playing tourist in seattle

The weather outlook was positive on Sunday evening, so I arranged a stay with my friend, Susan, in Seattle on Monday night. I can't remember the last time I saw Susan. It must have been at least nine years ago. She was actually in my sister's class in high school, but we played a little volleyball together and have managed to keep in touch over the years. Between the two of us (especially Susan), we have covered a good portion of the world! I had a marvelous time catching up with her for a few brief hours. She is a wonderful and very beautiful person.

I spent the morning wandering around Seattle. I found the flagship R.E.I. store there and wandered for a bit before heading down to Pikes Place Market for a few hours. I wish I had more time to spend wandering through the eccentric shops, fruit stands, and fish vendors. The atmosphere is best described as "colorful."

After a lunch at The Market with Susan, I took a trip across Lake Washington to my high school for a quick peak into the classrooms on campus and brief "hellos" to a few former teachers. I am astounded and impressed that so many familiar faces are still there. I know many of the teachers I had were dedicated to their students and to serving God in their place in my school.

I met up with Massie from Antarctica in Bellevue for an afternoon jaunt through a park. It is refreshing to have such new friends and new perspectives on life and I appreciate being able to keep in touch with a few people who have the same strange Antarctic experience!

I sat in a bit of 405 traffic before sitting in line for the Mukilteo ferry to Whidbey Island. This was a last minute decision. I wanted to walk on the ferry from Seattle today and take a round trip on Puget Sound, but I ran out of time, so instead, I detoured my trip back north to Bellingham on The Island. While waiting, I indulged in (and burnt my tongue on) Ivars famous clam chowder. I can't believe I hated the stuff growing up! It was the perfect supper with some fruit and veggies I picked up.

The ferry ride is a true Washington experience. It has always been a treat to take a trip; whether for a family outing, a volleyball tournament, or field trip. Once you and your car are in queue for the boat, you are free to roam around for awhile before the boat docks. Then they load all the cars and people on the ferry. I even was able to load my car on the second level of parking! The warm weather allowed for people to be outside and enjoy the view and fresh salty air before returning to their cars drive off the onto the island.

Although the trail at Edey's Landing that Susan recommended was closed, I did find Deception Pass quite amazing at sunset. I took the quick hike down to the shore just as the sun had a particularly nice glow on everything this evening. This stretch of the island helps me recall so many little icons that represent our trips to grandma's house: the ice cream shops, fruit stands, oil refinery, bridge, naval base, windmill hotel, Pass Lake, and on and on!

I probably should have stuck around to watch the sun completely dip below the waters of Puget Sound, but the temperature cooled off quite quickly and I went on my way.

It was such a gorgeous day to be outside and take in God's great creative works and catch up with his important people who are my friends. I am glad I made the trip!