the sun and the views. We saw other ships pass by and the sunset was awe-inspiring. The photos Alex and I took together are perfect representations of how much fun I was having—and how much I deeply care about this man. Heck, we even saw orcas, which I didn’t even see in Iceland! It was super sweet because Alex waited for me by the ladder from the bathroom, and helped me up so I could watch the whales with him. 💛
I always pose with both our drinks, so I made Alex do the same 😅🙈Posting this one for you, Alex, because it’s your favorite ☺️One of my personal favorites 🤩
Seeing the city at night was super cool, despite it being “the end.” Alex and I were given a blanket to cuddle up in and we definitely made the most of it. What an amazing bookend to an unforgettable vacation! Instead of seafood one last time, we went to a sketchy McDonald’s and enjoyed eating in bed before spending one last night in the Pacific Northwest together. I can’t wait to spend more time with Alex once I move in a few days; I miss him already.
Saturday was *even more* sentimental for me. After some subpar Turkish coffee, Alex and I hit the bike rental place and rode through Stanley Park for a few hours in the morning. I’d done rides along Lake Michigan in Chicago and Mackinac Island and other cities, but I’ve never done anything like that with a guy—especially *my* guy. I was enjoying the views but being behind Alex really distracted me, haha! I felt like a kid again, riding downhill with my legs stretched out and yelling “woo!” I even took a dip in the ocean and wished I had my swimsuit on. To my surprise, I wasn’t sore from the uphill trek and every visitor should rent a bike and check out Stanley Park.
Although nervous, I was excited to meet Alex’s uncle, aunt and some family friends at a Chinese seafood restaurant just outside of Vancouver. I felt incredibly welcomed and Alex made me feel important—truly like a priority in his life, and in his family. I’m glad I wore a dress instead of pants because all the scallops, shrimp dumplings, crab paella and mango pudding I ate was out of this world! And the conversation was as filling as the food. Alex, his Uncle Joe, Aunt Trish and I even went to a Chinese market in the mall afterward and it was nice to have that extra time with them.
After a much-needed late afternoon nap and refresh, Alex and I meandered through a local block party, where Alex bought me some art and we shared some drinks and laughs at a local Irish pub with live music. Every moment like this makes me fall for him more and more; I haven’t felt this intrigued in and this important to anyone ever before.
There was another restaurant Alex spotted that was near our waterfront bar the night before, so we obviously had to check it out! It was our last night in Vancouver before heading back to Seattle, and I was savoring the espresso martinis, seafood and memories with Alex tenfold.
When Alex and I first matched online, he was telling me about his much-anticipated solo trip to Vancouver—including his seaplane tour. I’d never been on a seaplane and thought this was totally badass! Before Alex and I even met in person earlier this month, he asked me to join him on the trip, noting that he didn’t want to go solo AND really wanted me to join him on the adventure. I was extremely flattered (I still am!) and can easily say this was one of the coolest experiences of not only Vancouver, but of my travel memories to-date.
Despite the check in process being a tad clunky and disorganized, the chaos was worth it and the plane rides couldn’t have gone smoother. The plane was super small, and Alex had the opportunity to ride up front on our way to the first island. I was giddy and excited and happy for him! I was pumped he was able to experience something like this—especially when he’d booked these flights months ago. I was also able to ride in the front after Alex, before finally being able to sit next to him once more. I would’ve been happy and excited had he not been able to add me to his reservation, but I’ll be forever grateful to have this memory with Alex. Alex, if you’re reading this, thank you for yet another unforgettable memory together!
Traveling with the Traceys 