Tag: coffee

coffee, pnw, Review, travel

A Beautiful Coffee Shop with a Mission: Discovering Anchor House Coffee

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Missed turns sometimes lead to the best places🤍

After finishing one of our training hikes, we missed a turn and unexpectedly found ourselves in the charming town of Buckley. What could have been a simple navigation mistake turned into one of the sweetest surprises.

From the moment you walk in, there’s an undeniable warmth. Every detail feels intentional and beautifully curated without feeling overdone. The space manages to be both elevated and deeply cozy, like stepping into a friend’s home where you’re instantly invited to stay awhile.

Despite the steady flow of customers when we arrived, there was a calm, welcoming atmosphere. No rush. No pressure. Just a space that invites you to breathe, sit, and connect.

The pastries, displayed on charming, unique serving platters, felt like little works of art. It’s the kind of place where even choosing what to order becomes part of the experience.

And then there’s the cozy library corner… the kind of nook that makes you want to gather close with friends. We couldn’t help but imagine ourselves like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, tucked into deep conversation, dreaming up stories and sharing ideas.

Part of what makes Anchor House Coffee so special is the sense that it’s rooted in something deeper than just great coffee. Like many buildings in historic Buckley, this space carries the character of the town’s early days, when Buckley thrived as a logging community in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

While the space has been thoughtfully restored and reimagined, you can still feel that connection to the past in its bones. The charm isn’t manufactured, it’s preserved. It’s a beautiful reminder of how places can be renewed while still honoring their story.

One of the most impactful details in the shop isn’t just aesthetic, it’s purposeful.

Above the bar, signage draws your attention to Love Justice International, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing human trafficking and protecting the vulnerable around the world.

This isn’t just a passive mention, it’s an invitation.

Through donations and awareness, this coffee shop is helping connect everyday moments like ordering your favorite drink , to something far greater. It’s a powerful reminder that even small choices can contribute to justice, freedom, and hope for others.

There’s something incredibly meaningful about sipping coffee in a place that cares deeply about people, not just locally, but globally.

What started as a missed turn became a moment we won’t forget.

Anchor House Coffee isn’t just a coffee stop, it’s an experience. It’s a place where beauty, community, history, and purpose all come together in a way that feels genuine and life-giving.

And maybe that’s the real takeaway: Sometimes the unexpected detours lead you exactly where you’re meant to be 🤍

If you love discovering cozy coffee spots like Anchor House Coffee, you might enjoy a few of our other Pacific Northwest coffee shop reviews ⬇️

Thirsty Coffee Bar Review
But First Coffee ☕️
faith, family adventures, Hawaii, Review, travel

The Moana Surfrider: First Lady of Waikiki

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We were drawn to the Moana Surfrider Hotel, not just for its stunning oceanfront location on Waikiki Beach , but for the history it holds and to step into a piece of history that has stood for over a century .One that has welcomed travelers long before Waikiki became what it is today.

For our family, it was the perfect combination of everything we love: history to learn from, beauty to take in, and a location that simply can’t be matched.

The Moana Surfrider Hotel is one of the very first hotels built in Waikiki, Oahu and because of that, it holds an incredibly special place in Hawaiian history. Opened in 1901, it is often referred to as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” Long before high-rise resorts lined the shoreline, the Moana stood as a grand beacon of luxury on what was once a quiet stretch of beach.

It is absolutely beautiful and sits directly on Waikiki Beach, blending Victorian elegance with the relaxed rhythm of island life.

When we walked in, we immediately felt like we had stepped back in time. The wide open lobby, high ceilings, and sweeping staircase reflect the hotel’s original Victorian architectural style, which was quite a statement in the early 1900s. At the time it was built, arriving guests would travel by ship and horse-drawn carriage . Can you imagine stepping off a boat and into this grand oceanfront retreat?

As we walked through the lobby and out the back doors, we were greeted by a spacious veranda lined with rocking chairs … one of my favorite details. Sitting there with coffee in hand felt like slowing down time and savoring it in the best way.

The famous Banyan tree is front and center welcoming all to the natural beauty of the Island . Planted in 1904, just a few years after the hotel opened, the Banyan tree has grown into a massive, breathtaking centerpiece of the courtyard. Its branches stretch wide and welcoming, creating shade and a gathering place for generations of visitors. It’s incredible to think how many stories that tree has witnessed over more than a century.We felt so privileged to be able to stand there where so many others had gathered before.

The outside pool is beautiful …you can swim while looking out at the Pacific Ocean, or simply walk a few steps and be right on Waikiki Beach itself. That seamless connection between historic elegance and oceanfront beauty is part of what makes this place so special.

The hotel reminded me of a beautiful old-style mansion , the kind filled with stories. Oh if the walls could talk! Over the decades it has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and travelers from around the world. Even through renovations and modernization, the Moana Surfrider has intentionally preserved its historic charm.

Staying here (or even just visiting) isn’t just about enjoying a beautiful resort , it’s about stepping into a piece of Hawaiian history.

But the story doesn’t stop at the hotel itself ✨

Waikiki: From Royal Retreat to World Destination

Long before Waikiki became a world-famous travel destination, it was actually a retreat for Hawaiian royalty. The area was once filled with wetlands and fishponds, and Hawaiian aliʻi (chiefs and royalty) would come here to relax and surf.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Waikiki began transforming as tourism grew. When the Moana Surfrider opened in 1901, it became the very first large hotel in the area, setting the stage for Waikiki’s future. At that time, there were no high-rise hotels, no bustling Kalakaua Avenue , just ocean, palm trees, and this grand white hotel standing proudly along the shore.

Over the years, Waikiki evolved into the vibrant destination we know today. But the Moana Surfrider still stands as a reminder of the beginning …a place where history hasn’t been forgotten.It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

One of the things I love most about staying somewhere historic is the opportunity to turn it into a living history lesson.

📚 A Living History Lesson Here are a few simple ways to make this educational:

History

Research Hawaii’s transition from a monarchy to a U.S. territory (1898) and then to statehood (1959).

Study Hawaiian royalty and learn about Queen Liliʻuokalani.

Compare what travel looked like in 1901 vs. today.

Geography

Locate Oahu on a map and identify other Hawaiian islands. Study volcanic island formation.

Architecture

Look up Victorian architectural elements and identify them in the hotel design.

Writing Prompt for Kids

“Imagine you are arriving at the Moana Surfrider in 1901. Write a journal entry about your first impressions.”

If you find yourself in Waikiki, don’t just admire the beach , step inside the Moana Surfrider. Sit under the Banyan tree. Imagine the year 1901.

Travel becomes unforgettable when it connects beauty with learning.

The Moana Surfrider is so much more than just a beautiful place to stay. It’s steeped in rich history✨

The same God who was writing stories here over a hundred years ago is still writing them today , even in our own family’s journey.

That’s what I’ll carry with me most from this visit … not just the ocean views or the historic charm, but the reminder that God is present in every season… past and present.

And when we choose to travel with intention, to learn, to reflect, and to be present , those moments become more than memories.They become part of the story we’re living, too.

Check out our reel of this beautiful Hotel ⬇️ and be sure to subscribe 🩷

And check out more of our post on Hawaii ⬇️

Beyond the Scenery: The True Beauty of Hawaiʻi’s People
faith, Gathered thoughts

What If One Kind Word Changed Everything?

redeemingbeautyfamilyadventures

Recently I was sitting at Starbucks doing some planning when I overheard a conversation at the table next to me. A teenage girl was talking with her friend about the dynamics of her family.

I tried not to listen, but certain phrases caught my attention.

“My dad doesn’t really know how to love.”

“He isn’t kind.”

“I think my mom’s favorite is my sister… she doesn’t really talk to me.”

My heart broke as I listened.

What struck me most was not that she sounded sad. Instead, she spoke as if she had already accepted this as normal, as if this was simply what family was supposed to be like. That’s what made my heart ache the most.

I sat there trying to gather the words I might say to her. I knew I couldn’t just let her leave thinking she was unlovable or that this was simply the way life had to be.

Quick words have never been my strength , so as I was trying to figure out what to say, I prayed a silent prayer.As she stood up to leave, I found the courage to speak.

“I’m so sorry but couldn’t help but to overhear part of your conversation. I just wanted to say I’m really sorry for what you’ve experienced.”

I apologized to her for the way she had been treated, even though I wasn’t the one who hurt her. I told her that sometimes people simply don’t know how to love well. But that she is worthy of love.

I told her she has the opportunity to learn something different through this pain and to become someone who loves well, even if she didn’t receive it herself.

She thanked me and was very kind.

But as she walked away, I immediately thought of all the things I should have said.

I should have asked if I could give her a hug.

I wish I had shared my faith more clearly.

Instead, I tried to find a way to connect with her without sounding like some strange woman inserting myself into her life in a random moment .. but then it made me think.. why? Why was I worried over that instead of looking at it as an opportunity to love?

Why is it sometimes so hard to encourage others or show love , especially to people we don’t know?

There so many people who have accepted the lie that they are unlovable and for so many reasons . Sometimes it’s because of circumstances.Sometimes it’s self-preservation.Sometimes it’s simply the story they’ve been told long enough to believe.

But what if we chose to love people and to step out of our comfort zones ?

Even strangers.

What if one small moment of kindness could change the direction of someone’s life?

Recently I’ve been reading about D.L. Moody, and one story about him stood out to me. Early in his life, an elderly man gave him a single penny just for walking with him, listening, and encouraging him in his faith.

It was such a small interaction.

Yet Moody never forgot it.

I’ve also been reading the book The Body Keeps Score, which discusses how early environments shape behavior. One study described two groups of mice: one raised in a nest with warmth and plenty of food, and another raised in a poor, stressful environment.

When both groups were frightened by a loud noise, they ran back to their nests ,whether the environment was good or bad.

It made me pause.

Even when something is unhealthy, we often return to what feels familiar.

Maybe that teenage girl has learned to run back to the only “home” she knows …even if it isn’t the love she deserves.

And maybe that’s why small moments of kindness matter more than we realize.

A word.

An apology.

A reminder that someone is worthy of love.

Perhaps those moments plant seeds that grow later.

And maybe the next time I feel the nudge to speak kindness into someone’s life, I won’t hesitate.

Because sometimes a single moment of love or kindness can echo far longer than we could ever imagine ❤️

“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18

Have you ever had a moment where you felt prompted to encourage a stranger? Or where a stranger’s kindness impacted you?

I’d love to hear your story in the comments ✨

Gathered Thoughts
family adventures, pnw, Review, travel

Snowshoeing Bullion Basin at Crystal Mountain: A Family Winter Adventure

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Snowshoeing at Crystal Mountain was quite the adventure for our family. We arrived early and found parking in the lot where the snowshoe routes start which was a huge blessing!

We geared up and then headed toward the Bullion Basin snowshoe route. We decided to do the Blue Bell Loop since it was our first time snowshoeing this area.

As we climbed higher, the views began peeking out everywhere. Openings in the trees revealed layers of snow-covered ridgelines, and on clear days you can catch breathtaking glimpses of Mount Rainier rising in the distance like we did …amazing!!Each clearing felt like a reward for the work it took to get there.

Bullion Basin isn’t a flat winter stroll. It’s a steady uphill climb that definitely gets your heart rate up. But that’s part of what made it feel like an accomplishment. The higher we climbed, the better the views became.

Near the top, parts of the route connected with ski terrain, so the trail became shared with skiers descending. Staying alert added a layer of awareness that kept us moving and paying attention.

And then came the descent.

It was steep — especially with packed snow underfoot. We took our time, used trekking poles, encouraged each other, and carefully made our way down. Snowshoeing downhill can sometimes feel trickier than the climb up, but slow and steady wins.I switched to my spikes and was much more confident going down.

By the time we reached the bottom, our legs were tired, our cheeks were cold, and we were ready for a warm cup of Cocoa and /or Coffee.

What to Know Before Snowshoeing Bullion Basin

📍Location: Crystal Mountain Resort, Washington

❄️Trail Area: Lower mountain designated snowshoe & uphill route

💪Difficulty: Moderate (steady elevation gain)

❄️Best Season: December–March

🅿️ Parking Information

Crystal Mountain operates a reservation-based parking system during peak winter season (especially weekends and holidays).

Parking fees typically range from $10–$40 depending on demand and lot location.

Carpool vehicles (4+ people) may qualify for free parking in select lots.

Reservations should be made online in advance.

Arriving early is highly recommended.

What to Bring

Snowshoes

Trekking poles (very helpful for descent)

Waterproof layers

Warm gloves and hat

Snacks and water

Microspikes for icy conditions or for descending

Winter adventures like this stretch everyone — physically and mentally — but they also build confidence and shared memories that last long after the snow melts.

If you’re looking for a Washington winter adventure that feels both challenging and rewarding, Bullion Basin at Crystal Mountain is absolutely worth adding to your list.

Family activity, homeschooling

Free 2026 Winter Olympics Checklist (Printable)

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faith, Gathered thoughts, history, Review, Texas, travel

From Texas Roots to Magnolia Market & Silos: A Faith-Filled Trip to Waco

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Absolutely love this ❤️ What is your story?

We had a short window to visit Waco and an opportunity to visit Magnolia, and I’m so thankful we made it work! I hadn’t been to Waco for over 20 years, and setting my feet back on Texas soil reminded me that I’m every bit Texas as the day I left , even with my Washington roots now. It’s funny how travel can make you reflect on where you come from and where you are now⭐️

So much history ⭐️ Travel + Field Trip

This city holds a rich history and it’s so deep in my roots that all of it came flooding back as soon as we landed in Dallas. So many memories of growing up here , and so many new adventures waiting to be discovered with Magnolia being at the top of our list .

Magnolia was absolutely delightful! We tried to take it all in and enjoy every part of it—soaking in all the decor, shopping, treats, and the many Insta-worthy spots. Walking around, it felt like stepping into a modern version of history, where every detail—from the buildings to the vintage-inspired decor—tells a story.

Magnolia Market
The Holiday Shop
Homebody

One of our first stops was the church right in the middle of it all. It was beautiful, steeped in history, and reminded me of how faith has long been a cornerstone of communities here and in my own life . Standing in that space, I couldn’t help but pause and reflect on the generations who had gathered there before us .

A beautifully restored Chapel ❤️

So beautiful at night ⭐️

The shops were all decorated for the holidays and so welcoming. I loved that they offered a ship-to-home option, so I could shop without worrying about packing everything into my luggage—a little luxury that made travel feel so smooth.

The bakery was a sweet little highlight! My little one picked out a gingerbread cupcake, and just the smell of the fresh baked goods was enough to make us pause in delight. Moments like these remind me that travel isn’t just about the sights—it’s about the wonderful smells of fresh baked goods, brewing coffee and so many other little joys along the way.

I was most excited to try Magnolia Press. I ordered an iced Americano, and it hit the spot. If you’re planning on shopping as well, be sure to look for deals in the stores—they had a free drink with the purchase of a mug, during the time we visited.

So many Insta-worthy Stops

One of the unique collaborations I discovered was the Silos Watercolor book by Emily Lex . I loved it! My littles love her watercolor books ❤️ And with her being from Washington, it made me reflect on my own journey—how life and travel can connect distant places and memories, tying together past, present, and faith in unexpected ways.

Love these watercolor workbooks! Perfect for Homeschool Art Classes

Washington is my home now—and for as long as God keeps me there—but Waco will always be part of my story. Years ago, when I packed up my life and moved west, I had no idea how it would all unfold. Looking back now, I can see Gods hand in every step, every transition, and every place that shaped me along the way. I’m deeply thankful for the way God continues to orchestrate the details, faithfully writing a story far greater than I could have planned myself ❤️

If you’ve ever returned to a place that shaped you, I’d love to hear your story. What city, season, or moment did God use to grow you—even if you didn’t understand it at the time? Share in the comments or save this post as a reminder that He’s still writing your story ❤️

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭143‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Check out our Reel below ⬇️

coffee, pnw, Review, travel

Roost Café & Bakery: A Cozy Coffee & Bakery Gem in Pullman, Washington

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Nestled in the historic BellTower building in downtown Pullman, Roost Café & Bakery blends a neighborhood feel with honest, carefully made food and coffee. The café’s large windows, warm wood tones, and friendly staff make it an inviting spot whether you’re on a quick coffee run or lingering with a laptop to work or study.

A few things we really loved about Roost was the many house-made elements they offered: syrups, pastries, and rotating seasonal flavors. Their attention to simple, fresh ingredients is what keeps locals coming back.

Roost Café & Bakery is more than a quick pit stop — it’s a warm, community-minded cafe that captures the best of Pullman’s small-town charm. Whether you’re grabbing a breakfast sandwich or lingering over a latte, Roost gives you a little taste of PNW hospitality.

     

   

coffee, disney

Starting my day with a Snow White kind of cozy ☕🍎

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Getting cozy with the perfect cup of coffee as we snuggle up to watch the Snow White Movie 🍎
Any Snow White Fans ?

pnw, Review, travel

Village Books and Paper Dreams Bookstore ~Fairhaven ,Wa

redeemingbeautyfamilyadventures

Village Books and Paper Dreams Bookstore in Fairhaven located in Bellingham,Wa, is a great place to visit and grab an espresso ,visit with a friend and pick up a new book.
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They offer new and used books as well as stationary,cards and lots of fun gifts for the book lover in your life.


The cafe is a great place to meet with a friend in a cozy setting with a living wall . Such a fun atmosphere!

Gathered thoughts

First Day of Autumn 🍂

redeemingbeautyfamilyadventures

Crisp air, cozy sweaters, and falling leaves 🍁
Happy 1st day of Autumn 🍂