Seattle

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We rode the bus for longer than expected due to a delay at customs, but now we're in Seattle! After sitting most of the trip, we decided to see some sights tonight and we were surprised at how close our Inn is to the action, we can walk to the Space Needle in just a few minutes. But first, these guys had to eat! We were craving some spice at Blue Water Taco Grill, which I highly recommend! It was an order at the counter place and they cooked the fish up right in front of us. Their homemade salsas had a good kick and it felt like a taste of home. 

After eating, we walked to Chihuly Gardens and Glass and really enjoyed the unique and colorful glass blown art. I hadn't seen much like it and enjoying learning about the various places that Chihuly has set up glass structures (Venice, Jerusalem, and of course, Seattle).

The Space Needle  was just a few steps away and we were catching it right at sunset. Now that we have data, the line didn't phase us as Tom caught Pokemon (Can you believe this game? Ha Everyone is playing) and Britt caught up on Insta. I can't describe the views from the needle, expect that it was gorgeous and fun to pick out key landmarks from abo
ve. 

Yes, we took these photos!

Where's Tom?

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Today's Coffee spot of choice was Caffe Ladro just a few blocks from our hotel. There are so many local coffee dives, it's fun starting the day with warm cup! We then got on a bus and headed to downtown to take part in the Bill Spiegel Underground Tour. Did you know that Seattle was actually raised a full level? We learned about what brought people to Seattle, the poor planning of the city, the fire that allowed people to start over, how the city became skid row, and how everything was rebuilt. 

Next, we made our way to the famous Pikes Place Market which was just a few blocks away. We conveniently came across a fun toy store and Ivars Fish Bar. We stopped in for Alaskan smoked chowder and fish/chips. It was delish! A taste of the sea my friends. 

As we entered Pike's Place Market, shoulder to shoulder people slowly weaved from trinkets to flowers, to roasted nuts, to produce, to a huge seafood section with the most iconic booth being a spot where men would throw fish. We enjoyed it, but also loved getting off of the busy street to duck into some stores a few blocks uphill from the bustle. We went into Pike's Brewing Co. & enjoying talking to two older locals about Seattle, the history, and DFW! They asked us about Dr. Pepper, Radio Shack, and NASCAR ha. 

Next, it was off to Kerry Park for a sunny view of the city and then back to our Inn to rest before hitting up a festival which is in town this evening. 

Friendly women taking our picture: Do you want a kissing picture? Britt: Yes! Tom: ....

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Craft Coffee Works was our morning coffee spot which fueled us for a big day on the town. We started today at UDUB...Go Huskies! We love seeing local universities and this one was definitely impressive. Everything was locked, but we enjoyed the gothic buildings, landscaping, and took few iconic pictures. The best part was walking down to Husky stadium and stumbling into the parking garage. We just happened to see a service elevator and thought...hmmm, why not? We were able to take it to the 6th floor which was the top of the stadium. It was a great view of the field, the water beyond the field, other stadiums, and two players getting in their morning workout. Being in that big of a stadium without anyone else is really a cool experience. It reminded me of Rudy or something. We hope to get pictures from many more universities, esp. as we travel with kids someday. 

Next stop...Fremont neighborhood. We went to Paseos, a popular cafe for lunch. Tom had a yummy sandwich, but Britt is regretting her order still tonight. I went for the healthy salad, but chose sautéed fish for the top, I guess I was thinking...yum fish, we're by the sea. The fish was sadly covered in garlic and pickled beets which was out of my comfort zone and all I could think was..."Tom's sandwich looks so good." Ha, it was still a meal and energized us for the afternoon. Not to worry, we quickly found gelato at the Fainting Goat to make up for Britt's poor order and it was delicious. Salted Carmel was our favorite! 

While walking around the town, we saw "The Troll" which is carved out from under a bridge, the "Center of the Universe" (an egotistical, but funny sign in the center of the area), a random rocket, quite a few hipsters, and some overpriced clothing. The experience was fun. The best part was wandering down to Gas Works Park for a beautiful sunny view and about an hour nap on a grassy hill with some locals who brought their dogs, picnics, kites, and bikes. Dirk would have loved the park! Thanks Karen, Gary, and Anela for watching lil Dirky for us this week!

From Fremont, we bused to Ballard to see the shops and the Ballard locks. We learned a little about the Pugent Sound where salt water meets fresh water and how the fish cross the barrier. Then, we ducked into a few shops and hit up Palermo Pizza and Pasta for dinner. We split a Mediterranean salad and margherita pizza for dinner. After being on our feet all day, we decided to hit the hay early tonight. We're renting a car in the morning and leaving Seattle. I can't believe we're going to be home in 5 days. The time is flying, but while we love vacation, we do talk about how much we love and appreciate our friends, family and Texas home!