LAX Airport
Surprisingly, there was no line in Virgin America counters, neither TSA hassles. What a champ!
Virgin America
As a caveat I would say that Virgin America is a fairly new airline, and it just so happens to have the best cabin slash in-flight features we have seen on an airline. The Virgin America experience is good and fun and modern, but the backbone of quality service is not there. Be prepared to swap terminal since they don't have permanent terminals yet. That's what happened to me on my return flight in Seattle Airport.
Seattle Airport
Sea-Tac is a very efficient airport. On my return day, I was through check-in and security in 5-10 minutes, which gave us plenty of time to explore the new shops and restaurants in the central terminal just past the main security checkpoint. That was the reason for us to leave early to have a 'bagel breakfast' at the terminal.
Louise's Home in Sammamish
Shortly after we arrived, Louise, T.R. (符子榮) and me joined a neighborhood BBQ. They prepared stir-fried vegetables, fruits and a half-way done flan. There were plenty of food contributed by their friendly neighbors. I guess it's a must to build a good neighborhood watch relationship nowadays. Their house is a very modern 10-year old house in a quiet neighborhood, with 5 bedrooms and a den. Definitely, it's a convenience for both of the couple working from home. They moved here a year ago. I love the spacious cabinets and cupboards in the kitchen. I believe it's in demand for every house wife. Not to mention how neatly Louise keeps every utensil in proper orders. Comments: roomy and cozy.
Ferry Ride to Bremerton
Dear Louise got up early and drove me to Pier 52 to catch 7:35 AM ferry. Do you know that it's free from Bremerton to Seattle and costs $6.70 from Seattle to Bremerton? The views were amazing, and the feel of the wind blowing and the cold air made me feel alive!
Bremerton
Tom and Linda Liu picked me up at 8:35 AM sharp at the Bremerton terminal. Bremerton is a naval base and shipyard in Kitsap County. Kitsap Peninsula is a world of small wonderfully independent towns that dot over 300 miles of western Puget Sound and Hood Canal shoreline. Linda and I haven't seen each other since we departed Transamerica in 2000 due to the outsource action. They purchased a house in Seabeck four years ago. She is as demure and sincere as before.
Seabeck
Seabeck, an historic mill community, once a bustling seaport that dwarfed Seattle in population and size, has few traces remaining of its early logging years. A general store, restaurant, gallery, dockside pizza place, post office and the Seabeck Conference Center dot the waterfront now.
We visited the nearby Scenic Beach State Park which has beautiful scenery at this waterfront on Hood Canal. The view of the mountains is something to behold. The park offers picnic areas, tent sites, restrooms - amongst other amenities. It is quiet and serene.
Then we did a short hike in Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve which is a 184 secluded acres of woodsy, winding trails, where the trees seem to have personalities. Took House Trail west to a rocky, shell-covered beach—and views of the Olympics across the Hood Canal.
From here wind down out of Seabeck to the Seabeck-Holly Road and continuing south along miles of wooded roads that twist and bend like a spiral. Notice how few cars along the way. Passing through Holly (don't blink or you'll miss it). We took a couple pictures to prove our footsteps.
Silverdale
We browsed through Silverdale via driving. Silverdale and the surrounding area began an exciting transition in 1971 when the U.S. Navy's announcement that it would be building its Trident Submarine Base at nearby Bangor. Swedish immigrant stepped ashore from a rowboat and admired the beautiful yet rugged wilderness in the 1890's, knowing that this was a very special place. It's a quiet small town.
Poulsbo
Next stop: Poulsbo. There are such peaceful walks and so many beautiful Norwegian style stores to see. We happened to enjoy a flea market by the sea. There was even a Chinese artist present who developed porcelain art from his own painting. What a delight.
Forest Theater
After a light lunch, we headed toward the mysterious Kitsap Forest Theater to see the show 'High Button Shoes'. What a fun afternoon escape. We strolled down the forested trail to the unique and magical outdoor open theater. This lively and lovable musical left us laughing. We even took a peek back at the Model T era as the stage bursts with bathing beauties and even a dancing gorilla! Thanks to Tom and Linda for such a wonderful treat.
Ferry back to Seattle
Bid farewell to my dear friends Tom and Linda before boarding the ferry back. Remember it's free! Sandy already stood at the terminal shooting a picture of me. What a glorious welcome! I met Albert (鄧文昌), a humorous character. We headed straight to Louise's house.
Dinner Feast at Louise's house
Finally, I got to meet Linda (楊治財) and 陳立予, plus Verna (志雯) and Ryan (志翔). They just got off their Alaska Cruise 2 days ago. Four family members plus me all sat down at Louise's dinner table to enjoy the delicious treat. Louise and T.R. prepared mussels, steamed oysters, baked salmon, salad with nuts, corns, buffalo burgers, cucumber pickles, brown rice, 滷豆腐干, 綠豆湯, plus the mixed fruits with champagne grapes brought by Sandy. Not to mention the required element, wine. We shared those ancient, yellowish pictures brought by Linda and me. Everyone just couldn't believe how well preserved they are.
However, it's quite a challenge to name other classmates, even with bets. Sandy promised us to make an album for those precious high school memories.
Mount Rainier
I was the guest to Linda's family tour for the next two days. Today our target is Mount Rainer. 立予 drove us through the north entry and we took a loop trail after a simple lunch at the Visitor Center. Frozen Lake give its name to the trail route we took from Sunrise this particular day. It was nice to see the ice that melted to form the lake. It is protected because it is the main water source for residents. On the way back, we saw a serene Shadow Lake.
Since Linda hurt her shoulder while doing house chore yesterday, we had to stroll slowly. Therefore, it took us 3 hours for 3 mile trail. By the time we hit McDonald's at 7:00 PM, and arrived home at 9:00 PM. Everyone was exhausted, especially 立予.
Pike Place Market and West Seattle
It's supposed to be a 'lighter' day for our driver 立予. We visited Pike Place Market and the first Starbucks Coffee. Pike Place Market, an open-air shopping haven and Seattle Institution, is a must-see for first time visitor alike. It has gorgeous views of the harbour, it's crowded and noisy, as you would expect in a downtown market. The one thing you don't see a lot of are locals carrying a lot of produce. This leads me to believe that Pike Place is essentially a tourist attraction. We missed the famous Fisherman throwing the fish though. I got myself a unique pot of 'spoon rest' with 'Pike Place' engraved. One of the highlights was our stop at the original Starbucks, America's most popular coffeehouse, is Seattle's biggest claim to fame. I was glad to see that Verna was not the only coffee nut. We got a few cups after waiting in the long line. What a great place to shop and spend the day.
After tasting Greek yeeros in the market, we headed Pier 55 to try out the famous Elliott Bay Water Taxi to visit West Seattle. Despite the name, the Taxi has more in common with a bus--it's operated by Metro and services West Seattle (from Seacrest Park near Alki Beach) to downtown Seattle for a low fare of $3 and $1 with transfer. While the shuttle was designed for commuters, it's a great opportunity for tourists to get out on the water with no charge. Commuters will like it for the quick commute to downtown--just 10 minutes. Too bad that we were tight on schedule and unable to get off the bus for 'Sleepless in Seattle' spot on Alki Beach. Even missed the chance to visit where Sandy works.
Banquet at Sandy's House in Sammamish
Another yummy treat hosted by Sandy and Albert, plus two sous-chefs Stephanie and Teresa. We had Salmon, quiche, tomato, zucchini, noodles, tiramisu, peach pie, herbal tea, wine, etc. Sandy is such a well organized hostess and Albert a supportive host who made every guest at home. We spent some quality time at the back yard adjacent to the golf course, talking about the possibility of reuniting again next year. Maybe we can pursue more old buddies to join us for precious moments.
Adios
Time is always so limited when it comes to say goodbye. It is short alright, but sweet. Thanks to Linda Liu, 劉東光, 甘錦露, 楊治財 and their families, who made my trip beautiful and memorable. This is the most treasurable four days since my retirement. I'll be back to Seattle, my friends!
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