Seattle

We were so glad we found a flight out of Santa Rosa, which saves us at least 1-1/2 hours.  Unfortunately, our flight on Saturday was delayed by 4 hours.  But a nice lunch and glass of wine helped to pass the time.  Mark is at a conference, but I have the run of the city, so to speak.  Actually walk of the city - good for the calf muscles, with all the hills here. 

Yesterday was Aquarium day for me, as well as Pike Place Market.  I can't resist markets and this is well known as one of the best.  The display of seafood is so incredible.  I only wish we had that kind of selection available to us in California.  But Seattle is an even bigger water city than San Francisco.  It seems one can hardly go a few blocks without water coming into view, either the bay or the lake.  We even had a tiny glimpse of Mt. Rainier yesterday, floating above the clouds.  Although the day started overcast, it turned into a beautiful day.  On Saturday night, we ate at a friend's brother's restaurant, St. Cloud's in the Madrona area of the city.  It was a good choice with great food.

Sunday, after my day at the aquarium and market and Mark's day at the conference we met relatives Josh and Jen and had a tour of their new home.  It's a great house built in the late 40's with a nice view of the lake, a large backyard, and a perfect place to raise a family.  We went with them to SeaStar restaurant in Bellevue, and had delicious oysters on the half shell, scallops (one of my favs) and halibut.  I could definitely eat seafood most of the week, and it would be weeks before I tired of it. 
Alas, not possible for us at home.

Can you guess what these are?

Earlier today Mark had a break and we walked to the market and watched those fishmongers throw fish around. They love to play up to the tourists.   Now we are soon off for a picnic on the beach to watch the sunset, then to a movie with Kathy, Josh's Mom, who utilizes all that this area has to offer and is a great tour guide and suggester of Things To Do.  She and I had a lovely breakfast together followed by a long walk along the lake and it was another gorgeous day after a little rain, just to remind you, you are in Seattle after all.  Later.....