Mt St. Helens. The Gateway to Heaven or Hell?

Today was my day for visiting one of the most infamous mountains located in the Cascades mountain range. The mountain is named Mt. St. Helens. This mountain is infamous for erupting on May 18, 1980 and causing all kinds of havoc in the Washington State area.

Mount St. Helens is most famous for its catastrophic eruption on May 18, 1980, at 8:32am PDT[1] which was the deadliest and most economically destructive volcanic event in the history of the United States. Fifty-seven people were killed; 250 homes, 47 bridges, 15 miles (24 km) of railways, and 185 miles (298 km) of highway were destroyed. The eruption caused a massive debris avalanche, reducing the elevation of the mountain's summit from 9,677 feet (2,950 m) to 8,365 feet (2,550 m) and replacing it with a 1 mile (1.6 km) wide horseshoe-shaped crater.[2] The debris avalanche was up to 0.7 cubic miles (2.9 km3) in volume. The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument was created to preserve the volcano and allow for its aftermath to be scientifically studied.

The cascade mountain area is one of great beauty. I drove to highway 5 out of Portland north back into Washington State. Then I took exit 49 off of the Interstate highway 5 towards Castle Rock. At Silver lake there is a visitor center for Mt. St. Helens. Then I continued west on Highway 505 which takes you right to the Johnston Ridge observation area. The drive up into the cascades is incredible, and will take your breath away. I stopped several times during the journey up into the mountains, to take pictures. Still very evident is all the destruction Mt. St. Helens caused during her violent tirade, over 29 years ago.

The park rangers give talks about the eruption. Also they show an amazing movie. Which tries to to recreate the events of the eruption, and does a pretty convincing job. The Johnston ridge is named after geologist David Johnston who was observing Mt. St. Helens prior to the eruption. The ridge which is named in his honor, is located 5 and 1/2 miles from the mountain. When the eruption began his last words were; "Vancouver, Vancouver, this is it!" The blast was so catastrophic, just like the blast of an atomic bomb. David Johnson was killed almost instantly.

The only disappointment during my visit was that clouds, obscured the good views of Mt. St. Helens. So I never go very good pictures of the mountain itself. On the decent down from the mountains. I stopped and got a great picture of Coldwater Lake, that was formed from the eruption.

On the return trip down from St. Helens. I also stopped in the small town of Toledo, Washington. Which is the gateway to Mt. St. Helens. I do enjoy the small town experience. For those who follow in my footsteps. Here is a good tip. Have lunch or take lunch with you when your journey up to visit Mt. St. Helens. Because you can't buy any food on the drive up, or at the Johnson Observatory. However they do have a great pizza place located in Toledo. Sandy's Pizza is a great reason for visiting Toledo. The restaurant is located right across from the Toledo, Mt St. Helens mural.

Being up in the mountains is always an uplifting experience. Seeing Mt. St. Helens and learning the story of the eruption just confirms my thoughts that we humans are really not the controlling force behind the creation and destiny of our planet. Mother Nature is the boss! There is a much more powerful force that controls this world, that we exist on. To us humans what Mt. St. Helens did was catastrophic and a horrible act of violence. I see it another way. That volcanoes are just an portal for this planet. For the regeneration and creation of new life. After all, a volcanic eruption is the same as any female giving birth. Think about it.

The Mt. Hood Loop!

After I finished driving on the Columbia River scenic road. Now it was time to follow the advise of a very good friend. Ethan Allan S. Said "one regret from his visit to the Pacific Northwest was. That he didn't drive the Mt. Hood Loop." He advised me strongly to do it, during my vacation. Good advise! When you get great advise from a great friend. Always follow it!

You first have to drive to a town named Hood River. From there you drive highway 35 south. That drive take you in behind Mt. Hood as you reach an altitude of about 4000 feet. It is about 40 miles from Hood River to arrive at the Government Camp, located on the south side of Mt. Hood. From that point you switch to Highway 26 west in the direction of Portland. It is about 53 miles back to Portland from here. Also the drive is almost completely downhill from here.

The whole experience was a complete joy. Again it will be difficult to describe this experience in words and pictures. I can say that Mt. Hood rates with the great mountains of this world. It is the proper symbol of this wonderful place that is called Oregon. Oregon is a special and wonderful place. I already have the dire to return here again one day.

On the drive down the mountain. I stopped in a town called "Sandy". There I found a good restaurant, and enjoyed a nice Chinese dinner. Also they had a Goodwill store. There was treasure to be found there. I purchased a working pair of Bose headphones for $7 and a nice pair of biking gloves for $4. What a fantastic day it has been!

Oregon and the Columbia River.

I woke up early and was on my way! It was going to do a lot of traveling today. I was talking to a friend recently and jokily said to Stephenie. "When I travel I am transformed into Indiana Jones on crack!" I personally dislike and don't use illicit drugs. I will always discourage and persuade myself not to use them.. In order to artificially create pleasure. I believe you have to look at more natural and creative ways to achieve happiness. Like visiting  beautiful  and fantastic natural places. Like where I  currently am. Located in wonderful Washington State. Now I off to visit beautiful Oregon.

I stated out in Westport, Washington today. Then I drove all the way down the coast to get to the Columbia River. When you reach and cross the river, you are now located in Astoria, Oregon. Then I kept driving south to reach Seaside, Oregon. I had a chance to look around, and relax. I took some beautiful pictures of the beach. Speaking about beautiful pictures. I made a rare discovery and purchase at a thrift store located in Seaside. I found the "Complete Playboy Centerfold Book". I paid only $25 for it. The book was a steal at that price. It contains all the centerfold pictures from Marilyn Monroe who was the first lady to appear in the centerfold of Playboy magazine in the December 1953 issue. Right up the end of 2008. That is a lot of beauty for one book. It is heavy to. It will be a great souvenir of this trip.

I also found a bike shop, and I had my rear bike tire repaired. The bike shop also replaced the tube. Hoping now I can get in at least one more good ride during this holiday. I then drove east through the mountains to Portland. Very scenic and enjoyable drive. I stopped off at a Dairy Queen restaurant along the way. I have to say I enjoyed a very good and healthy meal there. I was shocked! I enjoyed a grilled chicken salad. It puts the dinner salad Wendy's serves to shame. I then arrived in the city of Portland. In my opinion. Portland, Oregon is even a nicer city then Seattle. The only advantage Seattle has is being located on Puget Sound. However Portland has the Columbia River. So it will be your choice.What city will be your favorite.

On my arrival in Portland, I became a little disoriented. However with the help of a friendly local I found my way in a hurry. I drove by Gresham, Oregon. Just past Gresham is a town named Troutdale. I found a Motel 6 located in Troutdale, and the sign said "single room rate $39.95." I jumped all over that. I pulled in and paid for a room. Dropped some of my things off in my room. Got some directions and I was soon on the scenic highway, enjoying the intense beauty of the Columbia River gorge. There are no words in the dictionary to probably describe this place! Also there are no pictures that can do justice to this incredible place of beauty! Very good advise to anybody who reads this blog. Just come and see this incredible place for yourself. You will be doing yourself a favor. Oh yes, more good advise. Do not bring any illicit drugs. They will not needed here!

Drive away and escape to Westport!

I was up early today. I enjoyed a decent night sleep at the Green Tortoise. It is a very decent hostel. It has a fantastic downtown Seattle location. I had a chance to say goodbye to Katie. She made a reservation for me on Friday. We will see if my itinerary will take me back to Seattle on the trip back north to Vancouver.

I made the decision to take the car on the ferry boat back to Bainbridge Island. To do the drive from Bainbridge to Bremerton en route to the south and the state of Oregon. I have to say outright this drive was one of the scenic and wonderful driving experiences I have been on. The beauty, color, and diversity of the state of Washington were all part of this wonderful trip by car.

This drive kept me a euphoric state during the whole time I was behind the wheel. I did make a few stops. For gas, food, and to heed nature's call. Also I stopped to look for treasure. No luck finding any. The old saying is "Noting ventured, nothing ventured". As you must know by reading this. This old saying is not correct. It should read "Nothing ventured, nothing gained". The incorrect old saying comes from the movie "Let It Ride" and from the character Viki played by Jenifer Tilly. Who in this movie relied more on amazing looks, rather then her brains.

I enjoyed a very good lunch at the Olympic Station Deli in the town of Shelton. The ladies that were working there were very friendly, and helpful. Also the quality of the food was also very good. I enjoyed 1/2 of turkey and pastrami sandwich, and a bowl of Split pea soup. I topped it off with desert, and a generous single scoop of Olympic Mountain Ice cream. The flavor was creamsicle. The ice cream was like this trip has been. Wonderful! This quality bakery restaurant is located at 410 N 1st. Street, Shelton, Washington.

Now after being well feed. I was now on my way to my final destination for the day. I had decided to make the town of Westport, Washington. My final destination for the day. Westport is located right on the ocean, on the south side of the opening of Gray's Harbor. It is a quiet and peaceful, and tranquil fishing town. I though about continuing on further south. However I thought I had done enough driving today, and it was time to kick back and take a brake behind the wheel. Also I found a decent place to stay for the night. I received a decent private room at the Pacific Motel. I paid $49 for the room. In these days of high inflation and greed. $49 for a decent accommodation is a good deal. The only disappointment of the day was my dinner. The friendly lady who runs thine Pacific Motel recommended to me. The One Eyed Crab restaurant, located in the town. The food service and prices were all bad. At least there are consistent. Tomorrow I make my way to the state of Oregon. I am looking forward to that. Please stay tuned.

Seattle To Bainbridge Island

Today was a travel day for me. I was hitting the road again. As I would be leaving Anacortes this morning. After I finished breakfast. I packed up my things and headed toward Whidbey Island. When I reached the Deception Pass Bridge. I had to stop and have another look. I did do a short hike to the shoreline to take a few more pictures. It is a special place to be.

After crossing the bridge. I was now on Whidbey Island. I would complete a crossing of the island to the end. At that point I would take a Ferry Boat back to the mainland. On taking the boat back to mainland, I was now located in Mukilteo. It was now time for lunch. I stopped and had a nice lunch a nice Mediterranean restaurant. I enjoyed good service and very good food.

Then it was time again to rely on my trustworthy GPS system. To get me to Seattle, and my new accommodation. The Green Tortoise Hostel. The Green Tortoise Hostel is located right by the Pikes Place Market, and right across from the original Starbucks location. So the location is very good to be situated. Also the ferry docks located here in Seattle, are also close by.

So after getting settled into the hostel by a very nice young lady named Katie. It was time again to disappear from normal life again, and head over to Bainbridge Island. This island is also a special retreat, and a refuge to get away from it all.

After arriving I looked around the village of Windslow. I was just standing at the corner. Sorry right song, but wrong place. I was starting to take it easy and do a bike ride. When I realized that my rear tire was soft. Through the help of the friendly locals. I found a bike shop. Who were more then happy to pump it up for me.

I found a nice Thai food restaurant to have dinner. It was very pleasant. I sat outside and enjoyed my meal with a grand view of the harbor. I also the chance to chat with a nice couple from Texas. After the meal. I checked my rear tire, and quickly became disappointed. It was now completely flat. So I had to walk my bike back to the ferry docks to get on the 7:10 boat. Lucky for me. It was a short walk back to the Green Tortoise Hostel, from the ferry docks. I'm hopping during my travels tomorrow. I can find a bike shop, and get the tire repaired.

I Wanna Go Back To The Islands!!!!

The title for this post is the opening verse of one my all time favorite Jimmy Buffett tunes. The song is named "Tin Cup Chalice". The song is a love song for one of Jimmy's all time favorite loves "Key West, Florida".

This comparison applies after the day, that I have lived today. Today I sailed away into the San Juan Islands. They are a special pleasure for any of us out there. Who crave to escape and get away from the typical rat race existence, that most of us are forced to live.

Here is how my day went. I woke up around 7:15 after I had enjoyed a decent night sleep. I had breakfast in my room, with free coffee that is supplied by the motel. By 8:45 AM. I was at my car in the parking lot, and pulled out my Dehon travel bike. I assembled it and was all ready to go. I rode for about 4 miles to the Anacortes Ferries Docks. I arrived at 9:15, and was in luck as there was a Ferry Boat getting ready to depart at 9:35 for Friday Harbor. Which is the main village located on San Juan Island. San Juan Island is the largest island located in the San Juan Island Chain.

The boat ride takes 1 hour and 5 minutes to sail from the Anacortas docks to Friday Harbor. On arrival I quickly had a chance to chat with some locals. They advised me to ride to the northern end of the island. To a village called Roche Harbor. They said that "the ride was a very good one, and was 14 miles in distance. I quickly decided to do it. When the ferry boat left Anacortes the weather was overcast and cool. However by the time the boat had reached San Juan Island, the skies had cleared to bright sunshine, and again I was being treated to a magnificent day, by mother nature.

Off I went on my little Dehon folding bike. The ride was an amazing experience. The scenic beauty of San Juan Island is outstanding. The island is very lush and green. There are lots of hills, so the ride was a bit demanding at times. However the ride going to Roche Harbor was a much easier one, then the return trip would be.

I took two brakes during the ride. One was just a refreshment break. The other was one of curiosity, as I discovered a huge thrift store. Located about 3 miles before I would arrive in Roche Harbor. I just had to stop and check to see what treasures awaited. I didn't find anything earth shattering. However I did find a rare "Rush" cassette tape. I also purchased an almost full container of Fondue Fuel (methyl hydrate). Back in Canada this product is easy and cheap to purchase. One dollar will get you a 12 ounce bottle at most dollar stores. However in the U.S.A. You have to go to a hardware store to find it. Also you will be paying much more then $1 for it. It need this fuel as I brought alone my miniature hiking stove. Methyl hydrate is the best choice of fuel to operate this stove. Now I can enjoy a nice cup of hot java, when I stop for a roadside break. I paid 50 cents for the fondue fuel.

Roche Harbor is a picturesque and historic village, that was created in 1896. The town was established because of the abundance of lime in the area. Lime production back in history was a major industry on San Juan island. Today the town major industry like all of San Juan Island is tourism. The town features a historic hotel called the "Hotel De Haro". This historic hotel is as old as the village, 1896. I had lunch at the Lime Kiln Cafe. This eatery is very popular with tourists and the locals alike. It is located in the place where the lime processing factory ounce stood. I had a lamb burger for my lunch.

Now I had a decision to make. Did I attempt another 14 mile ride back to Friday Harbor? Or there was another option. There is a bus service on San Juan Island. For $5, I could enjoy a comfortable trip back. Avoiding the more difficult bike trip, back to Friday Harbor. I made the right choice. The friendly lady bus driver was happy to transport me, and my folding Dehon bike back to Friday Harbor. This way I was able to relax, and enjoy looking around Friday Harbor. Also I was in plenty of time to allow me to catch the 4:15 ferry boat back to Anacortes.

I had a relaxing trip back to Anacortes. That way I still had the energy to ride the 4 miles back to the San Juan Motel. I wish every day. Could be this good.

The Deception Pass Bridge

Wow, I made it to Washington State. It is defiantly one of the most beautiful states to visit in the U.S.A.

The trip went pretty smooth getting here. I woke up early. Just to prevent from sleeping in. I arrived at the airport about 4:25, and was the first to arrive at the West Jet gate at 5 AM. My flight departed about 20 minutes late, at 7:20.

I have to say I was very pleased with West Jet's effort to try and make the flying experience with them, as friendly and stress free as possible.

My only problem with the trip going was caused my Thrifty Rent A Car company. I had a reservation with them. That was not honored on arrival. The conflict arouse when I admitted the truth to Thrifty that I was intending to drive there rented car into the U.S.A. The Thrifty sales representative. Quickly alerted me. That they would not provide unlimited KM driven. If I drove the car into the U.S.A., compared to driving the car only in Canada. What is the difference? I just don't see one. Thrifty was prepared to charge me $20 a day extra on the cost of the rental.

However, I refused to give into Thrifty unfair policy. I received a fair rental deal from Avis Car Rental Company, and was on my way to Washington State. Without being delayed for very long.

I had no problem finding my way out of the Vancouver Airport, and to the U.S. boarder. The problem and frustration was getting across the boarder. It took almost one hour to pass U.S. customs, and be allowed entry into the United States. This was caused by a large volume of cars, and the U.S. immigration officers being very thorough.

When I finally made it across the boarder. I started on my way to Anacortes, Washington. Anacortes is located on Fildago Island. Which is the gateway, getting to the San Juan Islands. On the way I stopped off highway 5, and had lunch at a Sonic restaurant. Sonic is one of the oldest fast food chain restaurants, located in U.S. They were established in 1948. They are known for there great hamburgers, there large beverage menu, and service "faster then the speed of sound". I enjoyed the junk food meal, and the onion rings were as good as it gets.

Before I started on my way. I installed my trusty GPS system for the final way to Anacortes, and the place where I would be staying. The San Juan Motel. My GPS did a great job, and guided me right to my final destination. GPS navigation devices are fantastic to have on a driving trip. Like the one I'm currently on.

I am very happy with the town of Anacortes. It is a very nice place. I'm located very close to the ferry docks, and to restaurants and shopping. I decided to spend a second full day here.

I felt totally tired after I checked into the motel. The room is very nice, with a comfortable bed, and free wireless computer access. Which is standard now for most accommodations. I decided to have a well needed 1/2 hour snooze. After being refreshed I drove to see the famous "Deception Pass Bridge". Which is located on near by Whidbey Island. The bridge is located about 15 minute drive from Anacortes. The bridge was built in 1935 to connect Fildago Island with Pass Island. There is actually two separate bridges. The Canoe Pass Bridge connects Pass Island with Whidbey Island. The bridges total length is 1487 feet and the height over the water is 180 feet, but that depends if the tide is in or out. This place of great beauty is one of the scenic wonders of the Pacific Northwest region, and should be visited during your trip here. I walked the bridge completely. Shooting some excellent pictures and video. I look forward to posting the pictures on the blog. However it will have to wait, as I forgot to pack the USB cable for my camera. I always forget something.

A special note about the Deception Pass. It called by this name because it appears the current is flowing in two opposite directions, through the pass. That is the deception.

I enjoyed a find Mexican meal in the "El Jinete" Mexican restaurant, located within walking distance of my motel. I enjoyed a very nice beef fajitas. Both the food and service were very good. I look very forward to my day tomorrow. I will do a biking tour of some of the near by Jan Juan Islands

My Itineray for the Pacific Northwest!

On the great advise of Ethan Allan S. Al has laid out the plans for a fantastic vacation. All I have to do is live it, and make it happen. So for all you fellow travelers out there. Here is the plan.

I arrive in Vancouver on June 6. Drive south into the U.S.A. I drive to Bellingham, then take the ferry into the Jan Juan islands, and spend the day.

Sun June 7- Drive to Anacortes. Threw Whidbey Island. Then take the ferry to Milkuleto, then drive to Seattle. When arriving in Seatle take the ferry to Bainbridge Island, and enjoy dinner at Cafe Nola. Spend the night on Bainbridge Island.

Monday June 8- Check out Bremerton and drive south (scenic beach) to Olympia, stay in Olympia.

Tuesday June 9- Drive to Mt. St. Helens, then to the coast, then Astoria, then to Seaside, then to Oresham, stay in Gresham. Or stay in Seaside, Oregon overnight.

Wednesday June 10- Drive scenic highway (Hwy 84) along the Columbia River. Beautiful scenic points to enjoy. Stay in Gresham.

Thursday June 11- Drive the Mt. Hood Loop scenic drive. Stay in Gresham.

Friday June 12- Drive back to Seattle. Chance to visit the islands again, or enjoy Seattle.

Saturday June 13- Drive back to Vancouver. Spend the day in Vancouver, and enjoy the sights. Fly back to Toronto and reality. My return flight is 11 PM.

Well there you have it. That is the game plan. I thank Ethan Allan S. for his valuable input. I look very forward to the adventure.

The posted picture is of the Columbia river gorge from the Washington State side. I hope my pictures turn out as good.

Please fly me West, "Jet"

Yes it almost time for me to hit the road again. The excitement is starting to build. Like all of my trips. I can feel the adrenal glad starting to do it's job. This feeling never gets old. To me, this is the essences of life. It's what makes life special. This is what all children have in them. That gives them the ability to have fun, and enjoy themselves. Never loose this as long as you live.

The idea or the songline for this trip began with the inspiration of two great friends. They are Ethan Allan S, and his lovely better half, Christine E. They both traveled to the Pacific Northwest last March. They both had an amazing trip. They both came back recommending this destination to me. Al's thoughts were. "That he can't believe that I haven't been yet. Also he knows that I will love my visit to the Pacific Northwest".

I will quote one of my favorite lines. From one of my favorite movies. The movie is "The Odessa File", it starred actor John Voight. Early in this movie John Voight's character Peter Miller talks about fate working in mysterious ways. That's controls the destiny of history.

Last year I was suppose to fly on West Jet. For my June summer vacation. The destination was Nova Scotia. This one week trip never happened because of fate. I somehow misplaced my wallet the night before I was suppose to fly to Halifax. With no wallet and no driving license. I was forced to cancel the trip. West jet which has excellent customer service, unlike Air Canada. West Jet gave me a 1 year credit for 90% of the fare. The next morning with my wallet found. I quickly loaded my car and bolted for Vermont and the Green Mountains. What a great time I had. If I hadn't misplaced my wallet I wouldn't have gone to Vermont last summer. Also I would not be leaving for Vancouver on June 6th.

The definition of what a songline is. Jimmy Buffett refers to this as and idea that becomes reality. They are only created and seen
by dreamers. So keep you dreams alive, and they may become true.

The first two pictures on this post is from my flight to Vancouver, on June 6, 2009. So thank you West Jet, you did fly me west!

The Search For The Lost Photos!

This is a good story that has to be told. That occurred during my holiday in Europe, 2009. I have always enjoyed to take pictures during my journeys. Trying hard to preserve the memories from the experience.

I was visiting with Steve C. during the second day of my time spent in the U.K. Steve had offered to take me on an outing outside of London. To visit his mother's home, which is located in the village of "King's Clear". We had just arrived in the village, and as usual I started to snap some photos. Then out of nowhere the worse, happened! The SD card inserted in my digital camera failed. My digital camera started to give me an error message. "To reformat the SD card. This could not be. Because I had taken over 200 pictures on this card. It was lucky for me. That I was using more then one SD card on this trip.

My camera also gave me the sad information. That there were no photos taken on the SD card, and again asking me to reformat. Lucky for me I was visiting with Steve C. at the time this happened. I was upset because it now looked probable, that I was going to loose 0ver 200 pictures from my trip. I was going to loose pictures from; Amsterdam, The Hague, and some pictures from London.

Steve told me right away not to reformat the SD card. To give the card to him. He thought that it was possible that the data on the SD card could still be salvaged. Therefore saving my lost pictures. I now started to hope. That the pictures could be saved.

I am really a moderate when it comes to how much modern technology has improved the quality of our lives. However I am a big fan of digital phototogrohy. The digital camera has advanced very much in the last 5 or six years. Also the cost to buy them has gone down. You are not stuck with the expense and nuisance of buying and loading film in a conventional camera. The fact is. If you make a bad mistake using a film camera. Then there is a good chance that your pictures and your memories will be lost forever.

This posting has a happy ending. A few weeks after I returned home. I received the good news from Steve. That most of the pictures from the failed SD card had been salvaged. He had the saved photos transferred onto a CD rom. He had given the CD to his brother Colin. To bring back to Canada for me. My lost photos were found and returned to me. Thanks very much to Steve C. I am now able to present them to you.