Why We Go to This Big City

July 16-21, 2017
Issaquah, Washington


Sunday's drive is our first Interstate-only since May. As expected, the traffic gets worse the closer we get to Seattle. 

Sunday morning, let's all go to Seattle!

So it's a slow drive until we get to I-90 heading east, but it's an overall easy trip to the pretty town of Issaquah.

We navigate some (more) road construction before pulling into Issaquah Village RV Park, another no- frills-but-close-to-everything spot for a week. It wasn't my first choice, or second, or third.....but it's clean and level with FHUs, 50 AMP and well maintained. Although our neighbors are quiet, with I-90 just 100 yards from our space I can't say the park is quiet. 

The priority for this stop is seeing Jeff, my youngest, and our number four son. It's been a year since he flew out to Denver to see us on the road.

As soon as we get set up we're back out the door and into the city to see him :-)

We are all happy to see him!

The kids.

Jeff directs us to a great eatery on Capitol Hill - Skillet, and then we take a drive (always an adventure in this busy city of steep and narrow streets) to Woodland Park along the water. It's so good to see him and get caught up with his life.

Monday we're out to find a fishing spot - first stop Beaver Lake. 

It's pretty, has nice green space for picnics, but the only public fishing access has zero place to fish.  We continue on.

Beaver Lake

Cute old cabin back in the woods by the lake.

I love wood boats, and this one across the lake is a beauty.

When we were in the area two years ago I fell in love with the little town of Enumclaw. Nice historic downtown with cute houses surrounding it, beautiful views of Mt Rainier (hard to miss it from anywhere "up here"), plus a great little diner.

The mountain is out!

Unfortunately Kitchen (little diner) closes at 2 and we're too late. Kelly's Mercantile across the street has exceptional organic and fresh local fare, giving us a perfect Plan B.

Not a fishing spot (unless you have a long, long, long fishing line), but on the way back we stop at the single-lane Green River Gorge Bridge. We squeeze into the one narrow spot where we can get out and walk the bridge. Given my "dislike" of high places, I'm pleased with the appropriate railings along the sides. All bridges and view points should require these :-))))

Perfect!

Preservation and conservation began in the late 1960's.

The State now owns and protects 80% of the 14 mile river gorge.

Barely visible falls higher up the walls.

Close to the river, these falls are loud and beautiful.

"Holy Spark Plug Rock"

The history of the river is similar to so many - developers and conservationists continuously battle for it's shores. A resort along the gorge closed in the 1980's due to liability concerns and public access was cut off. A few residents live there year round. Down river some private property is developed along the gorge. There are no hiking trails for humans or horses, and no interpretive centers are planned. So far, conservationists are winning, which means the river is winning - let's hope that continues.

A final stop to takes us to another public fishing location with nowhere to fish....but the flowers are pretty :-) Sorry honey....

Lake Number 12 - seriously.

A few pink lillies on a lake full of white blooms.

Bugs' summer paradise.

They grow those fuzzy pink sweaters here.....

Tuesday is a lazy day - I never get out of my PJs :-)

Jeff takes Wednesday off and we meet him at the theater to see the new Spiderman movie. My first time seeing a movie on the second floor - big city stuff! Not only is the movie very fun and very funny, but the large reclining leather seats with swing out tables are wonderful. The popcorn could be better.. 

Late lunch at the Cheesecake Factory across the street (we've already paid the parking ransom), and then we drop Jeff off to interview for what he hopes will be his new abode.

Although our healthcare plan only covers us for emergencies and urgent care outside of California, we are fortunate to have both dental and vision coverage we can use anywhere in the country. It's time for our annual eye exams and Thursday we have appointments here in Issaquah. Thanks to Linda for the great recommendation!

All week I've been looking forward to Friday so Jeff can come spend a couple days at our house!

We meet at his work, Victrola Coffee Roastery, where he and the crew are doing a "cupping". We're lucky to join this weekly staff event. They do free cuppings with the public on Wednesdays so if you're in the area.....it's like coffee college in 30 minutes!

Each selection is tasted three times. If you normally drink decaf like I do, taste small spoonfuls - whew!!

Five selections, tasting for flavor, mouth-feel and acidity.

The tasting process is simple, but the information gathered, and the conclusions made, are complicated and fascinating. It's especially fun doing it with the crew - thanks Jeff for including us!

Brunch at the Issaquah Cafe and then a quiet afternoon back at our place. Nothing better than hanging out with your kid! 

We round out the night with chili, brews and a movie. Saturday we're off to visit a couple of our favorite places in this beautiful area.