It's been quite a journey getting here but I wouldn't have missed it for anything. Eastern Washington is as dry and devoid of trees as western Washington is the absolute opposite. What a contrast. I am still thinking of Sherman Alexi's descriptions and I definitely see many exceptions to the rule as well as nuance and beauty of a very special sort. But there are some pretty dry regions along the way to this inviting little place that was our chosen destination.
In a town not far from Pullman we stopped for a quick rest and I walked Bobby to the edge of a cliff overlooking a river only to have the biggest Great Blue Heron I've ever seen fly off down the river. That reminds me so much of the Heron we used to see as we paddled up the Noyo river. It would fly off just as we came around the bend and wait for us to reach the next one. It was almost like a game.
I've seen other birds including some Robbins, but I'm not good enough to know whether the flocks of black birds I've seen are Starlings or Ravens. They look like Ravins and not as plump as crows. Maybe someday I'll get it right. But it's fun to check out what I do see. I'll have a little more time to stop and watch or photograph the birds on my way home. I've been told by Sarah Swett that there is a very nice alternate route I can take to return to northern Oregon where I hope to have a short visit with Larkin and Elena if their schedules permit.
Last night we stayed in a campground near Vantage right above the mighty Columbia river. The wind there lasted all night, breaking sturdy branches of trees just above us. I told JP and Yael that we can have winds as strong or stronger at Echo. That was a huge surprise to them. So I guess it is possible to go to Echo and Desolation and not ever witness the kind of winds we all know to be frequent enough visitors to that area. Timing is everything, eh?
Moscow is an inviting town with very cozy neighborhoods. Quite individual houses with somewhat of a feeling like Berkeley. It is a university town, so maybe there is a connection between college towns and individual architecture.
We arrived at Sarah Swett's home in the late afternoon after several false approaches. Sarah's husband, Dan made a delicious dinner for us, including bread he had just baked. There's something very special about men who cook at home. I know many of the best chefs in the world are men but husbands who cook for their wive's guests get a special gold star from me.
I'll try to get photos posted very soon. I'm sure I can take the time to get caught up on the way home.
Hoping everything is good with all of you. All's well here. JP and Yael do their presentation tomorrow and will probably head for Bamff and Lake Louise the next day. I'll head the other way and return to the coast within the next week probably. Hugs to all, Jackie
No comments:
Post a Comment