Being more of a wordsmith myself, I always am impressed with blogs that effortlessly tell stories through images. I discovered Elephantine through the author's kitchen shop, Mignon Kitchen Co, and was instantly attracted to her foodie (and seemingly francophile) style. What I like best about Elephantine is its not-entirely-posed aesthetic. Dishes are shot in preparation; mouthfuls, just moments before being consumed.

[slideshow] Rachel's training in design and appreciation of simple, grey days (influenced, I'm sure, by her Seattle stomping-grounds) pervades her motley assortment of posts - which feature far more than food. The vibe is more calm "staycation" than ravenous world traveler - a visual (re)treat in the truest sense.