Menu

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

Last week I spent a day at the Nutrilite Center for Optimal Health in Buena Park, California for a health and nutrition event hosted by Amway. Yes, you know, that Amway. The person at the party you don’t want to talk to because they’ll try to sell you something? Note: I am not affiliated with Amway in any way, but was invited to this event along with Jenny from Picky Palate, Emily from Busy Mommy, and Lori from 24/7 Moms for a comprehensive health assessment to determine the best health management program for my genetic type. My genetic type. I was a bit skeptical at first, but my curiosity got the better of me. I couldn’t resist. And I am relieved to report that no one tried to sell me anything or tried to get me to sell anything the entire time I was there! Whew.

The day started with having my blood drawn, blood pressure taken, and an ultrasound on my carotid artery to monitor plaque build up. Then we moved on to a bone density test, flexibility test, physical fitness tests to determine cardio and core strength, and a body fat percentage test. To my relief, the scale I stepped on to determine the percentage of body fat was almost exactly like this scale that I gave away on my blog earlier this year, and the results were exactly the same as my scale at home. I’d always wondered if that thing was really accurate! Now I know.

And finally, we did a DNA swab.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

What completely fascinated me about the DNA swab was that their studies have shown it’s possible to determine the the best health and weight management program for a person by their genetic type. Basically we learned that people are genetically disposed to perform optimally on one of three diets: low carb, low fat (which would be high carb), or a balance of both healthy carbs and fats. And you know what surprised me? Only a very low percentage of the population — less than 20% — perform optimally on the balanced diet. Around 40% do best on low carb, and approximately another 40% do best on low fat. And you know what else was really surprising to me? Eating a diet opposite of what you are genetically predisposed for can cause you to gain weight. So it’s possible there are those out there strictly adhering to a low carb diet or a low fat diet and still gaining weight. The results of my tests will be here in a few weeks and I can’t wait to see what they say!

After our morning of fitness, we had a totally laid-back lunch with Nutrilite’s new spokesperson, Kurt Warner. And in a room full of giggling girls, there was a whole lot more talk about his episodes on Dancing With the Stars than his two-time MVP NFL career. :) He also told us about his wife’s new book, One Call Away, and it will be my next read. Her story sounds amazing.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

The next morning we were up bright and early again for a day trip to Nutrilite’s Trout Lake Farm in Washington. For this quick trip we had the amazing opportunity to take the Amway private jet from beautiful California to Portland, Oregon, where we drove over into Washington.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

No lines. No waiting. No security. No seat backs in their upright and locked position. Just go to the airport and get on the plane! I could get used to this kind of travel.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

This was our breakfast on the plane. An amazing breakfast burrito with salsa and guacamole and a giant bowl of fresh, delicious fruit. Definitely not your average airplane meal!

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

This was my view for most of the trip.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

This little basket of snacks was sitting right next to me.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

When we were preparing for landing, they asked if I’d like to go up to the cockpit and sit in the jump seat. Me??!

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

But who am I to argue? I grabbed my camera and took off before I had a chance to change my mind!

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

Making a big turn for landing…

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

Flying over the river, which is the Washington/Oregon state line, and runs parallel to the runways at PDX. Almost there!

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

About to land! We’re right over the runway. I have to tell you. I don’t know if it was because I was in the cockpit, or because it was a private jet, or because our pilot was incredibly skilled, but that landing was without question the smoothest landing I have ever experienced. If my eyes were closed, I honestly don’t think I would’ve been able to tell you when the wheels touched down.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

On the way to lunch we made a quick stop at Multnomah Falls.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

How beautiful was this waterfall. Many people there were hiking all the way to the top!

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

After lunch we drove over the river into Washington.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

This was my first visit to the Pacific Northwest and gorgeous views blew me away.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

Trout Lake Farm is the largest certified organic herb farm in North America. Their primary crops include blueberries, echinacea, oregano, peppermint, dandelions, lemon balm and white kidney beans.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

The views were just stunning. You could look one way and see Mount Hood…

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

And look the other way and see Mount Adam.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

Pretty.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

My favorite part of the farm was visiting the blueberry fields. We wandered their giant blueberry field with rows and rows of blueberry bushes as far as the eye could see.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

There were 14 different varieties of blueberries at Trout Lake Farm, and not only did they all taste different, but they all looked different as well.

Day Trip to Trout Lake Farm

They were delicious, sweet, and perfectly sun warmed. I could live there. Give me some frozen yogurt and I’d be in heaven.

Oh by the way! See that football I’m holding up there in the photo with Kurt Warner? The one where I’m sweating and wearing yoga pants and workout clothes? I got it signed by Kurt and brought it back as a souvenir for a special Kevin and Amanda reader. Cause I love you guys. If you or someone you know would love this football, just leave me a note in the comments section of this post before midnight tonight. I’ll draw a winner on Thursday and announce it here on this post on Friday. See you then!

The winner of the Kurt Warner football is #203 Barbara Ford. Congrats Barbara! I’ve sent you an email.

You May Also Like:

241 Responses
  1. Christina Richmond

    Just saw this post….welcome to the GREAT Pacific NW. You hit some hot spots, especially Voo Doo Donuts. Hope you had a good time and get to see more. Bring the dogs, they’ll love it.

  2. Anna G.

    I just about burst with PDX pride as I read your post today. I love my city – and especially Cupcake Jone’s red velvet. :) You have to come back and get the big ones next time; the little ones don’t have the filling in the middle!

    My kids are avid sports fans and would be beyond thrilled to get an autographed football!

  3. Liz N

    I do know a special person who would LOVE an autographed football signed by Kurt Warner! ME! Thanks for the chance to win. I loved all your photos…all GORGEOUS!

  4. Liz N

    I sure do know someone who would love the autographed football by Kurt Warner!! Thanks for the chance to win. I love all your photos from your recent trips. Gorgeous!

  5. Lisa Y.

    What a small world…my family owns a cabin about 5 minutes outside of Trout Lake. I’ve been camping there since I was about 10..and I’m 42 now! It is a really beautiful place..but I am partial to the PNW since I grew up here! Your photos are gorgeous.

  6. Kassie S

    That football would be awesome! I am an Iowan so I can remember being a little girl and watching Warner play in college at UNI! What a great opportunity!

  7. Sadie

    The hike to the top of those falls is absolutely gorgeous. And tiring. I’m very proud of making it to the top! I hope you had a good time in my city. You should plan a longer visit- food paradise with all the tasty carts and farm-to-table restaurants.

  8. Betsy

    Amanda!! So glad that you made it to Washington. Come visit more often. I have lived here all my life and love it!

  9. LaWanda Ross

    Hi Amanda ~ I do not know if it is too late to enter the drawing but I wanted to tell you that my husband is a diehard football fan. He has been since he was in diapers. To be able to have a football signed by Kurt Warner would be a dream come true for him. He is disabled; he has been since he was 21 (he is 44 now) and has missed out on so much. Needless to say that includes attending football games. I hope you will consider making his day. Thanks for at least reading my post.

    LaWanda (married to the most wonderful man in the world).

  10. Sarah Phillips

    Beautiful pictures! I lived in Hood River Oregon for 17 years and remember all those places fondly. Trout Lake is a great little place with wonderful farms and mountains!

  11. Michelle Torres

    How neat, I just recieved plenty of Nutrilite products today, I absolutely am in Love with the protein bars, meal bars and vitamins for me and my kiddos! Kurt Warner is awesome, and I would be so so happy to win this football signed by him!

    Michelle Torres
    decorater4life@aol.com

  12. Jenny

    Oh no! I’m probably too late. I LOVE football and my MIL is a huge Kurt Warner fan. Would LOVE LOVE LOVE to have this to either put in my football basement or give to her as a gift!!

  13. Kristin Murdock

    Hey Amanda! I don’t want the football, but I did just want to comment and say WOW what a fun opportunity! Definitely let us know how your results come back and if there is anything you will be doing differently in your diet when you find out the results. :) I have some other questions for you but I’ll email them to you! :) Have a great day.

  14. Mel H

    Oh would this be awesome to win. My hubby is a native of Des Moines…and remembers back when Kurt was just a Barnstormer, and sacked groceries in Hy-Vee after his career at UNI. He would be beyond thrilled to win. Kurt is an awesome individual…classy guy, with a great, never say die story!

  15. Tiffany

    What a fun trip! Every year my hubby and three kids do our own fantasy football league. Kurt Warner was one of our FAVES!! Thanks for sharing your amazing trip with us! Also the Trout Farm looks great! I should head up there from California. I would fit right in since our last name is Trout :)

  16. Kaylene

    you just made me so homesick I could cry. I’m from Oregon and moved to NC about 6 years ago for my husband. I’ve wanted to move back ever since. Some day…. but by now it’s beginning to feel like just a pipe dream :(

  17. Kari Donahue

    With a football coach for a hubby and a rookie with Dolphins the football would be an awesome surprise for our 25th anniversary!

  18. Dodie Watkins

    I am a huge fan and would love to win the football! Thanks so much for the beautiful Pacific Northwest pictures.

  19. Lisa Johnson

    My Mom is obsessed w/ Kurt and read his book and loved it and was always talking about what a great person he is, both inside and out, when he was on DWTS. I would love to give her that football for a surprise Christmas present.

  20. Tiffany

    Love it! I especially love this post because I am from Oregon, but transplanted to WV……you are one lucky girl! My son would love this football!

  21. michelle

    Wow, what an amazing trip. Looks like it was 1st class for you all the way. My fiance would love that football…I’d love to give it to him! :)

  22. Kim

    I would love this football. My community service charity group, Junior Service Club if St. Clair County (IL) could auction the football at one of our charity events. Since we are right across the river from St. Louis and Kurt was a beloved Ram-what could be more perfect!

  23. Debbie

    Hi Amanda,

    Love the pictures you took of the beautiful Pacific Northwest where I am blessed to live! I would love to win the football… it would be an awesome auction item for my Rotary club’s upcoming auction!

    Smiles,
    Debbie

  24. Melanie

    My husband is a huge Kurt Warner fan. This would be awesome to win for him. What a wonderful giveaway. Thank you.

  25. Susan Peoples

    I TRIED TO REMOVE THE EXTRA POSTING FOR DRAWING. I DID NOT SEE THE RESULT THAT IT HAD POSTED AND THEN IT POSTED 3 TIMES. HONESTLY DID NOT MEAN TOO.

  26. Susan Peoples

    I would love to win the autographed football by Kurt! Enjoyed your blog on this trip. Sounded AMAZING and I would love to know what my DNA would recommend!

  27. Susan Peoples

    I would love to win the autographed football by Kurt! Enjoed your blog on this trip. Sounded AMAZING and I would love to know what my DNA would recommend!

  28. Marti

    Kurt Warner is so amazing on the football field and off – he is an inspiration! You have out done yourself with the gorgeous pictures in this post, Amanda. Thanks so much.

  29. Kellie

    Dear Amanda, holy smokes. you may not realize it because you are just used to always taking amazing photos, but GOOD GRIEF your photography is amazing!! You make me want to go all the places you go and eat all the food you eat!

  30. Barbara Ford

    How interesting! We were big Amway distributors many years ago and have always loved the Nutrilite products. Your photography is AMAZING! Kurt Warner is one of my top two athlete superheros! We live near St. Louis, and about the last time I was interested in football was when he played for the Rams. Love your blog!

  31. Linda

    Gorgeous photos!!! My son would love the Kurt Warner football. He’s a fan and plays tight end/defensive end on our high school football team.

  32. Julie Daughdrill

    What a great trip! I love the pictures. I hope it is not too late to enter the contest for the football. I would really be the “favorite” grandmother!!

  33. Karen

    Well, look at you rubbing shoulders with Kurt Warner! How lucky can you be! I hope you got another signed football for Kevin!!

  34. Kelly

    Oooh fun!! I can’t believe you’d give it away, but I love the chance to win. PS I want to *be* Amanda!

  35. Jill Gardner

    My son would absolutely love to get his hands on that football!!! I love your blog and think it is so cool that you are giving this away!

  36. Shannon R

    As a St. Louis resident and Rams fan, that ball would be awesome!

    I’m very interested to hear about what the DNA swab has to say…the whole concept is interesting.

    Great pictures, as always.

  37. Bryanna

    I spent about a week in the Pacific Northwest last summer (my first time also) and just LOVED it! It is so fresh and beautiful.

    Oh, and my dad would be super stoked to have that football ;)

  38. Dawn

    I LOVE that you take photos the whole way! I am born and raised in WA state (though north of where you are) it really is gorgeous everywhere here. I can’t turn my head and not see something stunning!

    My hubbs would LOVE the signed football, if you are back in WA– I blog too and would love to get together!!

    Dawn

  39. Jen Knox

    Wow, breathtaking photos! I’ve never been to the Pacific Northwest and your photos illustrate to me exactly how it “feels” like that area of the country would be.

    Impressed at your bravery in the cockpit of the plane too! Not sure I’d like to be front and center like that, but it sounds thrilling!

    If you happen to choose me for the football, it would go to my sweet husband and eventually my son who are a football fanatic and fanatic-in-training. =) Thanks for the opportunity to win.

  40. Tara Drake

    Huge Kurt Fan! Also, would love to know how we can partake in all that health assessment! Sounds wonderful

  41. Cathy

    Welcome to the Pacific Northwest! Born and raised here!!
    My boys would LOVE the football! Enjoy your stay.

  42. Christina

    Your trip sounded amazing!! I was waiting days to hear where you went! Your pictures are astounding (as always)!! It is so interesting to hear the information that you learned. I can’t wait to hear your results…And my husband would love the football, he’s a HUGE sports fan :)

  43. Rene

    Wow! Sounds like a fantastic trip. You get to do the coolest things! Beautiful photos too. Almost feels like we were there with you. Thanks for sharing your experience. Would Love the football for my Son!!!

  44. Kristy

    What a wonderful experience and such beautiful pictures. Love football too! Thanks for the chance to win!

  45. Mindy

    Every morning I open my email box… scanning through (mostly junk email), then I see a Kevin & Amanda email! Every email includes beautiful pictures along with wonderfully written stories of your trips. It almost feels like you are taking us along with you on your journeys around the US. There is nothing more refreshing than waking up at 5am to beautiful pictures and stories so inspiring. Especially when you know the day ahead will be filled with stress. For your efforts to your readers, I am (we are all) thankful. I read every single word that you write, and it brings me such delight. For the moments of reading and seeing your photos I am transported into the journey that you share with us. This football is a nice gift for you to offer. It would be an excellent edition to my husband’s bookcase where he keeps two shelves of his NFL memorabilia. Adding this football of two-time MVP NFL star KURT WARNER.. would be an awesome gift for him! Thank you for being so kind to offer it to your readers. Sincerely, Mindy

  46. Diane @ Longaberger Lifestyle

    Amanda you do have great adventures!!
    Gotta tell you my favorite photo. The Longaberger Bagel Basket filled with goodies. It’s so fun to see Longaberger used in fun places like ‘your’ private jet.

  47. Ashley

    My boyfriend says Kurt Warner is amazing and he would love a chance to win the football! I think your trip looks amazing, the mountains are beautiful. I would love to live somewhere like that. I have lived only in Michigan and Florida, possibly the two flattest places on earth.

  48. Connie

    That football would, without question, make me the GRANDMOTHER OF THE GENERATION with my grandsons. Rock on!
    And, loved your post and pics. One of my best friends lives in PDX, as well as favorite cousin, so your pics make me feel closer to them today.
    Thanks!!!!

  49. Sabrina

    What an amazing trip!! Beautiful pictures:) My husband would love the signed football. He loves Kurt Warner.

  50. Susan M.

    What an awesome life you are living!!! And all that eye candy too. ;-) I’m talking about the blueberries of course! :)

  51. Alessi

    I just started reading your blog a couple weeks ago..I found it because of your homemade ice cream recipe! Your trip looked amazing and the pictures were gorgeous. My boyfriend and his family are huge football fans, while I know absolutely nothing about it (shh..it’s a secret)!

  52. Lisa Michelle

    I buy Amway products! I have taken their vitamins in the past and kinda slacked at buying them – they can be pretty expensive. But I do love thier laundry products!! I just happen to know a couple of my friends who are distributors for Amway. :-) Anyways, my boy would love that football!

    The pacific north west is a gorgeous part of the country. Glad you enjoyed it!

  53. Amanda

    Not only would my boyfriend loves the football but I would too! We are both huge supporters of Kurt and all that he does! He’s not to bad on the eyes either ;)

  54. Nicole White

    LOL! I have to say that when I read this (in the elevator at work with the maintenance man), I literally yelled “WHAT!!!??” You were literally five minutes from where I just moved from! I would give the world my precious celebrity memorabilia to shake your hand! LOL! Portland, OR is the greatest!!

  55. Debe H

    Wow- what great info about diets. Cant wait to see what your results say. The pictures were stunning especially the blueberries. There is one I would rather have framed than winning the football. However, I would still be happy with the football. I love your blog and am envious of your photography skills (and equipment). Have a great rest of the week.

  56. nicole

    I know someone in my family would like the football! I grew up just a few miles south of where Kurt spent some time playing football while in college.

    And honestly, I thought there were going to be pictures of a fish farm. Is there a lake nearby called Trout Lake? :)

  57. Mirlin

    If I am lucky enough to win I would have to draw names from a hat as I have eight brothers! Can’t play favorites! The pictures were beautiful.

  58. chris

    uh Kurt Warner. i’m dying here from jealousy! not cuz i’m hot for him but because #1 he is an incredible human being #2 i’m a huge sports dork(and i live in AZ)! he’s mos def in my top of favorite athletes!

    thanks for sharing your experience. i’m so jealous. i’m so jealous i just might write another comment, like later or next week WHEN IM STILL NOT OVER IT!

  59. Kim Witherspoon

    Thanks, Amanda, for allowing me to travel to so many fun places! I’m a southern gal who has been following your blog for a long time. I often wish you and Jenny were my bff’s Would love to travel with you guys! P.S. I have a young nephew who lost his dad (my brother) last September to a massive heart attack at the age of 44. I would love to be able to surprise him with the Kurt Warner football. Maybe I’ll get lucky!!!

  60. Patricia

    I’m really not interested in having the football, but I would love to know your skin care routine and what kind of make-up you wear. Your skin always looks so radiant. Have to admit, I’m a little jealous.

    Care to share?

  61. Christa

    Hey! I’ve been reading your blog for a while now but have never commented (thank you by the way for those cookie, Oreo, brownie things…amazing! I was the hit of my boyfriend’s birthday camping trip.
    On to the important stuff. I would love to have that football. My little brother recently took a job teaching English to kids in Korea and he will be gone an entire year. That’ss right, no birthdays or holidays celebrated together. I miss him terribly and his birthday is coming up in September. I’m trying to send him a package of things that will remind him of home and that football would be perfect! Thanks and keep up the great blog work ;)

  62. Christy T.

    Your pictures are beautiful! I would love to give the football to my cousin – he LOVES football!!!

  63. Tina Hicks

    Oh Amanda, What a fun trip you took! That is very informative info on the dieting stuff! Who would have Known? Anyway, I love reading your blog what an fun life you lead! You always have awesome giveaways and you are so generous with them! Thank you so much!
    Hugs!
    Tina

  64. LauraEmm

    Amanda! :) So glad you got to visit Oregon. I lived the first 20 years of my life there, and I loved it (my first “job” was picking blueberries!). Now I live in the Phoenix area, and we are huge Arizona Cardinals fans. My husband has a Kurt Warner jersey, and my 6-year-old son thinks he was the best QB ever! Plus, what a great role model he is! Thanks for the chance to win! :)

  65. Lisa

    I’m from arizona and love kurt warner and football. We miss him playing with the cardinals. Would love to win that football.

  66. Terri

    Hi Amanda!

    Wow! A football signed by Kurt Warner. My husband would really love me for that! Thanks for a great blog!

  67. Danielle

    I love the Northwest is the summer time. However I live in the Southwest, Phoenix, actually, and LOVE Kurt Warner! I can’t believe you’re going to give away that football! I know Instangram is all the rage right now, but I love your “regular” photography so much that I’ve been disappointed that you started using Instangram. Not today baby! Those pics are gorgeous! I love your blog. Thanks for doing it.

  68. Lydia

    My dad loves football and his birthday is on Labor Day. Would be a great gift. Looks like you had a great trip! How fun!!

  69. Nancy

    OHHHH..Amanda…I live my life through your blog! I love coming here to see what you are up to and to find out about so much. I just loved reading about Kurt Warner and his wife and their 7 kids! I am so going out and buying her book when I can afford it. Stories like theirs make me realize I could be doing so much more with my life for God. I would love this football as a gift for my son or my husband, not sure who deserves it more right now.

  70. Denise Webster

    Ok, the test intrigued me. I want one! Mostly I just want someone to tell me I can eat whatever I want and be skinny. ;o) I loved the pictures.. The private jet was amazing! Oh, and the football? I have three boys playing football right now and a son in law who played for Texas A&M. Someone would get this for Christmas at my house and be VERY excited!

  71. Anna

    I love the close-up picture of the purple flowers with the mountain in the background…can’t wait to visit my brother-in-law-to-be’s family in Portland someday :)

  72. LaDonna

    What an amazing trip and photos. The views and first class treatment is one every woman wants. Love love love the fact that you met Kurt Warner. My husband and I are huge fans. He has an amazing story. When I read about it I immediately became a fan of his. I didn’t know his wife had a book. I’ll have to check into it.

  73. LaDonna

    Your trip and pictures were amazing. First class flying, the amazing views and treatment. WOW!! Love love love the fact that you met Kurt Warner. My husband and I are huge fans. He has an amazing story. I’m interested in his wife’s book as well. I didn’t know she had one available.

  74. Maria

    I agree, amazing! I live on the Washington side of the river, about 45 minutes from Multnomah Falls.

    My son and husband would love me if I won the footbal for them, they are huge fans!!

  75. Jennifer McClure

    I would love the football! I love your website…..you have opened me up to a whole new world of fonts! Thanks!

  76. Jennifer Cowan

    I am a huge Kurt fan. I lived in STL when the Rams won the Super Bowl and Kurt got his MVP. I know more about his NFL career than I do about DWTS. I did watch the first episode of his season to see him dance… but sadly I just could not keep watching.

    I keep hoping he will show up coaching somewhere (because he would be great at it) but I know his family is his first priority!

  77. Marie

    I love the Pacific Northwest. The best vacation I have ever taken was to the Oregon Coast. My husband and I decided that we are going to retire to Astoria. Oh, and I have a good friend who would die if he had that football. He is a die-hard Rams fan, and he loved watching Kurt play!

  78. Donna

    This would be a great gift for my husband! He’s been working so hard lately –

    I’d love for the both of us to do this DNA swab. I do believe these diets are different for each of us, and I’m one who definitely gains on a low fat diet!

    I’ve never seen the Washington facility, it looks gorgeous! Our Pacific Northwest is beautiful!

    Thanks for the opportunity and the wonderful photos!

    Blessings, Donna
    grandma4five

  79. Nicole at Mommy Moxie

    Being from Phoenix, we are huge Cardinals fans and would LOVE to have a ball signed by Kurt Warner in our sports case! He is such an upstanding guy and we were disappointed to see him retire.

  80. Lauren Way

    Wow! I love your pictures + blog! That’s so cool that you got to visit the northwest.
    My husband & I live in that area {Vancouver, WA}. We are both from Birmingham, AL and moved up here in January when he was offered a job. We are young newlyweds so it was a crazy moving experience for us. We recently visited Mt. Hood for our first anniversary. Looks like you had a good visit up here. :)

    P.S. My husband is an Alabama grad, while I’m an Auburn grad.
    War Eagle!

  81. Teri Dingler

    Include me in your wonderful, generous drawing! And as a HUGE Auburn fan, I need to send you (as I am this year’s coordinator) info on the AU/AUM Schools of Nursing Blue Jean Ball held at Coach Pat Dye’s Crooked Oaks homestead in October! Loads of fun watching Coach Dye head up the live auction!

  82. amy s (OH)

    I would love to go to a place like that to learn all those interesting health facts!
    I can’t believe you met Kurt Warner! My dad would love that football.

  83. Peggy Does Cake

    Still living vicariously through you, Amanda; that looks like such an amazing trip! I’d love that football for my nephew.

  84. Leanne Wight

    What a beautiful place! Thanks for sharing the wonderful pictures! You are one lucky girl! My son, who just turned 13 and is into all things sports related would love that football! He has a small collection of autographed sports memorabilia and I know he would love to add that football to it! Thanks so much for even being willing to give it away!

  85. Meggie Fuhrman

    Our family loves Kurt Warner!! He is from Iowa and we live in Iowa, so we have watched him from the beginning when he played for the Iowa Barnstormers!! He is such a good guy!

  86. Tracy W.

    I love football AND Dancing with the Stars! Kurt Warner and his family seem like amazing people. How fabulous you were able to meet him. And I would love love LOVE to win that football!

  87. Urban Wife

    The Northwest looks amazing – I cannot wait to visit one day. As for the football, I would give it to my brother or husband.

  88. Calley

    What an awesome post! Beautiful photos! I was following you on instagram and was very curious to see where this private jet was taking you. Amazing!
    I was a huge Kurt Warner fan on DWTS and I’m sure my husband would love the football as well! ;)

  89. Whitney W

    My husband is a huge football fan and would love that! Looks like you had an awesome time – it looks really pretty up there.

  90. Jynelle

    Amanda! You are in my old stomping ground & seeing your pictures made me homesick!!! That is where I grew up & it is awesomely beautiful. I hope you get the chance sometime to go even further North…..it is gorgeous! I grew up watching Warner…..GO Seahawks!

  91. Maggie

    What an amazing post Amanda! I love that I can live vicariously through you and your trips! Thank you for the awesome giveaway – my fiance loves football and I love Kurt Warner! xoxo

  92. Ashley Bird

    I’ve lived here in the great northwest and have never been to trout lake farms! It looks absolutely stunning! Im totally there! Thanks for the beautiful photos of our state! We are so lucky!

  93. Maggie

    What a great post Amanda! I love that I can live vicariously through you and your amazing trips! I’ve been to Multnomah Falls, and it’s beautiful. And what an awesome giveaway – my fiance loves football, and I love Kurt Warner! xoxo

  94. foodie

    OMG! Kurt Warner! I would have been the only one in the room talking about his career. Only thing better than food is FOOTBALL!

  95. Kristyn

    What an amazing life you lead!! I would absolutely not know what to say to Kurt Warner (and isn’t he adorable?!). I’ve always believed that the pacific north west is my ideal place, seeing your pictures only further convinces me it’s true!! Thank you so much for sharing. :)

  96. Jean

    What a great trip!! The photos are just beautiful! Thank you for sharing your trip with us!! I would love to win the football- I live in Phoenix, and didn’t get a chance to go to any of the cardinals games. Love Kurt Warner.

  97. Kristen

    What a wonderful trip! The blueberries look delicious! And Kurt Warner is probably my favorite football player ever. He has such a big heart.

  98. Katie Murray

    You are so lucky to get to go on these adventures. The scenery is breathtaking. Kurt Warner is such a great guy and family man. The football would be awesome to win.

  99. Amy

    I am so jealous you met Kurt Warner! He was such an amazing athlete, but he’s such a true stand up guy, not like a lot of the prima donna athletes you see now-a-days. Your day trip sounds amazing! The photos are breathtaking! I would love a chance to win a signed ball by Kurt Warner!

  100. Fee K.

    I love this idea of eating for your specific genetic type..can’t wait to see your results…we love Kurt Warner and his wife and their books are fantastic…you are in for a treat!

  101. Lorinda Petri

    What beautiful country you have seen. My son Seth (12) is a huge football fan and would love an autographed football. Your blog is amazing and I look forward to reading each post.

  102. Andrea

    Oh my goodness!!!! My step-son Gavin (just turned 12 on 8.15.11) would go completely ga-ga over this football!! He is in love with all things sports… He just got some football receiving gloves, how cool would it be to catch a pass that’s been touched by Kurt Warner!?
    (Plus I’d be the COOLEST step-mom eVeR!!)
    love, ams

  103. jessjess7304

    Oh my gosh my fiance would LOOVE that football. He is a huuge Kurt Warner fan (we live in St. Louis!) and I would love to give it to him as a wedding present! :)

  104. Debra D.

    What an interesting experience! Wouldn’t it be lovely to have easy access to lots of organic fruits and vegetables!

  105. Doris

    I love the Northwest also and made a couple of trips there last year. Such beauty. And how I would love to be able to give that football to my son who is currently deployed. I respect Kurt so much. Glad to see you had fun on your getaway.

  106. Laura L

    Ok, first of all, if that is what you look like sweating in yoga clothes, no fair. Second, what an awesome trip!

  107. Beth

    Your pictures are stunning! Mt. Hood is so beautiful! My cousins attend a ski camp there every summer. What a peaceful setting! Oh and I love football! And of course Kurt Warner!

  108. Kelly Mayberry

    Love the pictures from my neck of the woods! I live in WA and lived in the Portland area for many years. Your next trip should be to the San Juans. The views will amaze you even more!

  109. Michelle

    My husband and I had plans to go the PNW this fall, but he’s been laid off and we’re not wanting to spend the money. Hopefully some day we’ll make it there.

    As for the football…I have a 5 year old nephew who sits and watches sports with his Daddy. He’s been known to get up after bedtime to ask his Daddy who won the game/race. He’d love that football to go in his sports themed bedroom.

  110. Bored Minister Wife

    That buritto looked so good. My dream vacay is to the Pacific Northwest, and I can’t wait.

  111. Robin Crittenden

    I have to say I like Kurt Warner and I have a football family of friends too. But also I’m off to read about your weight loss, I need to lose 50 pounds and need to find something that I will stick with.

    Thanks for the beautiful pictures of Oregon and Washington. would love to be in that private jet. Awesome.

  112. April Southers

    Looks like you had a blast!!! Would love to use that football at a charity auction!! Thanks for all the fun pics to look at this morning!!

  113. June

    My son would LOVE that football!!!

    Your pictures are absolutely stunning, especially of the waterfall. I’m glad you had a great trip.

  114. Olivia

    My nephew would absolutely love this! What a terrific trip and a wonderful opportunity you got to go do! I love your blog Amanda. :)

  115. Sarah T.

    OMG I am a huge football fan. My team is the Steelers but the Cardinals are a close second, thanks to our boy Kurt and superstar RB Larry Fitzgerald. Would LOVE to have that ball (and my husband would probably think it was pretty cool too)!

  116. Lrnmgud

    My ten-year-old turns eleven in a few weeks and he LOVES football–I can only imagine how crazy excited he would be to open up this football on his birthday!

  117. Stephanie C

    What a cool trip! Can’t wait to hear what they say your diet type is…..where can the average Jane get a test like that?

  118. Lynn M

    I just love your blog and today’s is so interesting. I can’t wait for the follow-up on the diets. How exciting to meet Kurt Warner, he such a fine example of what’s good about professional football. Would love to win the signed football for my hubby! Thanks.

  119. Donna G

    Man, I am really wanting that burrito and guacamole. I’ll admit to not knowing who Kurt Warner is, but I’m sure I know someone who would really appreciate the football, should you pick me. And the genetic type thingie intrigues me.

  120. Carla

    What a fabulous trip! Wondering if the TriLite Health Institute is for Amway only? And where else is the DNA testing done? Very interesting. And then to top it off with meeting Kurt Warner!!! Football is like religion for the men in my family…the signed football would be a wonderful thing for my two hard working men! Personally, I would love a trip to the Institute and Trout Lake Farm!

  121. Lynn

    I am so envious… but envy isn’t a good thing to be, so I’ll change it up and just be so HAPPY for you that you got to have this amazing experience. My husband and I have been IBO’s with Amway for years. We <3 their products! Nope, not going to try to recruit you or anyone else – won't try to sell you anything either. We became IBO's for the discount on the products we use every day. Anyway – Kurt Warner and his wife are my large family heroes!!! I am actually reading Brenda Warner's book "First Things First" right now! Would love to meet them and their gorgeous family some day, but probably not going to happen, so I'll settle for winning that autographed football! ;-) Thanks for the chance!

  122. Susan T

    I can’t wait for your follow up post after you learn your genetic type. This topic interests me very much, and I am considering have the analysis done. Oh, and I’d love the football, too!

  123. Elaine

    Sounds like you had an exciting trip. Loved the photo of the purple coneflowers with the snow covered mountain in the background.

    The signed football is a neat giveaway!

  124. Jules

    Hi Amanda!! I love your blog. It’s the first one I go to every morning. I love all your pictures and your little doggies too!!

  125. Michelle Phillips

    Oh wow my husband would love and deserve this wonderful football. He’s a football fanatic and I love him.

  126. Lisa

    Your blog is just amazing! (Have I ever mentioned… I want your life!! :) as long as it includes my kiddos.) My hubby would love the football.

  127. Tara @ Creole Paperie

    Wow, how awesome! My hubby would LOVE that football! Even though we are Saints fans all the way down to our bone marrow, we love Kurt Warner because he’s such an awesome guy. Thanks for the giveaway Amanda!

    PS those blueberry patches look divine! Yummy!

  128. Holly

    Loved reading about your adventures. Love that cute, adorable Kurt Warner too!
    Thanks for the fabulous blog. By the way, you look adorable in the photo. Appreciate the opportunity.

  129. Brittany Jones

    Your trip looks amazing!!!

    This autographed football would be an incredible gift for my husband, who is returning soon from an overseas tour of duty.

  130. Shannon

    Ok, I’m not interested in the football (but thanks anyway! ;). What I want to know more about are the diets! Can’t wait to hear more about them. Please, please do tell! Is there any way we can find out our ‘optimal diet’ without doing all of the stuff you did there?

    Love your blog! :) And love, LOVE the pictures!!

  131. The Mrs @ Success Along the Weigh

    Look at you in your private plane Ms Fancypants! This gets me very excited to plan a trip to the PNW. We want to go to Oregon and see the “goondocks” from The Goonies and we have friends in WA to visit finally and see the beautiful scenery.

  132. Julie Dellasega

    Looks like a wonderful trip. The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful place.
    Would love to win the football…my son is a St. Louis Rams fan and had a
    Kurt Warner jersey when he was 5!

  133. Leslie Mac

    What a great trip – thanks for the pictures. I’ve always wanted to visit the pacific nw – this might just be enough to convince my husband!

  134. Debbie Hall

    Hi, I love your website! I also love all of your info about eating and dieting. You look amazing. My hubby would love the football. I would love to give it to him for our anniversary. We celebrated 31 years yesterday!

  135. Carla Minton

    I would love to give this football to my husband for our anniversary in September. What great pictures!! Looks like you had a great time.

  136. Michelle

    Your pictures are incredible! Looks like a lot of fun. I know several people who would love that football, but I think I would keep it for me! haha

  137. Katie

    Love, love, loved these pics! Your work is amazing! I have family in Washington, but I don’t get to visit that often. Seeing Mount Hood again reminds me of my family and that beautiful state! Thanks for the memories!

  138. Erin @ Brownie Bites

    I’m very impressed by that airplane meal – wow! Definitely not your typical flight. What a beautiful place!

  139. Tamera Alexander

    Gorgeous pics as always! The scenery, the food, Kurt Warner! What a great guy…and dancer! Thanks for sharing with us so faithfully, Amanda.

  140. Wendy

    I had no idea there were so many varieties of blueberries! How wonderful to get to do a taste comparison.

    Your pictures of the ecchinacea with the mountains in the background are stunning. I love your photography.

    I’m also intrigued by the idea of different diets being good for different people, and am looking forward to hearing what yours is. Wouldn’t it be great if you lost weight on cake and icing?

    Thanks for sharing these glimpses into your life. I always look forward to your email updates.

  141. JoAnne McArdle

    Kurt and Brenda are amazing people. My husband would love this football. I can put it next to my signed San Diego Charger one!!!

  142. Ieasha

    What an amazing trip!!!! The photos were so beautiful. I think the genetic testing is very cool!. Looks like you had a great time!!!

  143. joni

    My sister is a military wife and used to live in that area. although I never got the chance to visit her, living so far away in NC, she would always talk about how beautiful it was. I know the perfect person to give that football to. I would love to win it! Thanks for the opportunity.

    sixcherriesontop(at)gmail(dot)com

  144. KellyM

    Kurt Warner is soooooooo cute!!!!! My husband would love that football! Thanks Amanda for a great read today

  145. Dorene Donaldson

    Always love your photos, its like being right there with you.
    What an opportunity, and thanks for sharing with your readers.
    Would love to win the football. Kevin does not mind?

  146. DeidreSH

    How do to I get to be like you when I grow up? I am so envious of the experiences you get to have! I’ve never been to the NW but have always longed to go there…your pics are fantastic!

  147. Gretta

    You take such beautiful photos. Love the ones with the Falls. Looked like a great trip!

    Gretta

    ps. My son would just love that football!

  148. DebbieB

    What a fabulous experience. Looks like this was one amazing trip. Your photos are great, you give me inspiration to improve my photography. Thanks for sharing, and would love that football!

  149. Debi Kelley

    Oh that would be a wonderful gift to give to my grandson some day… What awesome pictures you take. I am such a picture person….everyone knows I’ll always have my camera with me where ever I go. Just got to have pictures to scrapbook, right??? hahaha
    Thanks for thinking of us….

  150. Dottie Williams

    Wow awesome! My friend is a football collector and she would die for this…thanks Amanda! What a great xmas present this would make…..

  151. Karen H.

    Your photography is stunning!!!! Those blueberry pics are yummy & the scenic shots show nature in it’s Godly spendor!!

    1. Karen H.

      The football would be a great Christmas gift for my nephew who lives in Cedar Falls, Iowa where Kurt played college ball and worked at Hy-Vee the local grocery chain!

  152. Sarah M

    Your pictures are incredible. The waterfall photos are amazing! It sounds like such a special trip.

    Oh, and I love football and Kurt Warner, so the chance to win the football is so nice!! Thank you! :)

  153. ali

    Oh my goodness!! What an amazing experience!! I still am just amazed by your photos and am in awe of the wonderful experiences you get to enjoy! a football lke that would be an awesome present for my Dad, the ultimate sports guy!
    Have a great week!
    -Ali
    Boston,MA

  154. Jane Crawford

    If by some chance you choose me, please let another of your commenters have the football. I just want to say, I can’t help but think about all of the truly, utterly wonderful opportunities you have had because you love food and you love to blog. Isn’t it awesome? You are such a doll and from what I can tell it couldn’t happen to a sweeter person!!

  155. Tara @ The Butter Dish

    Hoe incredible Amanda. Personally I love Amway even though I don’t buy them. Not sure why really. I used to but I guess I just forgot all about it. I actually grew up on amway. Fantastic products.

    I think it’s wonderful all these amazing places you are going and able to share with us. This looks like an incredible trip and I would be in heaven to walk through that farm. I don’t like boxed or prepackaged anything and this farm is fabulous.

    Great post AB and lovely lovely photos as always!!!

  156. Jeanne Spaletto

    Wow! What an amazing trip for you! Love all of the pics – they could be in a travel brochure. Thanks for sharing!

  157. Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga

    To say this is a spectacular post would be the understatement of the year. WOW!!

    Amanda, not only was the event clearly awesome…private planes kinda do that :) but your photography. Holy moly lady…you rock!!! The waterfall!!! WOW!!!

  158. GailR

    Ha! Ha! I just realized you’re posting is for Wednesday and it’s still Tuesday for me. I’m such a dork – but I have a chance to win! Yippee skippee!

  159. GailR

    It may be too late, but it’s only 9:37 pm in Hawaii – I love Kurt Warner! How awesome that you were able to meet him. Thanks for sharing your fun adventures.

  160. Kristy@cook.eat.play

    That burrito looks awesome!

    You know, I thought the blueberries were grapes? How silly of me.

Meet Kevin & Amanda

Kevin and Amanda

We love to travel and to eat! Here we share our favorite quick and easy recipes, plus travel tips and guides for our favorite places around the world. If you have any questions about what camera I use or how I edit my photos, check out my photography tutorials.

READ MORE

Subscribe via Email: