Sunday, April 21, 2013

Monday 4/15 Play Day

Today we have a reservation for early lunch at the Space Needle, so we ferry off the island and head for Seattle. To pass some time, we stroll through the Center and investigate features.

First is the Chihuly Glass Garden, which is not open, so we admire the sculptures through the bordering plants. Photos framed and enhanced thusly surprise me with amplified drama and attractiveness.

Sunday 4/14 Moving Day

No, not daughter. Us. Husband and I check out of first cabin and into second one. We actually wanted this one for all six nights but it was booked for the first three. Having stayed here before, we appreciate the features and the proximity to daughter's location. The owners are most proud of the soaking tub and the slate finish.

Today we work overtime because we want to take off the next day for relaxation and adventure. Cheetos keep us going through the cocktail hour. Daughter makes us dinner of Italian sausage smothered in tomatoes, sweet peppers, and onions served over angel hair pasta. An extra glass of wine chases away the cool, rainy weekend.

Saturday 4/13 Project Time

A new tulip in daughter's flower bed greets us, and we continue our plan for sorting and boxing until we shift priority to lunch. In town we get lucky when the sushi chef appears for the weekend. Daughter and I share a mushroomy beef dip burger and an order of sushi. Husband makes himself happy with a traditional burger and fries.

We swing by the grocery store for supplies. After we stop work for the day, daughter prepares seared salmon, grilled asparagus, white and sweet potato hash, and toasted ciabatta bread.

Our cabin for the first three nights sits at the edge of a lush forest where woodland creatures venture out for building nests.

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Friday 4/12 Vashon

First morning in the island with daughter, we plan and organize until deciding that driving to town for brunch at Snapdragon is priority. First a latte, then food.

Husband starts with giant cinnamon roll and has something else. Daughter and I share a mushroom ragout, but photo shows it mostly eaten. A raspberry mazurka is the final step.

Last photo is a good clue for how we spent the rest of the day.

Thursday 4/28 Airport

After breakfast, packing begins for the trip back to Minnesota. Younger granddaughter must be at church this evening at six for her First Communion. Before we leave for the airport, I take photos of these precious girls. They graciously agree to posing for a few.

As we near the airport, reality sets in that they are actually leaving. In the departure lanes, we know the routine well and unload efficiently. With luggage rolling and backpacks in place, they're through the doors and on the way home.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Wednesday 3/27 Swimmers

After kayaking (previous post may need a date correction), we head downriver to the swimming hole for noodle fun.

At daylight's end, deer come again to eat the corn girls have scattered, maybe also to say goodby.

Tuesday 3/26 Kayak Family

Making certain not to miss any river activities, our Minnesotans gear up to stay as dry as possible while kayaking. Smiling in the bright sun is easier than keeping eyes open. The group soon requires all hands for the launch into the frio Frio.

When on the river, family navigates through the rocky rapids and declares the short but successful adventure a victory over cool March weather.

Sunday, April 14, 2013

Tuesday 3/26 Horse Stables

Our appointment to ride horses this morning comes with jacket weather and much sun. Unfortunately, Nacho, favorite mount of older granddaughter, is no longer with us; fortunately, Dumplin, favorite of younger, is still available for her to ride once more. Their dad is thrilled not to have Diego (renamed El Diablo). Pawpaw and I stay behind and visit with the owner and her ranch hand.

After riding, girls meet the baby deer and make friends by feeding it. They also scamper up the goat hill and call the nannies and babies to follow them. Definitely having a "Yeehaw!" kind of day!