Summer 2018 Road Trip - Day 5

July 3, 18

Day five was a somewhat of a slow day.
We Yelped breakfast places in Santa Cruz and picked Harbor Cafe. It had great reviews ... I mean the food looked decent but upon tasting it we felt that the food was bland, Jacob was annoyed that they didn't have any red salsa and he said that the biscuits and gravy didn't appear to have been made in house, more like out of a can (that's NOT good quality). I was pleased with mine.

After breakfast we headed over to the arcade at the boardwalk. We wanted to split our time at the boardwalk and wanted to get the arcade part out of the way. I watched the boys play for a bit but then I spotted a bench and took out my book from my purse and enjoyed a bit of reading.

After a while I went outside to people watch. Being here you can't help but think about the movie The Lost Boys. This spot would make the third place we visited where a movie was filmed. The Birds in Bodega Bay, Winchester which was partially filmed at the Winchester Mystery House, and The Lost Boys here at the Boardwalk in Santa Cruz. So Cool!!!

California is so cool in many ways but it also stinks in so many others. We did see a lot of transients all over Santa Cruz, awful but one can't really be shocked since liberal cities/states tend to have this problem just like in Washington.

After leaving the boardwalk we drove to Natural Bridges State Beach. It's a hotspot for Monarch butterfly migrations. There are up to 150,000 and can be seen from October through early February. We had a nice time hanging out at the beach for a bit. Hearing the waves crashing against the shore is always so relaxing and taking in the pretty view always has me thanking God for this wonderful creation He created for us to enjoy! The ocean/beach is truly amazing!

We drove down Steamer Lane. A nice drive with attractive homes to the left and the pretty ocean on the right. The scene here is similar to Coronado's Ocean Boulevard but on a smaller scale. These people have such gorgeous views.

We dropped our things off at the hotel and separated our dirty clothes. Since it was day five of our trip we had accumulated quite a bit of dirty clothes so we headed on over to a laundromat that was across from a Goodwill store, you know what that means ... bargain book shopping!!!

For dinner we ate at Woodstock Pizza on Front Street. It was ok.

After dinner we headed back to the hotel. We wanted to have a relaxing evening  and to go to sleep at a decent time since the 4th was the following day ... a long day ahead.

Breakfast in Portland

April 10,2016
Sooo, we were craving Pine State Biscuits and so we decided to make a spontaneous trip to Portland. It's roughly about three hours from where we live. Yeah, we're cool like that. Sydna and Nathan decided to stay home because they didn't want to wake up early on a Sunday. Ok then, bye! {one of the perks on having teenage kids}

I am fascinated by bridges but the very tall ones give me a bit of anxiety especially if it curves a little. This one not so much. Here we are crossing the Washington/Oregon {Portland} state line. And I know I've taken a picture of this bridge before but pay no mind to that. I find it exciting and road tripping, no matter the distance, is fun ... we quite enjoy it.

We got to Pine State Biscuits around 10:00 am. Luckily the wait line wasn't long at all. This is my favorite biscuit, the one I order every time we're here. The gravy is SO delectable, the biscuit is so moist and the bacon is super good. The coffee is good too.

Jacob usually gets what I get but he likes cheese in his. The pancakes are good. They're made out of cornmeal. Riley likes them. Not really sure why they had such huge smiles on their faces but Riley looks cute. I could never finish a pancake order by myself so I usually just get a couple of bites of Riley's pancakes and that usually fills me up.

When we go on mini road trips that are two hours or more away from home I make sure to research the area beforehand so we can do more than just one thing. That way the trip will be worth it. So, after we ate we headed to the beach. The coast is an hour away from Portland.
Never mind that the sky was cloudy ... we were ready for that.

Isn't this scenery pretty?

We lucked out in finding a parking spot right across from Haystack Rock. We had Riley help out carry the tent. Jacob put it on his shoulders like a backpack. I'm pretty sure that's why he was laughing in this picture. He said, "the tent is too heavy I can't walk anymore". So we were motivating him to keep walking and he thought that was funny.

It's so cool coming here. When you're here you cannot NOT think of The Goonies. Super cool right? Especially if you grew up watching that movie. I sure did.

I mean, no matter how many times you visit this beach you gotta take a picture with Haystack Rock in the background. This is like our third selfie like this.

I really like this picture. I sure captured such a sweet {candid} moment.

Jacob will steal a power nap any chance he gets. That's alright, fifteen minutes is nothing so I let him be. Now if it was me, my power nap would look more like thirty minutes, ha ha!

He is ever so silly! We sometimes joke about Riley's double chin {of course without his knowledge} so this picture will definitely crack up Sydna. She's the one that makes the most fun of him when it comes to his double chin.
He likes to hang out inside the tent. We had come in because we were going to eat lunch but Jacob ended up taking a nap instead so here we were ... Riley keeping me entertained with his stories while eating an apple.

I had made ceviche the night before so we had that for lunch. Riley had a pb & j sandwich.

We were at the beach for about three hours and we decided to pack up around 3:00 pm since it would be about a four hour drive back home. We drove through Astoria. See that bridge? Well, this one gives me a bit of the creeps because it curves on the Astoria side. I don't like to see us ascending and seeing the water getting lower lower beneath us. As long as I don't see how high we are I'm fine but if I think too much about it then my heart begins to race.

There used to be ferry lines from Astoria to Point Ellice and Megler Washington. This Astoria-Megler Bridge replaced that. Also, initially the bridge was a toll bridge. However in 1993, a two full years early, the bridge was paid off and the toll was removed. Oh, and this bridge is over four miles long. - - - Cool facts that I researched for you. That's the nerd in me, lol.

On our descend now. Isn't this bridge cool? I love how the lower part of the bridge looks. That part is made of seven 350-foot steel through truss spans. If you're interested in seeing more pictures of this bridge and when the ferry was around here's the LINK that will take you there. It's quite interesting.

This was a nice day getaway. Definitely lots to do in WA but we also find it so cool that Canada and Oregon are within a few hours drive.

Taking Family Sightseeing

As we do with anyone who visits us, we took my mom and sister out to Pike Place Market again. We've brought them here before but it's a place worth re-visiting ... over and over again. Never gets old.

It was rainy and cold. Our first stop was to Biscuit *itch. According to Yelp reviews and word of mouth we heard that this place is really good. I've heard of them and one of my sister's friends recommended her this place too. So we went. It's a very small restaurant. These type of restaurants are really challenging for me. Good thing we didn't have to wait for tables. Once we were done ordering two tables became available.
I ordered biscuit and gravy with two fried eggs and bacon crumbles. It was good. Another negative about this restaurant is that they don't serve decaf. WHAT?! total bummer ... so I had to get regular.

My sister liked it. We all agreed that this place was fine but for us it doesn't come close to Pine State Biscuit in Portland. Now that place is the real deal!!!

After we were done eating we walked down to the market. I'm fascinated by all this delicious looking seafood. I wouldn't mind  getting two handfuls of that shrimp and about three crabs for myself. Yum! but buying here at Pike's Place is expensive, way overpriced. Riley kept starring at the fish. He's always stared at the dead fish. Wondering what is going through his mind.

It was a bit surprising seeing this place empty because even when it rains there's usually a lot more people but it was very cold and rainy. I guess all the tourists were waiting until noon to come out because as we were making our way to the car it was starting to get busy.

After the market we went to Discovery Park. We hadn't brought my mom and sister here and I wanted to bring them because this is another favorite of ours. Riley still fascinated with his Tia Claudia.

The wind was blowing pretty good and boy was it COLD!!! We were freezing our butts off.

My mom is always collecting odd looking rocks.

Jacob looks cold. I at least know how to play it off, lol. Dang but I was dying. After we took the picture we sprinted to the car. Happy that my new car came with heated seats. Seriously, that's a feature that's a total must especially if you live someplace where it gets cold.

This boy and sticks. He wanted to bring this big stick in the car with him. I don't think so buddy.

To warm up we stopped at Starbucks on our way home. Such a cold rainy day. It's all part of the fun though. Not complaining. The cold sure makes one appreciate the heat and a cozy home that much more. Sure makes me grateful for the gift of a warm car and home.
My mom and sister were cold but did not complain. It was definitely the opposite of what they had back in San Diego. It was very warm there and freezing here. LOL!

Oh, and I got a tummy ache from the coffee I drank at Biscuit *itch. It must have been very strong, made me feel nauseous.

Praising the Good

Since Sydna began working we rarely get to enjoy a Saturday out as a family of five ... but on this particular weekend Sydna had Saturday off. The day before I had mentioned to Jacob that it had been a while since we've eaten out for breakfast and we thought it would be perfect to take our three kids out for some breakfast on this rainy chilly Saturday. Cold cloudy/rainy days makes us all feel nice and cozy ... similar to that wonderful feeling one gets about the holidays approaching or being at Disneyland. We all tend to somehow be in better spirits. Interesting how weather can change one's mood.

We enjoyed our food ... Sydna told us work related stories. Jacob discussed a few things about the new position he's currently in and all I can say is thank goodness he truly loves his job because working in Insurance is something I could not do. I'm most proud of him for being so intelligent.
Whatever stories each one of us brought up Riley made sure to state something similar. He's on his way to becoming a great story teller.

Later on that rainy Saturday afternoon we drove into Seattle and spent the rest of the afternoon at the Aquarium. We were surprised and thankful we found parking right in front of the Aquarium, that rarely happens.
There were several activity stations throughout. He spent the most time at the coloring station. He did a really good job in coloring this fish.

After having seen and touched the anemones we walked over to the fish tanks. This fish had some seriously big human like teeth. What in the world???

Jacob touched the glass and the fish kept trying to chomp it. Lol! We thought that was funny and Riley was cracking up so loud that people began to gather around to see what was going on.

While Jacob and Riley stopped by the seal exhibit I walked outside in the drizzling rain to take in some fresh air and admire the always beautiful Puget Sound. I don't know what it is about the Puget. I love it just as much as I love the ocean. I just like to stare out at the water and admire the numerous vessels passing by especially the ferries. So so grateful to call this place home.

On our way home we stopped by Krispy Kreme Doughnuts. We've tried them before, a long time ago but we weren't really fans then so we thought we would give them another try since we were in the area.

Grateful for a warm house to come home to. After we all changed into our favorite comfortable clothes we ate our doughnuts with some coffee and milk. I would say that these doughnuts were ok. We all pretty much agreed that our favorite donut shop {for now} is Legendary Donuts. I think we'll stick with them for the time being whenever we're crave one.

I'm so thankful to God that we're able to enjoy to eat out and to have our kids experience this as well. I am aware that eating out is a luxury that not many can afford.
Having spent the entire day with all three of our kids was a nice change since days like these are happening less and less. Some days I accept the change gracefully but other days I become sentimental and has me longing for when my kids were smaller and went everywhere with us ... sometimes if I dwell too much on how fast things are changing I begin to get a little sad. I guess it's ok to allow oneself to feel all these different emotions just as long as we don't linger in them for long. I've learned to change my thinking once I begin to get too sad. I believe God continues to grow me in this area and I can see and feel the difference in myself even if it's in baby steps.

Lord, teach me all that I should know; in grace

and wisdom may I grow; the more I learn to do 

Your will, the better I may love you still.

Countless Reasons to Rejoice

August 26th marked our 19th year anniversary.
It's sure been one heck of a ride. In our nineteen years together we've lived in four different states. Lived away from family for a long time. Had quite a bit of health scares. Been blessed at work. Of all the problems that a marriage can go through I am so very thankful that our love for each other has not been one of them. Yes, we've had our highs and lows but we have worked through them and stuck together ... however, it wasn't until my awakening that our marriage, our love for one another took a major turn for the better. My relationship with Jacob became that much more deeper, a lot more selfless and loving. This wouldn't have happened without God's Grace. Sometimes it takes one going through trials to allow change to happen. I am thankful for what I went through ... it has blessed me, my husband, our marriage, and our family.

For this year's anniversary we decided to treat ourselves to a nice breakfast {than the usual anniversary dinner}. Sydna and Nathan watched Riley while we headed over to Seattle to eat at Lowell's at Pike Place.

We had a great view of Puget Sound's Elliott Bay.

This is what Jacob got. He wanted just one pancake and they brought out this, lol. He really liked the gravy.

I got this. After eating my eggs, bacon and hash browns I ate two french toast. I thought my breakfast was yummy!

After we were done eating we walked through the market. Jacob bought me a gorgeous dahlia bouquet. As part of my anniversary gift, Jacob also got me a new perfume {new to me that is}. I like the way the perfume Guilty from Gucci smells so he got that for me. Haven't put any on yet but I hope it stays on me all day long.

He's such a great guy!

We have been wanting to go canoeing for some time so we went for it!
Cloudy skies and slightly breezy. Perfect outdoor weather! Of all the places one can do water activities we chose Montlake. I believe this area to have the calmest water with no risk of encountering large sea life or fast moving boats. Great place for beginners like us especially since we brought Riley along.

He was happy to wear a life jacket and to have his own oar ... and he couldn't wait to get in the canoe.

I've got to admit that I was very nervous at first. The feeling of being inside an unsteady vessel kinda freaked me out a little but as we began to move the nervous feeling went away. I got the hang of it super fast. One can glide through the water so fast and any movement from your oar will change the canoe's direction fast. We were able to maneuver the canoe quite easily. I loved it and felt like a pro, lol.

I wanted to get close to the water lilies but Jacob didn't want me to because he was afraid that we would get stuck and tangled up on the reeds. I wasn't scared but I moved us away from them anyways, shucks!

Riley had a blast. He wasn't nervous or scared at all. At one point he tried to lean over to get a water lily but Jacob quickly told him to sit still. He could have tipped us over. Geez!

I wanted to get as close to the houses by the water as we possibly could without intruding too much. Gosh, these people are so blessed to live right on the lake. Such beautiful views and so calming.

We would stop and admire the houses, the ducks and geese that were floating close by and enjoying the feeling of just being out on the water. I was telling Jacob how I have been wanting to do this for years and how happy I was that we were finally experiencing it. I was overwhelmed with gratitude at the fact that I live here! He was also happy about being out here and thought it was a lot of fun.

As we were making our way back, Jacob accidentally bumped Riley's head with his oar. It wasn't a hard hit but he felt sorry for the little guy anyway. I couldn't help but laugh because honestly, it was funny. When it happened Riley looked back at Jacob with a mean look and said, "why you do that for!!". Jacob told him it was an accident and said he was sorry.

Once Riley realized that we were getting closer to the dock he began to cry. He wanted to stay out on the water. Poor thing.

We left Montlake feeling happy, relaxed and with some experience under our belt. It was a lot of fun and very enjoyable. This is something we hope we get to do often in our lives. Next time we want to bring Sydna and Nathan, they'll love it too!


This anniversary sure was different and we truly enjoyed ourselves. Thanking God for His many blessings and thanking Him in advance for the many more happy fun loving years He is going to bless us with.


Father,
I thank You for today. I thank You for our lives and for our family. I thank You for the love we share. I ask that my character and my husbands character reflect Your character. Please guard our marriage from the snare of the enemy. Thank You for all of it. The whole package deal of good and bad, and highs and lows. Thank You for being the One who helps us, counsels us, and encourages us. May Your power lift us up, may Your Holy Spirit guide us. Fill our days with peace and joy regardless of our circumstances. I pray that our love continues to grow, mature and deepen as we continue to remain passionate to each other. I pray that I would be an encouraging wife. That every day I would take the time to affirm my husband through my words, body language, and attitude.
Thank You Lord for our marriage. In Jesus' name, Amen!