Splendid Seattle

-I started writing this post weeks ago. I blame The Olympics, Canyon Lake, and an HR Certification course I started taking for the delay. Better late than never though.-

Seattle was wonderful. Seriously people, there is nowhere on earth like the Pacific Northwest. While Chris and I sweated through our errands last weekend, I couldn't help thinking how much more amazing errands would be in Seattle's weather. It was the perfect escape.

We went to Seattle for Chris’ friend from childhood Bryce’s wedding. It was the first time either of us has actually been in a wedding, and Chris had nothing but good things to say about the experience. And, because of his wedding party duties (suit fitting, chair setup, partying...) I was on my own for a portion of this trip. It was so great! Spending time apart from your loved one while on vacation is an excellent idea. I was really surprised how much I enjoyed my alone time.

The trip began with lunch on Thursday at Eastlike River Bar and Grill. I met the bride, Kristin, and the groom’s family for the first time. After leaving the fellas to try on their suits, the groom’s sister-in-law and I headed out for a several mile exploration of the University of Washington campus. Years ago, as an oblivious high school junior, I considered attending UW for college. Why? Eh... I knew I wanted to get away from Kansas and live in an urban environment... but I’m really glad I didn’t end up there. The campus was gorgeous, surrounded by lakes and ocean, but it definitely would have been too far from home.

In the springtime, this would have looked like this:

Guess I have to go back and see it, right?That night we met up with our men and caught the party bus to Ray’s Boathouse for the rehearsal dinner.

This was also the first rehearsal dinner we’ve attended. It was excellent to hear the speeches, get to know the bridal party, and enjoy an outstanding meal.

The biggest piece of salmon I’ve ever had.After dinner some of the youngin’s went to The Zoo for ping pong, darts, and more fun. I heard very good things about the bar, but alas, I was fast asleep in my cozy bed at The University Inn.

On Friday, the day of the wedding, I woke up to a cloudy and 60 degree day. It was so relaxing! Even though I’m a huge fan of sunshine, the typical-Seattle day was lovely. I started my day with a quick run along the Burke Gilman Trail followed by brunch with the wedding party at Portage Bay Café (that toppings bar, wow!). From around 1pm onward, Chris was on wedding duty, so I set out to explore the city with my backpack and a book.

A few hours were spent meeting up with the Sy family on Foster’s Island and at the Seattle Arboretum.

All in all, I walked nearly 7 miles around the city. I never would have been able to do that in Austin. With the heat and humidity, that trek would have been miserable.

The ceremony and reception that night were also amazing. Bryce and Kristin were so happy. It was perfect.

Hey there, groomsman.

Chris and the happy coupleYou’d think we’d be done after that, right? But no! They’d planned a Friday night wedding so that all of their out of town visitors could join them on Saturday morning for one of their favorite activities, a hike!

About 20 of us drove 3 hours north to North Cascade National Park to hike to Cascade Pass.

Absolutely perfect weather.

So many hikes in the same month, what is happening?

I think I’d compare hiking to spinach... I hated it when I was little, then I was too afraid to try it... but now that I have the freedom to do it when and however I want, it’s great. Same idea. More hikes = healthier Jane!

We finished the trip with a fantastic meal at Ivar's and a night in, watching the Olympics. I already can't wait to go back (hopefully for Sasquatch 2013).