Getting to Point Flattery, the furthest north and west a person can be in the U.S., is a twisty, scenic drive, and very worth it. From a single vantage point we simultaneously see whales beginning their southerly migration, the Pacific Ocean, Canada, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca leading to Puget Sound. Driving home during sunset we experience vibrant orange bouncing off Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park. Wow.
Late one night, I need to drive into town. On the way out the door, Sherry kids me, asking if I should take (Miss) Garmin GPS to find my way back. Of course I say no. Then, on the drive back, I miss our RV park. Police officer pulls me over for speeding 62 in a 45. He was chuckling as I explain to him that my wife recommended I take the GPS, told her I didn’t need it, lost my way back home, and was reluctant to use the Garmin GPS because my wife suggested I might need it. Pleasant surprise when he lets me off with a warning. Maybe it was the best story he’d heard that night?
Walking thru the Hoh Rain Forest on the west side of Olympic National Park with all its hanging mosses, nurse trees, and strange growths makes this rain forest seemingly a magical adventure.
Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center outside Ilwaco, WA, is a terrific experience. The challenges Lewis and Clark faced during their 2 year adventure mapping a river path from St. Louis, MO, to the Pacific Ocean are truly inspirational. The Center displays the only U.S. 15 stripe/15 star flag the U.S. had before limiting the stripes on our flag to 13.
When you’re in Astoria, find the Bowpicker. They sell the best Fish and Chips. (Friend Susan told us about it.) The Bowpicker is this little red boat across from the Columbia Maritime Museum. When it’s open, there is a steady line of people waiting to get fish and chips. When their fish sells out, they go home.
What place these days encourages people to toss gliders from its top? Astoria Column! Incredible 360 degree
view of the Columbia River dividing Washington from Oregon. You’ll need to climb the 100+ stairs, but go for it.
I learn Oregon does not allow people to pump their own gas. $2,000 fine. Yikes. Fortunately I don’t get a ticket.
The ocean waves are turbulent while we sit inside Mo’s enjoying the best clam chowder around. (Thank you again, Susan!)
We finish Saturday night by Square Dancing with the Hay Shakers in Seaside. Dale and Kathy, Jerry, Harlan, caller KC and his wife Linda. Fun group. Very good dancers. Busy, fun-filled week.
Other good folks we’ve met along the way include Tim and Jody at
Cape Flattery, and Robert, who was selling cranberries, and has quite the testimony about Jesus helping him stop drinking 13 years ago. It’s the people God keeps bringing into our lives that is making this an amazing adventure.