Chillin in NW Washington State

Another night "camping" in Wal-Mart. Sigh. Can't beat the price - and this time I managed to avoid dropping too much scratch on goodies in a midnight run. This time I was in Wenatchee, Washington. One of many industrial/agricultural towns along the Columbia and its tributaries, the town seemed to have a large number of hispanic immigrants. I even ate at an authentic Mexican restaurant - a very nice change from sandwiches.

But why, do you ask, did you visit Wenatchee?! It is in the middle of nowhere. Yes, true. It is. BUT, it is - therefore- off the beaten trail somewhat. Getting off of the Interstate improved the quality of my trip and the mileage. I passed some amazing gorges that looked like the South Dakota badlands, climbing in and out like a heavily-encumbered hiker. Gorgeous gorges ;)

The evening was divided between Starbucks and reading in my darkened van by headlamp. Within the close confines of the Blue Bed Bug's walls, I felt like a 6 year-old, bottled up safely in his fort made out of chairs and blankets.

Tear down this morning was much quicker than before so that is a good trend - assuming two lines are enough to signify a trend (they aren't). I resumed travel along the Cascade scenic highway and traveled through pastoral riversides full to overflowing with apples, apricots, and cherry orchards. The sun might not be shining brightly, but the weather is clement. The Cascades resemble the Appalachians of New England of 10 million years ago - before the mountains eroded into molehills with ambitions towards greatness. The highway winds through narrow avenues of gold, orange, and green - and everyone drives as fast (slow) as the BBB.

Tonight I hope to rest my car and clean up at a friend's place in Bellingham. The city has been around for more than 150 years and has been undergoing a huge brownfield renovation. I didn't realize how close it is to Canada's beautiful Vancouver island. I'm looking forward to visiting its many art exhibits and libraries as I tour the city by bike. I definitely enjoy that mode of transportation the most - best speed/noise ratio!