I’ll never forget my first visit to Seattle. I was pregnant with our first child and we decided to visit family while exploring the city. We stayed downtown and I ate Molly Moon’s ice cream daily (Lavender + Earl Grey, always). We did several touristy things – explored Pike Place market, visited the Fremont Troll, and ate some delicious food. It was a short trip, but left a lasting impression.

Years later we were given the opportunity to move to Seattle and couldn’t resist the beauty of the Pacific North West. It was a bittersweet move, leaving family behind and having to start over, but also such an exciting adventure.

One of the benefits to a completely different area, whether it’s a different part of your state or farther, is the excitement of all the new. It really feels like the world is your oyster, with so many new things to see and do. There are some locals who have seen less of Washington than I have, which is tragic.

For anyone looking to visit Seattle (or maybe move one day?!?) I thought I would be fun to share the perspective of a local, with a fresh perspective. I hope that you get the chance to enjoy Seattle and the PNW as much as I have.