The Zebra Striped Whale

This post is a few weeks late, but I suppose it's "better late than never!" Two weeks ago I packed my bags and flew up to Philly, arriving late on a Friday night. I was excited about the trip, seeing family and friends for the weekend, but a little bummed Id b leaving Doug back in SC. But traveling alone meant I was definitely flying (I'd never attempt the 12 hour drive alone), and flying translates into less time traveling and more times with loved ones!

My Dad picked me up from the airport around 10pm. My dad is the type of dad that's completely reliable, always on time (unless of course you spring it on him last minute that you need to be picked up in New Jersey, which is what I did to him when I came up for Thanksgiving), and willing to drop whatever to help our his girls. He's been blessed with THREE daughters, with me being the middle (and favorite) daughter. LOL.

Catching up with his was awesome considering we don't get to talk on the phone very much with our busy schedules. I laid low Friday night and spent the night at my Dads so I could wake up early to start my busy Saturday in Bucks County, PA.

First on the agenda was breakfast at a little place in Newtown, PA called Jake's. I met my mom and grandmother there around 9 and my sister joined us about 40 minutes later when we were wrapping up our meals (we all ordered a version of their heart healthy egg white omelets).Unfortunately I didn't nap a picture of me with the family :( I really need to get better at getting me in pictures with other people and not just food!

After our WAY too short visit, my sister and I headed to one of my favorite places in Newtown for coffee or sweet treats: The Zebra Striped Whale. This eatery/coffee shop is located in the heart of Newtown's quaint downtown area. I adore this part of town because I grew up there and despite the changing of some businesses it still looks virtually unchanged.

We met our friend Ashley and her son Connor to do some MUCH needed catching up. I haven't seen Ashley and her son since my wedding shower in July of 2010! We were all very impressed with the decadent spread at ZSW. Over sized cookies, elaborate candies, an extensive ice cream topping selection and delicious coffee drinks are just a few of the things the Zebra Striped Whale offers. Their eclectic decor featuring local artists makes this mom and pop even more appealing to the Newtown native. We cozied up in the back of the shop, enjoying our Nutella lattes and gigantic peanut butter cup cookie. YUM!

Notice the tongue...

I couldn't hang for too long because later that afternoon I was hosting a bridal shower and bachelorette party for one of my oldest girlfriends. My sister Melissa went to run some last minute shower errands while I rushed to the clubhouse to start setting up. Despite the short time frame I felt like the morning allowed me to spend time with loved ones and soak up some of my hometown ambiance.