In September, a two week outing began by heading south, exploring new gems in familiar areas:
In Thurston County the Chehalis-Western Rail Trail is a vast web of paved multi purpose paths encompassing both urban and rural areas including wetlands, forests, farmland, creeks, rivers, and prairies. Bike-riding was a great way to explore.
The small town of Montesano has always brought visions of the nearby Satsop nuclear plant to mind. However, visiting a friend in Montesano provided a fresh and deeper look at the town and surrounding area. In particular, Lake Sylvia State Park which is located, literally, in the town’s backyard. A serene lake, a small campground, a long hike into the forest left me with a new and lasting image of the area.
Onward to rediscover Westport and reconnect with friends. A two day visit became a 6 day stay while smoke from wildfires devouring California and Oregon caused debilitating air quality throughout the PNW.
Westport claims one of Washington’s few surfing spots, is an active sports and commercial fishing port and has Ocean Spray Cranberry Fields nearby. Perhaps this holiday season we’ll discover Cranberries, Lightly Smoked, Naturally on the grocery shelves.
Another fresh perspective at a previously less-than-desirable destination is Ocean Shores. An early morning walk out to Damon Point, in search of birds, overnight boondocking at the north jetty area, and wonderful interactions with locals brought on by Lulu remind me that there is often more to places, people, and things, than meets the eye. Several conversations with locals, brought on by their attraction to Lulu, reminds me how complex and rich we all are under our outward veneer.
Hiking near Quinault, in the rain forest, in the rain. Gray, dreary, wet, dark. More muffin baking, listening to tunes, enjoying my little home on wheels. Living in Lulu is proving to be a most excellent adventure!