My family just got back from a week long vacation in Washington. It was such a great experience! We hiked Suldoch Falls, went deep sea fishing for halibut, visited the Museum of Flight and the Seattle Space Needle, spent some time on Rialto Beach, and spent a day enjoying beautiful Friday Harbor. I loved being able to enjoy this beautiful earth we live on, and meet people and see places I've never been before. Even more than that- I loved spending time with the people I love more than anything- my wonderful husband and two beautiful children. All around it was a wonderful experience for everyone.

One of the coolest things of the whole trip was visiting Pike Place Market. It is known throughout the world- and I just have to say- it is so cool! If you are ever planning a visit to Seattle, this has got to be on your list! We easily spent 3 hours there, and could have spent many more if we had had the money and/or time! (The only reason we left after 3 hours is because they were closing. I probably could have spent all day there!).

There were so many craft merchants- and they each had so much talent! I couldn't believe how many things were actually homemade- it really made me want to work on developing some of the talents I have! There were beautiful leather journals, crocheted hats, wood carvings, scarves, jewelry, paintings, satchels/bags, lavender products, natural/organic lotions, t-shirts, etc. Everything looked amazing. I wish I had taken more pictures! Not only were the products fun to look at, but the people were so interesting to talk to. There are merchants there from all different walks of life- but each one we met was so friendly! It was fun just getting to know the merchants and learning how they each made their unique crafts.

And then there was the food. First off, it's Washington, so everything is green and beautiful anyway- but the trees are not the only things that grow well in the Evergreen State! The produce was so beautiful- deep reds and greens, everything looked plump and delicious. I shared an apple with my son and it was so so good! If you ever go to these kinds of markets, you have to try the produce, because it's awesome! And the displays are just so fun to look at. So many strawberries and lettuce heads and apples and every fruit and veggie you can think of!

In addition, all the fish and meat is out on display; every so often the merchants will actually start singing and toss the fish in a little routine just for fun. It was really so fun to look at.

But it wasn't just the produce- they had so many other delicious things to try! And there were many free samples available. One of my personal favorites were the OMG! olive oils. They have some really unique flavors- like Cinnamon Pear-Lime White Balsamic Vinegar or Dark Chocolate Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar? Sounds so weird, but is actually really good. My personal favorite was the Honey Ginger Teriyaki Marinade & BBQ Sauce- I just couldn't resist getting a bottle. I can't wait to use it for some delicious meals for my family! (I included their website in my sources just in case any of you wanted to look around their site and try something!) There were also all sorts of jams, chocolate covered cherries, candied nuts, baked goods, pastas: heaven for anyone who enjoys spending time in the kitchen- whether it's for cooking or eating!

I'm definitely planning on visiting Seattle again- and Pike Place Market will definitely be on the list of things to do! Have any of you visited Pike Place Market, or been to any other craft merchant/farmer markets? What were some of your favorite finds? I would love to hear all about it!