• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Lavenda's Closet

  • HOME
  • YOUTUBE
  • MY CLOSET
  • PRESS
  • ABOUT
  • Personal Styling

Collaborations, LadyLike Style, Outfit Of the Day

4 April 2016

Staycation in Portland- Cheap and Chill

When you’re strapped for cash, but going nutty from too much- well, life- it’s time to plan a Staycation!

EJ Coat CV heels 02

This happens to me often as a free-lancer, (the going nutty part) since my work can often feel never-ending and often bleeds into my personal and family time. When I finally manage to carve out an ENTIRE weekend and put my email on auto-response, I am soooo grateful for a few glorious days off the bloggers- grid.

If you’re like me and you have finally planned a staycation with the intent to literally stay-at-home, but then find yourself going crazy with the presence of everydaylife in each room- (I mean, hellooooo laundry) there’s always the option to check into a local hotel. Sometimes just a small, quiete room where you can unwind, make a mess and chill for a night or two is the answer.

Coat and Cynthia Vincent Heels-115

EJ Coat CV heels 01

Coat and Cynthia Vincent Heels-101

I chose the Aloft hotel which is only 10 minutes from my house, because of their pool, modern decor and great bar scene. I mostly wanted to try a night here, because of the indoor pool, which is surrounded by nearly 4 walls of glass to let the (sometimes minimal) sun shine in. You know what this means right? Sunshine + pool guaranteed nearly year round. HELLO. They had me at indoor pool.

aloft hotel

The second thing I wanted to do during my Staycation was to walk around and enjoy the sites; Get my mind off work and make sure there were no computers in site.

I’ve listed a few ideas for FREE outdoor activities if you want to stay within the city. During my Staycation I personally checked both one and two off this list.

Free Activities for your Stay-cation:

  1. Take a scene walk across the new walking bridge, Tilikum Crossing for an inspiration view of the city.
  2. Get your fill of window shopping on 23rd ave, a gorgeous strip that includes many boutiques and local cafes.
  3. Stop and smell the roses at our internation Rose test Garden- Washington Park.
  4. Pack a lunch and go for a picnic at Cathedral Park where you can view St Johns Bridge up close.
  5. Wear something comfy and go for a hike at Hoyt Arboretum.

When it comes to local food, I am kind of a snob. We are so spoiled in Portland. I used to think that the Vegan options were narrow, but more and more amazing restaurants keep popping up to fill the void.

We tried to sneak into our favorite sushi spot- Bamboo Sushi on 23rd, but the wait was crazyyyy long, so instead we grabbed a table at my FAVORITE peruvian restaurant, Andinas. Jose and I enjoyed a light dinner with drinks and a sinfully decadent desert- creme brulette. (BTW You have to special order the “Sexy Woman” which is not on the menu but an oh-so-amazing sweet & spicy drink!)

Dina_Avila_Bamboo_Sushi_West_End-3508.0-1

Photo from PDX.EATER.COM

Here are a couple more spots I recommend for dinner:

  1. Andinas– Family style plates with a burst of flavor in each dish. My favorites are the Yuca Frita, Yuca Rellena & Pimiento Piquillo Rellenos!
  2. Departure– Great drinks, delicious sushi and bipbimbop with THE best rooftop View!
  3. Bamboo Sushi– I recommend the 23rd location and you MUST sit at the bar and have them make you some custom dishes!
  4. Clark Lewis– Italian dishes you will LOVE and a great vibe. Love the East side location and their wine selection.
  5. Natural Selection- This rivals any other Vegan restaurant I’ve tried here! So delicious I think this is a must-try for meat-eaters too!

Here’s my look of the day at Aloft. Check out what I wore to Tilikum Crossing and 23rd avenue (same Cynthia Vincent sandals from Shoes.com) HERE.

EJ Coat CV heels 04

I’m super stoked on my RTR Unlimited subscription. I’ve received all three of my items and despite one missing belt (for this pictured coat) everything arrived in pristine condition and so quickly- I barely blinked!

I’m in love with this oversized Elizabeth and James Bebe coat for Spring, which will ward off the rain and chill, yet allow me to wear less layers beneath. Isn’t the popcorn knit so fun? I’m excited to offer my readers $20 off their first time rental. Just use this 20off link for guess what? 20 bucks off babes! 

EJ Coat CV heels 03Coat and Cynthia Vincent Heels-109EJ Coat CV heels 05Coat and Cynthia Vincent Heels-111EJ Coat CV heels 06

SHOP MY LOOK: (And don’t forget to see how else I styled these gorgeous Pembroke Sandals HERE)

  1. Elizabeth and James Bebe Coat (Get 20% off your rental with THIS LINK)
  2. Bag Inc Crossbody (ON SALE)
  3. Cynthia Vincent Pembroke Sandals
  4. Forever21 Romper (sold out) Similar
  5. Celine Sunglasses (older) NEW Season

 

 

 

 

Newer Posts
Older Posts

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Comments

  1. stylemelauren says

    April 7, 2016 at 5:07 pm

    Loving that fun coat and those sandals…the sandals are so fab! XO

    @stylemelauren
    http://www.stylemelauren.com

    Reply
    • lavendamemory@gmail.com says

      April 29, 2016 at 12:44 am

      Thanks so much babe! I really love these shoes so it’s easy to throw a look together with them 🙂

      Reply

Primary Sidebar

Lavenda's Closet

Meet Lavenda

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Recent Posts

Newport Family Beach Trip: Agate Beach Best Western

Maternity Beach Shoot: Cannon Beach

The Maternity Edit: 5 Looks you Need in Your Closet for 2nd Trimester

Advertise Onlavendascloset
Get Started
Follow

@lavendascloset

Felt a little saucy in this dress, so I had to do Felt a little saucy in this dress, so I had to do a little dance. 🎶💃🏻 #RevolveU #7MonthsPregnant

This is cut so beautifully, that it will fit at any point of your pregnancy, even pre and post! I love the huge, puffy sleeves and flirty hemline. Just have to get a better bra option, since the ones I have don’t quite give me the coverage I want for the low-V. 🙈 #LukeAndLavenda

The sun was a gorgeous red this entire shoot, (from smoke blowing in I believe). 😰 But even still, it made for a lovely sunset.

Shop my #maternitystyle now! Dresses like this seem to sell out quick! http://liketk.it/2YI70 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #ltkpregnancy #ltkmaternity

#maternitystyle #maternityfashion #lavendalately #oregonblogger #powellbutte #maternityshoot #maternitydresses #pregnancyfashion #revolveambassador
This girlie turns 11 next week and I just can’t This girlie turns 11 next week and I just can’t believe how quickly it continues to go by!

While we don’t ever “get it right” as parents, I’ve been pretty blessed to see Ella’s knowledge and love for God continue to grow over the last few years, which gives me the greatest confidence in her future being a bright one! Who’s a better influence, am I right?

Growing up, I didn’t have a mom who consistently loved and cared for me, so it wasn’t modeled for me in those early years. As I grew up, I was blessed to get a peak into other homes and spend time with other family members who modeled a healthier dynamic of parent to child for me, but because of my childhood I’ve often lacked the confidence that my instincts are on track with Ella. Now that I have three girls and a fourth kiddo on the way, I am relieved to see that A: Ella is doing alright so far. And B: God offers age-old wisdom in the Bible for those of seeking parenting  advice.

Be kind, gentle and patient. Teach and stand up for the truth. 

Anyhow, just taking a pause to reflect on where I’ve been and where we are today. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and retreat into reactionary mode with our kids. I know I have during this “new normal”. But slowing down, cutting back and taking the time to reflect on our goals can be SO healing and refreshing. Thankful for Luke, who lovingly shares the load so that I’m not alone in it... 

I hope you all have a great week, despite the hustle. Lots of love from one mama to another. 😉

#familyfirst #lavendalately #portlandblogger #familyblogger #christianblogger #salishanresort
Besos y Besos 🥰 #7monthspregnant #pinkblushma Besos y Besos 🥰 

#7monthspregnant
#pinkblushmaternity
27 weeks PREGNANT tomorrow! I can’t believe how 27 weeks PREGNANT tomorrow! I can’t believe how fast it’s still flying by. Hopefully it’s smooth sailing all the way till delivery.

In the meantime, anyone want to help me pick out the perfect white crib? 😰
#pregnancyfashion #pregnancystyle #portlandphotographer #maternityfashion
Who knew I’d end up with such a hunky baby daddy Who knew I’d end up with such a hunky baby daddy, am I right, or am I right? 🙋🏽‍♀️😜 #RevolveU 

Almost 7 months along and Luke’s hair is growing right alongside this #BabyBump. He keeps getting “you look like Auqua Man” which I don’t quite see. What about you? 🤪  #LukeAndLavenda

Anyhow, thanks SO much @baileavesphotography for capturing this gorgeous shot! My dress is fully in stock and I linked up the hat too! More photos from this shoot coming soon. http://liketk.it/2Ym5f #liketkit @liketoknow.it #ltkmaternity

#maternitystyle #maternityfashion #pregnancystyle #pregnancystyle #27weekspregnant #7monthspregnant #portlandblogger #lablogger #maternityshoot #maternitydress #revolveXme #revolvesummer #couplegoals #cutestcouple
TOP HACK for shopping non-maternity dresses during TOP HACK for shopping non-maternity dresses during your pregnancy?

Look for smocked dresses and/or tops for a super flexible waistline. I prefer them to be cut a-line or babydoll so that it accentuates my baby bump. This dress was a super cute date-night find that I’ll layer up with boots all Fall.

Anyone else pulling out their tall boots already? Shop the look here: http://liketk.it/2YiyL #liketkit @liketoknow.it #ltkmaternity

#maternityfashion #pregancyfashion #pregnancystyle #portlandblogger #27weekspregnant #bcbgeneration
Anyone wanna dust 2020 off their boots and join me Anyone wanna dust 2020 off their boots and join me in the new year already? #LetsGo!

Wearing last seasons TopShop dress over the #babybump but linked up some similar options for ya! Also found some majorly cute white combat boots starting at $65!!

 http://liketk.it/2YcpW #liketkit @liketoknow.it #ltkmaternity

#pregnancystyle #pregnancyfashion #portlandblogger #fallfashion #lavendascloset #lavendalately
Snagged this dress for $12 without trying it on! E Snagged this dress for $12 without trying it on! Ended up fitting quite nice for our date night last week!

One piece of advice I received years and years ago, was “marriage will always take intention and work, so make time for it.” Thus, a weekly date night. ☺️

#LukeAndLavenda

#portlandcouple #cutestcouples #maternityfashion #maternitydresses #pregnancystyle #lavendalately
Okay, so it’s finally beginning to look and feel Okay, so it’s finally beginning to look and feel like FALL 🍂 around here. I’m both excited and absolutely dreading this season. (More on that in a sec.) first thing’s first: can we talk about how gooooood these overalls for mama-to-be’s?

Linked up this exact pair, though I recommend sizing up, or selecting the pair I found on ASOS if you’re already quite prominent or in your third trimester. (The fit on these is quite small.)

Also found these @stellamcartney sneakers for 30% off which is a steal on this designer splurge. 

Now, back to reality: Can we please talk about how the “new normal” relies on millions of mamas (and papas too) to choose between their career and caring for their kids? After failing my first quiz of the term, (I waited till the last day to turn it in, which was the first full day I had without kiddos, only to discover the hours of reading, study and notes were in vain. It had been due to DAY PREVIOUS 😱) I’m finding myself considering the possibility that I can’t “do it all” right now. Between the girls virtual school schedule, my college schedule and my beloved blog, (not to mention the daily challenges of an active pregnancy) I’m finding myself stretched too thin to succeed at ANY OF THEM. Trust me, Luke is in the same boat. He has to help with our littlest ones, while maintaining a full time job as well.

I mean, how’s everyone doing? What kind of cut-backs and compromises are parents making out there? Delegation is great, if you have the resources, but I know not everyone can afford tutors and private sitters in a world that has CANCELED affordable childcare.

Asking for a friend. 🙄

http://liketk.it/2Y493 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #maternitystyle

#portlandblogger #babybump #maternityfashion #lablogger #lavendalately #pregnancystyle #pregnancyfashion #prettyinpinkblush
26 WEEKS PREGNANT! Two weeks from my third trimest 26 WEEKS PREGNANT! Two weeks from my third trimester and feeling pretty good so far. 

Best part? I can eat a whole steak dinner by myself now ( Sorry Luke 🤪)!!

Trying to stay toned with a few weight workouts each week, but missing the gym to be honest. We’ll see how much weight I end up gaining by the end. Any guesses?

#26weekspregnant #maternitystyle #pregnancystyle #pregnancyfashion #lavendalately #portlandblogger #hutchdesign
Just after these shots, I cut two inches off my ha Just after these shots, I cut two inches off my hair. Does anyone else do self-trims from home? 

Get my #BabyBump style on the @liketoknow.it app or hit up my stories to shop similar styles! This mini Gucci is such a classic and one of their most affordable bags. All linked up and ready to shop! http://liketk.it/2XQB8 #liketkit #ltkmaternity 

#26weekspregnant #secondtrimester #maternitystyle #maternityfashion #pregnancyfashion #portlandblogger
26 WEEKS PREGNANT in just 3 days!!! That’s two 26 WEEKS PREGNANT in just 3 days!!! 

That’s two weeks away from the 3rd trimester and I still haven’t picked out a crib 🙈 Help!! I’ve gotten the hang of layering the #BabyBump as it continues to grow exponentially at this point. The girls keep staring at me with wide eyes and asking where my stomach went. 🤣🤪

You can shop my #RevolveU look fresh on the site. Wearing the blazer & jacket in an XS. Shoes are on sale and so is my leather tote bag! Shop them here: http://liketk.it/2XMfb 

Or double tap to have it sent via email/the @liketoknow.it app. ❤️ Not on there? Check out my stories for a link. #liketkit #ltkmaternity #ltkstyle #revolveme 

#babybumpstyle #maternitystyle #maternityfashion #pregnancystyle #pregnancyfashion #6monthspregnant #giginewyork
Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2021 · Lavenda's Closet · Designed by Small Shop & Developed by Bella Creative Studio