A Farewell.

Vacations are my absolute, most favorite thing. Whether it's a big vacation at a luxury resort in Mexico, or just a weekend getaway to a local beach, they are all exciting to me.
But one type of vacation that really tops them all, is a vacation that includes seeing family that you haven't seen for a long time.
There is nothing like the anticipation that leads up to the moment you get to hug a family member you haven't seen in forever (or what seems like forever).
That's why when we got a chance to take a break from our lives in DC for a little trip to Seattle, it felt like Christmas.
We were able to fly to where Tanner is from for his family reunion/his brother Cooper's Farewell.
It was a very quick trip, especially considering travel time across the country, but it was worth it!
This was also the time that Pancake got to experience an airplane for the first time.
Once again, she surprised me with how awesome she can be and she was an absolute gem on the plane! At first the flight attendants told me that she needed to stay in her travel carrier under my seat, but when I took her out before we took off and she just fell asleep right in my lap, they came by and petted her and didn't say a word after that about me having her out. Way to go Pancake. *knucks*.

The trip consisted of a Mariners game, Birch Bay, hike to a waterfall, cliff jumping, tons of food and most importantly- good quality family time.
Tanner and I are lucky to have such amazing families. We really are.
Pancake was a huge hit with all of Tanner's younger cousins and for not ever having human food, she handled the pounds of chips, cheese and candy that they constantly were feeding her, like a champ.

Pancake's first flight

Birch Bay

Cliff Jumping

Cliff Jumping

Pancake patiently waiting in LAX at our layover

Mariners Game

Nikelle always insists on holding Pancake's leash

Snuggle Bug:)

Before we left we had to say a last 'goodbye' to Cooper (Tanner's brother). He is leaving to serve in the Madagascar mission for 2 years! We know that he is going to be a great missionary and is going to be able to touch many lives during his time on La'Reunion island off of the coast of Madagascar. And maybe this is the excuse Tanner and I need to go visit this BEAUTIFUL island. (Like we ever need an excuse, right?). 

We had an amazing time and it was so hard to leave to go back to DC. Back to reality. 

But I think Pancake was a little more excited than we were to go back to our quiet home. 

The moment we got on the plane to head home, she was OUT like a light. 

It's exhausting getting so much attention.  Rough life.