Saturday we left early to catch an U-Bahn to Die Welt (aka “Bimmerworld”) to pick up the car. We got quite a tour, a tasty breakfast, and finally, the car, which we literally drove right out of the showroom… but not before I snagged an apple streudel on my quest to find the best apfel streudel in Munich. We then took our maiden voyage out to Dachau concentration camp. It was a very interesting bit of history, and there was a lot to see and reflect on, beginning with the iron doors at the entryway, reading (in German): “Work shall set you free.”

Sunday the entire day was taken driving out to Neuschwanstein castle and hiking up the three mile trail, which was somewhat icy (too icy for busses, which is why we all walked), leading to the castle. We then took an hour tour of the castle, and someone’s camera “accidentally” took a few pictures from inside the castle, which was otherwise not allowed. We concluded the day at a hole in the wall restaurant near Neuschwanstein, which took first place in the apfel struedel competition. Monday morning we left around 5 AM for home, bring our whirlwind adventure to an end.

We visited all the major attractions, saw Butchart Gardens our first day (pictures pending from Mom’s camera) and decided there was no way we could fit Victoria into 20 hours, so decided to stay another day, in which we got in some light hiking, played games, took in the sights and sounds of the beautiful city.

Next, we moved on to Winthrop, Washington. I’d never been to Winthrop before, and couldn’t imagine what a town with a population of about 350 people could offer, but off on the adventure we went. It was GREAT! Similar to Leavenworth’s Bavarian theme, Winthrop has adopted a western theme, and it was just like visiting the old west without the scary old west things (e.g. bandits, random shootings, etc.). We took a walk at night and could see all the stars. It would be a great place to come back for a honeymoon, and Ciara tells me it has great cross-country skiing in the winter. I’m sure I’ll be back! On our way out of town, we also went horseback riding in the hill country and it was fantastic. Second only to our ride in Ireland, the horses were very responsive and we got a great amount of trotting and even some cantering up the hills (go Ben!).

Our last stop was Grand Coulee, to see the Grand Coulee Dam, which none of us had ever seen before. It is truly an amazing feat of engineering, and really puts almost all the other dams of the world to shame (and is happy to tell you how much better it is). We saw a “slaser” show – where they let water spill over the falls and played a giant laser show (music and designs circa 1981). It was hilarious and informative all at once. Hope you all enjoy the photos! (And video likely to follow!)

Thursday we had a great time catching up with Alex, who was in town with his lovely girlfriend, Elizabeth. We ate at a great place, to which we all agreed we would return soon…if it weren’t in Burien. Friday I finally got to spend some time with the family, and it was great to catch up on everything that’s been going on during my absence. Ben is deeply ensconsed in his new work at Aquent, and despite the fact that it sounds incredibly challenging, he is rising to the occassion as always. Emily went to present at a conference for college speakers, so she was gone for part of the weekend, but back on Sunday! I went to Jessica’s musical (she’s amazing!), and would recommend you all go, except it closed on Saturday.

Although I missed the whole softball season this summer (thanks a lot, WSBA), I got to see Dad play in the tournament on Sunday. Despite a heart-stopping collision, he must have batted about .750 and pitched 7 great innings. We’re all in agreement it was a far superior tournament than the Cunninghams/Cresseys had last summer, with a family trip to the emergency room.

Monday we had a great good-bye dinner for Alex at Piatti – the only thing missing was Alex… The weather has been beautiful, and I’m SO GLAD I can finally take advantage of it, so I’m getting outside every moment I can! Yesterday Ciara and I resumed working out together (and when we’re back on evenings, Jess can join us too since she’s finally done with rehearsals!) and I had almost forgotten how nice it is to workout OUTSIDE for a change, rather than sitting on a recumbant bike reading through notes. BLECH! Last night we made Happy Hour at McCormick & Shmick where we could each get a cider/beer and half pound hamburger for $5. FANTASTIC deal. I hear they have one across the street from my firm, so you know I’ll be enjoying that more soon. We headed out to Safeco to see the Mariners lose in a spectacular show of zero offense and near zero defense (was the final score 0-8?) – they’d already hit two home runs before Jess and I even made it to the seats! Still, a beautiful 75 degree evening and a great day for baseball. (And we poured out some Kettle Corn in your honor, Trace!)

There are still 5 full weeks to go, so stay tuned for more fun, and let me know if you have any bright ideas. In the works is berry picking, croquet, picnics, more karaoke, book club (Ciara!), Culinary Club coming up on the 12th, Volleyball (I go on Mondays if anyone wants to join me), and much much more! Looking forward to spending more time with everyone SOON!

When we finally had to get back on the road, we bouyed our spirits with sing-a-longs and Kit Carson’s for dinner. Let’s just hope that was enough fun and excitement to propel me through my whole bar review course!

Apparently still not full, we continued on to next door – Blue Heron Wine & Cheese. We toured the farm first, and then headed inside to see what was on the menu. Having had our fill of dairy for the moment, we enjoyed a wine tasting (my picks are pictured). I preferred the dessert wines, and the local varieties offered at Blue Heron proved quite tasty.

After a bit more wandering and picture taking, we made a quick stop at home for some tasty sandwiches prepared by the Stewarts. Our energy renewed, we headed out toward Carmen’s favorite beach. We took the scenic route, which led us by an overlook populated with some interesting people. We decided to check it out and got to see a paraglider preparing his chute and taking off. Soon after that we arrived at the beach, played in the sand, tossed the frisbee
(or “disc” as some people vehemently prefer), and when we were sufficiently worn out, took the opportunity to climb the incredibly steep bluff at one end of the beach. Although probably not quite a 45% grade, the incline was close and very tiring. When we finally made it to the top, though, the views were amazing. The trip down took about 1/10th the time, and we got to enjoy a sunset dinner afterwards. Gorgeous.

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In Oahu, we visited the Cultural Center and I filmed this short clip of the Samoans trying to flip their paddler off their boat during one show.

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After the shows and touring around the Center, we had a luau and learned a phenomenal new song we sang for the rest of the trip: Pearly Shells.

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