coffee, pnw, Review, travel

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

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 ⬇️

faith, Gathered thoughts

A Morning Prayer Before the Day Begins

There is something so sweet about the morning.

Before the noise.

Before the notifications.

Before the responsibilities start calling our name.

Psalms 143 reminds me that the first voice I need to hear each day is not the voice of the world — but the voice of the Lord. David’s prayer is simple and honest: Let me hear of your unfailing love. Not productivity. Not success. Not answers to every question. Just love.

Isn’t that what our hearts truly need?

When we begin the day grounded in God’s steadfast love, everything shifts. Our worries shrink. Our plans loosen their grip. Our striving softens. Trust grows.

And then comes the second request: Show me the way I should go.

Not five years from now. Not the full blueprint. Just the next faithful step.

That’s how walking with God works. Daily dependence. Morning by morning mercy. Guidance that meets us in real time.

Psalm 143:8 is a posture prayer. It’s surrender before strategy. Trust before timeline. It is choosing to entrust our lives — the messy, unfinished, beautiful whole of it — into faithful hands.

So tomorrow morning, before your feet hit the floor, whisper it:

“Lord, let me hear of Your unfailing love. Show me the way I should go.”

And trust that He will ❤️

faith, homeschooling, reading, Review

Growing in Faith Together: Why Between Us Has Been a Sweet Part of Our Homeschool Days

Between Us: A 52-Week Devotional for Moms and Daughters is one of the devotionals my daughter and I are working through this year, and it has been such a meaningful addition to our homeschool rhythm.

What I love most about this devotional is how interactive it is. Each week includes a short devotional followed by intentional conversation prompts. There are moments where my daughter asks me a question and I respond while she records my answer, and then the roles reverse—I get to ask her a question and hear her heart. Those simple exchanges have opened the door to deeper conversations and sweet connection that I didn’t even realize we were missing.

This devotional has been a gentle, faith-filled way to slow down, reflect, and grow together. It’s not overwhelming or time-consuming, which makes it easy to weave into our homeschool days, and it encourages both spiritual growth and meaningful communication.

Have you ever done a devotional with your daughter? I’d love to hear what has worked well in your home. Share in the comments or send me a message—these conversations encourage so many other moms walking the same journey ❤️

If you haven’t done one or you’re looking for a devotional that strengthens faith while also nurturing your relationship with your daughter, Between Us is one I highly recommend.

Deuteronomy 6:6–7 reminds us:

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭6‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

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

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

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.

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 ❤️

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 ⬇️

hiking, pnw, Review, travel

The Ultimate Family Stop After Exploring the Gorge ~ Thunder Island Brewing Co

Mountain View from the patio

Looking for the perfect post-hike stop in the Columbia River Gorge? Thunder Island Brewing Co in Cascade Locks offers Mountain View’s, craft beer brewed with adventure in mind, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re coming off the trails near Bridge of the Gods or just exploring the Gorge with your kids, this spot is the ideal place to unwind, refuel, and take in those incredible river views.


This is one of our favorite stops when we are hiking in the Columbia Gorge area. The restaurant/ Brewery is beautiful and who can resist a staircase that reminds you of Dog Mountain? Love it!

Always the more difficult ! Love this reference to Dog Mountain



They offer a great mix of food .. burgers to tofu ! We were pleased with the many choices and having such a large group it really was great we could all order something we liked.


Thunder Mountain Brewery Co perfectly captures what we love most about the Pacific Northwest: community, craftsmanship, and the great outdoors. Whether you’re winding down after a family hike or planning your next mountain adventure, this cozy brewery is the perfect place to raise a glass to good trails and great company.

coffee, pnw, Review, travel

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


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.

     

   

Family activity, Gathered thoughts

Simple Ways to Enjoy Fall Together (Free Autumn Bucket List Inside!)

There’s something about fall that invites us to slow down — the golden leaves, crisp hikes, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin-scented everything. It’s a season meant for togetherness and gratitude, and I’ve created something special to help you make the most of it! 🍂 My Free Autumn Bucket List is filled with simple, meaningful ways to enjoy fall as a family — from outdoor adventures and cozy nights in, to moments that remind us of God’s goodness in every season. Whether you check off every idea or just a few favorites, this list will help you savor the beauty of autumn .

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, may this season remind you to slow down, breathe , and find joy in the simple things — a walk through the leaves, laughter around the table, or a quiet moment with a cup of coffee and your Bible. 💛

If you’re ready to make the most of this beautiful season, download your Free Autumn Bucket List below! It’s a fun way to stay intentional and create memories that will last long after the leaves have fallen.

📩 [Click below to subscribe and get your Free Autumn Bucket List printable!]

I would love to see how your family is enjoying fall! Tag me on social media @redeemingbeautyfamilyadventures or share your favorite bucket list moments in the comments — let’s embrace all the cozy, joy-filled moments this season brings. 🍁

coffee, disney

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

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

Gathered thoughts

Fall Bucket List 🍁

Make time for some of your favorite Fall activities 🍁
.
What’s the first thing you’re checking
off your fall bucket list this year? 🍂

Gathered thoughts

First Day of Autumn 🍂

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