The Northwest coast is a land of contrasts. At time it is wild and wave-battered, at other times quiet and restful. All along its length there is variety: long, sandy beaches, steep headlands, lush pasture, rocky covers, patches of deep forest. This is a place for photographers, hikers, picnickers, campers, and for those who want nothing more than a few relaxing moments in beautiful, unpeopled surroundings. ~Unknown
I apologize for the delay of this wonderful post, but I had extensive problems with my computer while attempting to upload all the photos. I hope you’re comfy ’cause this is ‘gonna be a long one! Be prepared to take your time so you’re not overwhelmed by all the gorgeous photos (if I do say so myself…and I do) and fascinating tales of our adventures in the Pacific Northwest.
You may be wondering about the title of this post…well, we’ll get to that. It’s my teaser to make sure you keep on reading. :) So we’re back from our two week travels and celebrations, and those two weeks were as I imagined they would be: joyful, relaxing, renewing and sentimental. I cannot have dreamed of a more perfect and meaningful way to celebrate one year of a healthy self. As you know, I’ve been looking forward to this trip since January when we returned from the Pete Gross house and my “semester abroad”.
We flew into Sea-Tac on a clear Monday morning, and Mount Rainier came out to greet us. It felt as though we never left. My mom and I navigated the airport like experts (minus the mess of Hertz…my mom’s new motto is “Hertz hurts”. Clever, huh?). At first, I was disappointed to head south on I-5, because I longed to see Seattle, but I knew Olympic National Park was waiting for us, and it would bring adventures we hadn’t yet experienced in the Pacific Northwest. As I drove, I soaked up the scenery: the towering evergreens, northwest architecture, Mount Rainier, a crowded interstate 5. “I’m here”, I thought to myself, “I’m actually here!!”
For Katie and me, it was the first time staying at a bed and breakfast. We drove through the bamboo gates at Domaine Madeleine (http://www.domainemadeleine.com/), down the gravel drive to the main house. There were flowers everywhere (as evidenced in all the photos below). We toured our rooms, unpacked and walked around the grounds. We walked to the edge of the backyard, and when I say “edge”, I mean “edge”! I’m not the best distance estimator, but there was probably a several hundred foot drop down to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It was absolutely stunning, a setting raw and cultivated at the same time…from naturally carved cliffs to manicured gardens…perfect for photographs!
One of the reasons my parents chose Domaine Madeleine was the cuisine. Jeri, the owner, is famous for her Pacific Northwestern-influenced breakfasts, although she describes them more as brunches. Each morning, she served four courses of food!!!! She always gave us freshly-squeezed juices (from grape to plum), fancy cheeses, homemade croissants and mini-baguettes, fruit, typically some type of seafood (that’s where the northwestern influence comes in!), locally grown vegetables and a dessert such as crepes or bananas flambé. Oh, and I can’t forget the delicious coffee, another northwestern specialty! We enjoyed the breakfasts so much that we opted for a later departure to Victoria, BC so as not to miss a morning at Madeleine’s!
One of the very special qualities of this B&B was Jeri’s ability to make each guest feel at home. The first few days, we partook of the exquisite breakfasts with two other couples. We fell into easy conversation, sharing stories about our families, lives and daily activities. One couple, from Minnesota, was visiting the area after dropping their daughter off at college. The husband, Marcus, was a physiologist from PA and had lots in common with my parents. We loved hearing their stories. Larry and Christine, the other couple, were from LA, and they found their way to the Olympic Peninsula after reading the book, “One Square Inch of Silence”. I looked forward to breakfast with the four of them, wondering where our morning talks would lead. Isn’t part of the fun of travel learning about others you meet along the way? It always opens up new worlds, and it makes travel feel more like travel than touring. I always loved the quote by G.K. Chesterton: “The traveler sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see.â€
We divided our days into a series of destinations, and we modified as seen fit. The rental car allowed us freedom, and we put hundreds of miles on that silver Camry, traveling to Forks (the home of “Twilight”) on the way to the Hoh Rain Forest, visiting the Pacific at Rialto Beach, driving through the herds of elk and buffalo at the Olympic game farm, checking out the largest sandbar in the world (The Dungeness Spit). Our sensible silver sedan never faltered when we climbed the steep mountains that led to Hurricane Ridge, nor did it sputter when we drove up to the northwesternmost point in the contiguous United States at Cape Flattery. It coasted down Highway 101, to Lake Crescent, onto the Makah and Quileute Indian reservations, throughout the city of Port Angeles, and then back to Seattle (not in that order). Hertz mistakingly gave us a navigation system, which guided us each step of the way.
The best way to learn more about our experience on the Olympic Peninsula is through my photo essay below. :) What was most striking about the park was the variety of activities available. You have mountains, lakes, the ocean, beaches crowded with driftwood and beautiful, wave-sculpted rocks. Evergreens abound, but the hints of fall showed in other trees, and flowers bloomed bright in gardens. There were wineries, pumpkin patches, lavender farms, nurseries, boat tours, a logging museum. Cape Flattery was one of the most striking places we visited, where waters from the Strait of Juan de Fuca dug caves into the sides of the rocks. We even saw a sea lion/seal frolic down below! The Dungeness Spit was unique not only in its sheer length, but in the fact that the beach was framed by mountains. The two together make for a breathtaking sight. Hurricane Ridge was gorgeous and refreshing, even at its high altitude. It also had the best gift shop. :) hahaha I know, gifts shops are so….touristy! Hey, I’m a traveler who enjoys gift shops, what can I say?
We drove home each evening tired out, and often we were so full from breakfast, we only had snacks in the afternoon/evening. Cheese, crackers, olives, bread, wine…of course, there was the one day my mom stopped in the bakery on the Makah Indian Reservation. Katie, my dad and I decided we wanted to stroll around the Reservation museum, and my mom checked out the bakery while we did so. Little did we know, she was out there experiencing the native life while we merely read about it in the various exhibitions. Here’s what happened: my mom went to the bakery to get a snack for us, however the young woman behind the counter didn’t have anything prepared. She suggested breadsticks and homemade marinara sauce, something she could prepare in minutes in her superhot oven. My mom talked to her as she prepared the breadsticks, and was surprised when the woman mentioned how she was superhungry for elk spaghetti. “You mean, you put elk in the sauce?”, Carol asked innocently. “Yah…I have a hunting license, but I haven’t had the chance to get out there yet”, replied the 20-year old. “But so-and-so caught a bear a couple days ago”. She gestured to a client in the store, and suggested my mom go check out the claw he had with him. Well, my mom obliged and mozied over to see this claw…unfortunately, it seems she misheard the girl. The hunter removed an entire bear PAW from the bag in his hand…and I don’t mean the pastry kind of bear paw. There it was, fur and all, dangling in front of my mom who was completely disgusted. She expressed her distaste and the man laughed, insisting that the claws made wonderful jewelry, to which my mom replied “I bet it’s nice when it’s jewelry, but I don’t want to see a bear paw, thank you very much!!!” Man, I wish I were there to see her expression, and to chronicle it for you in the photos below. I’m sure you can imagine how surprised she was, expecting to see a little claw and instead finding herself gazing at a bloody, furry bear paw. That story provided us with many laughs on the trip. Before we left, Katie bought her a beautiful copper piece of art in the shape of a bear paw (at Pike Place)…the story lives on!!! By the way, the breadsticks and marinara were delicious!!!! I wonder if there was any elk in that marinara…..
When Saturday came, we said goodbye to Jeri and her wonderful bed and breakfast, and drove back to Sea-tac to pick up the gift of life. It felt so good to see the Seattle skyline still there, waiting for us. We exited at Mercer Street and as we pulled onto Fairview Avenue, I felt as though no time had passed since last seeing my Lake Union neighborhood in January. It was as we left it, peaceful and energetic at the same time. “There’s “Joey’s”!” “Hey, look, a seaplane!” “Ahhh…the Silver Cloud (hotel)…we missed you!” “There’s the SCCA!” “Look, sailboats…kayakers…houseboats!!!!” It was good to be back. After soaking it all in, I started worrying about the fact that we only had a week to spend there. Don’t worry, I didn’t dwell on it ’cause that would be pretty silly, but I think it goes to show just how much I enjoy the city (as if you didn’t already know that).
You know one of the best things about this particular trip? Well, for one, I was healthy. But most importantly, I reconnected with two friends from high school whom I hadn’t seen in about fifteen years. Elvira, who lives in Portland, took a train up Saturday night and stayed through Monday just to see me! I’m so honored, Elvira!! :) She, Katie, Laura and I spent the day together Sunday, visiting my ol’ stomping grounds: Minor Avenue, Carlo the dog at “Paddy Coyne’s”, “REI”, “Feathered Friends”, Pike Place and “La Spiga” for dinner. She accompanied me to the clinic Monday morning, lending support while they took 23 tubes of blood. Although the days passed quickly, it was so wonderful to spend time with her, and to learn about how she’s spent the last fifteen years. If you’ve ever met up with an old friend, then you know what I mean.
On Monday, my friend Holly met us at the Silver Cloud and accompanied us to REI where Laura and Katie were scheduled to climb the wall. I had to postpone my climb because I had my bone marrow aspirate and a skin biopsy (regular procedure to check for GVHD) done earlier in the day, and they discourage rigorous activity following bone marrows. We cheered them on from below, and Laura made it to the tip top of the wall (if you remember last year, she got to about 35 feet before looking down and deciding she was quite high enough). It was Katie’s first climb ever, and she did wonderfully!! She chose a different course than Laura, one that didn’t go to the tip top, but it was well over halfway there (I decided on this course too when I climbed a couple days later). Afterwards, it was off to another delicious dinner!!! By the way, I have absolutely no desire to weigh myself to see how much I gained on this trip, but I’m pretty positive it was over five pounds because we ate well!!! By the end of the trip, those jeans that were slightly tighter to begin with fought me just a little harder when I tried to make the button reach the button hole. Hey, that’s part of the joy of vacationing! After all, when else do you get to eat food like that? No more four course breakfasts for me…it’s back to blueberries and cereal! 
Sorry…it seems I got a bit sidetracked. As I was saying, I got to hang out with Holly, who is also a cancer survivor. She ran a marathon earlier this year with Team in Training and I was very happy to be an honored teammate for her. It’s just so interesting to get to know someone again, and for that I thank facebook (and Lori and Katie for getting me to join!) for helping me get in touch with both Elvira and Holly. I guess it seems especially meaningful following a health crisis. I feel this amazing support from friends whom I hadn’t seen in a long while, and in that way it seemed as though no time had passed since we last met. Thank you both for taking the time to spend with me.
I received a very special present while out there. No, not my good results, although that is a true gift, but rather a book. We were waiting for our dinner at “Szmania’s”, and Katie pulled out what she said was a book they found for me at this famous Seattle bookstore (Elliott Bay Book Company, http://www.elliottbaybook.com/about/index.jsp). I unwrapped it, expecting to find a book on Seattle, but it was actually authored by yours truly!! On the top of the cover was the Seattle skyline as drawn in “Frasier”. At the bottom, Katie had used a photo of myself looking out the window at SCCA, and crafted it so it read “Julie”. The back of the book was black with a simple quote: “Fighting cancer with family, friends, humor, good medicine and a hula hoop”…sound familiar? It was “Julie’s Blog: The Seattle Months” (first page). I flipped through the pages to see my blog, every single entry I wrote while in Seattle, every single photo, every experience. I was extremely emotional, especially after noticing her intro page: “Hey baby, I hear the blues a-callin’, tossed salad and scambled eggs…” (you “Frasier” lovers should recognize that!! It’s from the show’s theme song, and that show was such a wonderful escape for all of us during our stay in Seattle. If you recall, we watched every single episode!!).
Katie, I can only imagine the hard work you put into arranging it for me. Just so the rest of you know, you can’t simply press “print” somewhere and have the blog come out in book form! No, no, no…Katie had to retrieve every photo, and copy and paste everything. To make things worse, my mom’s computer crashed earlier this year, erasing every image I had on it. Katie had to go into each post, pull up each individual photo and drag it into another folder before putting them into a post. I was laughing when she explained how each month I had about 300 photos, and then I started steroids…in December, when I was “cracked out on steroids” (as Katie puts it ), I uploaded 800 photos!!!!! hahahaha I had no idea! Katie, I’ve spent several hours looking through it (I mean, it’s some good reading!), and I am so touched that you thought to do this for me. I will always cherish it. It’s the best gift I’ve ever received…oh yah, other than Laura’s cells.Â
The tears started coming down even more when I noticed the ending quote: “They’re callin’ again. Good night, Seattle, we love you.” (the end of the “Frasier” song and a fitting closure to my time out there). Following that quote, Katie included comments from many of you, notes about your favorite post or how my blog affected you. I was proud to read all those compliments, and to know that my blog actually uplifted many of you. I felt humbled when you thanked me for sharing my feelings. The thanks goes to you for reading and supporting (especially during my steroids stage when I was quite the chatterbox and picture-taker!!!)! Susan, all the guest bloggers were very happy to get a shout-out from you! They were all like, “That’s right! You can’t forget about our wonderful posts!”. Andrew, I love your signature: “Andrew Colletti, Transplant Class of 2002″…we were cracking up!!!
And to Laura (who had two full pages with photos of her at her sickest…throwing up and smiling a weak smile, both taken of her in a wheelchair), it was appropriate that you were separated from the rest by a page reading “Last, but certainly not least…”. You truly did give me the best present I could ever receive, and I found your words quite touching: “Julie, you’re only here today because of me…your ‘gift of life’. Love you, Laura”. hahahahahaha I couldn’t have expressed it better myself! You really do look pitiful in those pics…I’m looking at them as I type. Next time I don’t feel like loaning you a sweater, I’m sure you’ll refer me to this book, to remind me what you went through to save me. Seriously though, you are right. I would most likely not be here if it weren’t for you, and I think about the transplant every day, in a good way. From here on out, you’re partially responsible for everything I do, good and bad! I can never repay you in sweaters. :) I guess you’ll just have to know in your heart that I will always be grateful, because there are no words. Love you.
I love you even though you doubted me when we decided to tour Efeste winery in Woodinville, WA. You all doubted me when we pulled up to an industrial park! I admit, I was pretty worried when we drove into the parking lot, thinking perhaps it was the navigation system that gave us improper directions. I had called ahead, not knowing the winery was actually closed, and spoken with Brennon (turns out he is the winemaker! Check him out: http://efeste.com/about.asp (click on “Brennon”)). He told us to come on by, and we could taste the wine and check out the winery. Later, he told Laura that he had been working on bills, and when I called, he thought to himself “Hmm…I could do bills, or I could drink wine and talk to people…I think I’ll choose the latter!”. We quickly learned why we couldn’t tour the vineyard…it was hundreds of miles away in the eastern part of Washington.
Brennon poured us tastings of several different Efeste wines, and we all chatted, learning about the wine, Brennon’s viticulture studies, the meaning behind the name (there are three owners, and one’s last name begins with “F” (hence “Ef”), another with “S” (thus “Es”), and the final with “T” (I think you can figure that one out). So, it’s pronounced F-S-T.) There, now you’re practically a wine connoisseur! :) We shared with him our reason for visiting Seattle and the Northwest, and we learned that one of the owners’ grandsons had acute leukemia. He was still undergoing treatment, but was doing well. Brennon created a wine in his honor! It will come out in 2011 (if I remember correctly), and is called “Tough Guy”. I love it!! Brennon led us through the winemaking areas, and mentioned they were harvesting some grapes that weekend, and would we like to help sort? Well, we’d never done that before, and our brains were slightly tinted with “Final Final”, “Jolie Bouche”, “Ceidleigh” (named after a waitress the owners once met in Australia) and “Big Papa” (so named for the big papa (or head of the family)). So, yes, our brains were tinted and we were so seduced by the thought of helping in the wine harvesting (or “crushing” in the wine biz), we quickly said we would help! Katie later changed her mind, deciding that standing for 6 or 7 hours sorting grapes was not her idea of fun on a vacation.Â
So she missed out on Friday, when Laura, Dad, Mom and I woke up early to drive out to Woodinville. Mom took the job of photographer and Dad, Laura and I set out to sort some grapes. Laura convinced us to purchase matching bandanas so we would look like Laverne and Shirley at the assembly line. Dad wouldn’t wear his, but you can see Laura and I donning ours in the photos below! Although all of us had sore backs by the end of the day, it was a fascinating process. The grapes were poured into this machine, and there were eight or so volunteers like ourselves waiting on the other side to grab any raisins that tried to get through. I felt a bit like Ethel and Lucy in the chocolate factory episode, because those grapes came pretty quickly, and there was no way we could catch all the raisins! After us, the grapes went into a de-stemming machine where there were other volunteers catching any stubborn stems. Following that, I’m not quite sure what happened, ’cause I was staring down at my grapes! One gentleman working with us told Laura that some people actually pay to be part of crush so they can see what it’s like! He also said that most wineries he’s volunteered at do not sort grapes by hand, but rather machine. And he should know because he and his wife volunteer so much, they get 12 free cases of wine a year (we each got two free bottles for our skilled sorting efforts)! I would definitely do it again, but I think rather than trying to be tough and working through, I would be wise to take some breaks so my ol’ back doesn’t complain.
I would have to say the high point of our week in Seattle came Thursday evening, when we went out to dinner with Jackie, my nurse. I made sure my eyebrows were plucked, my makeup and hair perfect, and I even brought out my new jacket (the one from Falmouth) for the first time.  I was so proud of how healthy I looked, and I couldn’t wait to show her. I mean, last time she saw me I had a puffy face, swollen eyes and a unibrow!
She gave me the highest compliment possible when she told me I looked as though I never had a transplant!! At one point, she said I looked like the most ravishing transplant patient! Yup, that’s the look I was going for!! If they have a catalog of transplant patients, I’d love to model! :) Jackie was so important throughout the transplant process. My mom and I found her mere presence reassuring. She’s entering her 23rd year at the Hutch, and I can only imagine how many lives she’s touched in that time. Jackie, thank you for being so kind, thoughtful, funny, inspiring (after hearing about your experience volunteering at the Iditarod, I’m adding it to my list of things to do, places to see!), understanding and dedicated. You have a special place in the hearts of the Matthews clan.
I haven’t actually said much about my SCCA appointments, have I? Well, it seems that I am back to the old Julie!! My bone marrow aspirate and skin biopsies were both clear, the doctor took me off of Acyclovir (which pretty much leaves me with vitamins, allergy meds and Lexapro), I am cleared to work, go to a UVA football game, and really do almost anything I desire! I was surprised when Dr. Flowers advised against walking a marathon. She explained that many transplant patients encounter GVHD problems after marathons as a result of being so exposed to the sun. I assured her that I wear sunscreen every day, and I almost always use hats, but she was still hesitant. Ronnie suggested that maybe she doesn’t realize that I’m such a careful patient, and that I really do apply sunscreen. I’ll discuss this with Dr. Orloff to get his opinion as well, but if full marathons are out, I still have half marathons (Dr. Flowers OK’d these)! There will never be any more sunning-myself-on-the-beach days, but that’s OK…I don’t mind sitting under umbrellas. :)  Although I got rid of the last truly transplant-related drug, they did find that I’m slightly hypothyroid, so I will take Sinthroid every day for life…no biggie though, ’cause I’m not symptomatic of hypothyroidism, and the pills do not have any side effects.
I went through a battery of tests: bone scan, skin biopsy, bone marrow aspirate, pulmonary function tests, blood draws, an eye exam, gynecological exam, dental exam, and a nasal wash. I did not receive any vaccines because they discovered I had the rhinovirus (common cold). I will, however, receive vaccines for the following in a few weeks: H1N1, flu, Hepatitis B, pneumococcal disease, polio, tetanus and diptheria, and Hib disease. They found that the Fosamax has lessened my osteopenia, and I will stay on that for another year, at which point they’ll do another bone scan and re-evaluate. They will also more closely monitor my thyroid now that I’m taking medication. Because of the medication, they will also check my liver function more often. My cholesterol is 182, triglycerides 148, HDL 58, LDL 94…how’s that, Dad? Do I get an A?Â
So really, things just couldn’t be any better!! Our last day in Seattle, I celebrated by climbing the REI wall. Next time, I’ll go for the higher climb, but I felt pretty darn good doing what I did, especially after almost seven hours of sorting grapes! Afterwards, we met Vera, her husband Dan, and their beautiful little girl, Stella, for dinner down near Pike Place Market. How wonderful it was to be able to hold Stella this time! Vera was a great comfort for my mom and me during the transplant, and we were delighted to be able to meet up. Vera, I hope sometime you guys come out here to the east coast so we can show you around Virginia! SCCA is really lucky to have you as a volunteer. Your upbeat, fun and thoughtful personality always brightened my days, and I know you must do the same with any family you meet. That also makes you the ideal nurse, so your patients are pretty darn lucky too.Â
Well, folks, I guess we’re arriving at the end of this post (the written portion anyway!). Remember those 23 tubes? Well, as you read previously, the SCCA lab drew 23 tubes of blood to do various tests and studies. When I said it out loud, it sounded like the perfect title: “23 Tubes”. It sounded symbolic of something…but what? Just for kicks, I typed in “23 tubes” into google, and I happened upon a blog where someone poured 23 tubes of toothpaste into one bowl and proceeded to brush his teeth…hmmm…that doesn’t really have any special meaning…it’s just weird and funny. I think in my case it makes more sense to list 23 things I’m thankful for, so here goes:
I’m thankful for…
1)my family (this, of course, includes Jameson, Guinness and Bella!)
2)my friends
3)my doctors/PAs/nurses/assistants/counselors
4)good movies
5)music
6)delicious food
7)beautiful fall days
8)yummy coffee
9)enlightening books
10)comedians
11)baseball (especially the Yankees)
12)Efeste wine
13)sunshine
14)rain
15)Honey Crisp apples
16)a good-quality camera 
17)my favorite perfumes
18)flowers
19)my new black jacket
20)sunscreen
21)23 tubes of healthy blood!!
22)my past
23)my future
Go ahead…make a list! It’s quite fun. And remember: “There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy.” - Ralph H. Blum
Again, I want to thank all of you for reading. Your comments always make me smile. Being healthy is only enjoyable when you have others to celebrate with, and I look forward to celebrations for many years to come. I hope the length of this post didn’t overwhelm you, but I had quite a lot to cover!
I thought it fitting to end with links to my top fighting-leukemia-and-kicking-butt songs…they make for a good background while looking at the photos…Enjoy!
Love you lots,
Julie
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJmr5CKY73M&feature=related…I like to think I’m as tough as Rocky. Stay tuned for a blog photo of me on the stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, hoodie and all. :)  Anyone wanna take a road trip to Philly?Â
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uY3LAFJbKyY&feature=related…This will forever be Mariano Rivera’s song, but as you know I used him for my visualization, and of course I imagined him pitching to the tune of Metallica.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nBFWzpWXuM&feature=related…I adopted this as my theme song. It’s all about the beauty of life, and the importance of celebrating it, even the pain and worry. Sing it, Celia!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmLzr1YSI9Y&feature=related…Remember when my mom wrote new words to this? How did it go…something like “Inch by inch, row by row, gonna make these stem cells grow…”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcdbGxYX9es…This one is slower, but I liken “The Long Day is Over” to a healthy me sitting by the fire after all the treatment is over.Â
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ab1l2TwFp8…Because there’s something victorious and joyful about steel drums. Picture me dancing around with my healthy Laura cells.
And here’s one more song…it has nothing to do with my kicking leukemia’s butt, but I recently discovered it, and I love it!! Well, technically, that’s not true. I’m very familiar with a Spanish version sung by Enrique Iglesias, but this is by Joshua Radin…enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjd6yIn2zmk
Finally, check out the video below…it’s not at all related to the rest of my post, but it’s funny and heartwarming, and I wanted to pass it on:Â http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QByHat2BJLs.
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There are some benefits to taking a 6 AM flight! Check out that gorgeous sky.
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Hmm...I wonder what state we're over now? Let me look at my handy dandy moving map here on my seat!
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And here we are!!!!!! The mountain is out too!! Good ol' Rainier...I missed ya, buddy. "Of all the fire mountains which like beacons, once blazed along the Pacific Coast, Mount Rainier is the noblest."--John Muir
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We stopped in Gig Harbor for lunch and just happened upon this restaurant...what a treat!!! You can even see Rainier in the background!
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Cheers!!!! To a wonderful vacation and an excellent report from the Hutch.
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No, I didn't put the same pic in here twice...this is last year's toast in Seattle after visiting the Hutch and deciding on SCCA for treatment...I thought I'd capture our one-year healthy toast!
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It's so nice to be in a place that requires such a sign. :)
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Yes, I'm thoroughly enjoying this clam chowder and salad...welcome to Washington!!!
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Beautiful flowers...the first of many.
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We're at our bed and breakfast..."Domaine Madeleine"...judging by this image, I think I'm really going to enjoy this place.
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The main house, which sits on a cliff overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca. My bedroom is on the left where that beautiful window is.
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Check out the reflection in the window...gorgeous, isn't it?
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I believe that's Mount Baker over there...I think...whatever it is, it's beautiful!
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Jeri, the owner of Domaine Madeleine, has spectacular gardens as the following photos show.
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They have the biggest rhododendrons I've ever seen!!
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Looking out over the strait...one morning, my parents were walking along and they saw a whale down below!
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Flowers...
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flowers...
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and...
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bark...and more
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...flowers!
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Yup, we're in the Pacific Northwest! Check out all those evergreens.
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There was a mix-up, so the first night, Katie and I stayed in this cute little cottage.
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It was the "romantic cottage"...Katie and I enjoyed a warm fire, some romantic music and a couples game...hahahaha just kidding...but I thought it was funny.
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We found this book in our room and the cover was cracking us up...Katie found it highly entertaining...I think maybe I'll write a book and put a big picture of myself on the cover...what do ya say?
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Hey, what do ya know? More flowers!
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One of the gardens at the bed and breakfast.
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This is pretty cool, isn't it?
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This guy has a pretty nice home here at Domaine Madeleine.
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See what I mean? Surrounded by flowers and gorgeousness (I thought I made that word up, but I looked on dictionary.com and it's a word!).
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We were driving along in our little Camry when we happened upon this spectacular lake, Lake Crescent.
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We pulled off the road for a few photos...here we have Katie and Dad.
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Gorgeousness.
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Have you ever noticed how interesting bark can be? This is a eucalyptus tree on the banks of Lake Crescent.
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For all you "Twilight" fans, we visited Forks on our way to the Hoh Rain Forest!
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Here's a cute Forks native.
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As you can see, it's a tiny town, and there are several "Twilight" stores.
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Forks is also known as a major logging town...a couple feet down from the "Twilight" store, my dad and I found this. I can't tell you how many logging trucks we passed while driving down Highway 101.
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A side-view of the same log...can you believe the size of that baby?
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From what everyone tells us, "Twilight" has really put this town on the map!
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We don't have trees like this back in VA.
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That trunk is gigantic!
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See what I mean?
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Hmm...we came upon this sign just as we were setting off on a hike in the Hoh Rain Forest.
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We were talking to the other guests at Domaine Madeleine, and one of the couples told us they planned their northwest trip around a book called "One Square Inch of Silence". The author went searching for a place where one can find 15 minutes of pure silence, something quite rare nowadays. Apparently he found it on the Hoh Forest Trail. Thus Katie's pose. :) Ironically, when we were walking on a nearby trail, Katie, my dad and I passed another walker who was actually playing music on his phone without headphones. It was loud, obnoxious and quite random, especially after our in-depth discussion at the breakfast table over the book.
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It's beautiful out here. The Hoh Rain Forest is one of the few temperate rain forests in the US.
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How do you figure out how old a tree is again?
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It was a short yet beautiful (albeit noisy :)) hike.
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My dad and I used our expert tracking skills to determine that this is an elk hoofprint. Good thing they didn't try and charge us while we were walking!
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The moss in here is incredible.
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I love this picture of you, Katie!
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Loving the fern.
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I like this shot, if I do say so myself.
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hahahaha We asked my dad to take a photo of us, and this is what he took! Oh well, at least I'm in it! :)
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Pretty shelf mushrooms.
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Katie and Dad and a very big tree.
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And from the other side.
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I hope you're not getting sick of looking at trees ('cause there are more to come)!!
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Wow...look at these trees!
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Welcome to Olympic National Park!
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This is pretty cool looking...moss in the water.
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Look! They put a gilly suit on the phone booth!
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After the rain forest, we drove out to Rialto Beach, and it was absolutely stunning.
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The beach was covered with driftwood, a sight I've never seen before.
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The driftwood itself was like a piece of art.
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This is Katie's first time seeing the Pacific Ocean!
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Everywhere you look, you see a photo waiting to be framed.
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Let's call this one "Fern and Rocks"...creative, right?
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I love this picture of you, Mom.
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I wouldn't have thought that a beach of rocks and driftwood would be so pretty. This is beautiful!
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Look closely and you'll see Katie in there!
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And we'll call this "Flowers and driftwood". :)
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Katie, meet the Pacific Ocean...Pacific, meet Katie.
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If only we had time to stay here and watch the sunset.
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There is nothing quite like listening to waves rushing onto the beach...a sound machine just doesn't cut it...I could never have imagined such a beautiful sight when I was crying over my Frosted Flakes and listening to my sound machine last summer, wondering if I'd ever see the ocean again.
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Katie and Dad at Rialto Beach.
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What is that cute little thing?
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I didn't stack these, but I thought it would make for a cool picture.
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It's a little tough to get around on this beach.
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I think I'll just stay here and watch the sunset.
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More flowers and wood. :)
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After Rialto Beach, we drove over to La Push, an Indian reservation. Those big rocks out in the ocean are called sea stacks. They form as a result of coastal erosion.
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We're really enjoying this part of the country.
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That's an interesting little flower.
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I could stay here by the ocean all afternoon/evening.
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But I must say goodbye...
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...and head to the next adventure!
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Not a bad view looking in the mirror!
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We found this perfect rose outside a bathroom of all places!
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We visited the Olympic Game Farm, a family-owned farm with all kinds of animals, from meerkats to bears!
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Some of the funniest animals on our tour were the llamas. They tried to stick their heads in the window, ran after the car, and just generally seemed to want lots of attention.
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See what I mean? He/she has beautiful eyes, doesn't he?
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And this would be a very close close-up of a buffalo. You had to be in the car...I was driving and Katie was yelling "the signs said 'don't stop'!"..."keep going!!", while my parents chimed in from the backseat, "Close your window!!!"...hey, I'm trying to get a shot guys! Oh well. :) It was pretty hysterical.
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"Wait...don't go!!!!" Sorry, buddy, but Katie made me keep moving.
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Look at this fella!
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Oh my goodness...he is adorable. Look how he's sitting!
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I think he knows he's cute.
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He's even begging! They sold loaves of bread for us to feed the animals...from a distance, mind you. This guy was really working for his snack.
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Katie took this...isn't it beautiful? He looks so cuddly. I really wanted to hop the fence and give him a little hug.
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Katie and I got out of the car and hid from the bears behind this tree.....hahahahaha Just teasin'...I simply put this photo in out of order. Did you actually believe we would get out of the car around bears?!!
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Bye sweetie!!
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The other bear makes this black bear look like a tiny little baby.
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Pretty nice scenery around these parts!
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Here comes a cutie! Sorry though...Katie wants me to keep moving, even for horses!
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Uh-oh, Katie! Looks like a buffalo's a comin' our way!
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Look at his eye--so pretty!!
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Got the window up just in time...a slobbery buffalo kiss for our Camry.
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Don't you wonder why buffalo don't fall over? They're so heavy-looking in the front, and they have skinny little butts and hind legs.
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This elk cracks me up...he looks like he's trying to scare me with a staring contest.
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Don't bother me.
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Oh fine...I'll get up...just let me get some momentum...
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...and here we go!...
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OK, I'm up. Show me the bread. I said SHOW ME THE BREAD!!!
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I guess this guy's the king of the hay.
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The craziest looking chicken I've ever seen!
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What is this animal? Whatever it is, it's too cute!!! Katie and I visit the petting zoo.
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Hi there sweetie!
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Meet my favorite goat...let's call him Oscar.
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Yes, I love you too! Yup, I love the llamas!
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Oh man, I wish Jameson were here to herd this sheep!
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This goat was cracking me up, trying to make sure everyone else in the petting zoo knew who was boss.
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Walking the trail down to the Dungeness Spit (spit means "sandbar"--those crazy Brits have the weirdest words!).
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The world's longest natural sandbar, the Dungeness Spit (5.5 miles in length).
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Dad and I check out the view...not too shabby!
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We hiked down to it and were rewarded with this view.
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Oh no!! Katie got her hand stuck!!!!!!
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Dad and I pose on the driftwood.
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Wish you were here!
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Here I am hard at work, trying to get a good shot to share with you.
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and here's the shot...you like it?!
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"Sweep the leg." I look just like the Karate Kid, right?
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Don't tell anyone, but I stole some of these stones...well, not these, but some at Rialto...along with some driftwood. Don't worry, I was punished sufficiently at baggage check-in when they charged me $90 extra for an overweight bag.
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Look hard and you'll see Katie and me in there!
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That's Katie and Dad way down the trail...walking back up to the car.
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Much better shot, Dad! Now we can see Katie!
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A small little winery in Sequim (pronounced "Skwim"), WA.
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We stayed in Port Angeles, WA, the "gateway" to Olympic National Park. I would go back tomorrow if possible!
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We drove up to Hurricane Ridge on a clear, cool day, and were rewarded by breathtaking vistas.
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I firmly believe that Mother Nature is the best artist that ever was.
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Do you agree?
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Up here at 5,240 feet, there are some very pretty meadows.
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We followed this European camper up the winding road...doesn't it just seem to fit in perfectly with the surroundings?
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Dad is in his glory. :)
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We'll call this one "Mountains and Grass"...honestly, I really don't know how I come up with these titles.
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Relaxing on Hurricane Ridge...apparently it was given that name because the area gets high winds, similar to those in a hurricane.
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The landscape out here is so distinct. I kind of felt like running through the hills and singing "The Sound of Music".
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But I'll settle for posing for a picture in front of the hills. :)
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Dad built a fire in my room for me! This is heaven...sleeping near a warm, crackling fire, looking out at a sky full of stars.
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You're jealous, aren't you?!
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And this is the view from my bed!!! That's right...the view from my bed!
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I know, our faces are dark, but I really wanted this picture to show you where we eat breakfast. Can you imagine anything more beautiful?
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Breakfasts were the highlight of our stay at Domaine Madeleine...delicious doesn't come close to describing the food...perhaps heavenly?
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Katie enjoys her coffee before we head out on our next adventure.
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This is eggplant with various herbs and tomatoes...I'm not usually an eggplant fan, but it was really good!
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She always puts a pretty flower on our plate...here I am with some fuschia.
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Bananas flambé...mmmmm...I love anything with bananas!
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This is where I slept.
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And that's my view!
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Here's the door to my room.
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And looking out the other window.
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I made a new friend! I know, surprise, surprise!
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We're on the ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria, BC.
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It's nice to have to wear a jacket!
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Not a bad view, ey? (I have to start speaking Canadian)
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Gorgeousness.
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Looks like the fog's rollin' in!
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OK, do you see the cup sitting on the chair next to that man reading the paper? I was originally sitting in the chair next to my mom, behind the chair his cup was on. I accidentally moved the chairs, and he gave me this dirty look and said "Hey, I have my tea on that chair!"...Hmmm...seems to me perhaps you should put a lid on it (your cup and your mouth, while we're at it), and maybe you shouldn't have it on such a movable surface!!!!!! Grumpy grumperton.
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We won't let him ruin our trip though--look at this beautiful view!
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Coming into the Victoria harbor.
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Too bad we don't have time to do any kayaking (but we definitely didn't want to miss Jeri's breakfast!).
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Hotel Grand Pacific...and grand it is!
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Love the hair, Katie! Yah, it's a bit windy. :)
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Beautiful day for a boat ride, huh guys?
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Victoria is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
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That's the Parliament Building.
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That big grey and red boat is our ferry.
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What are these? They're like little trumpets...I love them!
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A pretty leaf.
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Are you prepared to see flower photos to top all flower photos? Here we are at the famous Butchart Gardens.
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I'll let you decide on your own captions. :)
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Dad and I agreed that we could have spent hours there!
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Even the trash can has pretty flowers on it!
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Happy dahlias. :)
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How funky is this flower?
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I miss being around gorgeous flower arrangements all the time. This is the arrangement in the lobby of the Hotel Grand Pacific. I'll always value my years at the flower shop!
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I saw these pulling onto the ferry, and I was a bit concerned...18 wheelers on a ferry?
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Goodbye Canada!
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Watching the cars and trucks line up.
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You could definitely feel the boat move a bit when these babies came on board.
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Blurry, beautiful Victoria Harbor.
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...and dusk arrives...
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...I hope to come back and stay longer someday.
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See the rowers down there? Pretty time to be out on the water.
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Look at the big cruise ship!
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A very yummy fruit platter at Jeri's.
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And another course! Crepes and some hearty ham.
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Katie, Jeri and I
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And my padres with our hostess...thank you, Jeri!!
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Has anyone else read this book, "The Help"? Katie said it was wonderful...she had a hard time breaking away from it, as you can tell.
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I can't help myself...there are so many incredible flowers around here!
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This is probably my favorite flower picture from the whole trip...they're from Jeri's garden.
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Looking out over the edge of Jeri's property.
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Dad looks pretty comfy up there, don't you agree?
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Goin' for a hike. Katie, Dad and Mom.
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Are you sick of bark and flowers yet?
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Sea stacks at Cape Flattery.
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Katie, Dad and I take a rest while walking down to the very tip of the northwestern US (of the lower 48 states).
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The hike was made easier with railings and walkways throughout.
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Pretty nice to have such a nice trail, huh?
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The first of many caves.
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Um, that's a little unsettling!
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Quite the vantage point.
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They even built fences!
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Dad documents the caves with his iphone.
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Just playin' with varous camera angles.
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Mom, I'm so glad you came on this hike with us! Wasn't the view worth it?
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Check out this tree!
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Bark is actually very interesting when you look at it up-close.
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On our drive home from Cape Flattery, we stopped at Lake Crescent Lodge. If you look hard, you can see a little head out there in the water. Someone's actually swimming!!
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This seems like the ideal place to relax with a good book.
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I have a thing for docks, I guess because I associate them with relaxation, vacations and fun water sports.
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That's the main lodge building. There were other buildings throughout the grounds, and several guests were sitting on their front porches with their pets. I think I'll have to take a big road trip someday, and this will be one of my stops (with my pups, of course).
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The last rays of sunshine...I'm sure this place is just as pretty with a star-filled sky.
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Dad checks out the lodge. This place looks like something out of a movie...I would love to get back here someday.
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Now I'm dreaming of a lake vacation.
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Just a pretty road, one of the many.
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Our last night in Port Angeles, we took Jeri out to dinner at one of her favorite places, an absolutely delicious Thai restaurant. Not only was the food good, but the drive there presented us with a different view of Port Angeles. I love discovering the various neighborhoods in a town.
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Although I loved the Camry, we were lacking in trunk space. We just picked up Laura (and her large suitcase!).
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View from the "Silver Cloud" at Lake Union. If you ever head to Seattle, we highly recommend this hotel.
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Looking the other way out the window...pretty nice view, huh?
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Katie, Laura and I shared a room.
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I guess Laura's a tad tired. :)
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One last photo of Katie's hiking boots before she trashes them...it's definitely time to invest in some new ones!!!
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Katie slept on the pull-out the first night...we took turns, but at the end, Laura pointed out happily that Katie had to sleep in it the most.
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I'm pretty cozy over here in this bed with my four pillows.
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Thank goodness Laura brought her snore strips or whatever they're called.
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Setting out to explore Seattle...are you surprised we ran into some four-legged friends on the way?
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Oh, you are too sweet!
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We started our tour with a trip down to the wooden boats.
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Can you smell the wood from the workshop?
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Laura, Katie, Elvira and I headed off to explore our old hood while Dad stayed with the boats. I think he was glad to walk around without four girls trailing after him, rushing him to the next boat.
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Just proof that there are as many cranes as when we left!
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Minor Ave, my ol' street.
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Elvira and I.
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Remember all the construction going on across the street last year? It's done, and here's the building!
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Posing with the infamous tree that Rachel took care of.
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I took this for Tiso...the scarecrows are back again!
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Carlo, we missed you!!!!
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This is the new SCCA House, down the street from the Pete Gross House. It serves the same purpose as the Pete Gross House, a home away from home for patients and their families.
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These Seattlelites are quite creative with their flowers. Maybe I'll steal this idea someday.
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Hey, maybe I'll register! hahahahaha It seems like a really cool sport though, one that requires a great deal of balance.
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Remember when I saw this guy last year? He looked so relaxed, just going for a paddle across the Sound, standing up.
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Walking down to Pike Place! Laura, Katie and Elvira.
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Colorful peppers...
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...and lovely flowers...
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...yup, we've arrived at the Market! Here we are at lunch, looking down on all the shoppers...not figuratively, but literally.
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See? View from our table.
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Not a bad place to people watch!
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I sure enjoyed those fried clams with mustard! It's been a wonderful first day back in Seattle.
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I can't forget about all the incredible (and cheap!) flower arrangements.
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We happened upon this street performer...pretty neat, huh?
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I'd say he has some talent!
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Katie and Elvira watch on in amazement.
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It looks like it's made out of wax or something, don't you think?
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Check out the stadiums. Seattle, I missed you!
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Standing outside the SCCA clinic with Elvira, getting ready for them to take those 23 tubes.
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Just waiting for the dentist.
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Well, everything looks good! She thinks (along with everyone else) that the reason I've been having jaw discomfort and swelling stems from my teeth grinding.
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Holly brought me a cupcake to celebrate my re-birthday!
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Laura suits up to climb the wall.
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Good technique, good technique.
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You gotta click on it to actually see Laura.
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Apparently, the wall is 65 feet tall...you go, Laura!
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Now comes the fun part...repelling!
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Katie sits and waits with Holly.
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Lookin' good, Katie! You look like an expert!
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"Hmmm...maybe I should rethink this."
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"Nah, I'm gonna do it!"
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It was Katie's first time climbing, but she didn't seem too intimidated...in fact, when she finished, she was ready for another climb!
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Look, she's even smiling!
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The only time she hesitated was when the lady told her to let go and sit back in the harness. Katie was like, "Um, what?!"
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Laura and Katie standing by the wall...way to go, girls!
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Dad and Laura look quite relaxed in those chairs...very luxurious for camping!
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The night of the book. Take a closer look to see Laura's two page note.
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I think this speaks for itself. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
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Yah, yah, yah, so I've been crying...who wouldn't cry with a gift like that?!
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Here we are at the winery! ("Um, Julie...where are you taking us?")
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Brennon was really cool, and we felt pretty special having the winemaker show us around.
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Do I hear an "I'm sorry Julie...this was a wonderful idea!!".
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You simply have to try this wine. Tiso, any hope of getting the "Blue Iguana" to pick it up?
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Red wine's good for red blood cells. I just made that up, but I'm sure it has some truth to it.
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I'm not sure what these are, but they're fancy looking!
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Good thing my mom doesn't drink 'cause we needed a driver after this!
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I love how the barrels are tinged with red.
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What I like most about this photo is his tattooed arm...it justs makes it look more artistic.
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Look at Katie downing her glass!
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hahaha I don't remember what she was saying here, but this one makes me smile.
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Deeeeelicious.
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Here I am trying some of the "Tough Guy".
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Pour away, Brennon, pour away!
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Brennon recommended "The Barking Frog", a nearby restaurant, so we went for a late lunch/early dinner. They sat us at this cool round table with a fire pit in the middle.
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This is the outside of the restaurant. It looks like it belongs in a wine country, don't you think?
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Of course I found some flowers to shoot.
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Woodinville seems like a really nice area.
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Looks like fall to me!
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We'll call this "Berries".
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I like the "frog crossing" sign.
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Now THAT is a large pumpkin.
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Katie and Dad.
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Dad and I.
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Pretty cool centerpiece.
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I like this one...Katie, Laura and Mom.
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Reviewing our photos.
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Dad and Mom...it was one of our favorite meals.
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Katie, what are you doing?!
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Um, guys...this is a fancy resort...I don't think they do that kind of thing around here! :)
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Willows Lodge. Those petrified trees were brought in from the Olympic Peninsula.
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Mom and Dad hanging out by the pig pen.
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There they are...the truffle-smelling pigs!!!
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Come here, cutie!
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I love this one!! Laura took it...did you ever know that pigs are one of my favorite animals? Yup, ever since "Charlotte's Web". The only stuffed animal I have left from my childhood days is Wilbur, my stuffed pig.
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Cute little curly-q tail.
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More flowers. =)
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I took Katie and my dad over to the Ballard Locks to check out the salmon ladder and to watch boats passing from the lake into the sound and vice versa.
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Dad waits for the boats to come into the locks.
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Now that this sailboat is all tied up and the locks are shut, the water can drop and they'll be ready to enter the Sound.
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Pretty cool, huh?
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It was a little bit chilly, as you can see by their attire. Katie and Dad.
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There are gardens surrounding the locks.
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Pretty street on a pretty fall day.
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Theo's, our favorite Seattle chocolate factory, located in the Fremont neighborhood.
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I was flipping through the book Katie gave me, and I have a picture just like this in another post. I've always loved drawbridges.
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Looking through the Aurora Bridge over to Lake Union (this is the bridge that the big troll is under).
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Mom and Anitra (my scheduler from SCCA)...good to see you, Anitra!
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I had to wear a mask because of my cold (although, I admit, it's not very effective in this shot).
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Jackie and I posing at "Wild Ginger".
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Big difference from this shot taken in January!
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We're back at the winery to help sort grapes! Brennon's ready to go!
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Check out Laura with her doo-rag.
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And that's me working hard over there!
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There's Dad!
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Look at all the grapes...seriously, how could we possible get every single raisin?
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That would be the de-stemming machine.
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These grapes were quite tasty, by the way.
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I know, it's dark, but it shows all of us.
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One of the owners' wives, Helen, made lunch, which included this incredibly delicious salad. The lunch was as good as any meal we had at a restaurant (we just had to work for it!).
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There's the chef!
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Look at all those grapes.
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Brennon drove this machine like a madman!
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Let's call this "Grapes".
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What do you think? Do we look like Laverne and Shirley?
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My turn to have a go at the wall!
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"That sure is tall."
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Here we go!
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I look like an expert! :)
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Look out below! Here I come!
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Whew...I made it!
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That's right...I just climbed the wall!!
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Look how beautiful little Stella is!
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My hat looks cuter on her.
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I think we have a future wine lover on our hands!
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Babies always love my mom...and what's not to love?
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Vera and Stella.
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Vera, Dan and Stella. Look at Stella's smile!
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Yey!! I get to hold her!!!!
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This is why you can never put your seat back on a plane...there's just no room to do it!!!! I, for one, think the reclining feature should be totally disabled. Have you ever noticed how it's the really short people that always put them back?
