Alena Botanica

08/28/2026

08/28/2026

Is it possible I had the best zero proof cocktail to date this week? Me thinks so. I have quaffed a lot of alcohol-free beverages in the last 3,214 days (fun to check my sobriety app which I hadn't done this year) but Gander & Goose in White Salmon really knows what is up! Their no booze menu is unhinged. I had the "Full Hearts Can't Lose" with Ghia apertif. Thanks to my friend Martha for the adventure in White Salmon - cabin beers, river dips, excellent conversation and drinks that make me feel sparkly and remind me that connection is so much better without alcohol. I think Dolly would approve of my shirt and sparkles too. What a week! 💎

08/26/2026

I like my zebras grassy.

08/22/2026

When you have been craving a tomato and basil end of summer sandwich, you throw gluten and dairy caution to the wind and get the heirloom special at Pipsqueak Bagels! I had been dying to try this new place and it did not disappoint. Delicious pesto cream cheese, heirloom tomato, chives and red wine vinegar drizzle. I live about 30 minutes outside the city now but dang, Portland is such a great foodie town and love coming in to check out new spots and old faves. 🥯

08/21/2026

HOPPY FRIDAY ••• Excited to share that a new hops glass is in the works for fall. Do you have a favorite style of beer, smoothie or mocktail glass? IDid you know I do custom drinkware design and have done custom projects for hundreds of clients. DM me if you need an event, brand or artisan glass for your holiday?

08/17/2026

Dropping by in case anyone has a case of the Mondays and needed a little Alena on waterskis for motivation.
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I am rooting for you and rooting for me as a beginner at many new things rn. Sometimes we forget to be our own cheerleader. We can stretch outside our comfort zone and do more than we think we can. You can do iiiit.

08/16/2026

Dog days of summer. Morning iced coffee and bird song will get us through. 💙

08/14/2026

King of Bingo telling truths about truth-telling season.

08/13/2026

I have been getting back into plant photography. My eye still gravitates towards soft light, shadow, texture, and negative space. I like where plants meet industry. How the built form intersects with the landscape. Makes me think about how to engage with gardening in new ways.