When it came our turn to board the ferry we were surprised that it only took about 10-15 minutes for them to load all the cars and people. It was amazing how big the ferries are and how much they can hold and transport. As we came out to the front deck of the ferry the view was incredible. Shad and I were able to ride outside against the railing the entire ride out to Orcas Island. It was pretty romantic and the sky was so clear and blue. There was a couple next to us on the ride out. They were looking for whales. Shad traumatized the poor lady by pointing to a seal that the ferry "ran right over". Shad assured her that the seal still had plenty of time to get out of the way, which it did. I still don't think she believed him. After about an hour long ferry ride and one stop to Shaw island we arrived at Orcas Island. We didn't know what to expect and where blown away by how secluded, quiet and gorgeous the island is. We rented a cottage on the beach for two nights. It was really cute and little. About the size of our old apartment. We had another amazing view and we could even see Mt. Baker again.That night we went into their downtown. It was sad that we got lost twice in such a tiny little place. We ate at a mexican restaurant that was really delicious. They served pickled jalapenos that were super tasty. We picked up some groceries to make breakfast at the local grocery store.
On Friday it rained off and on all day. It was cloudy and cold. We decided to still venture out to Moran State Park. It was well worth it. We were really the only people at the top of Mount Constitution. We read all about the park and the observation tower (where you can see all the way to Canada and other islands in all directions on a clear day). The man who the state park is named after owned a mansion on the island that they converted into a museum, hotel and restaurant. That night we decided to go check it out. That night was probably my favorite. We had the best meal that night, fish and chips and salmon. Shad had the best dessert he said that he has ever had. He had to order it 20 minutes in advance. It was a chocolate soufflé with ice cream and caramel. The view really couldn't have been better from our table. It was honestly so relaxing and romantic. Shad even cooked me breakfast both mornings. On Saturday it was a bitter sweet feeling leaving the island. We both wish we would have spend Saturday on the island. We boarded the ferry mid morning. It was chilly, but clear blue skies so we were able to ride in the same spot we did on our way out. I think we were the only ones out there since it was pretty cold. I actually got really motion sick as we were getting off of the ferry even though the water was really calm. We found a restaurant in Anacortes that had some really yummy fish and chips. I think between the cold ferry ride and full stomachs Shad and I were wiped out. We were so tired we pulled off to the side of the road to take a quick nap. I still was feeling pretty sick so we found a hotel in Bellevue and I crashed for the rest of the night. We didn't fly out until later in the afternoon on Sunday so we decided to go to the Space Needle and see the Seattle Temple. We didn't know that reservations were recommended especially on weekends for the space needle restaurant. When we went to the front desk they told us there was only one opening for brunch and if we wanted it we had to take it then. It was $46 a plate! It included a three course meal and the ride up and back down which I think was almost half of the price of the brunch by itself per person. We had just had breakfast about an hour before, but we decided to eat again anyway. It was well worth it. I wasn't prepared for the elevator ride up. I am scared of heights and the elevator had glass windows where you could see everything as you were going up, Yikes!! The view from the observation deck was pretty amazing. I did "peek" down over the edge, but that was about it for me. The place was packed. When we sat down to eat we had to step onto the platform that turns the dining area around so that you can see all of the different views in all directions. It takes about one minute per window and about 45minutes for a full rotation. I was glad that we didn't attempt to eat there on Saturday after the ferry I would have really been sick. For lunch we had prime rib...oh we were so full we didn't eat until late that night. Shad was so tired again at "brunch" he could have fallen asleep at the table. After being around so many people we were ready to have some peace and quiet again. We went over to the Seattle temple. I don't think there are words to describe how beautiful the temple grounds are. They had beautiful waterfalls and statues, but my favorite part were these groves they had. There were a few paths that you could walk up into these secluded enclosed tree garden groves that were amazing. I have never seen anything like it. I am also baffled that the temple was right next to a highway, just like the San Diego Temple, but you can't hear the noise. It is incredible. We were there a day or two after the Colorado shooting so they flag is at half was flying at half mass. It was the perfect ending to the perfect weekend getaway!
Anacortes ferry terminal view
1 comment:
Pictures are beautiful...looks like you had a great time, too bad it was so short..Lafe and I enjoyed the kids so much.Thanks for trusting them with us..we had a great time, it just went by toooo fast..Love my time with them!! Sure do love and miss you all!! xoxox mom/gramma
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