This getaway not only came at the perfect time, but was also the perfect location to celebrate my best friend's birthday and show my mom, who was visiting from Colorado, an authentic PNW experience. The five of us took full advantage of the glass-enclosed porch by drinking Champagne around the fire then spent the whole next day digging for clams and oysters in preparation for my friend's birthday celebration.

I also decided to take my friend on a little rowboat adventure, which will no doubt be a life-long memory for us. My mom was blown away by the beauty of Western Washington and I was so thrilled to be able to share this experience with her. Even though it was a really wet few days, we managed to get outside and enjoy all that the backyard had to offer when the rain allowed. My boyfriend kept the fire going in the living room fireplace to keep everyone cozy and the whole thing felt like a family getaway – this spot was absolutely perfect!