Took the wife on a much needed vacation to the very green state of Washington. Thanks to good friends and good drinks we had a fantastic time. Saw a lot of the state, at least the western side. Stayed at a condo in Copalis Beach, I would highly recommend this for the cure to all your work induced blues. Everyone we talked to, everywhere we went, we were blown away with the friendliness of the people. Texans are supposed to be friendly, but I can tell you, we have some serious competition way up Northwest. It was cloudy so you cant see Mt. Rainier in the background of this pic.

If you are ever in Washington, I suggest you befriend these people if you can. They made us feel more welcome than most of our own families. They went so far out of their way for us it was incredible. This pic is in front of a glacier visible from Hurricane Ridge. The views were spectacular. You might notice the two from the heated plains of Texas were not quite used to the cold temps there. We wore jackets most of the time.

This was a first for both of us. Beach combing. We got up at 5:30 and stumbled down to the beach to see what the Pacific might throw away. Found lots of kelp, crab legs, and sand dollars. Our host had told us of the treasures that wash up from the fishing vessels, but only serious beachcombers get up early enough to find that stuff. We still had a ball, and picked up some "cheap" souvenirs. You may have heard that I tend to be on the frugal side. OK, guilty.

Here are a few pics from the Seattle trip. The very first Starbucks, way too many people, and a zillion vendors. We did enjoy the flowers and the fruit. Mmmm, cherries!