Aleshund Norway...So Pretty

Thank goodness for the panorama option of my camera, otherwise sharing my first experience of Norway in Åleshund would be pictorially impossible. Like the grand canyon, African Bushveld, Peruvian Andes, and so many other places a picture just cannot capture the beauty when it engulfs you in so many ways as it does here in Norway.

Åleshund is at the top of Norway’s fjord country and has the stunning backdrop of the Sunmøre Alps that traditionally is a fishing town. The town itself is a picture book Art Nouveau town with colorful architecture romantic facades and beautiful Nordic implements to top it all off. After getting off the ship and walking one block you are immediately struck with an, “Oh Goodness, this is so cute!” jaw drop. After stopping for some time to pick my jaw up and get it back into position I immediately had to begin pounding the pavement to start seeing the town. Walking through the streets I had to keep an active eye because of sheer quantity of beauty. Each house, each building, and each corner was worth a picture. As I crested a hill a view beyond compare was revealed of artic waters with an incredible blue color and mountain peaks shooting immediately up from the crisp waters. Thankfully a bench had been placed perfectly there for people to sit and enjoy the sights.

From town I could see Mt. Aksla and it beckoned me saying, “climb me, climb me” and so I did. 418 stairs ascend the mountain to Kniven (knife). As I climbed each resting point begged a picture. When finally arriving at the peak every extra heartbeat was worth it because the view in 360 degree was simply breathtaking. Fjords, Alps, a cute town, birds flying, and boat activity all contributed to a view that literally took my breath away. Many people were around me speaking numerous languages and while their words were not know to me I knew exactly what they said. We all agreed that this was truly a fantastic view and what an awesome opportunity to see it.

I ended my day in Åleshund sitting at a fresco dining place on the harbor drinking a fine Norwegian beer, Kaska in the company of French Canadians. We etched out every minute we could of our shore leave before returning to the ship. After getting back to the ship a fair bit loquacious from the beer I headed to the ship’s fitness center where I could workout looking out onto the view from the 11th deck, as we sailed away.

Some Things Never Change

Some things never change. I went out for a jaunt in Amsterdam and was shocked how much I remembered from my trip here in 1998. Even down to the guide books for sale at shops much of what I saw was the same.

While there was construction and renovations going on the building were as I recalled. However, there was a Hooters when I went back then and while the entire façade was the same it was no longer Hooters but rather another restaurant of the exact same principle. I stood in the middle of the Dam square I knew exactly where to go to find the infamous red Light District. I knew where to find the Cat Boat, Anne Frank’s house, the hemp museum, the sex museum, and so on. Over a decade and I still knew where Ursula’s guest house where I stayed was, even though I did not know if she was still there calling out the Yanks.

Since I was not feeling especially well and had little time I thought I’d just take a walk around. Walking through town it felt dirtier then I remember it and garbage was everywhere. That was saddening to after having seen such beautiful towns like Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, and Copenhagen, but these cities were immaculate in comparison to Amsterdam.

Indeed I felt obligated to walk through the Red Light district due to its convenience to the port. Sure enough the infamous window shopping was in full swing. Walking by a window with a lady in lingerie smoking a cigarette in one hand and talking on the phone in the other smiling at the male shoppers as they walked by. Women were arriving for work and men were waiting for them.

The other thing I noticed far more of this trip in comparison to 1998 was the quantity of coffee shops offering cannabis. There seemed to be two or three on every block. Walking by each one was enough to make me worry about the random drug tests on board. This to me explained the lofty, slow , and unfocused tourists throughout town. People seem to meander around with a glazed look as they wander through this historical town.

I also observed an unusual eagerness in which young folks headed to a church service. Nearly knocking me over as they hurriedly ran up the church steps minutes before the service was to start was intriguing to me. Of course I felt I had to look into the church and the service was full of people. I have looked into at least ten church services during this trip as well as attending a musical service myself. The difference between those church services was this one in Amsterdam, the city of questionable behavior, and the other cities was this church service was full and the others practically empty. Hmm.

Diversity

With over 800 employees on a vessel of this size it is easy to feel a little lost. When you take a good look at the employees it is even easy to be found. When I look at the incredible diversity of the 800 employees and the differences between us I am able to further realize how alike we all are. We all share the common purpose of surviving life at sea while trying to make money at the same time we all wish to see the world. When I was in South Africa and visited the Cradle of Humankind, where it is believed the human race began, the main point that I felt exhibits tried to impress is that while we all live in different places, experience vastly different climates, and speak hundreds (if not thousands) of different languages, we all have being human in common. Now as I work in an environment with over 62 different nationalities working together as team in a efficient and effective manor, I see that human kindness binds us together and it through this we find a peaceful coexistence.

1800 guests surround us at any given moment in this community. Our community works twenty four hours a day seven days a week to provide the best service on the seas. We have mechanics, engineers, chefs, waiters, room stewards, dish washers, laundry workers, tailors, casino dealers, print shop workers, photographers, bartenders, baristas, computer techs, security personnel, environmental officers, tour guides, garbage/ recycling workers, entertainers, video producers, AV techs, stage managers, a captain, and the list goes on. Each and every crew member plays in integral role to the safety, well being, and enjoyment of those 1800 guests. We all know that if we work together and give it our best that the guests will return and therefore we can be ensured a job and a place in the community. It is in all of our best interest to positively contribute for the greater good.

For over 90% of the workers English is not their first language. Yet, as we work as a team we continually turn out an experience that our guests will remember and relish for the rest of their lives. Certainly our community is not ideal. There is a decided hierarchy here that at times seems unfair. The people who put in the longest and most tiresome hours are often not given the privileges of people such as myself who may only work 30 minutes out of the day. A crew member can expect to work up to 14 hours a day all seven days of the week. This leaves barely enough time to get enough sleep let alone relax. Many of the crew who, day in day out, serve people on the lido deck are not even allowed to enjoy lido privileges on their rare moments off. In numerous ports some crew members have to stand on the ship providing a squirt of hand disinfectant for folks as they return, yet that crew member will not even be given more then 20 minutes to venture into the port. However, through all this hard work our crew continually smiles an honest smile and provides the utmost service to each and every guest and crew member they encounter.

When I go to one of the crew bars and get a moment to speak with fellow crew, everyone speaks of how fortunate they are to have a job like this. They can see the world, even if it is from the window of the ship’s café, and at the same time be able to provide a living for themselves and their family. Each person is excited about the opportunity to get to know people from another part of the world. Each person appreciates the diversity around them, and each person is excited when a guest acknowledges a job well done.

This ship holds a first for Celebrity cruises, we have welcomed a crew member from Kosovo. This is the first employee from Kosovo ever to work for this company. I speak with her knowing only what I know from American media of this war torn country. I am amazed with her gleaming smile and her genuine kindness. It is a truly spectacular opportunity to speak with her. Later I head to stage to prepare for the show and enjoy a friendly chat with the AV manager from Trinidad. The next day I sit in safety training stressing over our quiz with a engine room attendant from Croatia. My own bandmaster is from St. Petersburg Russia and his Russian passion often seems to clash with French passion of our French drummer who now calls Thailand his home., but really they are trying to agree on how long the grand pause will be.

While we all have our differences there is no war on board. On board there is a community that perfectly demonstrates how, if we all work for a common goal and appreciate each individuals role in the big picture, peace and happiness will prevail. We realize that each one of us is the change we want to see. We realize that it is what I contribute, what you contribute, what we contribute that make the community not only function, but thrive. We make the world a better place. This is beautiful world we are in and one of the things that make it so beautiful is the human race. Our potential is endless. If we choose to see our potential, embrace it, and be it there is no limit to what can be accomplished.

Experiences

Some days are all about the experiences. On these days you need to stop and do more then smell the roses, or at least enjoy the fact that you have the opportunity to stop and smell the roses. Today I slept in. But when I finally rolled out of my bunk, crawled into some clothes, threw my cap on my head and got off the ship for sights of splendid city of Copenhagen. I had a very bad map, but a keen sense of direction. I had no list of things to see, but a strong desire to explore. I had delicious snack (care of my beloved mother) in my pack and a hunger to see something new. Above me were clear blue skies, around me was crisp clean air, and below me was the ground in which to pound. It was to be a beautiful day.

My first stop was the charming statue of the Little Mermaid. Considered an obligatory stop for the visitor to Copenhagen this site was flooded with tourists--not my cup of tea. However as I stood there and listened I realized there were at least 20 different languages being spoken, yet we all were there peacefully enjoying a piece of bronze. Somehow this piece of bronze sculpted into the shape of a young lady that is half fish half human brought us all together. As one lady took off her shoes to jump in the water and have her picture taken others quickly followed suit. I watched this all occur whilst enjoying the sparkling of the harbor that the Little Mermaid called home. Beyond the water were about two down wind turbines that added such immense character and also reminded me of the potential we have to harness our intelligence to produce green energy. A man from whom I made light conversation with in Tallinn noticed me there and asked if I wanted him to take my picture as he had done in Tallinn. Eagerly and thankfully I accepted his offer and soon was off following my intuition to discover more. As I wandered the streets I came across other magnificent sights that Copenhagen has to offer, and will certainly see more in detail upon my return on one of the next cruises.

After a short while I discover the Nyberg canal. Lined with colorful architecture tons of al fresco dining, and a bazillion tourists. Suddenly I heard my name and turned. It was some folks that I shared a beer with in Tallinn. They were perched on the bank of the canal beers in hand. I gladly stopped my wandering and sat with them. We shared a Danish beer and light conversation. We watched as women in high heels walked on the rickety cobblestone sidewalks. We marveled at this seeming impossible task and the ease and willingness in which so many women accomplished this. After a while someone walked up recognizing my comrades in people watching and gave them a map which they in turn gave to me. Shortly thereafter it was time for me to move on in discovery. After all, I now had a good map. I continued along the canal a while discover a brilliant sand castle in a kids play land that required a picture.

I continued wandering the streets of Copenhagen slipping into some building that were open, free, and pretty. There are many churches in Copenhagen. I knew it was noon as the church carillons and bells tolled twelve. I slipped into one and found my self attending a musical service. I took a seat in a pew and enjoyed the service as an incredibly ornate and magnificent organ sound glorious notes at the capable hand of its master. A choir sang out tones of worship weaving through the triumphant harmonies and melancholic melodies. The pastor read a few verses. I guess that he recited verses as it was all in Dutch. When fellow worshipers stood I stood. When they sat I sat. I knew not what was going on, but the music was amazing and I was so happy to experience this.

Later when I returned to the ship I prepared for the shows I had. I marveled at Lindsey Hamilton’s voice as she sang songs of Andrew Lloyd Weber, and other similar music. I was able to sit back as she sang I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables a capella. The final show of the evening is what we call “Starring You” which is awards ceremony/ talent show for guests on board. There was a photo contest, comedy contest, karaoke and more. But the experience that stole the show for me and will forever be a highlight in my very highlighted life is the dance one guest gave for the entire audience.

At 97 year’s young a guest came to stage on her own two feet without any mobility assistance apparatus. She wore about one inch heels and a smile from ear to ear. Her dress was purple and sequenced with an open back. She looked gorgeous as she glowed in the spotlight. The audience was already poised for standing ovation as it was announce that she would be dancing the Waltz. Soon she floated across the stage with her partner and danced the waltz with grace, dignity, and a love that was evident as she enjoyed each and every moment in the spotlight (literally). As the music faded and she took her bow the audience erupted into applause and jumped to their feet. We all had experienced and witnessed what it means to be alive, and we all understood that it is wonderful. This day of experience with a fabulous rendering my the cruise director of What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong. All I can say is, I could not agree more.

Rushing in Russia

My first journey into Russia’s St. Petersburg was impressive and wet, and therefore cut short. When I go to a new place I try to leave expectations behind so my mind has more room to expand. St. Petersburg is a perfect example of why this is important. The charm and friendly nature of the city was quite evident even in pouring rain and chilly winds.

Full of gardens, museums, palaces, canals, parks, cathedrals, governmental offices, shops, and restaurants St. Petersburg has so much to offer. My jaunt into to the city to grasp its layout too me from the Neva river embankment that is adorned my magnificent palaces to Cathedral with onion domes that are just jaw dropping spectacular. I realized as I walked through the pedestrian full streets that this is a city where you want eyes on all four sides of your head and perhaps even two sets of eyes on each side. This way you can enjoy the full 360 degrees and if one set blinks you know you won’t miss a thing.

I would be standing in marvel at the Strogonov palace or the St. Petersburg Chief of police mansion and not realize the gorgeous simplicity of the Kotomin House or Dutch Church just behind me. I could be looking sky ward at the golden dome of St. Isaacs and miss the magnificent Astoria Hotel in unassuming St. Isaacs Square. I was following my guide books walking tour around Nevsky Prospekt and missed the turn after the charming Finnish Church, but then turned the corner and ran smack dab into the Church of the Savior’s Spilled Blood. My intention was to walk around and get a feel for the town and better know what to explore the couple times we return and that mission was fully accomplished.

The Hermitage’s treasures, the innards of the Church of the Savior’s Spilled Blood, the dome of St. Isaacs, the ballet or opera in Mariinsky Theater, a canal cruise, various palace tours, and the Russian Museum, are just a few items on my list. St. Petersburg will surely take time to enjoy. When all is said and done, and the vodka is enjoyed, I will have come to know this once feared country with an affection of firsthand experience—which is far better than any view from an Alaskan front porch will ever provide. (take that Governor Pallin)

Tantilizing Tallinn

Tallinn is gorgeous. I do not want to mince words or confuse anyone with flowery adjectives, but rather come straight out and say Tallinn Estonia is absolutely gorgeous. From the moment I took my first step in the medieval old town, to the moment I started getting back on board my camera did not get put away and was barely even set to the off position.

The grand entrance via the Great Coast Bastion truly set the tone. Dating back to the 13^th century the architecture was of stone and brick and each street of cobblestone. Various colored house, hotels, and businesses in stone with red tile roof tops transported me to a time I’ve read so much about in history books, fantasized about through movies, and imagined in my wildest dreams. Knights, peasants and royalty once roamed these very streets in a time well before electricity let alone internet blogs.

An UNESCO world heritage site, Tallinn has had many rulers, from Danes, to Swedes, to Russians. It has been ravaged by plague, destroyed by bombs, ruined in fire, and ruled my communist Russia yet through reconstruction and Estonian pride it remains one of northern Europe’s best preserved medieval towns. Its charm leaves an impression that will last an eternity. Vendors adorn themselves in traditional garments artisans such as the coin maker pound and press demonstrating their skill while wearing garbs from year’s gone by and the bar lady offers nuts and beer from a lathe or spoon that could easily have been used for the same purpose over 600 years ago. Another delicatessen on offer was smoked piglet ears; thankfully this vegetarian could easily pass without fear of retribution. However, Estonian beer is quite simple and pleasant and could not be so easily passed.

As I made my way through narrow roads and steep staircases, I caught glimpses of various church spires throughout town and walked hugging the ancient stone walls that were meant to protect the city from predators of times past. Music buskers were in key places sounding notes of tradition Estonian tunes. The melodies reverberated against the stone walls calling to tourists saying look at me--a clarinet, a dulcimer, a fiddle.

I found an old well where I imagined the townsfolk of years gone by gathering ‘round to fetch water for their meals, baths, or what have you. As I entered the palace square with restaurants flanked on all sides, I watched the numerous tourists enjoying pizza, beer, Indian food, Mexican food, and such I knew that Tallinn was a treasure that deserved much more of a look then my three hours provided.

I look forward to the next time I stop here. I will take the time to enter and climb the stairs of the towers of each church. I look forward to sitting in the various squares and enjoy a beer whilst imagining myself in medieval times. I look forward to returning to this quiet, simple, and divine town of Tallinn Estonia.

I ended my journey near the cruise pier (a 15 minute walk from Old Town) where more vendors are eager to show and sell their wares. Sweaters, trinkets, and postcards galore. I bought myself a traditional Estonian beer and sat down to enjoy the day I was given. Beautiful sun shining on my face, a sea breeze keeping me cool on the outside a refreshing beer keeping me cool on the inside. I sat on the bench of good wishes where one sits with closed eyes to make wishes. As I sat I realized. My life is grand and the fact that I can sit here and come up with no wish I want for myself but only wishes for the health and welfare of my beloveds, I felt truly blessed. Any time one can feel this sensation one needs to relish it, so I did.

I now sit in my cabin as the ship’s engine begins to roar and the thrusters push away from the pier. I know that I am fortunate to be here and even more fortunate to have the opportunity to return to Tallinn. I look forward to my next day at sea and another day of discovery in Copenhagen. Life is good.

Ship Life

Life on board ship is simply complex. Essentially, I live on a floating resort. This resort has about 900 employees and hosts over 1800 guests. At 815 feet long, 115 feet wide with a tonnage of 70,606 this resort feels more like a city. Think about it. It is about the size of two football fields with end zones kissing. On my first day I was just sort of thrown in and told, “Good Luck finding things.”

As a ship musician my life can be pretty cushy as far as crew life goes. My cabin is the forward most cabin on deck four starboard side. It is small, but sufficient with a 21inch screen TV, desk, wardrobe, bathroom (or head to the navy folk), and bunk beds. The crew area of the ship has narrow hall ways that are made to cramp as many cabins in as possible. The crew cabins go from deck 3 to 8. In addition to cabins the crew area has a dance club, bar, gym, and two dining halls. Plus there is a print shop, tailor shop, dry cleaner, laundry mat, internet café, and smoking room. The problem with this seemingly well supplied crew area is the lack of windows, but venturing to guest areas provides all the outside views one can take. Do to my status I am privileged enough to be able to go in guest areas fairly freely.

The guest areas of the ship are quite remarkable. I have not even discovered it all and I have been aboard a week now. It is no wonder that I have not discovered it all when I put it into perspective. There are 14 plus one decks to explore. I head out to check out the piano bar known as Michael’s Club and end up sipping a coffee martini in the martini lounge. Needless to say, after my second martini, a chocolate martini, I still have not been to the piano club. On board we have a cinema/conference room, fully functioning theater, a grand dining room, 5 star spa offering services from hair cuts to acupuncture, fitness center, basketball court, running track, golf simulator, arcade, restaurant, coffee bar, two swimming pools (in addition to the crew pool), three hot tubs, Island café buffet (with sushi bar, pasta bar, pizzeria, and ice cream parlor) casino, ball room lounge, jazz lounge, 4 story atrium, and about 8 shops to browse. There are numerous more things on offer, but isn’t that enough. Essentially at any time of day I can find somewhere to eat, drink, or play.

Only one day we had fairly rough seas that made many sick, but I quite liked it. I would sit in my cabin as the waves slapped the haul. It was a meditative sound that lulled me quickly to sleep. Earlier that day, new crew was allowed the privilege of going to the bridge for a toast by the captain. The bridge was a large command center whose command of the boat was only challenged by the commanding view it provided.

The first spa service I believe I really need is a good pinching, because I still don’t believe that I will live on this ship for six months exploring the most beautiful ports in Europe, while playing music and twice a month I will be handed a large wad of cash. I wonder how much a good pinch runs and what the crew price will be.

Baltic Sea

Being at sea is be a very calming, exciting, beautiful, and serene experience. Being at training to be a crew member of an extremely large vessel can be a little overwhelming. However, you take a look out from deck 6 of 14 and see the water with no land at sight and a sunset highlighting the solitude and all those overwhelming feelings float away with the swells.

I am on day two of a six month cruise around Scandinavia, Mediterranean, and the Canaries before I cross the Atlantic bound for Miami. I am playing trombone in the ship’s orchestra. This is a near perfect situation as it combines two of my biggest passions playing trombone and traveling the world.

Even though I’m a musician, I still must learn the ropes of safety. This is a good thing as there can be upwards of 2700 people on my ship, and in case of emergency, the safety team will need as much trained help they can muster. This being said, I am in no way a fan of three and an half hours of training with a Greek safety officer whose accent is thicker then pea soup and thirst for showing his authority is greater then the stranded desert vagabond. I have the utmost compassion for those whose, mother tongue is not English, because for all the years I’ve spoken English, I feel as if I am taking a foreign language class where the teacher believes in immersion instead of safety. All said in done, in the next couple weeks I will be certified in crowd management, maritime safety, security, Save the Waves environmental concerns, and more.

Departure from Amsterdam was quite spectacular. Cruising through a canal we passed; windmills as they rotate providing power to the people, motorcycles that speed along the road, small boats on a day cruise with people waving at the city cruising by, and small yurts set up for the fisherman catching dinner. The saying, ”The grass is always greener on the other side” seems to hold true in this land. Bunnies hop through the greenest grass fields and all the people seem to smile.

We are in the Baltic Sea heading for Stockholm, Sweden. These days sunset is around 10:00 pm, which is great as I am usually done with my last show by then and able to go out on deck and enjoy the sky’s colors. It is especially lovely when you see another ship out in the sea. It makes you feel akin to that other ship even though it is more then likely you will never meet another soul from that ship. At times there are sights of land, but I have no clue what land it is. But is no less spectacular when the light from the lighthouse reaches us beckoning, “hey! Notice me.”

Tomorrow we will reach the Swedish Archipelago by morning. The cruise director makes it sound absolutely gorgeous and of course it will be.. I am so ecstatic! I will have the chance, opportunity, and fortune to go out on the deck, perhaps with an espresso or cocktail, and enjoy the sights, sound and smells as we pilot to port. As I write this, my first port awaits me and will try to harbor this excitement a one more nigh, but the excitement of what is to come may cause my reality to visit in dreams.

P.S. There are at least two great puns in this blog…sorry/you’re welcome.

San Juan Islands

It was hard to imagine how we could ever add to this Washington State vacation, we had seen tulips galore, took a drive around the shores that looked into the San Juan’s, we explored Deception Pass by foot and boat, we experienced life’s splendor on the North Cascades Highway, and even sampled local cheese, microbrews, and olives. How could one possibly improve on this? Hopping on a ferry bound for the San Juans sounded like a fine idea, and indeed it was.

The San Juan’s are a peaceful archipelago that is pure Northwest. It is home to the endangered Pacific Northwest Orcas, it is a place of culture, beauty, peace, and so much more. The ferry leaves from the city of Anacortes, an industry town that has all the charm of an industry town. Walking on the ferry is easy and for a only $11 you get very affordable island cruise. Lasting just over an hour there is plenty of time to sit back and enjoy the view. The weather was with us as the sun shone down on us without a single cloud to filter its power. The ferry left the dock and headed toward Friday Harbor while passing Lopez Island, the tranquil Shaw Island, and the large Orcas Island with Mt. Constitution. San Juan island is home to Friday Harbor, the largest city in the San Juan’s. As we cruise through the islands exceptional views of Mt. Baker take our breath away. Sailboats and power boats sail or speed along creating a longing in me to set sail and enjoy the solitude, stillness, and pure beauty of the Northwest waters. Alas, I sit on my temporary throne that is perfectly front and center of the Washington State ferry looking out on the water, skies, and shores. I take the time to enjoy each moment of bliss I’m being given. I have the freedom to get up and walk around the deck of the ferry and I take that freedom to attempt capturing an image of the beauty that surrounds me. A futile attempt. Then the ferry horn sounds and the announcement tells me to get ready to disembark as we are approaching Friday Harbor.

As we disembark in Friday harbor we are instantly struck by the sights , smells, and wonders of this Island life. We decide ice cream is first and foremost on our agenda and quickly head to the “Homemade Ice Cream” sign. Delicious free homemade cookies are offered as these wonders happened to escape the attention of their baker and ended up over baked. I didn’t mind as it was a perfect compliment to the coffee ice cream delicious flavor. I indulge as we walk along the waterfront bound for the Whale Museum. When we arrive at the museum I quickly adopt an orca, Slick (J-16), and enthusiastically enter the museum to learn about the plight of greatest Northwest mammal. Industry, fishing, and pollution is downright depressing and killing our treasured Puget Sound at an alarming rate. We continue to meander through the city and find a waterfront place to sip a cocktail and enjoy a nibble. As we await our sunset sailing back to Anacortes, friendly island folk begin to emerge and are set apart from the tourists that seem to overtake the waterfront by day. The ferry arrives and we walk on as the sun begins to descend below the islands’ hills. The perfect coda.

This was another great trip exploring the spectacular Pacific Northwest and unfortunately it had come to an end. I grasp on to these moments for the happiness they bring and the experience of pure joy. The colors in the sky are as abundant as the life that surrounds us.

The few clouds reflect hues of purple, pink, orange, and red that no camera can adequately capture. The peaceful islands are beginning to call it a night and quietly begin their slumber. The ferry cruises through these waters no where near alone, but yet the solitude is felt as we round various buoys. As we see the lights of Fidalgo Island, the gateway to the San Juan’s, we are reminded once again that we live in land with such wonderful metropolitan cities such as Seattle, Tacoma, and even Bellingham that within hours and sometimes even minutes we can escape to a unique beauty that is beyond true comparison. We live in a land where water meets mountains, and rain forest meets desert. We live in land that grows some of the world’s finest wines, brews the countries best beers, grows, delicious fruits and vegetable, and where fresh seafood and meats can satisfy even the pickiest of gourmands. No matter how much I travel this vast world, trips such as I had in the past week remind me that whenever I can come home, I will never be lacking in beauty here at home.

The American Alps

The North Cascades Highway is simply put a magnificent drive. Known as the American Alps the cascades shone their true beauty on this drive. I’ve been on many drives in this world from Swartberg Pass of South Africa to Machu Picchu in Peru as well as into the Italian Alps. I can say without hesitation that that this is one of the most gorgeous drives out there. From sight, to sound, to smell, to feel this is an experience for all of your senses to indulge.

In being named, “the American Alps” they have a quite a name to live up to. From waterfalls of glacial run off to soaring snow capped peaks, this drive has gorgeous around every curve. The large river damns controlling mother natures force providing energy to thousands remind us of out human triumphs. Rapture birds on the hunt effortlessly soar at tremendous heights. Each glimpse as you round the corner could easily stall your car as you eagerly pull over to take in the moment. When you finally arrive at a viewpoint it is impossible to resist a stop to get out. You stand there dwarfed by the absolute grandness. I The feeling of the crisp mountain winds twirling around your body makes you alive with wonder as you stand as far out on the cliff as tourist laws allow. I think if only I had all the time in the world to just trek out and explore these vast tracks of land. This territory transports you to the reality of the greatness constantly surrounding us.

Deception Pass

By week's end, the sun was finally winning the battle with the clouds and had eventually emerged victorious in La Conner. Deception pass was on the itinerary and with this weather it beakened with avengence.

When we arrived I realized that we couldn’t have asked for a better day. Walking across the 1930’s bridge we could look down at the swirling tides that move at a pace one can easily understand how it was once mistaken for a river. The cars zip by at alarming rates and yet nothing could distract us from the beauty that was a full 360 degrees around us. Surround above and below.

We took a hike to Goose Rock Summit and enjoyed the view of San Juans. The fragrance of the forest transported me to sheer happiness as I laid perched above the meadows. A mere glimpse of the many colors that sprang forth with life and light to brighten the darkest of Northwest winter sufferers. As we sat up at the summit we could see forest, island, sound, naval base, and numerous power lines. Nature and civilisation collide in abundant distorted beauty.

A steep hike down one side took us to a cove where we could observe great blue herons fishing for lunch in a fierce competition. The heron stood so still in the water looking for a fish to swim by. This heron was patient and calm knowing that he will get his dinner. Then a heron flies in to take his fishing spot and he spreads his wings rising above and taking of with his snack. As we rounded the perimeter towards the solitude of the wilderness begins to sink in.

The hike ends in mossy fungal fashion, such a difference from the meadows and woods of the summit. We decide to cross the bridge one more time and enjoy the view. It is at this point that I notice how fantastic the zoom on my camera as I begin to zoom in on the beach strollers below. Then a boat passes under with waving pasengers and we are reminded, "A three-hour tour." We race to the bottom of the hill to catch a boat tour of Deception Pass.

Our tour guide is a young man who appears to be in his early 20s and truly in love with this area. He knows his material and actually presents it in a way that any tourist can enjoy. We see bald eagle nests, pirate islands, peregrine falcons, great blue herons, harbor seals, harbor porpoise, and numerous shore birds. We speed into Rosario Straight the liquid highway to Canada. The strait’s air has a tangible crispness and free quality that no land can give. There was a sense of peace as we sat watched a bald eagle perched high on a tree being reminded that through care, initiative, and cooperation we have brought these birds back from near extinction. As I took picture after picture I captured this majestic bald eagle and I zoomed in as far I felt I was peering directly into the bald eagle‘s eye. I couldn’t help but notice he was keeping a close eye us.

At one point on this boat tour we approached the rocky high cliffed shore to take a gander at the remnants of a mining cave, turned jail, that is now protected peregrine falcon breeding habitat. As we floated around and tried to take in the life around us, we soon were reminded of the depth of life in our surround far exceeded the depth of our perception. A great blue heron stood still scanning the water looking for a snack, an otter chowed down on the high protein sea weed, and a peregrine falcon soared above calling it warning call. Small shore birds hopped from the crustiest of crustacean treat. The bridge above us bustled with homespun technical feats. Tree grew from stumps which grew from stones.

The only deception at Deception Pass is that one thinks a day is enough. But alas I think I could wonder around these shores, hills, trails, and waters for quite a while. Ahh… splendid life.

Scenic Sunday Drive

To the north of La Conner there are many places to discover. Taking a nice scenic drive around here can easily provide very pleasurable day. In the morning, we started off with a walk along the Padilla Bay estuary. It was low tide so timing wasn’t best for bird watching, but a nice 3 mile walk none the less. Views of Mt. constitution accompanied us along the way and I could not help but notice that while it was low tide, the smell that usually accompanies low tide was not present. We did see a few small birds, but for the most part the quiet stillness was the most enchanting element.

Around this area is a the quaint community of Samish Island. Samish is a place of many gorgeous and huge houses that are a flanked on either side by the sound and views into the San Juans. You can look out and feel surrounded by water. Scenic vistas were of no shortage and a small section of public beach allowed us an up-close look at the treasures and riches of Marine life just on the shore. Riches of land, sea, and life.

There is a very old-fashioned and very delightful and very little town near La Conner called Edison. Journalist Edward R. Murrow grew up here, but one would never expect such exceptional cuteness from one block in the middle of fields. We made a stop at an organic cheese factory where happy cows make happy cheese and a stop for a personal tour of a local creamery. The highlight of this tour was being able to pet a calf that was born just hours earlier.

Further up the road we began our scenic drive on Chuckanut Road. Curvy roads adorn steep cliff sides that, if given blue skies, give a spectacular drive. We stopped for a vista and photos of the of the passageway to the San Juans. Some sights can never get old and each turn provides a new beautiful view. The San Juan islands offer exactly this scenic experience. At the end of cuckanut Road you enter a charming historical town known as Fairhaven. Old-fashioned business meets college town sheek. Further down the road we ran into Bellingham.

Bellingham answered the call for food and beer via the Chuckanut Brewery and Pub. I had a great sampling of brews to along with scrumptious sweet potato fries. We finished our day’s trip with a small driving tour of the campus of Western Washington University. Where in environment and learning coexist.

Scenic drives require non-stop stunning scenery and great pit-stops along the way. This day of scenery throughout the area between La Conner and Bellingham provides exactly that. A perfect Sunday Drive.

Spring Blossom in La Conner

Sometimes before a trip off to some exotic place one needs to take a moment to be were they are. Most of the time I try to see what a truly beautiful place I live in, but every once in while I take a closer look and discover that truth which I always knew, that Washington State is beyond gorgeous. The juxtaposition of our numerous mountain ranges, the depths of the magnificent Puget Sound, the bounty of the Olympic Peninsula‘s beaches, vineyards of eastern Washington, the rolling Columbia River, the majestic San Juans, and so much more that is out there waiting to be seen. I went “camping” in good ol’ La Conner Washington and once again I was reminded of just how great the State of Washington really is.

We are staying in a quaint beach side cabin off of Snee Oosh near La Conner. Seven days of peaceful bliss ahead of us and the cozy cabin quickly became home, or at least home base. From this location we have the Cascades to the east, San Juans to the Northwest, Chuckanut, Bellingham and Padilla Bay to the North, and tons of charm oozing in between. We enjoy the campground that our cabin is in by playing mini golf and turning over rocks on the beach revealing all the tiny creatures below. Then as we call it a night, the bunnies come out and begin their bunny games. Life is good.

The town of La Conner itself is quite charming. There are antique shops to suit even the most avid avoider of antique shops. Built off of the Swinomish Channel La Conner provides a wonderful getaway from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Stroll down the street and have some tasty treats. Find everything, from ice cream to salmon, and olives galore. Little eateries and coffee spots adorn the channel front. there is even the quintessential bookstore with classic bookstore charm. One can indulge in some fashions that only a town such as La Conner can offer and don’t forget about that good ol’ microbrew. Yes, it seems La Conner has enough for us all. No less, and certainly no more.

We went to a garden to see some of the last blooms of the tulip season. All the tulip fields had been harvested so the acres upon acres of colors were not out to be seen. However, merely looking at the empty fields one’s imagination can not help but go wild thinking about the bold fields of color and how spectacular that must look. One garden still had about 70 varieties of tulips on display in an amazing array of color. The tranquil setting was one that transported you away. I never really knew tulips had so many wide varieties. They can have different shapes, sizes, colors, and even great variety in their petal accoutrements. The wind was blowing and cherry blossom petals floated through the air as if they were snowflakes from a drift. We would lay on their blanket and feel spring envelope us. The rhododendrons kept popping up throughout the garden saying, “Look at me, I’m pretty too.” The grass was soft to walk in and everywhere we looked the glory of Spring was around. Well as long as we did not look into the sky with the idea that spring somehow equates with the blue and sun sightings. Welcome spring, let life begin.