tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18842362739863843622024-03-12T17:00:16.860-07:00A Vue Across AmericaSusan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.comBlogger159125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-66245587263159961692010-09-01T12:07:00.000-07:002010-09-27T08:59:11.285-07:00Beach Bliss<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJURSoZF_HI/AAAAAAAAEEc/rJJvcxJ4M1k/s1600/DSC_2492.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJURSoZF_HI/AAAAAAAAEEc/rJJvcxJ4M1k/s400/DSC_2492.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518335930190396530" border="0" /></a>Our Pacific Coast adventure leads us to the quaint little town of Gualala where we find an amazing place to stop and really enjoy the magnificent scenery offered in this region. After leaving Mendocino and opting not to stop because it was too early in the day, we are just beginning to wonder if we have made a mistake. Pickings have been slim until here. But,<a href="http://http//www.seacliffmotel.com/"> Seacliff on the Bluff</a> provides us with a comfortable, spacious room, an amazing view with a price that doesn't make us pause.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJURSAa_FwI/AAAAAAAAEEU/rODQBjuEMS8/s1600/DSC_2497.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJURSAa_FwI/AAAAAAAAEEU/rODQBjuEMS8/s400/DSC_2497.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518335919460914946" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJURR5CEFBI/AAAAAAAAEEM/KH9DOCNC9Uk/s1600/DSC_2513.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJURR5CEFBI/AAAAAAAAEEM/KH9DOCNC9Uk/s400/DSC_2513.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518335917477336082" border="0" /></a>Located directly on the water, next to a beautiful state park and, yes, those are whales right off the beach! We are quite happy indeed!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQvkzVj3I/AAAAAAAAEEE/TkXICRnVwA8/s1600/DSC_2516.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQvkzVj3I/AAAAAAAAEEE/TkXICRnVwA8/s400/DSC_2516.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518335327931305842" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQvfMipdI/AAAAAAAAED8/auq8OAS3XnU/s1600/DSC_2519.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQvfMipdI/AAAAAAAAED8/auq8OAS3XnU/s400/DSC_2519.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518335326426408402" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQvPLO1yI/AAAAAAAAED0/0XhuLm03TM0/s1600/DSC_2523.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQvPLO1yI/AAAAAAAAED0/0XhuLm03TM0/s400/DSC_2523.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518335322125948706" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQusWjOlI/AAAAAAAAEDs/AMpr85i7nsE/s1600/DSC_2548.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQusWjOlI/AAAAAAAAEDs/AMpr85i7nsE/s400/DSC_2548.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518335312778181202" border="0" /></a><br />The sleepy little town offers all we find truly important. A great hike, a gorgeous beach, and comfortable accommodations with superior service. We even are guided to an amazing dining experience 3 miles away in Anchor Bay at the Redwood Grill. Truly a delicious and delightful experience. The owner/hostess welcoms us warmly and the brand new menu lists almost too many tempting possibilities. We opt for a tasting approach and are quite satisfied. Truffle fries are cooked and seasoned to perfection. The tuna equally attended to by the chef. A roasted beet salad with arugula proves absolutely amazing. Slow cooked short ribs literally melt and accompanied with a great red wine complete a truly wonderful experience. Thank you again to Kathy, who not only took incredible care of us upon our check in at the Seacliff but also is responsible for leading us to the Redwood. These two experiences alone make a stop in Gualala a must. The bonus of whales literally put it over the top!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQuEBYXEI/AAAAAAAAEDk/mk87t77NQgM/s1600/DSC_2558.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQuEBYXEI/AAAAAAAAEDk/mk87t77NQgM/s400/DSC_2558.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518335301951970370" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQHfEBkwI/AAAAAAAAEDc/5mMYxEgGosM/s1600/DSC_2569.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQHfEBkwI/AAAAAAAAEDc/5mMYxEgGosM/s400/DSC_2569.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518334639195919106" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQHGTSkYI/AAAAAAAAEDU/KfpMumZbpL4/s1600/DSC_2580.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQHGTSkYI/AAAAAAAAEDU/KfpMumZbpL4/s400/DSC_2580.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518334632549060994" border="0" /></a>The morning hike at Gualala Point Regional Park provides access to the beautiful cliffs and beach, as well as the Gualala River. It's quite fun meandering between the Pacific and River along the little strip of beach. Perched on one of the rocks, watching the tide roll in provides a trance like moment. Watching the whales frolicking in the wake take us to new heights. The California coast truly is an unrivaled event!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQGzZM9BI/AAAAAAAAEDM/0pNgOT-BnUY/s1600/DSC_2582.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQGzZM9BI/AAAAAAAAEDM/0pNgOT-BnUY/s400/DSC_2582.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518334627473585170" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQEo-r8KI/AAAAAAAAEDE/3osD2E4BbUQ/s1600/DSC_2593.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQEo-r8KI/AAAAAAAAEDE/3osD2E4BbUQ/s400/DSC_2593.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518334590318276770" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQEIlFGoI/AAAAAAAAEC8/bZ70HWCPsCg/s1600/DSC_2595.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUQEIlFGoI/AAAAAAAAEC8/bZ70HWCPsCg/s400/DSC_2595.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518334581620939394" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPcyblmhI/AAAAAAAAEC0/wsy84xjUOG8/s1600/DSC_2606.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPcyblmhI/AAAAAAAAEC0/wsy84xjUOG8/s400/DSC_2606.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333905660647954" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPce9gJrI/AAAAAAAAECs/88RqHkcw7OE/s1600/DSC_2611.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPce9gJrI/AAAAAAAAECs/88RqHkcw7OE/s400/DSC_2611.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333900434187954" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPb_bUylI/AAAAAAAAECk/weZa9BO7IPU/s1600/DSC_2618.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPb_bUylI/AAAAAAAAECk/weZa9BO7IPU/s400/DSC_2618.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333891969337938" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPbmJjVjI/AAAAAAAAECc/0kTAbHiX0C4/s1600/DSC_2619.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPbmJjVjI/AAAAAAAAECc/0kTAbHiX0C4/s400/DSC_2619.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333885183907378" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPbNV3y2I/AAAAAAAAECU/oscEHLmp3gU/s1600/DSC_2620.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUPbNV3y2I/AAAAAAAAECU/oscEHLmp3gU/s400/DSC_2620.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333878524693346" border="0" /></a>We, of course, find the perfect picnic spot, perched high on a cliff, taking in all we've witnessed this morning. The afternoon spent in complete tranquility.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOxcGzNAI/AAAAAAAAECM/EWtPTWcp77k/s1600/DSC_2650.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 266px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333160933504002" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOxcGzNAI/AAAAAAAAECM/EWtPTWcp77k/s400/DSC_2650.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOw4elC9I/AAAAAAAAECE/8agP86j8Fqk/s1600/DSC_2659.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 266px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333151369563090" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOw4elC9I/AAAAAAAAECE/8agP86j8Fqk/s400/DSC_2659.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOwvXclwI/AAAAAAAAEB8/upF3scifBQ0/s1600/DSC_2660.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 266px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333148923729666" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOwvXclwI/AAAAAAAAEB8/upF3scifBQ0/s400/DSC_2660.jpg" border="0" /></a>Several more short hikes continue to provide special findings. Our day so full of wonder and beauty, peace and serenity. It's hard to create a more perfect time than this!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOwM942sI/AAAAAAAAEB0/Ho9ALQKN_cU/s1600/DSC_2670.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 266px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333139689724610" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOwM942sI/AAAAAAAAEB0/Ho9ALQKN_cU/s400/DSC_2670.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOvhOv-bI/AAAAAAAAEBs/UAVvHIahCyQ/s1600/DSC_2674.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 400px; display: block; height: 266px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518333127949285810" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TJUOvhOv-bI/AAAAAAAAEBs/UAVvHIahCyQ/s400/DSC_2674.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-13346083695374280952010-08-31T08:36:00.000-07:002010-09-16T06:01:32.168-07:00California Dreaming<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iuDnw6uI/AAAAAAAAEA4/QVymAH3WWBQ/s1600/DSC_2429.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599693612772066" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iuDnw6uI/AAAAAAAAEA4/QVymAH3WWBQ/s320/DSC_2429.jpg" /></a> Leaving the Redwoods, we start down the Pacific Highway Coast, enjoying the knowledge that our coastal exploration has given, realizing the coast is in sight when the fog once again encompasses. The sunny forest disappears quickly as the fog awaits our arrival - it's certainly something to experience. Once again, breathtaking - what we can see!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0ita5t1gI/AAAAAAAAEAw/8v0_tK0WRZM/s1600/DSC_2438.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599682682213890" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0ita5t1gI/AAAAAAAAEAw/8v0_tK0WRZM/s320/DSC_2438.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iscs9yFI/AAAAAAAAEAo/8lpOH_uvuMA/s1600/DSC_2444.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599665985734738" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iscs9yFI/AAAAAAAAEAo/8lpOH_uvuMA/s320/DSC_2444.jpg" /></a><br />A brief stop at one of many state parks along the way allows some really beautiful vistas, utilizing a boardwalk that takes us along tide pools, rocky cliffs and lush meadows. We continue to be completely amazed at what this Pacific coast brings. So different from our Atlantic we've grown up with, it's the ultimate adventure for exploration. Our biggest surprise still is the chill in the air in August, necessitating the ever present jacket requirement, a staple we can't believe how often needed!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0irwXc4gI/AAAAAAAAEAg/1lOhdaIZ5ro/s1600/DSC_2448.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599654084338178" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0irwXc4gI/AAAAAAAAEAg/1lOhdaIZ5ro/s320/DSC_2448.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iqwfyJ_I/AAAAAAAAEAY/SMfbwskoCZ4/s1600/DSC_2450.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599636939417586" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iqwfyJ_I/AAAAAAAAEAY/SMfbwskoCZ4/s320/DSC_2450.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iQGNS1-I/AAAAAAAAEAQ/7oO2oy7DH3k/s1600/DSC_2451.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599178910980066" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iQGNS1-I/AAAAAAAAEAQ/7oO2oy7DH3k/s320/DSC_2451.jpg" /></a> Dotting this daring Highway 1, amidst the parks, coast and winding roads, are quaint little towns that appear out of nowhere. Traffic is very sparse and yet another surprise as we traverse south in full blown summer. We're not sure where the tourists are but we're happy to have the unexpected quiet along this gorgeous route. It makes the experience even more spectacular and we, like so often on this journey, are very thankful.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iP7gz0zI/AAAAAAAAEAI/_e-ENGhG6Qs/s1600/DSC_2462.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599176040043314" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iP7gz0zI/AAAAAAAAEAI/_e-ENGhG6Qs/s320/DSC_2462.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iPiuKZ0I/AAAAAAAAEAA/LPfBmpdVrws/s1600/DSC_2468.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599169385162562" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iPiuKZ0I/AAAAAAAAEAA/LPfBmpdVrws/s320/DSC_2468.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iPEElrhI/AAAAAAAAD_4/7raUpMu-mnY/s1600/DSC_2469.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599161157725714" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iPEElrhI/AAAAAAAAD_4/7raUpMu-mnY/s320/DSC_2469.jpg" /></a><br />Mendocino is as charming as we've read it would be, and the tourist population here is reflective. We entertain a stop, as well, but it's relatively early in our day and we opt to push on. The highway stretching ahead with promise of even more!</div><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iOoRmZ4I/AAAAAAAAD_w/jfxKg7Uo6vQ/s1600/DSC_2475.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511599153696106370" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0iOoRmZ4I/AAAAAAAAD_w/jfxKg7Uo6vQ/s320/DSC_2475.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-59281784236108726022010-08-31T08:31:00.000-07:002010-09-15T06:09:36.505-07:00Avenue of the Giants<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hZuvL-OI/AAAAAAAAD_o/oYA34djaQ94/s1600/DSC_2328.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511598244897749218" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hZuvL-OI/AAAAAAAAD_o/oYA34djaQ94/s320/DSC_2328.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hZEUyGeI/AAAAAAAAD_g/3QvwQYg_DeI/s1600/DSC_2329.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511598233512712674" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hZEUyGeI/AAAAAAAAD_g/3QvwQYg_DeI/s320/DSC_2329.jpg" /></a> Quite honestly, only the grandeur of the redwoods could have matched our incredible experience along the Oregon coast. Traveling into the <a href="http://http//avenueofthegiants.net/">Avenue of the Giants</a> lives up to the hype without question. These enormous trees dwarf everything and the serenity and peace that ensues when entering this 30-mile scenic route is truly one of the most amazing feelings we've shared on this grand adventure. </div><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hYzUWB1I/AAAAAAAAD_Y/LBQ-VXKvu1o/s1600/DSC_2342.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511598228947470162" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hYzUWB1I/AAAAAAAAD_Y/LBQ-VXKvu1o/s320/DSC_2342.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hDqoqixI/AAAAAAAAD_Q/wltOwGo-uzE/s1600/DSC_2343.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597865839528722" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hDqoqixI/AAAAAAAAD_Q/wltOwGo-uzE/s320/DSC_2343.jpg" /></a> The alternate route running parallel with Highway 101 offers a journey not to be missed. As we travel the quiet road, we are transported into awe inspiring bliss. Looking upward through the giant lined sky keeps us virtually silent as these wonders surround completely. We have read this is a special place and what an understatement as we explore.</div><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hCznseUI/AAAAAAAAD_I/1_tbFRP_ZSA/s1600/DSC_2347.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597851071510850" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hCznseUI/AAAAAAAAD_I/1_tbFRP_ZSA/s320/DSC_2347.jpg" /></a> Several stops ensue as we get up close and personal with these gorgeous beings. Periodic trails entice and the morning is full with soaking up the unsurpassed energy. The clear, sunny day adds completely to the grand scenery as we move every so slowly through this wonderous maze. <br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hCfLutoI/AAAAAAAAD_A/1UgIawwYxBk/s1600/DSC_2363.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597845585507970" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hCfLutoI/AAAAAAAAD_A/1UgIawwYxBk/s320/DSC_2363.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hBv1BHdI/AAAAAAAAD-4/f4zdcKdP1U0/s1600/DSC_2367.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597832873778642" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0hBv1BHdI/AAAAAAAAD-4/f4zdcKdP1U0/s320/DSC_2367.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0grnmmScI/AAAAAAAAD-w/nG04P9axo6k/s1600/DSC_2369.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597452708694466" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0grnmmScI/AAAAAAAAD-w/nG04P9axo6k/s320/DSC_2369.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gq-ENNeI/AAAAAAAAD-o/HFH0_SkBiWE/s1600/DSC_2372.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597441558590946" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gq-ENNeI/AAAAAAAAD-o/HFH0_SkBiWE/s320/DSC_2372.jpg" /></a> The ultimate tree hug!</div><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gqexvSEI/AAAAAAAAD-g/kYFpmWsj8tE/s1600/DSC_2375.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597433159632962" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gqexvSEI/AAAAAAAAD-g/kYFpmWsj8tE/s320/DSC_2375.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gpjAlN-I/AAAAAAAAD-Y/18DLq-Fz_sg/s1600/DSC_2387.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597417115760610" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gpjAlN-I/AAAAAAAAD-Y/18DLq-Fz_sg/s320/DSC_2387.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0go08gJ5I/AAAAAAAAD-Q/ReVXrQFIugY/s1600/DSC_2389.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511597404750620562" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0go08gJ5I/AAAAAAAAD-Q/ReVXrQFIugY/s320/DSC_2389.jpg" /></a> Exiting this haven is most difficult. For anyone who wants to witness the magic of a redwood forest, the Avenue of the Giants is definitely the E-ticket!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-89850586675518877172010-08-29T09:24:00.000-07:002010-09-14T18:01:00.228-07:00Picnic<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gDMdN5vI/AAAAAAAAD-I/EIWqAxI8M2w/s1600/DSC_2325.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511596758226822898" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gDMdN5vI/AAAAAAAAD-I/EIWqAxI8M2w/s320/DSC_2325.jpg" /></a> After endless days of fog, our final exit from the coast of Oregon brings us the long awaited sun along the shore. And, how spectacular it is. Fitting as we have enjoyed this state so fully even with the lack of that much needed sunshine. As beautiful as this magnificent coast has shown, with today's clear skies, another realm of heaven is revealed.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gB96cLpI/AAAAAAAAD-A/p0skOEuJaG8/s1600/DSC_2319.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511596737142992530" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gB96cLpI/AAAAAAAAD-A/p0skOEuJaG8/s320/DSC_2319.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gBazgPcI/AAAAAAAAD94/QNs6ovsDFkY/s1600/DSC_2312.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511596727718657474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gBazgPcI/AAAAAAAAD94/QNs6ovsDFkY/s320/DSC_2312.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Bidding farewell to this favorite state so far is bittersweet as we relish the redwoods ahead and California beckons. </div><div> </div><div>As magnficent as Oregon haunts have been, the single standout achievement is the amazing picnic spots offered at literally every venue.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gAwlx6QI/AAAAAAAAD9w/FXLBA2D4YIM/s1600/DSC_2308.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511596716386806018" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TH0gAwlx6QI/AAAAAAAAD9w/FXLBA2D4YIM/s320/DSC_2308.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqK7xEs1oI/AAAAAAAAD9o/rI-emoVm8ho/s1600/DSC_1672.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869853431191170" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqK7xEs1oI/AAAAAAAAD9o/rI-emoVm8ho/s320/DSC_1672.jpg" /></a><br />We say goodbye with a view of some of the best....<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqK7YfABZI/AAAAAAAAD9g/VZPIU4_dOQw/s1600/DSC_1673.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869846830613906" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqK7YfABZI/AAAAAAAAD9g/VZPIU4_dOQw/s320/DSC_1673.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqK64jcZbI/AAAAAAAAD9Y/-wPpgVrfo18/s1600/DSC_1703.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869838259316146" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqK64jcZbI/AAAAAAAAD9Y/-wPpgVrfo18/s320/DSC_1703.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKrZakWLI/AAAAAAAAD9Q/_08nJmRjPxE/s1600/DSC_1828.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869572202551474" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKrZakWLI/AAAAAAAAD9Q/_08nJmRjPxE/s320/DSC_1828.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKq97rddI/AAAAAAAAD9I/6oM4WyI4X48/s1600/DSC_2145.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869564825236946" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKq97rddI/AAAAAAAAD9I/6oM4WyI4X48/s320/DSC_2145.jpg" /></a><br />You must be beginnng to see how once again Oregon wins - hiking and the perfect picnic stop - our very favorite combination.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKqU_0TgI/AAAAAAAAD9A/sPRt1Y4CvBQ/s1600/DSC_2182.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869553836740098" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKqU_0TgI/AAAAAAAAD9A/sPRt1Y4CvBQ/s320/DSC_2182.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKqIumnRI/AAAAAAAAD84/ehSfr9AUOtY/s1600/DSC_2187.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869550543314194" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKqIumnRI/AAAAAAAAD84/ehSfr9AUOtY/s320/DSC_2187.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKpTRmJZI/AAAAAAAAD8w/tR9b_m1KD5c/s1600/DSC_2188.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869536194569618" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKpTRmJZI/AAAAAAAAD8w/tR9b_m1KD5c/s320/DSC_2188.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKQ7rl1qI/AAAAAAAAD8o/GJMQ0qY-I3Y/s1600/DSC_2189.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869117544289954" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKQ7rl1qI/AAAAAAAAD8o/GJMQ0qY-I3Y/s320/DSC_2189.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKQTu06kI/AAAAAAAAD8g/898aN3dIs2Q/s1600/DSC_2190.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869106820442690" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKQTu06kI/AAAAAAAAD8g/898aN3dIs2Q/s320/DSC_2190.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKQLvKFKI/AAAAAAAAD8Y/_XILLsB7Mhw/s1600/DSC_2213.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869104674346146" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKQLvKFKI/AAAAAAAAD8Y/_XILLsB7Mhw/s320/DSC_2213.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKPuxkhQI/AAAAAAAAD8Q/l45D1xtB2To/s1600/DSC_2214.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869096899839234" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKPuxkhQI/AAAAAAAAD8Q/l45D1xtB2To/s320/DSC_2214.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKPIlKYFI/AAAAAAAAD8I/NQltTg4q_b8/s1600/DSC_2283.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510869086647246930" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THqKPIlKYFI/AAAAAAAAD8I/NQltTg4q_b8/s320/DSC_2283.jpg" /></a> Of all of our many glorious moments along this journey, Oregon has definitely made it's way to a strong first. We think you might have to agree. This state is a must see for all!<br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-40002860303038320222010-08-24T16:54:00.001-07:002010-08-29T09:20:42.013-07:00A Rose By Any Other Name<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdu7_rcDI/AAAAAAAAD8A/KebYiYB58lk/s1600/DSC_2236.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509131305141104690" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdu7_rcDI/AAAAAAAAD8A/KebYiYB58lk/s320/DSC_2236.jpg" /></a> Shore Acres continues to impress as we explore and peek into its beautiful gardens. We are not prepared for what we find. Victoria could easily be challenged by this perfectly manicured treasure. </p><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRduiKT9eI/AAAAAAAAD74/pAQ-PhlyTJc/s1600/DSC_2239.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509131298206381538" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRduiKT9eI/AAAAAAAAD74/pAQ-PhlyTJc/s320/DSC_2239.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRduVPSnWI/AAAAAAAAD7w/KSRptb5dO6E/s1600/DSC_2245.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509131294737603938" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRduVPSnWI/AAAAAAAAD7w/KSRptb5dO6E/s320/DSC_2245.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdUOinFUI/AAAAAAAAD7k/0ieqC_gFJAE/s1600/DSC_2248.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130846262990146" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdUOinFUI/AAAAAAAAD7k/0ieqC_gFJAE/s320/DSC_2248.jpg" /></a> The greenhouse is stocked and staged better than any we've seen.<br /></p><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdTzxx1sI/AAAAAAAAD7c/x9pl_Wk_F7g/s1600/DSC_2254.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130839078852290" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdTzxx1sI/AAAAAAAAD7c/x9pl_Wk_F7g/s320/DSC_2254.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdTZNqTNI/AAAAAAAAD7U/ua20L0GwHng/s1600/DSC_2256.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130831948041426" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdTZNqTNI/AAAAAAAAD7U/ua20L0GwHng/s320/DSC_2256.jpg" /></a>And, the roses found in the display garden stand up to all the awards they evidently have won. It is just extraordinary. </p><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdTOQxgfI/AAAAAAAAD7M/2O7xm_1Deco/s1600/DSC_2261.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130829008306674" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRdTOQxgfI/AAAAAAAAD7M/2O7xm_1Deco/s320/DSC_2261.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRc0_OpDBI/AAAAAAAAD7E/dYolarf4Gwo/s1600/DSC_2263.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130309576756242" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRc0_OpDBI/AAAAAAAAD7E/dYolarf4Gwo/s320/DSC_2263.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRc0Usf76I/AAAAAAAAD68/zKzbhXJ0eqY/s1600/DSC_2266.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130298159263650" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRc0Usf76I/AAAAAAAAD68/zKzbhXJ0eqY/s320/DSC_2266.jpg" /></a> The reflecting pond in the Japanese Garden is total serenity and we could spend much longer than time has allowed. This is one special, special place.</p><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRc0BiC0MI/AAAAAAAAD60/EXbj9IDfdmk/s1600/DSC_2270.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130293015138498" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRc0BiC0MI/AAAAAAAAD60/EXbj9IDfdmk/s320/DSC_2270.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRczvTsqNI/AAAAAAAAD6s/SSl8BORM2lM/s1600/DSC_2271.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130288123128018" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRczvTsqNI/AAAAAAAAD6s/SSl8BORM2lM/s320/DSC_2271.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRczbW7loI/AAAAAAAAD6k/yY4oTCSqqAg/s1600/DSC_2272.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509130282767980162" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRczbW7loI/AAAAAAAAD6k/yY4oTCSqqAg/s320/DSC_2272.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcRzYF_vI/AAAAAAAAD6c/vJgUI8sUoIw/s1600/DSC_2276.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509129705099755250" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcRzYF_vI/AAAAAAAAD6c/vJgUI8sUoIw/s320/DSC_2276.jpg" /></a><br />At each turn, we find more flowering wonders. And, between the cliffs, beach and magnifcent Pacific, we are hard pressed to find any fault. Ths place alone is worth living in Oregon. </p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcRv7VYHI/AAAAAAAAD6U/OSyLhdWvg_M/s1600/DSC_2280.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509129704173822066" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcRv7VYHI/AAAAAAAAD6U/OSyLhdWvg_M/s320/DSC_2280.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcRK2P7ZI/AAAAAAAAD6M/MFeXEX5CsSc/s1600/DSC_2285.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509129694220381586" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcRK2P7ZI/AAAAAAAAD6M/MFeXEX5CsSc/s320/DSC_2285.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcQ8SbW1I/AAAAAAAAD6E/wYzys3INA7w/s1600/DSC_2287.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509129690312039250" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcQ8SbW1I/AAAAAAAAD6E/wYzys3INA7w/s320/DSC_2287.jpg" /></a> The final path today retreating ouf of this bliss - have we sold everyone on Oregon by now!?<br /></div><div><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcQnso-5I/AAAAAAAAD58/rpQpa8zXYac/s1600/DSC_2290.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509129684784839570" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRcQnso-5I/AAAAAAAAD58/rpQpa8zXYac/s320/DSC_2290.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-55817744591852696202010-08-24T16:43:00.001-07:002010-08-29T08:46:08.439-07:00On The Coast AgainThe much heralded detour to Crater over, we wind our way back to the coast, through the ever present scenic glory that is Oregon. Highway 138 is a spectacular maze of cliffs, rivers and pristine vistas where, as the hour gets later, we find the road virtually our own. An overnight rest in the somewhat more populated town of Roseburg proves something of a challenge in finding a vacancy, but the <a href="http://http//www.windmillinns.com/ROSEphotos.html">Windmill Inn</a> comes to our rescue and we sleep nicely in very comfortable beds.<br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRbPBeOxDI/AAAAAAAAD50/Tkmw7uH7fDc/s1600/DSC_2148.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509128557832356914" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRbPBeOxDI/AAAAAAAAD50/Tkmw7uH7fDc/s320/DSC_2148.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRbOnbj0JI/AAAAAAAAD5s/zBtH2mGkZYA/s1600/DSC_2151.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509128550841831570" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRbOnbj0JI/AAAAAAAAD5s/zBtH2mGkZYA/s320/DSC_2151.jpg" /></a> Early we venture to complete our destination arriving near Coos Bay to continue our coastal journey. Backtracking to the north a bit along Highway 1, we want to be sure to see some of the dunes that make up a 45-mile section between Florence and Coos Bay. <a href="http://http//florencechamber.com/recreation/odnra.shtml">The Oregon Dunes National Recreational Area </a>has numerous spots to take in some of this beauty, and dune buggies are the prominant attraction. </p><p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRbOW4TGoI/AAAAAAAAD5k/8PmT2TqqD7E/s1600/DSC_2154.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509128546398968450" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRbOW4TGoI/AAAAAAAAD5k/8PmT2TqqD7E/s320/DSC_2154.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRa50k01tI/AAAAAAAAD5c/17__07ofvJQ/s1600/DSC_2156.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509128193593104082" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRa50k01tI/AAAAAAAAD5c/17__07ofvJQ/s320/DSC_2156.jpg" /></a> We get a good morning workout traversing through a wide sandy beach, miraculously lone hikers taking in this riding sport. It crosses our mind to join, but the hike seems sufficient as we continue north a bit up to <a href="http://http//www.winchesterbay.org/">Wincester Bay</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRa5lf-EJI/AAAAAAAAD5U/6R8t9tMOxXQ/s1600/DSC_2157.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509128189546205330" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRa5lf-EJI/AAAAAAAAD5U/6R8t9tMOxXQ/s320/DSC_2157.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRa5K3mySI/AAAAAAAAD5M/cShoabThFDc/s1600/DSC_2160.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509128182397585698" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRa5K3mySI/AAAAAAAAD5M/cShoabThFDc/s320/DSC_2160.jpg" /></a> At the quaint village, we stumble upon a little marina teeming with fresh seafood, boats, and fishermen. We choose to have a quick bite at Griff's and savor a delicious shrimp cobb salad and clam chowder. Al fresco dining overlooking the water adds to the fresh flavors and we are quite thrilled with this spontaenous option.<br /><br /><br /></p><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRa4sUm5-I/AAAAAAAAD5E/ekxgbs4ITRA/s1600/DSC_2165.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509128174197729250" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRa4sUm5-I/AAAAAAAAD5E/ekxgbs4ITRA/s320/DSC_2165.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRabOqIm_I/AAAAAAAAD48/PQXqu70rgXM/s1600/DSC_2166.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509127668018748402" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRabOqIm_I/AAAAAAAAD48/PQXqu70rgXM/s320/DSC_2166.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRaaq26JPI/AAAAAAAAD40/60il0JwnZi8/s1600/DSC_2172.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509127658408649970" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRaaq26JPI/AAAAAAAAD40/60il0JwnZi8/s320/DSC_2172.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRaacggDbI/AAAAAAAAD4s/jMJzPzbtZ-Y/s1600/DSC_2173.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509127654556569010" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRaacggDbI/AAAAAAAAD4s/jMJzPzbtZ-Y/s320/DSC_2173.jpg" /></a> A stoll through the quaint area after dining is equally enjoyable as we take in this unique spot. It definitely makes it seem worth the backtracking this morning as we turn and head south again toward Bandon-by-the-Sea. </p><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRaZ2lfX4I/AAAAAAAAD4k/giUG6NruXjk/s1600/DSC_2212.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509127644376948610" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRaZ2lfX4I/AAAAAAAAD4k/giUG6NruXjk/s320/DSC_2212.jpg" /></a> A side trip from Coos Bay takes us directly along the Pacific coast and allows for several stops at state parks. The first is Sunset Bay and though we arrive mid-afternoon, the coved area is a fun walk and definitely worth a peek.</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRaZu92rAI/AAAAAAAAD4c/g_3eupgM_0Q/s1600/DSC_2216.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509127642331655170" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRaZu92rAI/AAAAAAAAD4c/g_3eupgM_0Q/s320/DSC_2216.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZuyRvHFI/AAAAAAAAD4U/CZVdgCU_MpI/s1600/DSC_2218.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509126904485977170" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZuyRvHFI/AAAAAAAAD4U/CZVdgCU_MpI/s320/DSC_2218.jpg" /></a>As we continue along this Cape Arago Highway, we find several pull offs and a spattering of connecting hiking trails that access all of the state parks along the route. We venture along a few at different points, all allowing more incredible views. Kayaks are spotted at one cove and the apparent joy they are experiencing is quite evident in their laughter and singing (yes, pirate lore is what we believe we overhear). </p><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZuuYXx4I/AAAAAAAAD4M/m66j-jn5MY0/s1600/DSC_2219.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509126903440066434" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZuuYXx4I/AAAAAAAAD4M/m66j-jn5MY0/s320/DSC_2219.jpg" /></a> As we come upon Shore Acres, the park we're most anxious to explore, we are anything but disappointed. There is so much here we could have easily allowed a full day. We do our best to fit in as much as possible during the couple of hours we have reserved and enjoy every solitary moment. The dramatic drop offs are stunning, and we happen upon a couple who have made their way down the cliffs to the beach and out among one of the many rocks. A picture postcard view.<br /><br /></p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZuVfHjvI/AAAAAAAAD4E/1lG_sNb2Rsw/s1600/DSC_2232.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509126896757477106" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZuVfHjvI/AAAAAAAAD4E/1lG_sNb2Rsw/s320/DSC_2232.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZuB2ThVI/AAAAAAAAD38/swarg5fJ2ts/s1600/DSC_2233.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509126891486020946" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZuB2ThVI/AAAAAAAAD38/swarg5fJ2ts/s320/DSC_2233.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZttJW6zI/AAAAAAAAD30/j4NK4-FiZl8/s1600/DSC_2234.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509126885928790834" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRZttJW6zI/AAAAAAAAD30/j4NK4-FiZl8/s320/DSC_2234.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-3748750101733932482010-08-24T16:30:00.000-07:002010-08-25T08:00:36.461-07:00Crater<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRYgSlKi_I/AAAAAAAAD3s/xytfcgzEopg/s1600/DSC_2009.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509125555947736050" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRYgSlKi_I/AAAAAAAAD3s/xytfcgzEopg/s320/DSC_2009.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRYfze3-iI/AAAAAAAAD3k/oT8lakA7BUI/s1600/DSC_2018.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509125547599854114" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRYfze3-iI/AAAAAAAAD3k/oT8lakA7BUI/s320/DSC_2018.jpg" /></a> One must see on our journey has always been Crater Lake National Park and though it's a good detour from continuing our Oregon coast route, it is decidedly necessary. Oh, and are we right to take the extra time.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRYfmdLD1I/AAAAAAAAD3c/azQ8-rgZL6Q/s1600/DSC_2024.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509125544103055186" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRYfmdLD1I/AAAAAAAAD3c/azQ8-rgZL6Q/s320/DSC_2024.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRX5HQwgzI/AAAAAAAAD3U/oFRGN55JcHk/s1600/DSC_2042.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509124882894455602" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRX5HQwgzI/AAAAAAAAD3U/oFRGN55JcHk/s320/DSC_2042.jpg" /></a> This place is nothing short of spectacular. The drive around the rim is just over a 30-mile drive and with highlighted overlooks, the guide suggests allowing several hours. We take that and more.</p><p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRX4pEdFqI/AAAAAAAAD3M/uZcOHG4kLeI/s1600/DSC_2043.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509124874789787298" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRX4pEdFqI/AAAAAAAAD3M/uZcOHG4kLeI/s320/DSC_2043.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRX4UhvUoI/AAAAAAAAD3E/k-djjiI0jhk/s1600/DSC_2076.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509124869275472514" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRX4UhvUoI/AAAAAAAAD3E/k-djjiI0jhk/s320/DSC_2076.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXQuklTiI/AAAAAAAAD28/NePPXpy53GE/s1600/DSC_2086.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509124189071953442" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXQuklTiI/AAAAAAAAD28/NePPXpy53GE/s320/DSC_2086.jpg" /></a> This is one of those places where words are not sufficient. Fortunately, we have some gorgeous photographs to give a pretty good representation.<br /></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXQNInT2I/AAAAAAAAD20/D04XJS4ZH1k/s1600/DSC_2088.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509124180096274274" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXQNInT2I/AAAAAAAAD20/D04XJS4ZH1k/s320/DSC_2088.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXPzmqyWI/AAAAAAAAD2s/lf97iUqeUhc/s1600/DSC_2091.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509124173243009378" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXPzmqyWI/AAAAAAAAD2s/lf97iUqeUhc/s320/DSC_2091.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXPWBVoDI/AAAAAAAAD2k/xKxvtWAOkZQ/s1600/DSC_2092.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509124165301805106" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXPWBVoDI/AAAAAAAAD2k/xKxvtWAOkZQ/s320/DSC_2092.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXPH-KpfI/AAAAAAAAD2c/foWctM8nSVI/s1600/DSC_2111.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509124161530406386" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRXPH-KpfI/AAAAAAAAD2c/foWctM8nSVI/s320/DSC_2111.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWwK8iV3I/AAAAAAAAD2U/vws5gVEHOaA/s1600/DSC_2117.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509123629752932210" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWwK8iV3I/AAAAAAAAD2U/vws5gVEHOaA/s320/DSC_2117.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWvnH3IrI/AAAAAAAAD2M/fOvCPQYGDJM/s1600/DSC_2124.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509123620136755890" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWvnH3IrI/AAAAAAAAD2M/fOvCPQYGDJM/s320/DSC_2124.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWvc9MWwI/AAAAAAAAD2E/8k_KV1esjJU/s1600/DSC_2126.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509123617407654658" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWvc9MWwI/AAAAAAAAD2E/8k_KV1esjJU/s320/DSC_2126.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWu1o5i0I/AAAAAAAAD18/x5ofCryPsks/s1600/DSC_2135.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509123606853552962" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWu1o5i0I/AAAAAAAAD18/x5ofCryPsks/s320/DSC_2135.jpg" /></a> </div><div>I'm sure this just became a must for all of you, as well! Oregon just can't seem to get it wrong...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWuJLyjMI/AAAAAAAAD10/e291iKwk4FQ/s1600/DSC_2147.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509123594920299714" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRWuJLyjMI/AAAAAAAAD10/e291iKwk4FQ/s320/DSC_2147.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-81285996027506777082010-08-24T15:40:00.001-07:002010-08-25T07:43:11.447-07:00Fruit of the Vine<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRNIVZLr8I/AAAAAAAAD1c/q0mpFmtSXkE/s1600/DSC_1884.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509113049758019522" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRNIVZLr8I/AAAAAAAAD1c/q0mpFmtSXkE/s320/DSC_1884.jpg" /></a> One highlight of Eugene Becca wants to be sure we partake is the downtown market. Every Saturday the area comes alive with vendors, musicians, street performers, and food. The organic choices are abundant and we savor all the possibilities.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRNIPQj_9I/AAAAAAAAD1U/vp3EJJUyq9M/s1600/DSC_1887.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509113048111251410" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRNIPQj_9I/AAAAAAAAD1U/vp3EJJUyq9M/s320/DSC_1887.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRNHugnvKI/AAAAAAAAD1M/rATGdjVBG70/s1600/DSC_1896.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509113039320235170" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRNHugnvKI/AAAAAAAAD1M/rATGdjVBG70/s320/DSC_1896.jpg" /></a> Another highlight, and certainly the most important, is visiting several of the multitude of vineyards available here. The drive through this lush area is gorgeous and we plan on three stops this afternoon.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRM2UYTtBI/AAAAAAAAD1E/JgwuyPR4D2c/s1600/DSC_1903.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509112740248269842" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRM2UYTtBI/AAAAAAAAD1E/JgwuyPR4D2c/s320/DSC_1903.jpg" /></a><br />First stop is <a href="http://http//sweetcheekswinery.com/">Sweet Cheeks Winery</a> and we find a lovely pinot gris for this sunny afternoon. A provided picnic of cheese, meats, crackers, fruit and sweets accompany the wine beautifully and we sit outside on the available patio taking in the beautiful grounds and enjoying our bounty immensely. There isn't a better way to spend a Saturday afternoon!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRM2FEQSUI/AAAAAAAAD08/nFzjFUKETUY/s1600/DSC_1909.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509112736137627970" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRM2FEQSUI/AAAAAAAAD08/nFzjFUKETUY/s320/DSC_1909.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRM1uhIh9I/AAAAAAAAD00/5L-injFA_SM/s1600/DSC_1915.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509112730084739026" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRM1uhIh9I/AAAAAAAAD00/5L-injFA_SM/s320/DSC_1915.jpg" /></a><br />Next stop is <a href="http://http//www.silvanridge.com/">Sylvan Ridge</a>, a label I'm somewhat familiar with. The tasting does not disappoint and we mingle with other fun guests tasting a variety of very good wines. We find a couple that are must haves. A couple of Rieslings on sale and an award winning Pinot Noir make their way into our basket and, with good directions for our next spot, we head on down the road. What fun!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRM1Vk6yiI/AAAAAAAAD0s/4-GHZpXJlsc/s1600/DSC_1921.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509112723389729314" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRM1Vk6yiI/AAAAAAAAD0s/4-GHZpXJlsc/s320/DSC_1921.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMJ8NDWjI/AAAAAAAAD0k/SzdRokHNiCs/s1600/DSC_1922.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111977844365874" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMJ8NDWjI/AAAAAAAAD0k/SzdRokHNiCs/s320/DSC_1922.jpg" /></a><br />One of my favorite wines comes from the <a href="http://http//www.kingestate.com/">King Estate Winery</a>, and what a thrill to find out it's on our list today. A perfect finale for our little tour. We've saved the best for last. What a place. Our tasting guide is adorable and obviously loves her job. She makes our last stop the highlight of our day, and the appropriate number of bottles certainly make their way home from here!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMJmZVY0I/AAAAAAAAD0c/SjGyuaNA7f8/s1600/DSC_1927.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111971990299458" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMJmZVY0I/AAAAAAAAD0c/SjGyuaNA7f8/s320/DSC_1927.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMJb--PBI/AAAAAAAAD0U/LxHGX65KXqs/s1600/DSC_1931.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111969195375634" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMJb--PBI/AAAAAAAAD0U/LxHGX65KXqs/s320/DSC_1931.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMJFPq0dI/AAAAAAAAD0M/eAInf1m7MTs/s1600/DSC_1934.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111963091390930" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMJFPq0dI/AAAAAAAAD0M/eAInf1m7MTs/s320/DSC_1934.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMI4zIwVI/AAAAAAAAD0E/MixpPsX7SMo/s1600/DSC_1938.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111959750492498" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRMI4zIwVI/AAAAAAAAD0E/MixpPsX7SMo/s320/DSC_1938.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLlGxx3cI/AAAAAAAADz8/IzOmkSkvzEE/s1600/DSC_1944.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111345027603906" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLlGxx3cI/AAAAAAAADz8/IzOmkSkvzEE/s320/DSC_1944.jpg" /></a> </div><div>After all of these years of sampling Oregon wines, what a lovely surprise to find so many of our favorites in this region. The weather cooperates fully, a sunny, warm - not too hot - day. Great wine, good food and the girls sipping, eating and laughing quite a bit. Yes, another great reason to love Oregon!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLk4I-SPI/AAAAAAAADz0/i69ZmzMLxqs/s1600/DSC_1948.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111341098354930" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLk4I-SPI/AAAAAAAADz0/i69ZmzMLxqs/s320/DSC_1948.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLkRxtSvI/AAAAAAAADzs/AWjfv_Dncr8/s1600/DSC_1950.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111330800225010" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLkRxtSvI/AAAAAAAADzs/AWjfv_Dncr8/s320/DSC_1950.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLjHbmbRI/AAAAAAAADzk/xZw-iBGf8v8/s1600/DSC_1951.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111310843276562" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLjHbmbRI/AAAAAAAADzk/xZw-iBGf8v8/s320/DSC_1951.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLixQ6CuI/AAAAAAAADzc/2UvLWBzDMHc/s1600/DSC_1954.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509111304892844770" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRLixQ6CuI/AAAAAAAADzc/2UvLWBzDMHc/s320/DSC_1954.jpg" /></a> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-75692236166787241812010-08-24T15:32:00.001-07:002010-08-25T07:15:42.222-07:00Eugene<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRKC76n9cI/AAAAAAAADzU/NPOvbBn6S3M/s1600/DSC_1871.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509109658484733378" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRKC76n9cI/AAAAAAAADzU/NPOvbBn6S3M/s320/DSC_1871.jpg" /></a> Today we veer away from the coast to head inland toward Eugene and a visit to Celeste's dear friend Becca and her daughter, Cierra. A stop for breakfast at the coastal town of Florence draws us to an interesting find. Hot Rock Grill provides both a fun atmosphere and pretty darned good morning cuisine. We particularly enjoy their hash browns, crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, no grease. Someone in the kitchen knows their potatoes.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRKCthruTI/AAAAAAAADzM/cfrVYlIs-Zg/s1600/DSC_1883.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509109654622026034" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRKCthruTI/AAAAAAAADzM/cfrVYlIs-Zg/s320/DSC_1883.jpg" /></a> The drive from the coast to Eugene is easy and quite beautiful and Celeste is very excited to see her old friends. They are wonderful hosts and in no time the gals are gabbing and getting caught up.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRKCMTzpLI/AAAAAAAADzE/BEaBC80iWtU/s1600/DSC_1892.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509109645705454770" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRKCMTzpLI/AAAAAAAADzE/BEaBC80iWtU/s320/DSC_1892.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRJstY4hXI/AAAAAAAADy8/fdRfX9MLo8Q/s1600/DSC_1959.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509109276627993970" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRJstY4hXI/AAAAAAAADy8/fdRfX9MLo8Q/s320/DSC_1959.jpg" /></a><br />A couple of walks yield abundant wildflowers.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRJsYZ9xyI/AAAAAAAADy0/irSzpDEke_c/s1600/DSC_1962.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509109270995388194" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRJsYZ9xyI/AAAAAAAADy0/irSzpDEke_c/s320/DSC_1962.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRJrqfAJmI/AAAAAAAADyk/HL4veg76T8c/s1600/DSC_1982.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509109258668484194" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRJrqfAJmI/AAAAAAAADyk/HL4veg76T8c/s320/DSC_1982.jpg" /></a><br />Dinner is prepared by Celeste and Becca, with boyfriend, Scott, looking on eagerly. As we sip wine and chat on the back porch, a deer joins the festivities.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI8N6Ny3I/AAAAAAAADyc/S-SX1jIAK8Q/s1600/DSC_1984.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509108443544144754" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI8N6Ny3I/AAAAAAAADyc/S-SX1jIAK8Q/s320/DSC_1984.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI7kqeqqI/AAAAAAAADyU/ImJFVRhEQxE/s1600/DSC_1988.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509108432472287906" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI7kqeqqI/AAAAAAAADyU/ImJFVRhEQxE/s320/DSC_1988.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI7UICLzI/AAAAAAAADyM/Gd5eHYuiz68/s1600/DSC_1996.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509108428032847666" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI7UICLzI/AAAAAAAADyM/Gd5eHYuiz68/s320/DSC_1996.jpg" /></a><br />Wine, good food and friends, old and new - this is what it's all about.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI6zjpWaI/AAAAAAAADyE/n2SOJ7Spk9M/s1600/DSC_2002.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509108419290290594" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI6zjpWaI/AAAAAAAADyE/n2SOJ7Spk9M/s320/DSC_2002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI6Zu4keI/AAAAAAAADx8/E8UVylyPeiA/s1600/DSC_2003.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509108412358103522" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRI6Zu4keI/AAAAAAAADx8/E8UVylyPeiA/s320/DSC_2003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-85801200241669763742010-08-23T23:55:00.000-07:002010-08-24T16:27:57.892-07:00Strawberry and Rock<div></div><br /><br /><div></div>Since we are only a couple of miles from downtown Yachats, we take an early afternoon break from our natural wonders and grab lunch at an adorable little restaurant that's been highly recommended. The <a href="http://http//www.the-drift-inn.com/">Drift Inn Pub</a> is hopping and we take that as a good sign. It is. Celeste's Cobb Salad with homemade bleu cheese dressing is one of the best cobbs we've ever tasted. Loaded and lucious, there is not a morsel left at our lunch's end. I'm equally pleased with a Thai Beef Lettuce Wraps appetizer that actually turns out to be a substantial and delicious salad in it's own right. Service is amazingly good considering the bustling crowd. The full bar, eclectic menu and very warm ambiance complete with dangling parasols makes this a very good find for a small, quaint village such as Yachats. We are pleasantly surprised at our find.<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHwUjWyA9I/AAAAAAAADvc/AJEhfwRg5ss/s1600/DSC_1794.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508448055129670610" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHwUjWyA9I/AAAAAAAADvc/AJEhfwRg5ss/s320/DSC_1794.jpg" /></a> Following our very successful lunch option, we continue on our coastal exploration. A few miles south of Perpetua is Strawberry State Park where harbor seals lounge in abundance and marine life flourishes.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHwUZmlQrI/AAAAAAAADvU/QspND1PsCz8/s1600/DSC_1796.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508448052511589042" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHwUZmlQrI/AAAAAAAADvU/QspND1PsCz8/s320/DSC_1796.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHwUPPQiUI/AAAAAAAADvM/RSElYPZv2J4/s1600/DSC_1798.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508448049729407298" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHwUPPQiUI/AAAAAAAADvM/RSElYPZv2J4/s320/DSC_1798.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHv9VJdYxI/AAAAAAAADvE/68g5wZBCs0Q/s1600/DSC_1812.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508447656178705170" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHv9VJdYxI/AAAAAAAADvE/68g5wZBCs0Q/s320/DSC_1812.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHv9EPpugI/AAAAAAAADu8/l9wZldZBYgA/s1600/DSC_1816.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508447651641276930" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHv9EPpugI/AAAAAAAADu8/l9wZldZBYgA/s320/DSC_1816.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHv80UzaQI/AAAAAAAADu0/NmsYmgcNDxM/s1600/DSC_1823.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508447647367915778" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHv80UzaQI/AAAAAAAADu0/NmsYmgcNDxM/s320/DSC_1823.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHv8JOZEUI/AAAAAAAADus/hyWIUV-TPU8/s1600/DSC_1826.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508447635798298946" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHv8JOZEUI/AAAAAAAADus/hyWIUV-TPU8/s320/DSC_1826.jpg" /></a> The brief detour is well worth the side trip before we return for one last hike back in the National Forest. The Whispering Spruce Trail begins 800 feet above the Pacific coast and though the trail is less than a mile loop, it packs quite a punch. One stop is the historical rock shelter built in 1934 by the Civil Consevation Corps, boasting it provides one of the most spectacular views available along the Oregon coast. Alas, with today's fog, our view is limited, but still beautiful.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRTmSoWFTI/AAAAAAAAD1k/-fsxbBdKzkQ/s1600/DSC_1837.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509120161482151218" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRTmSoWFTI/AAAAAAAAD1k/-fsxbBdKzkQ/s320/DSC_1837.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRULZCmI8I/AAAAAAAAD1s/-gUvssaSHeE/s1600/DSC_1841.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509120798858027970" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THRULZCmI8I/AAAAAAAAD1s/-gUvssaSHeE/s320/DSC_1841.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHveVQ_5qI/AAAAAAAADuU/gXBd8nIPl8E/s1600/DSC_1842.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508447123634382498" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHveVQ_5qI/AAAAAAAADuU/gXBd8nIPl8E/s320/DSC_1842.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-57301893563643770582010-08-23T23:45:00.000-07:002010-08-24T15:29:45.603-07:00Perpetua<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHuBYO9AVI/AAAAAAAADuM/7NHsK0BRkCQ/s1600/DSC_1707.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445526703276370" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHuBYO9AVI/AAAAAAAADuM/7NHsK0BRkCQ/s320/DSC_1707.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHuBKKknXI/AAAAAAAADuE/PvfP4AvcRNI/s1600/DSC_1708.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445522926804338" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHuBKKknXI/AAAAAAAADuE/PvfP4AvcRNI/s320/DSC_1708.jpg" /></a> Yachats is our stop for exploring the middle section of Oregon's coast. A quaint little town. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is just a couple of miles from here and we plan on spending a good portion of our time at this beautiful place. Located within the Siuslaw National Forest, it has it all.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHuAqSonfI/AAAAAAAADt8/GF3kSDkoQGo/s1600/DSC_1709.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445514370686450" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHuAqSonfI/AAAAAAAADt8/GF3kSDkoQGo/s320/DSC_1709.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHuAeqSfjI/AAAAAAAADt0/vvA9kiuy_sk/s1600/DSC_1710.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445511248674354" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHuAeqSfjI/AAAAAAAADt0/vvA9kiuy_sk/s320/DSC_1710.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtm6qJK2I/AAAAAAAADts/tqDK86bknCQ/s1600/DSC_1717.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445072087657314" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtm6qJK2I/AAAAAAAADts/tqDK86bknCQ/s320/DSC_1717.jpg" /></a> Our first hike this morning takes us along the tidal pools, Spouting Horn and Devil's Churn, all providing dramatic water shows. As they are best viewed at high tide, we have planned accordingly to take this in as the tide peaks today. And, what a show we get. Again, with the magical fog that permeates the area, it only enhances the scene.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtmQNOicI/AAAAAAAADtk/FZ-GPTUw_SU/s1600/DSC_1724.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445060692085186" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtmQNOicI/AAAAAAAADtk/FZ-GPTUw_SU/s320/DSC_1724.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtmPdb59I/AAAAAAAADtc/uyRjbwxAXag/s1600/DSC_1726.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445060491634642" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtmPdb59I/AAAAAAAADtc/uyRjbwxAXag/s320/DSC_1726.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtlrHV2OI/AAAAAAAADtU/SgSpESPtwcw/s1600/DSC_1734.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445050735286498" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtlrHV2OI/AAAAAAAADtU/SgSpESPtwcw/s320/DSC_1734.jpg" /></a> The horn functions like a geyser, with water spouting from a small enclosed rock area as the tide forces in. The churn similarily explodes within a chasm, more powerful with each breaking wave. We are completely intrigued as we absorb both natural wonders and enjoy the rocky hike along the tidal pools and peaceful shoreline forest connecting the two.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtlB1k34I/AAAAAAAADtM/KHGdFEkJifo/s1600/DSC_1736.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508445039654920066" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHtlB1k34I/AAAAAAAADtM/KHGdFEkJifo/s320/DSC_1736.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs6y4m1KI/AAAAAAAADtE/JbVOUJ3xR28/s1600/DSC_1738.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508444314086593698" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs6y4m1KI/AAAAAAAADtE/JbVOUJ3xR28/s320/DSC_1738.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs6XgSMTI/AAAAAAAADs8/p5j_TY07z1I/s1600/DSC_1742.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508444306736820530" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs6XgSMTI/AAAAAAAADs8/p5j_TY07z1I/s320/DSC_1742.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs56cXmGI/AAAAAAAADs0/mVcZa1fcLfo/s1600/DSC_1759.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508444298935769186" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs56cXmGI/AAAAAAAADs0/mVcZa1fcLfo/s320/DSC_1759.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs5eCa0bI/AAAAAAAADss/ZJmDfgecfGo/s1600/DSC_1764.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508444291310735794" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs5eCa0bI/AAAAAAAADss/ZJmDfgecfGo/s320/DSC_1764.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs5CFrqYI/AAAAAAAADsk/6bBP2LK44DI/s1600/DSC_1770.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508444283808229762" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHs5CFrqYI/AAAAAAAADsk/6bBP2LK44DI/s320/DSC_1770.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsZE1R3HI/AAAAAAAADsc/t0ZgzqXEdWg/s1600/DSC_1772.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508443734788922482" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsZE1R3HI/AAAAAAAADsc/t0ZgzqXEdWg/s320/DSC_1772.jpg" /></a><br />As we make our way back up from this coastal paradise, we continue to enjoy some beautiful vistas that lead us to a second hike through beautiful flowering areas and huge spruces, a tease for the redwoods we're heading toward. Again, the diversity of this terrain has us in awe.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsYtB8r7I/AAAAAAAADsU/R_as4bJtwFo/s1600/DSC_1779.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508443728399609778" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsYtB8r7I/AAAAAAAADsU/R_as4bJtwFo/s320/DSC_1779.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsYZzztEI/AAAAAAAADsM/OG_TjgDOIQ4/s1600/DSC_1780.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508443723240027202" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsYZzztEI/AAAAAAAADsM/OG_TjgDOIQ4/s320/DSC_1780.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><div></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsYJphJ-I/AAAAAAAADsE/dggPLp2x4oA/s1600/DSC_1786.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508443718901901282" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsYJphJ-I/AAAAAAAADsE/dggPLp2x4oA/s320/DSC_1786.jpg" /></a> The majesty of these grand trees is something to behold. </div><div></div><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsXipIwoI/AAAAAAAADr8/IvPrMOw4ZNQ/s1600/DSC_1789.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508443708431319682" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHsXipIwoI/AAAAAAAADr8/IvPrMOw4ZNQ/s320/DSC_1789.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-3432252362464999342010-08-23T23:35:00.000-07:002010-08-24T08:51:53.366-07:00Coast<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFdk5zXUI/AAAAAAAADr0/FdUjeYf4mmw/s1600/DSC_1674.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504038069024808258" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFdk5zXUI/AAAAAAAADr0/FdUjeYf4mmw/s320/DSC_1674.jpg" /></a>Just about 10 miles south of Newport, we discover another little jewel at Ona Beach State Park. As we embark upon the park's trail toward the beach, we have shades of <a href="http://http//avueacrossamerica.blogspot.com/2010/03/cumberland-island-heaven-on-earth.html">Cumberland Island</a> at many points. The lush tree forest transports us to a wide beautiful beach via a bridge over a sand dune.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFXBplVXI/AAAAAAAADrs/XMChHKIROxQ/s1600/DSC_1675.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037956482323826" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFXBplVXI/AAAAAAAADrs/XMChHKIROxQ/s320/DSC_1675.jpg" /></a>Our first sight through the fog are a couple of lone horseback riders along the surf's rim. It is a truly beautiful sight and a flood of familiarity rings at once.<br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFWkLKtBI/AAAAAAAADrk/Lzn_bZeGXa8/s1600/DSC_1677.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037948570121234" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFWkLKtBI/AAAAAAAADrk/Lzn_bZeGXa8/s320/DSC_1677.jpg" /></a><br />This beach has both the dramatic cliffs and soft white sand with only a spattering of other guests. Walking along the shoreline, in and out of the fog is one of those truly magical moments. </p><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFWCcDbZI/AAAAAAAADrc/0A-5UTiBmZs/s1600/DSC_1680.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037939514142098" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFWCcDbZI/AAAAAAAADrc/0A-5UTiBmZs/s320/DSC_1680.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFV-MaGHI/AAAAAAAADrU/job8R45jN5g/s1600/DSC_1684.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037938374776946" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFV-MaGHI/AAAAAAAADrU/job8R45jN5g/s320/DSC_1684.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFVqR2--I/AAAAAAAADrM/8M-x5vGI2F0/s1600/DSC_1686.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037933028932578" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFVqR2--I/AAAAAAAADrM/8M-x5vGI2F0/s320/DSC_1686.jpg" /></a> An attempted dip of the toes in the water reminds quickly we are not in the south, however. This water is COLD!!! Yes, mid summer and we're still in coats. Honestly, not missing the heat back east at all....</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFC-TVfuI/AAAAAAAADrE/qsJ8qaQA5lQ/s1600/DSC_1690.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037611986321122" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFC-TVfuI/AAAAAAAADrE/qsJ8qaQA5lQ/s320/DSC_1690.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFCoDTohI/AAAAAAAADq8/394DWT6UbN4/s1600/DSC_1692.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037606013510162" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFCoDTohI/AAAAAAAADq8/394DWT6UbN4/s320/DSC_1692.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFCNv1KzI/AAAAAAAADq0/tsVryl_d_a4/s1600/DSC_1694.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037598952500018" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFCNv1KzI/AAAAAAAADq0/tsVryl_d_a4/s320/DSC_1694.jpg" /></a> The little detour at the end of our travel day has been more than rewarding - ths completely unplanned stop at Ona Beach rewards us with one of our most special beach walks ever! And, once again confirms how gorgeous this Oregon coast is. (Is it clear yet how much we like it here?!)</p><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFB8S9G6I/AAAAAAAADqs/lGelusigbcQ/s1600/DSC_1696.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037594267982754" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFB8S9G6I/AAAAAAAADqs/lGelusigbcQ/s320/DSC_1696.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFBXiokyI/AAAAAAAADqk/PZbMGyEwOjo/s1600/DSC_1702.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504037584401634082" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJFBXiokyI/AAAAAAAADqk/PZbMGyEwOjo/s320/DSC_1702.jpg" /></a> </p>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-18924503292918512092010-08-22T20:55:00.000-07:002010-08-24T06:44:34.708-07:00Yaquina Head<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THH0Kui3CEI/AAAAAAAADx0/eqJBqT3JyQs/s1600/DSC_1550.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508452284380940354" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THH0Kui3CEI/AAAAAAAADx0/eqJBqT3JyQs/s320/DSC_1550.jpg" /></a> Our time in Manzaneta has come to an end and we have really enjoyed our little bit of heavenly serenity. Our beach cottage has provided the best place to begin our initial explore of this gorgeous Oregon coast. As we head south today, we look forward to more outstanding sights. One overlook offers a personal welcome with a very friendly bird. Yes, that's my shoulder he's perched upon!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THH0KefK4oI/AAAAAAAADxs/cYIa9TjA25s/s1600/DSC_1554.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508452280070496898" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THH0KefK4oI/AAAAAAAADxs/cYIa9TjA25s/s320/DSC_1554.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THH0KF8QONI/AAAAAAAADxk/8-w5AcDh83U/s1600/DSC_1555.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508452273481595090" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THH0KF8QONI/AAAAAAAADxk/8-w5AcDh83U/s320/DSC_1555.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THH0J7Sb1gI/AAAAAAAADxc/kazk3-83nm0/s1600/DSC_1557.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508452270621840898" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THH0J7Sb1gI/AAAAAAAADxc/kazk3-83nm0/s320/DSC_1557.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />A brief stop at Devil's Punchbowl offers yet another spectacular coastal experience, yet access is more limited than we had hoped.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzvmY3-lI/AAAAAAAADxU/s-1taHSMx2s/s1600/DSC_1560.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508451818335107666" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzvmY3-lI/AAAAAAAADxU/s-1taHSMx2s/s320/DSC_1560.jpg" /></a> As brief as our Punchbowl stop is, we are excited to happen upon Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area right outside Newport. We are promised upon entrance that this is indeed a special place. And, it does not disappoint. What a beautiful spot!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzvHWK6KI/AAAAAAAADxM/_oAZefDDWJM/s1600/DSC_1569.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508451810002266274" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzvHWK6KI/AAAAAAAADxM/_oAZefDDWJM/s320/DSC_1569.jpg" /></a>The main attraction is the lighthouse, and with the fog fading in and out all morning, it only adds to the ambiance. There is just nothing like a lighthouse peeking out from a thick fog along rocky cliffs.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzu9UGCYI/AAAAAAAADxE/3Y0qi3B7i_g/s1600/DSC_1573.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508451807309203842" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzu9UGCYI/AAAAAAAADxE/3Y0qi3B7i_g/s320/DSC_1573.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Just beyond the lighthouse is a seabird sanctuary, boasting literally hundreds of cormorants and pigeon guillemots. It's a sight to behold!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzulJ0q6I/AAAAAAAADw8/P0QmgKSloBo/s1600/DSC_1577.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508451800823671714" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzulJ0q6I/AAAAAAAADw8/P0QmgKSloBo/s320/DSC_1577.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzuXVObMI/AAAAAAAADw0/4uo3vSlvt7Y/s1600/DSC_1579.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508451797113400514" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHzuXVObMI/AAAAAAAADw0/4uo3vSlvt7Y/s320/DSC_1579.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy-p0SO7I/AAAAAAAADws/S9i-pMgiW2Y/s1600/DSC_1591.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508450977441790898" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy-p0SO7I/AAAAAAAADws/S9i-pMgiW2Y/s320/DSC_1591.jpg" /></a> </div><br /><div>A beautiful wildflower hike is offered bringing us to a summit which offers views of the surrounding area, although quite muted with the fog that has once again surrounded.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy-KaVyMI/AAAAAAAADwk/FKfpRbUHgYU/s1600/DSC_1612.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508450969011472578" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy-KaVyMI/AAAAAAAADwk/FKfpRbUHgYU/s320/DSC_1612.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy97h_KDI/AAAAAAAADwc/qtK3Od08IVs/s1600/DSC_1619.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508450965017012274" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy97h_KDI/AAAAAAAADwc/qtK3Od08IVs/s320/DSC_1619.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy9jrF8rI/AAAAAAAADwU/F5mPEKofmKk/s1600/DSC_1638.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508450958612755122" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy9jrF8rI/AAAAAAAADwU/F5mPEKofmKk/s320/DSC_1638.jpg" /></a> A final hike is quite rewarding as it takes us down into what was once a rock quarry and where harbor seals are known to perch.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy9CFyn7I/AAAAAAAADwM/P5jLdtTCWk0/s1600/DSC_1639.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508450949597929394" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHy9CFyn7I/AAAAAAAADwM/P5jLdtTCWk0/s320/DSC_1639.jpg" /></a> Two full grown seals accompany a pup, resting soulfully on one of the many rocks. We are entertained for a good while here as the little one finds a need for a plunge and has a bit of a challenge as he tries to makes it back to his quiet spot. No help is offered from either elder. With much tenacity, he indeed finds his way back to safety. We enthusiastically cheer his plight and are more than relieved when he's back on safe ground.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyEPIZPXI/AAAAAAAADwE/-1mibkAEMZY/s1600/DSC_1640.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508449973845966194" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyEPIZPXI/AAAAAAAADwE/-1mibkAEMZY/s320/DSC_1640.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyD_ZnzjI/AAAAAAAADv8/GUurztYnwaY/s1600/DSC_1642.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508449969623256626" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyD_ZnzjI/AAAAAAAADv8/GUurztYnwaY/s320/DSC_1642.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyDgTM5yI/AAAAAAAADv0/1KT6lfAE2t8/s1600/DSC_1649.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508449961274828578" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyDgTM5yI/AAAAAAAADv0/1KT6lfAE2t8/s320/DSC_1649.jpg" /></a><br />The pup safe, we reflect a bit longer before heading on. We thoroughly enjoy this lovely place - it definitely deserves it's namesake - Outstanding Natural Area! A not to be missed excursion if ever on this spectacular Oregon coast.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyDRqbiOI/AAAAAAAADvs/7Du-tr5rFJQ/s1600/DSC_1664.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508449957345724642" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyDRqbiOI/AAAAAAAADvs/7Du-tr5rFJQ/s320/DSC_1664.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyCzpkgMI/AAAAAAAADvk/diO48zuVOz0/s1600/DSC_1671.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508449949289054402" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/THHyCzpkgMI/AAAAAAAADvk/diO48zuVOz0/s320/DSC_1671.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-16768026012448709012010-08-10T23:25:00.000-07:002010-08-22T20:28:02.072-07:00Cape Tour<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDwGD8MKI/AAAAAAAADqc/g9Fx6wnfW7M/s1600/DSC_1434.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504036188140089506" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDwGD8MKI/AAAAAAAADqc/g9Fx6wnfW7M/s320/DSC_1434.jpg" /></a> Today's adventure is the <a href="http://http//pacificcity.org/3capes/drive.html">3 Capes Scenic Drive</a>, a spectacular tour of more of this beautiful Oregon coast. Our first stop is Cape Meares, which offers an easy trail along dramatic cliffs, further enhanced this morning by the fog that has yet to burn off. At points we can barely see more than a foot ahead of us and then the shoreline peeks through in all its splendor. A breathtaking sight!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDv99VXCI/AAAAAAAADqU/KZ_ZOS71AHo/s1600/DSC_1437.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504036185964895266" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDv99VXCI/AAAAAAAADqU/KZ_ZOS71AHo/s320/DSC_1437.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDva3ZSsI/AAAAAAAADqM/kD9UzXgi9DQ/s1600/DSC_1443.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504036176544746178" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDva3ZSsI/AAAAAAAADqM/kD9UzXgi9DQ/s320/DSC_1443.jpg" /></a> Another trail further in takes us through some beautiful sitka trees, providing neck breaking gapes upward as we marvel at the grandeur of these magnificent treasures. The legendary Octupus tree and one of the largest spruce trees are both incredible sights along this route. A beautiful wake up for the start of our day!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDu2NO52I/AAAAAAAADqE/fBXMitxEBr4/s1600/DSC_1453.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504036166704228194" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDu2NO52I/AAAAAAAADqE/fBXMitxEBr4/s320/DSC_1453.jpg" /></a> As we continue our drive, suddenly the canopy drive opens up and desert sand dunes are present, evergreens dotting the landscape. It is such a contrast from our early morning views, all the more beautiful as we witness such diverse scenery within such a short distance. The beauty of Oregon increasing with every turn.</p><br /><p><br /></p><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDuismgMI/AAAAAAAADp8/faw--9S67QU/s1600/DSC_1474.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504036161467089090" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDuismgMI/AAAAAAAADp8/faw--9S67QU/s320/DSC_1474.jpg" /></a>A picnic at Cape Lookout gives us a very pretty spot to watch agate seekers and enjoy a lunch of baked fried chicken, broccoli salad and cole slaw we've picked up the night before from our little village food market. It's delicious and while we are still bundled as the sun has yet to make an appearance, the food definitely warms and the quaint picnic spot and beautiful view provide the most perfect mid-day break.</p><br /><p><br /></p><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDcNt0QfI/AAAAAAAADp0/VUa3oarzldo/s1600/DSC_1483.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035846597394930" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDcNt0QfI/AAAAAAAADp0/VUa3oarzldo/s320/DSC_1483.jpg" /></a>Cape Kiwanda is the final stop on our tour, and the fog has finally cleared enough for us to get a pretty clear view. And, what a view it is. A lone seal welcomes us to the cliff's dune as we explore the nooks of this pretty place.</p><br /><p><br /></p><br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDb4UP77I/AAAAAAAADps/RVF8Y5rfr8s/s1600/DSC_1490.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035840853012402" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDb4UP77I/AAAAAAAADps/RVF8Y5rfr8s/s320/DSC_1490.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDbSCVkyI/AAAAAAAADpk/rc0qGT0puis/s1600/DSC_1497.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035830577337122" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDbSCVkyI/AAAAAAAADpk/rc0qGT0puis/s320/DSC_1497.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDa4okS9I/AAAAAAAADpc/e_2KXIxhWrs/s1600/DSC_1501.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035823758363602" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDa4okS9I/AAAAAAAADpc/e_2KXIxhWrs/s320/DSC_1501.jpg" /></a> Families set up cozy sitting areas while their kids enjoy the climb and slide of the dune. It's quite a sight. We are especially amazed as the boaters speed right onto the beach to exit the water - no need for boat launching ramps here evidently!</p><br /><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDZnzFbdI/AAAAAAAADpU/sPLydpyZLDA/s1600/DSC_1514.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035802059206098" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDZnzFbdI/AAAAAAAADpU/sPLydpyZLDA/s320/DSC_1514.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDCbqpMyI/AAAAAAAADpM/VdPAtCsABoI/s1600/DSC_1523.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035403665584930" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDCbqpMyI/AAAAAAAADpM/VdPAtCsABoI/s320/DSC_1523.jpg" /></a> Venturing off the beaten track after our cape tour, we find a beautiful waterfall at the end of a very pretty trail. An easy hike leads us through a lush forest and along a babbling brook culminating at the lovely waterfall. It seems a most fitting end to such a special day. The contrast of rich green and foggy cliffs is an amazing sight to behold. We are loving this beautiful state of Oregon!</p><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDB9yAwkI/AAAAAAAADpE/fHYNzglu2j4/s1600/DSC_1534.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035395643425346" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDB9yAwkI/AAAAAAAADpE/fHYNzglu2j4/s320/DSC_1534.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDBuZMqxI/AAAAAAAADo8/8i3m1cFteA4/s1600/DSC_1535.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035391512816402" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDBuZMqxI/AAAAAAAADo8/8i3m1cFteA4/s320/DSC_1535.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDBLis4lI/AAAAAAAADo0/VHl-msScHwc/s1600/DSC_1537.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035382157435474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDBLis4lI/AAAAAAAADo0/VHl-msScHwc/s320/DSC_1537.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDAu--VbI/AAAAAAAADos/vB6ENIrCXcQ/s1600/DSC_1538.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504035374491391410" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJDAu--VbI/AAAAAAAADos/vB6ENIrCXcQ/s320/DSC_1538.jpg" /></a> </p>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-46968556169384493102010-08-10T23:21:00.001-07:002010-08-20T07:06:09.198-07:00Indian Beach<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCRg0XzQI/AAAAAAAADok/WbwhGinNQR8/s1600/DSC_1362.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034563234974978" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCRg0XzQI/AAAAAAAADok/WbwhGinNQR8/s320/DSC_1362.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCRGeif8I/AAAAAAAADoc/-au4WF-aTcM/s1600/DSC_1371.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034556164079554" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCRGeif8I/AAAAAAAADoc/-au4WF-aTcM/s320/DSC_1371.JPG" /></a> The destination point of the trail is the serene Indian Beach, where we find small families of surfers both challenging the waves and relaxing along the peaceful shore. We linger for the better part of an hour here, enjoying the show and relishing the energy of this special place.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCQ_rIrZI/AAAAAAAADoU/XcSFSM9kw8c/s1600/DSC_1388.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034554337865106" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCQ_rIrZI/AAAAAAAADoU/XcSFSM9kw8c/s320/DSC_1388.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCQTIPRsI/AAAAAAAADoM/s6kz-bZxwLg/s1600/DSC_1401.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034542380336834" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCQTIPRsI/AAAAAAAADoM/s6kz-bZxwLg/s320/DSC_1401.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCP77CHWI/AAAAAAAADoE/DHcRVSnhExg/s1600/DSC_1406.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034536150932834" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJCP77CHWI/AAAAAAAADoE/DHcRVSnhExg/s320/DSC_1406.JPG" /></a><br /></p><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB9LEVhoI/AAAAAAAADn8/QOpXQp2r_Ls/s1600/DSC_1421.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034213798971010" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB9LEVhoI/AAAAAAAADn8/QOpXQp2r_Ls/s320/DSC_1421.JPG" /></a>Paddle ball and puppy dogs are also in abundance at this remote location, a beach we would visit quite often if this were our home. A sense of community is very evident and we feel very fortunate to have stumbled upon this small cove. It's truly the perfect ending to our little outing this day. </p><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB8z9ssMI/AAAAAAAADn0/OzJME4Pwt2g/s1600/DSC_1422.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034207597113538" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB8z9ssMI/AAAAAAAADn0/OzJME4Pwt2g/s320/DSC_1422.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB8QWATOI/AAAAAAAADns/WLrCfQijs04/s1600/DSC_1423.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034198035385570" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB8QWATOI/AAAAAAAADns/WLrCfQijs04/s320/DSC_1423.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB75iJdUI/AAAAAAAADnk/zU9pd67MXeM/s1600/DSC_1424.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034191912301890" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB75iJdUI/AAAAAAAADnk/zU9pd67MXeM/s320/DSC_1424.JPG" /></a> Cannon Beach and it's garden rich neighborhood, the famous marine life of Haystacks, and the heaven we find at Indian Beach all make for one of our favorite day adventures!</p><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB7gJi01I/AAAAAAAADnc/ZWYWLClri0k/s1600/DSC_1425.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504034185098220370" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJB7gJi01I/AAAAAAAADnc/ZWYWLClri0k/s320/DSC_1425.JPG" /></a></p>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-85960655901027071312010-08-10T23:13:00.000-07:002010-08-20T06:52:37.969-07:00Let's Hike<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJBAtp96bI/AAAAAAAADnU/7lvoPLWyTnE/s1600/DSC_1312.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504033175111592370" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJBAtp96bI/AAAAAAAADnU/7lvoPLWyTnE/s320/DSC_1312.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJBAYC7aPI/AAAAAAAADnM/C1iMGGdnefg/s1600/DSC_1315.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504033169310705906" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJBAYC7aPI/AAAAAAAADnM/C1iMGGdnefg/s320/DSC_1315.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://http//www.oregonstateparks.org/park_188.php">Ecola State Park</a> is a quick and gorgeous drive from the Haystacks and provides us with the perfect opportunity for a picnic with amazing views of this beautiful landmark we've just visited. Ample trails are available and we set out after our lunch on one of the many paths offering some of the most scenic viewpoints we've encountered.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJA__zTOWI/AAAAAAAADnE/BuBA6gtr2GE/s1600/DSC_1319.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504033162802706786" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJA__zTOWI/AAAAAAAADnE/BuBA6gtr2GE/s320/DSC_1319.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJA_fEOQhI/AAAAAAAADm8/IxZByNnRm2M/s1600/DSC_1320.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504033154015314450" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJA_fEOQhI/AAAAAAAADm8/IxZByNnRm2M/s320/DSC_1320.JPG" /></a><br />Winding through the forested trail, this particular 2 mile hike takes us up to a summit showcasing the rocky shores of Indian Beach and back down leading out to this little surfer's haven. The hike provides a good workout and the vistas well worth the effort. It's a beautiful day, even with the cloudy skies, and we enjoy our trek thoroughly.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJAuEq6WmI/AAAAAAAADm0/dwnjTvlrpzs/s1600/DSC_1321.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504032854872054370" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJAuEq6WmI/AAAAAAAADm0/dwnjTvlrpzs/s320/DSC_1321.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJAt5CDawI/AAAAAAAADms/As1qaHUEu4E/s1600/DSC_1343.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504032851747891970" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJAt5CDawI/AAAAAAAADms/As1qaHUEu4E/s320/DSC_1343.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJAtDG9HAI/AAAAAAAADmc/dGRKeZYt9PA/s1600/DSC_1347.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504032837272935426" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGJAtDG9HAI/AAAAAAAADmc/dGRKeZYt9PA/s320/DSC_1347.JPG" /></a>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-37588268247548138572010-08-10T23:01:00.000-07:002010-08-11T08:15:18.647-07:00Haystacks in Cannon<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_SAsTZoI/AAAAAAAADmU/Hak7_4JtQyU/s1600/DSC_1280.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504031273256183426" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_SAsTZoI/AAAAAAAADmU/Hak7_4JtQyU/s320/DSC_1280.JPG" /></a> Barely a 30 minute drive north of our little haven is the artsy and adorable town of Cannon Beach. We enjoy a morning exploring the downtown and surrounding area, full of quaint stores and homes adorned with beautiful, colorful flowers. The contrast is quite palpable as we stray from the bustling downtown hub into the neighboring cottage lined residential streets just blocks from the beach. <br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_RiJ52JI/AAAAAAAADmM/_A_hBOKVVHI/s1600/DSC_1283.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504031265058838674" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_RiJ52JI/AAAAAAAADmM/_A_hBOKVVHI/s320/DSC_1283.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_RTgpDlI/AAAAAAAADmE/_obyzL1wibk/s1600/DSC_1285.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504031261127675474" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_RTgpDlI/AAAAAAAADmE/_obyzL1wibk/s320/DSC_1285.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_Do0KXrI/AAAAAAAADl8/hwnmFfY68Vo/s1600/DSC_1286.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504031026328526514" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_Do0KXrI/AAAAAAAADl8/hwnmFfY68Vo/s320/DSC_1286.JPG" /></a><br />Lush landscapes prevail and the residents clearly take much pride in their little heaven. We virtually have these back streets to ourselves as we peek through gardens and imagine living in several of these cozy, welcoming homes. Every corner brings even prettier sights and we spend a good amount of time exploring this peaceful, lovely place.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_DdTLKtI/AAAAAAAADl0/vvPVrg1nHT0/s1600/DSC_1289.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504031023237376722" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_DdTLKtI/AAAAAAAADl0/vvPVrg1nHT0/s320/DSC_1289.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_CVMMvyI/AAAAAAAADls/iMBHvDQraaI/s1600/DSC_1295.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504031003880767266" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_CVMMvyI/AAAAAAAADls/iMBHvDQraaI/s320/DSC_1295.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_CNedixI/AAAAAAAADlk/g_rMN8PvLUM/s1600/DSC_1302.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504031001809881874" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_CNedixI/AAAAAAAADlk/g_rMN8PvLUM/s320/DSC_1302.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_Bjy2u6I/AAAAAAAADlc/riLS6DFcOxI/s1600/DSC_1305.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504030990621129634" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI_Bjy2u6I/AAAAAAAADlc/riLS6DFcOxI/s320/DSC_1305.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />A trek down to the gorgeous beach showcases the famous haystacks landmark and, listening to expert advise, we time the visit at low tide so we are able to get really up close and personal with the natural beauty and witness the marine garden wonders with awe. Huge star fish are in abundance in a variety of rich, beautiful colors. Gorgeous!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI-d9Z_UKI/AAAAAAAADlU/F55laO5JMlc/s1600/DSC_1235.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504030379020865698" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI-d9Z_UKI/AAAAAAAADlU/F55laO5JMlc/s320/DSC_1235.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI-dj5tguI/AAAAAAAADlM/avI8d7HLzzg/s1600/DSC_1239.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504030372174594786" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI-dj5tguI/AAAAAAAADlM/avI8d7HLzzg/s320/DSC_1239.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI-ddvv7AI/AAAAAAAADlE/yF9kSHqgIU8/s1600/DSC_1241.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504030370522196994" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI-ddvv7AI/AAAAAAAADlE/yF9kSHqgIU8/s320/DSC_1241.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI94vvinBI/AAAAAAAADkk/zzbbf79UVu4/s1600/DSC_1248.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504029739698002962" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI94vvinBI/AAAAAAAADkk/zzbbf79UVu4/s320/DSC_1248.JPG" /></a> We are amazed at what we are able to find in this pool of lushness and are thrilled at the ability to visit it so intimately. Though a popular place for tourists, we don't even mind as this is one really cool place! Well worth the hike down the beach for a tour. We will take this memory with us for quite a while.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI94THgEMI/AAAAAAAADkc/9YoKhmEGJ8g/s1600/DSC_1254.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504029732013871298" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI94THgEMI/AAAAAAAADkc/9YoKhmEGJ8g/s320/DSC_1254.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI93zohN4I/AAAAAAAADkU/xOtRVKqlino/s1600/DSC_1277.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504029723562424194" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI93zohN4I/AAAAAAAADkU/xOtRVKqlino/s320/DSC_1277.JPG" /></a> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-84922070728666968942010-08-10T21:27:00.000-07:002010-08-11T07:49:46.283-07:00Beach Fun<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI8hw9cIcI/AAAAAAAADkM/T8DiVLkA3YU/s1600/DSC_1193.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504028245376115138" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI8hw9cIcI/AAAAAAAADkM/T8DiVLkA3YU/s320/DSC_1193.jpg" /></a> After a good night's sleep in our little beach cottage and a slow wake up this morning, a beach hike seems to be a grand idea. Though chilly and foggy, the coastline is spectacular and we enjoy an amazing journey along the shore.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI8hYBLPjI/AAAAAAAADkE/caX3JSLjl9A/s1600/DSC_1196.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504028238680899122" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI8hYBLPjI/AAAAAAAADkE/caX3JSLjl9A/s320/DSC_1196.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI8Yqeu89I/AAAAAAAADj8/P1QMYNPJMiU/s1600/DSC_1198.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504028089017889746" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI8Yqeu89I/AAAAAAAADj8/P1QMYNPJMiU/s320/DSC_1198.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI7EeTqbwI/AAAAAAAADj0/ooSa3FB0g7U/s1600/DSC_1201.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504026642641219330" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI7EeTqbwI/AAAAAAAADj0/ooSa3FB0g7U/s320/DSC_1201.jpg" /></a> The beach is easy to walk on once we pass the deep white sand at the entrance, the low tide brings hard packed sand and a very wide walking path. Exposed rocks toward the cliff area provides a fun and good workout, as well as a discovery spot for interesting marine life.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI7D2VNe2I/AAAAAAAADjs/gboaEGPP494/s1600/DSC_1205.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504026631910292322" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI7D2VNe2I/AAAAAAAADjs/gboaEGPP494/s320/DSC_1205.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI7Dpz_c9I/AAAAAAAADjk/cyiAkkS4mZo/s1600/DSC_1207.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504026628549735378" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI7Dpz_c9I/AAAAAAAADjk/cyiAkkS4mZo/s320/DSC_1207.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI7Dfoko6I/AAAAAAAADjc/XLQxQWpWjbo/s1600/DSC_1210.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504026625817486242" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI7Dfoko6I/AAAAAAAADjc/XLQxQWpWjbo/s320/DSC_1210.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI6LzBOAUI/AAAAAAAADjU/1S5IIaeL784/s1600/DSC_1212.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504025668948459842" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI6LzBOAUI/AAAAAAAADjU/1S5IIaeL784/s320/DSC_1212.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI6Lgx1FZI/AAAAAAAADjM/qXrNsEg2wJ0/s1600/DSC_1215.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504025664052073874" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI6Lgx1FZI/AAAAAAAADjM/qXrNsEg2wJ0/s320/DSC_1215.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI6LVAnCKI/AAAAAAAADjE/cUHPPmGkm5I/s1600/DSC_1222.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504025660892842146" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI6LVAnCKI/AAAAAAAADjE/cUHPPmGkm5I/s320/DSC_1222.jpg" /></a> Horseback riders saunter down the dune area as we head back toward the little city's town core. The quaint town has a wonderful little book store where we spend a good amount of time finding new reads and make some great purchases for future escapes. It is well past noon by the time we finish our walk and book tour and the sun has still not peeked through. As we have several days in this area, we opt to stay close to home this afternoon, reading and enjoying the sleepy town's energy.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI6Kw6CYDI/AAAAAAAADi8/eqrSyLED7oU/s1600/DSC_1224.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504025651201597490" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI6Kw6CYDI/AAAAAAAADi8/eqrSyLED7oU/s320/DSC_1224.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI53v23CpI/AAAAAAAADi0/EjgNV6_ifyE/s1600/DSC_1227.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504025324502321810" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI53v23CpI/AAAAAAAADi0/EjgNV6_ifyE/s320/DSC_1227.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI53OefmYI/AAAAAAAADis/dRAG2Ax5NnE/s1600/DSC_1228.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504025315541752194" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI53OefmYI/AAAAAAAADis/dRAG2Ax5NnE/s320/DSC_1228.jpg" /></a> Later in the day, dune buggies traverse the pretty beach and kites easily float in the windy skies. With all the beauty surrounding, we don't even miss the sun. We throrougly enjoy our lazy day and the comforts provided by our little beach cottage. Resting up for a big excursion tomorrow seems to be the perfect decison. The quiet we experience here is very welcomed!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI526_CfiI/AAAAAAAADik/Q7aXaqMTNc8/s1600/DSC_1229.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504025310309547554" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI526_CfiI/AAAAAAAADik/Q7aXaqMTNc8/s320/DSC_1229.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI52VRYpfI/AAAAAAAADic/hv2235wMsUQ/s1600/DSC_1233.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504025300185949682" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGI52VRYpfI/AAAAAAAADic/hv2235wMsUQ/s320/DSC_1233.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGIpa3D_jZI/AAAAAAAADiU/pSMVrCO9nXo/s1600/DSC_1234.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504007236034203026" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TGIpa3D_jZI/AAAAAAAADiU/pSMVrCO9nXo/s320/DSC_1234.jpg" /></a> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-44805461524177569412010-08-06T07:14:00.001-07:002010-08-07T07:50:04.918-07:00The Bridge to Oregon<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwaWg756dI/AAAAAAAADh0/1DMjOqhwtKk/s1600/DSC_1173.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwaWg756dI/AAAAAAAADh0/1DMjOqhwtKk/s320/DSC_1173.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502301818840541650" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />It is a beautiful drive out of Washington heading to Oregon and as we reach the Astoria Bridge which will deliver us to the start of our coast drive, we start to truly anticipate the excitement that awaits. This drive has been on our wish list for quite awhile and it's about to become a reality! Yeah!!!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwaWT8X6mI/AAAAAAAADhs/SdCxNHfGx5U/s1600/DSC_1176.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwaWT8X6mI/AAAAAAAADhs/SdCxNHfGx5U/s320/DSC_1176.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502301815352846946" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwaV9aowrI/AAAAAAAADhk/kbzai5LRrVo/s1600/DSC_1177.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwaV9aowrI/AAAAAAAADhk/kbzai5LRrVo/s320/DSC_1177.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502301809305764530" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZ_enyLQI/AAAAAAAADhc/BYVSGoH6zRM/s1600/DSC_1179.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZ_enyLQI/AAAAAAAADhc/BYVSGoH6zRM/s320/DSC_1179.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502301423082286338" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZ_GE18rI/AAAAAAAADhU/74tLHdlSo5Q/s1600/DSC_1181.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZ_GE18rI/AAAAAAAADhU/74tLHdlSo5Q/s320/DSC_1181.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502301416493281970" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZ-vopIaI/AAAAAAAADhM/XPYkfst-DDc/s1600/DSC_1185.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZ-vopIaI/AAAAAAAADhM/XPYkfst-DDc/s320/DSC_1185.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502301410469421474" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZWwIPPoI/AAAAAAAADhE/4j49ban3Vs0/s1600/DSC_1188.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZWwIPPoI/AAAAAAAADhE/4j49ban3Vs0/s320/DSC_1188.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502300723407175298" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZWUNKuZI/AAAAAAAADg8/jXknw500HiU/s1600/DSC_1189.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZWUNKuZI/AAAAAAAADg8/jXknw500HiU/s320/DSC_1189.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502300715911657874" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The bridge is the perfect entryway for our excursion, and after the initial traffic in Astoria, the coastal trail opens and peeks of the magnificent Pacific Ocean begin. It has been over three months since we left the Atlantic, and we are welcoming the ocean smells and sounds fully!<br /><br /><br />Though we've had rivers, sounds, canals, lakes and straits, along our journey, there is nothing like the ocean and we embrace it's magic! As different as the two coasts are in their terrain, it still almost feels like home for us and that feeling is just wonderful.<br /><br />As we pull into Manzanita, the quaint little village proves to be the perfect first stop on our Oregon Coast adventure. Cathie, Linda's friend, has provided a cozy little beach cottage, complete with fire pit! (It's the same one we had back home - a gift from Linda, of course) and it finishes our nostalgic moments. Settling in for our stay here, the fire is lit, yes, a fire in August! Unheard of, we know. But, the 50 degree temperature on this balmy evening allows such a pleasure and we enjoy thoroughly after our busy travel day.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZWOIpLSI/AAAAAAAADg0/-Y86TKM1rzg/s1600/DSC_1190.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZWOIpLSI/AAAAAAAADg0/-Y86TKM1rzg/s320/DSC_1190.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502300714282069282" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZVqmaVGI/AAAAAAAADgs/0v0Jh3rqFK8/s1600/DSC_1191.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZVqmaVGI/AAAAAAAADgs/0v0Jh3rqFK8/s320/DSC_1191.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502300704743248994" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZVWhUQII/AAAAAAAADgk/R82T7fGJZVI/s1600/DSC_1192.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwZVWhUQII/AAAAAAAADgk/R82T7fGJZVI/s320/DSC_1192.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502300699353170050" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Welcome to Oregon!Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-53098830855639113082010-08-06T07:04:00.001-07:002010-08-07T07:28:15.786-07:00Sunflowers and Wine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYoe0TOoI/AAAAAAAADgc/Tuq6g7aCxts/s1600/DSC_1139.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYoe0TOoI/AAAAAAAADgc/Tuq6g7aCxts/s320/DSC_1139.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299928486165122" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />So, we've been fortunate enough to have several days of pampering here in Union. Sunning on the deck, massages, reading, hot tub soaks, and on our final evening, with one more beautiful sunset to watch, Linda and her husband, Greg, invite us for a little wine tasting. Can it get better!?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYoNugbiI/AAAAAAAADgU/z6kfokXd5PY/s1600/DSC_1141.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYoNugbiI/AAAAAAAADgU/z6kfokXd5PY/s320/DSC_1141.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299923898461730" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />As morning dawns, we reluctantly ready for our next adventure. Columbo, their very sweet dog, looks a little sad, as well. We know he'll miss us as much as we'll miss being here. We take one final stroll around our little haven with Linda and Greg, Columbo and coffee, and realize that, of course, Linda has placed fresh sunflowers in her side patio the morning before we arrived.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYnjLtGxI/AAAAAAAADgM/qalC2L2hrLE/s1600/DSC_1143.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYnjLtGxI/AAAAAAAADgM/qalC2L2hrLE/s320/DSC_1143.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299912478202642" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYnSCVfWI/AAAAAAAADgE/34kyZhYXbb0/s1600/DSC_1144.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYnSCVfWI/AAAAAAAADgE/34kyZhYXbb0/s320/DSC_1144.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299907875503458" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />They each grab a shovel and watering can to aid in a very special planting this morning. Linda is wearing sunflower yellow for the occasion. In their beautiful garden, we are sure to have a sprouting, no doubt!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYmmnuw3I/AAAAAAAADf8/CuZcemIgwb8/s1600/DSC_1146.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwYmmnuw3I/AAAAAAAADf8/CuZcemIgwb8/s320/DSC_1146.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299896221188978" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX56SrS_I/AAAAAAAADf0/HxidRr5QypQ/s1600/DSC_1154.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX56SrS_I/AAAAAAAADf0/HxidRr5QypQ/s320/DSC_1154.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299128407477234" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX5Wy4pXI/AAAAAAAADfs/AcjIiicfLf0/s1600/DSC_1157.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX5Wy4pXI/AAAAAAAADfs/AcjIiicfLf0/s320/DSC_1157.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299118878893426" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX5Ed4giI/AAAAAAAADfk/LYPYKCmbtF4/s1600/DSC_1158.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX5Ed4giI/AAAAAAAADfk/LYPYKCmbtF4/s320/DSC_1158.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299113958965794" border="0" /></a>Goodbyes are especially difficult this morning. But, in the continuing vein of helpfulness, Linda has connected us with a friend of hers who has a little beach cottage on the Oregon coast. We'll have yet another special place to call home for our initial trip into Oregon. It eases our departure having this comfort. And, we'll be in touch with these special folks for a very long time coming!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX4s6Wy6I/AAAAAAAADfc/E4eDdAabf6M/s1600/DSC_1166.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX4s6Wy6I/AAAAAAAADfc/E4eDdAabf6M/s320/DSC_1166.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299107635940258" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX4ECEl5I/AAAAAAAADfU/Nujtoicj6y8/s1600/DSC_1167.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwX4ECEl5I/AAAAAAAADfU/Nujtoicj6y8/s320/DSC_1167.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502299096662448018" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwXXJoUHII/AAAAAAAADfM/kM9Qw51VeC0/s1600/DSC_1168.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwXXJoUHII/AAAAAAAADfM/kM9Qw51VeC0/s320/DSC_1168.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502298531229342850" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwXWjizBmI/AAAAAAAADfE/5anKoVAzlmQ/s1600/DSC_1169.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwXWjizBmI/AAAAAAAADfE/5anKoVAzlmQ/s320/DSC_1169.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502298521005655650" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwXWaGkQMI/AAAAAAAADe8/j3h--jE6Uko/s1600/DSC_1170.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwXWaGkQMI/AAAAAAAADe8/j3h--jE6Uko/s320/DSC_1170.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502298518471327938" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As we exit Union, it is a must stop at the winery that produces the delicious wine we sampled the evening prior.<a href="http://http//www.walterdaconwines.com/"> Walter Dacon Winery</a> is en route to the coast, just outside of Shelton, Washington. And, what a lovely place we find. Holly is our hostess as she shows us about and allows us to taste many of their beautiful wines, including the <span serif="" style=""><b>2006 C'est Syrah Magnifique.</b></span> (Be sure and click on this link, the website is really special as it includes several videos created by our new friend, Linda. They are really good! Especially take time for the Appanage and Robin Hood Restaurant video, you'll see why we loved it so!) <span serif="" style=""><b><br /><br /><br /></b>It is incredible and we purchase this and a few other for our long road trip ahead. The perfect finale for our Washington experience. This is a state certainly asterisked on our list. And, the Hood Canal area a dream spot. With all it offers, and Seattle less than two hours away, we will be hard pressed to find a more special place!<br /></span>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-33465586466473977692010-08-06T06:32:00.000-07:002010-08-06T08:13:52.116-07:00At Home in the Hood<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSzJrYwAI/AAAAAAAADe0/UQd31kzmEf0/s1600/DSC_1106.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSzJrYwAI/AAAAAAAADe0/UQd31kzmEf0/s320/DSC_1106.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502293514720428034" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Our plan in Washington is to make our home at the Hood Canal in the quaint artsy town of Union. The drive from Port Angeles along 101 south is every bit as beautiful as we've been told. Arrangements to stay at a little carriage house have been very easy as our hostess, Linda, has been more than welcoming in all of our correspondence.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSylWvwmI/AAAAAAAADes/2L8R1ZejP_M/s1600/DSC_1113.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSylWvwmI/AAAAAAAADes/2L8R1ZejP_M/s320/DSC_1113.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502293504970179170" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSyYcsTmI/AAAAAAAADek/uV7HhEk1dlU/s1600/DSC_1121.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSyYcsTmI/AAAAAAAADek/uV7HhEk1dlU/s320/DSC_1121.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502293501505457762" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSxzE4UcI/AAAAAAAADec/NSbX3EOSJCM/s1600/DSC_1123.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSxzE4UcI/AAAAAAAADec/NSbX3EOSJCM/s320/DSC_1123.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502293491473469890" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSUhMgJxI/AAAAAAAADeU/oNX1rO-SiWM/s1600/DSC_1127.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSUhMgJxI/AAAAAAAADeU/oNX1rO-SiWM/s320/DSC_1127.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502292988457395986" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSUYCjvmI/AAAAAAAADeM/-LoEFMjpY0A/s1600/DSC_1131.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwSUYCjvmI/AAAAAAAADeM/-LoEFMjpY0A/s320/DSC_1131.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502292985999769186" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwR3DPs5CI/AAAAAAAADeE/MIhvmXv4Z-E/s1600/DSC_1132.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwR3DPs5CI/AAAAAAAADeE/MIhvmXv4Z-E/s320/DSC_1132.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502292482201543714" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwR2osUzzI/AAAAAAAADd8/W_jtqiEO45s/s1600/DSC_1133.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwR2osUzzI/AAAAAAAADd8/W_jtqiEO45s/s320/DSC_1133.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502292475073842994" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwR2YYxIeI/AAAAAAAADd0/M3_VsgpdZhA/s1600/DSC_1134.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwR2YYxIeI/AAAAAAAADd0/M3_VsgpdZhA/s320/DSC_1134.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502292470696845794" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRe2tdZkI/AAAAAAAADds/VtpnyfnMPbo/s1600/DSC_1067.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRe2tdZkI/AAAAAAAADds/VtpnyfnMPbo/s320/DSC_1067.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502292066519836226" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwReQOQSYI/AAAAAAAADdk/eI2Rmpo-Jt4/s1600/DSC_1073.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwReQOQSYI/AAAAAAAADdk/eI2Rmpo-Jt4/s320/DSC_1073.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502292056188406146" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRd3NdJ1I/AAAAAAAADdc/vsQfxVhHazs/s1600/DSC_1091.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRd3NdJ1I/AAAAAAAADdc/vsQfxVhHazs/s320/DSC_1091.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502292049474168658" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRI6MxfeI/AAAAAAAADdU/ktJb893yiiY/s1600/DSC_1095.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRI6MxfeI/AAAAAAAADdU/ktJb893yiiY/s320/DSC_1095.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502291689499360738" border="0" /></a>And, what we find when we arrive is even more than we've been promised. Our little 2 BR place is adorable, stocked with all sorts of goodies and boasting a water view that's stunning. We are welcomed to <a href="http://http//www.pebblebeachplace.com/Pebble_Beach_Place/Welcome.html">Pebble Beach Place </a>with a little tour around the property while we sip wine. A peaceful zen garden provides a quiet retreat, a gorgeous deck offers a hot tub and fire pit, and a wonderful dock sits and rocks on the water. We plan to spend many hours in all three places!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRICSj3CI/AAAAAAAADdM/Y2V99HkGUzA/s1600/DSC_1096.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRICSj3CI/AAAAAAAADdM/Y2V99HkGUzA/s320/DSC_1096.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502291674491247650" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRHs7tAzI/AAAAAAAADdE/Rr4N5xIC2b8/s1600/DSC_1103.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFwRHs7tAzI/AAAAAAAADdE/Rr4N5xIC2b8/s320/DSC_1103.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502291668758233906" border="0" /></a><br />After a day of travel from Canada, we welcome our cozy respite, and rest very very well in wonderfully comfortable beds.<br /><br /><br /><br />Fresh and ready, the morning brings yet another sunny day - we're being very spoiled with all this amazing weather - and enjoy a bountiful breakfast that has been provided as one of our many creature comforts.<br /><br />Fortified, we venture out just a few miles to <a href="http://www.stateparks.com/twanoh.html">Twanoh State Park </a>for a breathtaking rain forest hike. The trail traverses along a babbling creek and slowly climbs through the huge trees to the top of the mountain. We virtually have the path to ourselves this morning and savor the beauty that reigns in every direction. It's truly one of our favorite hikes. The beach across the street provides the perfect spot to set up our chairs and have a little picnic as we watch several sail and power boats have fun on the water.<br /><br />As the afternoon warms, we saunter back to our little dock back at the house, sit, read and soak up the sun. We are so relaxed by day's end. A short drive for dinner at the <a href="http://http//www.therobinhood.com/">Robin Hood</a> keeps the day perfect. Lemon drop prawns, stuffed squash blossoms, grilled ceaser, and curried lollipop lamb chops provide scrumptious tapas tastings with a wonderful french wine. Excellent service and a darling atmosphere makes this one of our all time favorite restaurant finds. One more excellent recommendation by Linda!<br /><br />A late night soak in the hot tub brings one of our most perfect days to a blissful end. Needless to say, we love Union, Washington. We may never leave!Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-40198843063481722702010-08-05T19:34:00.001-07:002010-08-06T07:33:01.860-07:00Strait to the Mountains<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt2Jj6NOaI/AAAAAAAADc8/I_XBsX368WM/s1600/DSC_1007.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt2Jj6NOaI/AAAAAAAADc8/I_XBsX368WM/s320/DSC_1007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502121276393470370" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Our final evening in Victoria brings a beautiful golden moon posing beside the magnificently lighted Parliament House - a perfect send off.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt2JStZvzI/AAAAAAAADc0/DwrI-w-X-Yc/s1600/DSC_1013fs.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt2JStZvzI/AAAAAAAADc0/DwrI-w-X-Yc/s320/DSC_1013fs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502121271776362290" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt2JB9cv8I/AAAAAAAADcs/37Qh-gZuA_Y/s1600/DSC_1017fs.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt2JB9cv8I/AAAAAAAADcs/37Qh-gZuA_Y/s320/DSC_1017fs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502121267280265154" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt2IkjSXfI/AAAAAAAADck/rtLnbNqiHHc/s1600/DSC_1021fs.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 188px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt2IkjSXfI/AAAAAAAADck/rtLnbNqiHHc/s320/DSC_1021fs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502121259385904626" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt1HDH8wLI/AAAAAAAADcc/YoiVnp03ZN8/s1600/DSC_1030.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt1HDH8wLI/AAAAAAAADcc/YoiVnp03ZN8/s320/DSC_1030.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502120133721374898" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt1Gv1gD4I/AAAAAAAADcU/nneKsVvVqTM/s1600/DSC_1041.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt1Gv1gD4I/AAAAAAAADcU/nneKsVvVqTM/s320/DSC_1041.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502120128543723394" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt1F4UMphI/AAAAAAAADcE/59Jd-Sepf30/s1600/DSC_1045.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFt1F4UMphI/AAAAAAAADcE/59Jd-Sepf30/s320/DSC_1045.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502120113640089106" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />The <a href="http://http//cohoferry.com/main/">Coho Ferry</a> whisks us away this morning and bring us back home to these United States. The route takes us across the Strait of Juan de Fuca, crossing the same waterway we've walked and beached for the past week and we arrive in the city of Port Angeles, gateway to the amazing mountain range at Olympic National Park.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />A climb up Hurricane Ridge for a picnic in the same mountains we've eyed across the waterway is a surreal experience. The clear skies offer a view which feels like we can actually reach out and touch these soft peaks. It's breathtaking. The only way for a picnic!Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-68096614048424443052010-08-02T20:16:00.000-07:002010-08-04T20:29:33.722-07:00Oh, Victoria<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFosiNoCs0I/AAAAAAAADb8/n3gF1_-A2_A/s1600/DSC_2451.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFosiNoCs0I/AAAAAAAADb8/n3gF1_-A2_A/s320/DSC_2451.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501758861071266626" border="0" /></a><br /><br />As our time comes to an end in this beautiful city, we reflect on all we've been able to experience in our brief stay. This is truly one of the most lovely places in the world.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFoshs_UqKI/AAAAAAAADb0/VCi8qylqINc/s1600/DSC_1897.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFoshs_UqKI/AAAAAAAADb0/VCi8qylqINc/s320/DSC_1897.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501758852310542498" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLj91HOeI/AAAAAAAADa8/FIgiRmsfclg/s1600/DSC_0934.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLj91HOeI/AAAAAAAADa8/FIgiRmsfclg/s320/DSC_0934.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018919865367010" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLjetQj4I/AAAAAAAADa0/4EsUeUJVN0I/s1600/DSC_0937.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLjetQj4I/AAAAAAAADa0/4EsUeUJVN0I/s320/DSC_0937.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018911510925186" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLjFXLbzI/AAAAAAAADas/mr_FBtuBUnY/s1600/DSC_0938.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLjFXLbzI/AAAAAAAADas/mr_FBtuBUnY/s320/DSC_0938.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018904707428146" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLKflZnwI/AAAAAAAADak/5sjdfUFyjhY/s1600/DSC_0939.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLKflZnwI/AAAAAAAADak/5sjdfUFyjhY/s320/DSC_0939.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018482249670402" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLJ_8jHlI/AAAAAAAADac/4_3urwuiHoY/s1600/DSC_0941.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLJ_8jHlI/AAAAAAAADac/4_3urwuiHoY/s320/DSC_0941.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018473756827218" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLJagaRqI/AAAAAAAADaU/aUmI_yZ_HMk/s1600/DSC_0942.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeLJagaRqI/AAAAAAAADaU/aUmI_yZ_HMk/s320/DSC_0942.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018463706695330" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKwmMK1lI/AAAAAAAADaM/WMe96b8rzdg/s1600/DSC_0948.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKwmMK1lI/AAAAAAAADaM/WMe96b8rzdg/s320/DSC_0948.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018037346293330" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKwJTlO2I/AAAAAAAADaE/oR6NuoH7a2w/s1600/DSC_0957.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKwJTlO2I/AAAAAAAADaE/oR6NuoH7a2w/s320/DSC_0957.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018029592755042" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKvtgOvCI/AAAAAAAADZ8/mREFttKLEmM/s1600/DSC_0960.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKvtgOvCI/AAAAAAAADZ8/mREFttKLEmM/s320/DSC_0960.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501018022129613858" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKVnRzCcI/AAAAAAAADZ0/BcUGyiq4dLY/s1600/DSC_0963.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKVnRzCcI/AAAAAAAADZ0/BcUGyiq4dLY/s320/DSC_0963.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501017573781866946" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKVLcQPBI/AAAAAAAADZs/2YpQJy9aN0c/s1600/DSC_0968.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeKVLcQPBI/AAAAAAAADZs/2YpQJy9aN0c/s320/DSC_0968.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501017566309530642" border="0" /></a>The gorgeous gardens, mountain vistas, and inner harbor create a truly magical setting. We have been so fortunate to have stayed in a spot that highlighted the best Victoria has to offer.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />On one of our prettiest afternoons, we hiked the coast line showcasing the magnificent Olympic range beyond the strait. Absolutely amazing! We pulled our chairs from the Vue and grabbed our books, soaking up the magnificent sun and breathing in all that coast was providing. It was a spectacular moment!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Our beautiful home couldn't have been more perfect as it's modern conveniences and incredible location provided more than we could have hoped for.<br /><br />Only pause was the "EARTHQUAKE" button on the elevator - what exactly was that for!?!Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-3758867198780598572010-08-02T20:02:00.000-07:002010-08-04T19:36:46.097-07:00Castles and Waterfalls<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJpJah7CI/AAAAAAAADZc/50OvkqZexNs/s1600/7-20-10+castle+008.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 206px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJpJah7CI/AAAAAAAADZc/50OvkqZexNs/s320/7-20-10+castle+008.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501016809851186210" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Good weather fortune continues and a small journey to <a href="http://http//www.hatleycastle.com/">Hatley Castle</a> seems to be in order. The beautiful grounds overlook the sound and the magnificent Olympic Mountains, a breathtaking setting.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJo9RDj2I/AAAAAAAADZU/bStkpy1L4XE/s1600/7-20-10+castle+012.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 208px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJo9RDj2I/AAAAAAAADZU/bStkpy1L4XE/s320/7-20-10+castle+012.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501016806590222178" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJoXCylyI/AAAAAAAADZM/7bTXl8vJPG8/s1600/7-20-10+castle+023.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJoXCylyI/AAAAAAAADZM/7bTXl8vJPG8/s320/7-20-10+castle+023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501016796329842466" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJn9w47DI/AAAAAAAADZE/pRvHcPApybc/s1600/7-20-10+castle+024.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJn9w47DI/AAAAAAAADZE/pRvHcPApybc/s320/7-20-10+castle+024.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501016789543873586" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJI1ls9XI/AAAAAAAADY8/qFp-XY_lrA4/s1600/7-20-10+castle+049.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJI1ls9XI/AAAAAAAADY8/qFp-XY_lrA4/s320/7-20-10+castle+049.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501016254773523826" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJISRjY6I/AAAAAAAADY0/Qz7Z_zw3EN4/s1600/7-20-10+castle+051.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJISRjY6I/AAAAAAAADY0/Qz7Z_zw3EN4/s320/7-20-10+castle+051.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501016245293769634" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJIKndq2I/AAAAAAAADYs/OMHGyx63yw8/s1600/7-20-10+castle+058.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeJIKndq2I/AAAAAAAADYs/OMHGyx63yw8/s320/7-20-10+castle+058.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501016243238185826" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIs3LeEkI/AAAAAAAADYk/YpbDqVjg29U/s1600/7-20-10+castle+073.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIs3LeEkI/AAAAAAAADYk/YpbDqVjg29U/s320/7-20-10+castle+073.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501015774164030018" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIscscRhI/AAAAAAAADYc/GF0OQdg-7bk/s1600/7-20-10+castle+082.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIscscRhI/AAAAAAAADYc/GF0OQdg-7bk/s320/7-20-10+castle+082.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501015767054566930" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIr5Le26I/AAAAAAAADYU/wlyWfSrCadA/s1600/7-20-10+castle+086.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIr5Le26I/AAAAAAAADYU/wlyWfSrCadA/s320/7-20-10+castle+086.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501015757521083298" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIOY0-04I/AAAAAAAADYM/7jYSs6bEjGY/s1600/7-20-10+castle+087.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIOY0-04I/AAAAAAAADYM/7jYSs6bEjGY/s320/7-20-10+castle+087.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501015250620568450" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIN2t89LI/AAAAAAAADYE/ediRtTTrx4I/s1600/7-20-10+castle+088.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeIN2t89LI/AAAAAAAADYE/ediRtTTrx4I/s320/7-20-10+castle+088.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501015241464280242" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeINTT2YeI/AAAAAAAADX8/0eWwiAZzzlE/s1600/7-20-10+castle+108.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeINTT2YeI/AAAAAAAADX8/0eWwiAZzzlE/s320/7-20-10+castle+108.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501015231959556578" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHy336cLI/AAAAAAAADX0/876H-xGnMsM/s1600/7-20-10+castle+111.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHy336cLI/AAAAAAAADX0/876H-xGnMsM/s320/7-20-10+castle+111.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501014777918025906" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHyS_5cuI/AAAAAAAADXs/TdMUnkzRBFw/s1600/7-20-10+castle+114.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHyS_5cuI/AAAAAAAADXs/TdMUnkzRBFw/s320/7-20-10+castle+114.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501014768019403490" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHx5a5TmI/AAAAAAAADXk/laAvuEoEPTc/s1600/7-20-10+castle+119.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHx5a5TmI/AAAAAAAADXk/laAvuEoEPTc/s320/7-20-10+castle+119.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501014761153318498" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHXpSYrdI/AAAAAAAADXc/CyaTnb05Oco/s1600/7-20-10+castle+135.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHXpSYrdI/AAAAAAAADXc/CyaTnb05Oco/s320/7-20-10+castle+135.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501014310146059730" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHXe7RYoI/AAAAAAAADXU/N41RkGK-_uo/s1600/7-20-10+castle+166.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeHXe7RYoI/AAAAAAAADXU/N41RkGK-_uo/s320/7-20-10+castle+166.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501014307364758146" border="0" /></a><br />The gardens here are just as impressive as the ones we visited yesterday, just smaller and quite serene. There is not the throng of visitors that Butchart garners, and the peace is extravagant.<br /><br />Before touring the castle itself, we stroll through the gardens, again enjoying the different venues it allows. The rose garden is in full bloom, housing heirloom roses dating back to the 1500s. Incredible. Balance in the Japanese garden is palpable and meandering through the area, complete with tea house overlooking ponds and arched bridges, is pure heaven.<br /><br /><br />Peacocks prance and hens with their babies are spotted often along our stroll.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The castle itself is quite impressive.<br />"Money doesn't matter, just build what I want." This is the quote of the original owner, James Dunsmuir, and is apparent in the spectacle we witness today. Taking only 18 months to complete is much more understandable when cost is no option whatsoever.<br /><br /><br />Today the castle and it's beautiful gardens are part of Royal Roads University and the castle actually serves as administrative headquarters. This would be a very nice place to come to work each day indeed!<br /><br /><br />We have one more excursion this afternoon before we call it a day. We've heard of a little waterfall called Niagara. A short drive brings us to the beautiful <a href="http://http://www.explorevancouverisland.com/Goldstream_Park_Niagara_Falls_Vancouver_Island_BC.htm">Goldstream Provinal Park</a> where it's found. Just a 15-minute hike brings us to an area of such bliss, it's hard to imagine. The fall is almost as high as it's famous namesake, but quiet and serene. Hidden in a corner of this park where it's not even marked, we have to inquire several times to find it's location. It is, indeed, a magical and mystical spot. We are fortunate to have witnessed it's beauty. <br /><br />The day has been filled with special moments and the glory of Victoria has been fully appreciated.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFohJOYBd-I/AAAAAAAADbs/8Lk-bJo9wgQ/s1600/7-20-10+castle+175.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFohJOYBd-I/AAAAAAAADbs/8Lk-bJo9wgQ/s320/7-20-10+castle+175.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501746337147877346" border="0" /></a>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1884236273986384362.post-26924124256354131632010-08-02T19:47:00.000-07:002010-08-03T20:00:32.343-07:00Fountains and Flowers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeGOBeT0KI/AAAAAAAADXE/PqAGals_vhw/s1600/7-20-10+castle+001.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeGOBeT0KI/AAAAAAAADXE/PqAGals_vhw/s320/7-20-10+castle+001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501013045328203938" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />After several days of staying close to home, we venture a bit to visit the legendary <a href="http://http//www.butchartgardens.com/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1">Butchart Gardens</a> in Brentwood Bay. What a spectacle awaits us here!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeGNurR1aI/AAAAAAAADW8/phj1kkBLrXA/s1600/DSC_0534.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeGNurR1aI/AAAAAAAADW8/phj1kkBLrXA/s320/DSC_0534.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501013040282326434" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeGNMQeDoI/AAAAAAAADW0/j27LWeD4RCQ/s1600/DSC_0551.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeGNMQeDoI/AAAAAAAADW0/j27LWeD4RCQ/s320/DSC_0551.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501013031043075714" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeF0ndccXI/AAAAAAAADWs/pqbZn7t8SgQ/s1600/DSC_0553.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeF0ndccXI/AAAAAAAADWs/pqbZn7t8SgQ/s320/DSC_0553.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501012608848523634" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeF0QftKCI/AAAAAAAADWk/eKxl15kDuXA/s1600/DSC_0561.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeF0QftKCI/AAAAAAAADWk/eKxl15kDuXA/s320/DSC_0561.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501012602683992098" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeFz7Ejl1I/AAAAAAAADWc/c-uaNLrMcRo/s1600/DSC_0582.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeFz7Ejl1I/AAAAAAAADWc/c-uaNLrMcRo/s320/DSC_0582.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501012596932974418" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />These renowned gardens definitely do not disappoint and we spend several hours exploring the wide range of venues. A carousel ride is not to be missed and brings back visions of Mary Poppins for all of us. If only we could get these horses to go off trail...this is the perfect place for that to happen!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />There are sunken gardens to traverse, a rose garden to inhale, Japanese gardens to reflect and a Mediterranean garden to lead us to tea. It just doesn't get better than this. As the weather continues to cooperate, clear sunny skies prevail and provide the perfect backdrop for this glorious haven.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeFTF7MJxI/AAAAAAAADWU/Foenf9bcnW4/s1600/DSC_0584.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeFTF7MJxI/AAAAAAAADWU/Foenf9bcnW4/s320/DSC_0584.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501012032910796562" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeFSpYvc5I/AAAAAAAADWM/dxWIRUJVH78/s1600/DSC_0590.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeFSpYvc5I/AAAAAAAADWM/dxWIRUJVH78/s320/DSC_0590.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501012025250116498" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeFSHz8jOI/AAAAAAAADWE/3JYOo3W_qtE/s1600/DSC_0591.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeFSHz8jOI/AAAAAAAADWE/3JYOo3W_qtE/s320/DSC_0591.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501012016237415650" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeErrEHDqI/AAAAAAAADV8/XJxi6IQUWKY/s1600/DSC_0592.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeErrEHDqI/AAAAAAAADV8/XJxi6IQUWKY/s320/DSC_0592.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501011355685555874" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeErFFTUKI/AAAAAAAADV0/vwY3hp5sGIA/s1600/DSC_0593.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeErFFTUKI/AAAAAAAADV0/vwY3hp5sGIA/s320/DSC_0593.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501011345490006178" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEqjwUSoI/AAAAAAAADVs/W8JxjfStEoI/s1600/DSC_0623.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEqjwUSoI/AAAAAAAADVs/W8JxjfStEoI/s320/DSC_0623.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501011336543619714" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEZz5rr0I/AAAAAAAADVk/N5j_flmHYKM/s1600/DSC_0639.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEZz5rr0I/AAAAAAAADVk/N5j_flmHYKM/s320/DSC_0639.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501011048820092738" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEZJkjHaI/AAAAAAAADVc/I9SAAIycnaw/s1600/DSC_0655.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEZJkjHaI/AAAAAAAADVc/I9SAAIycnaw/s320/DSC_0655.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501011037457161634" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEYvSSRGI/AAAAAAAADVU/WW06H7Bcz70/s1600/DSC_0668.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEYvSSRGI/AAAAAAAADVU/WW06H7Bcz70/s320/DSC_0668.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501011030401238114" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEIC-OaTI/AAAAAAAADVM/Cef35XXeP4Q/s1600/DSC_0673.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEIC-OaTI/AAAAAAAADVM/Cef35XXeP4Q/s320/DSC_0673.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010743628032306" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEHuMp3nI/AAAAAAAADVE/S7i7tGvMgvE/s1600/DSC_0681.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEHuMp3nI/AAAAAAAADVE/S7i7tGvMgvE/s320/DSC_0681.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010738051407474" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEHCE9v9I/AAAAAAAADU8/x19S7R3Jddw/s1600/DSC_0687.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeEHCE9v9I/AAAAAAAADU8/x19S7R3Jddw/s320/DSC_0687.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010726207995858" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />A charming boat tour takes us along the bay surrounding the gardens. Our guide is from Denmark and has the most melodious tone when speaking. Between his voice and the scenery, we are transformed into an other worldly place. The peacefulness and serenity of the area is pure heaven. Swarms of non toxic jelly fish surround and large, beautiful, and colorful<br />starfish are prevalent everywhere. We literally float off our little vessel at our journey's end. This is more than worth the extra $$ for the excursion. For all of us, one of our favorite experiences by far.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDyN_TIOI/AAAAAAAADU0/jT5Ep41SHWk/s1600/DSC_0697.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDyN_TIOI/AAAAAAAADU0/jT5Ep41SHWk/s320/DSC_0697.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010368628203746" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDxwDGR8I/AAAAAAAADUs/JAlDIg6FZyk/s1600/DSC_0699.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDxwDGR8I/AAAAAAAADUs/JAlDIg6FZyk/s320/DSC_0699.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010360591075266" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDxbQH2lI/AAAAAAAADUk/I-tNW_I7JJo/s1600/DSC_0712.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDxbQH2lI/AAAAAAAADUk/I-tNW_I7JJo/s320/DSC_0712.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010355008559698" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDe5k5RmI/AAAAAAAADUc/gBTjAVxkRZU/s1600/DSC_0724.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDe5k5RmI/AAAAAAAADUc/gBTjAVxkRZU/s320/DSC_0724.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010036731233890" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDeHIYoCI/AAAAAAAADUU/VW3wuZc2Gm8/s1600/DSC_0725.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDeHIYoCI/AAAAAAAADUU/VW3wuZc2Gm8/s320/DSC_0725.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010023189880866" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDdomSgGI/AAAAAAAADUM/brIOIlJVSNc/s1600/DSC_0746.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFeDdomSgGI/AAAAAAAADUM/brIOIlJVSNc/s320/DSC_0746.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501010014993809506" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFjU8dYecCI/AAAAAAAADbk/_sqEyeP4JFo/s1600/100_0278.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFjU8dYecCI/AAAAAAAADbk/_sqEyeP4JFo/s320/100_0278.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501381079977586722" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFjU7-fAnYI/AAAAAAAADbc/osHhTrE-ac8/s1600/100_0275.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFjU7-fAnYI/AAAAAAAADbc/osHhTrE-ac8/s320/100_0275.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501381071683493250" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The gardens cannot be complete without the obligatory high tea experience at the dining room and so we, of course, have to indulge. Another must and more than worth the expense it entails. The quaint room has gorgeous views of the grounds and the tea and service exquisite. Dessert is served first (does it get better than that?) with a delicious individual trifle loaded with the most amazing cream. Champagne cocktails accompany the first course and, therefore, bring us to a whole new level of enjoyment. Tiers of goodies follow, each with a specific purpose. Top tier is loaded with scones, lemon curd cream and strawberry jam. The middle has offerings of truffles, lemon tarts, and raspberry napoleons. At the bottom, a savory display of salmon and cucumber finger sandwiches, sausage rolls, pinwheels and mushroom tarts. Pure heaven! Oh, and the tea is pretty good, as well.<br /><br />Yes, high tea at the Butchart Gardens is a very good thing!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFjU7uztPII/AAAAAAAADbU/bWMCwO3l8gA/s1600/100_0274.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFjU7uztPII/AAAAAAAADbU/bWMCwO3l8gA/s320/100_0274.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501381067475336322" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFjU7EQZ2lI/AAAAAAAADbM/57hBaOKGV0A/s1600/100_0273.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-dZaHXAWZ2I/TFjU7EQZ2lI/AAAAAAAADbM/57hBaOKGV0A/s320/100_0273.JPG" alt="" /></a>Susan and Celestehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14537667857846163483noreply@blogger.com2