Delightful October

Usually, we prefer to hang out by the water but in Autumn we don't mind visiting certain places in the middle of Seattle ... like the Seattle Arboretum. It does contain a decent amount of deciduous trees that happen to show off among the evergreens.

Tree branches are fascinating to me. I've mentioned (on Instagram) how I like the tree's bare branches in the winter. They're interesting and a bit eerie looking ... and even though this tree still had it's leaves the branches were quite cool to look at.

The trail along the Arboretum loops (that's always a good thing) but there are several paths that split from the main trail. This particular path takes you across a bridge and into a neighborhood that will eventually lead you to some shops.

There's definitely a benefit about visiting Seattle (aside from the Puget and parks of course) and that's the restaurants. We are a big Yelper family. We like quality food. I mean if you're gonna spend money on food it better be on food that's worth it. When it comes to food we don't just settle to what's in our neighborhood only.
I'm pretty sure I've mentioned on here that the best gyro's are from the Greek joint right at Pike Place. They do it right! and the flavor is wonderful plus their Greek dressing is creamy, as it should be!

After we ate we walked to the flower area and Jacob got me a dahlia bouquet. It is such a pretty flower. Then we ventured out onto the fairly new overlook area. Although it's got a great view of the waterfront it is wide open therefore hardly any protection from the sun. I was only able to sit out there in the open for about five minutes. However, it's definitely an ideal place to linger at and observe the scenery on a cloudy day. Yep, sure is!

After Pike Place we took Riley to Swanson's Nursery where they held a Fall festival. They put together several kids activities, a maze and arts and crafts. They also have a cafe but we haven't eaten there yet other than a cookie. We would definitely like to try them out.
As we were leaving the nursery I had Jacob go down one of the neighborhood streets and we came across this gorgeous view. Imagine how nice the views are from the people that have homes facing the water without any obstructions. Just wow!

The best part after an outing is going back home, freshen up, and get cozy. I love living somewhat of a distance from a big city. It's definitely calmer and driving through fields full of trees and some farm animals is definitely relaxing and ideal. I do miss the water though. And when I say water I mean the ocean water and in my case I mean the Puget (since it's part fresh water and part ocean water). The smell of the ocean is something that's ingrained in me. I love how it makes me feel and the memories it brings forth and I miss it often.

I will keep God's law continually, forever

and ever (hearing, receiving, loving, and

obeying it). And I will walk at liberty and

at ease, for I have sought and inquired for

(and desperately required) His precepts.

-Psalm 119:44-45