Seattle

My visit to Seattle was so much fun. An attempt at whale watching and a picnic at the Pugent Sound, slug searching, picture taking, a delicous fish meal overlooking the Seattle skyline with my sisters, Chihuly museuum, hot-tubbing, watching Jessica wrestle with Connor and Grace and seeing how wrestle matches have changed with the growth of both kids, getting to see Grace's bed head (best way to start a morning), a visit with my cousin Deanna and her husband Scott... It was great. It was so nice having Grace in the daytime. Makes me kinda sad that those days with Connor are over now that he's in the first grade. And to be with both sisters in Jamie's new abode in the cutest little town with pine trees that look like they just might reach the sky was kinda magical.

Mount Rainier National Park

We've gotten way behind with our blogging efforts but wanted to share with you a few photos of our time spent in Mount Rainier National Park (late August). Suggestions from a back country ranger assisted us in planning an impromptu two-day backpacking trip through the Southwest corner of the park. Sweeping vista views of Mount Rainier followed us during our hike and a lovely turquoise blue lake greeted us as we reached our destination on night one. Zach woke up early the next morning and hiked to a fire tower in the area (see photo). We reached our campsite early on day two and passed the time reading books. We hiked out on day three and stopped to stroll around the main visitor center where the wildflowers were EVERYWHERE! If you are looking to visit Mount Rainier National Park go in late August, it was absolutely beautiful.

Seattle

We b-lined it from Portland to Seattle where we had a sister,
brother-in-law, niece and nephew waiting for us. I couldn't wait to see Jamie in her new Pacific Northwest abode. Her new house didn't disappoint, and ours eyes lit up with excitement when we caught a glimpse of the pool in the backyard.

Our six day visit was filled with splashing in the pool, trips into the forest, lunch with Aunt Donna, a day in Seattle which included ferry boat rides, museums, and Pikes Market, and lots and lots of catching up time with Connor, Grace, and Jamie.

We had a GREAT time hanging out with the kids and I got a little teary eyed as we pulled away from the Haraden's house. We'll be back to visit real soon :)

And without further adieu, a few shots of my adorable niece and nephew.