The North Cascades will always hold a special place in my heart. It is here where we sought solace after our son passed away. It is here where we made the first steps to picking back up the pieces of our life and creating happy memories again just the two of us. Being in North Cascades fills me with peace and reminds me how hope and love can get you through the most trying of times. Normally we come here for our son's birthday in October, but since we are expecting another little one in October we decided to come earlier rather than forgo our trip all together. It only seemed fitting to pair a baby moon of sorts with the celebration of our son's brief, but impactful life.

There are a couple of places we like to stay when we visit Mazama, but one of our favorites is the Freestone Inn. The property is peaceful, the inn rooms offer beautiful views, soaking tubs and large stone fireplaces. Most importantly some of our most precious memories as a grieving couple where forged here.

The entire North Cascades highway is jam packed with beautiful lookouts and expansive views. You could easily spend an entire day stopping at each point of interest along the way and snapping breathtaking photos at each stop.

The main lodge, reading room and back deck of the Freestone Inn.

A beautiful vista while hiking to Blue Lake.

Enjoying an afternoon and the marshy shoreline to ourselves at Cutthroat Lake.

Walking around the property at Sun Mountain Lodge.

Diablo Lake

An impromptu maternity photo shoot at Sun Mountain Lodge.

The ever important stop at Sheri's in downtown Winthrop for chocolate covered oreos and caramel squares. I literally crave these things the moment we arrive in Mazama.

There are endless hiking trails, lakes, and places to explore in the North Cascades. It is a treasure trove for the nature lover or outdoor enthusiast.