Last Saturday we had another opportunity to get out, stretch our legs, and take in some salty air.

We had a general outline of what we wanted to accomplish for the day, with quite a bit of time to fill in between destinations. First on the list was to visit Edmonds where we found a jeweler who had some available Qalo rings to try on for our upcoming trip to Europe. The area has beautiful views and a welcoming small town vibe. We’d been once before to see a coworker of Nicole’s play a live show at a dive bar. This visit reminded us that we need to spend more time in this town. It has plenty of small shops and eateries to pop in and out of, as well as welcoming townsfolk eager to strike up a conversation.

Clad in new rings (black for both of us) took a quick car ride over to the Marina beach park. Dotted along the shore are large driftwood logs that were both picturesque and comfortable; a perfect spot to relax and preview the next event: the dog beach.

A small chain link fence served as a suitable corral for the furry beach goers. Two vendors were positioned just outside the fence, one selling specialty dog treats, the other hot dogs. Furry friends scurried to and fro along the pebbled shore. It would have been perfect had not the far majority of them been of the opinion that Nicole nor I were worthy of a visit. Entitled little brats. How dare you act so aloof when all I want to do is get a bit of woof time. Anyway. No hard feelings.

So, clams spit. I mean, technically they filter through the sand for plankton and nutrients and strain out the remaining water. None of that is fun to say. Alternatively, we basically got two free front row seats at the Clam Bellaggio. Spouts as far as the eye could see were erupting up and down the rocky landscape. Being the curious man child I am, I had to dig deeper into this new discovery. Literally went impromptu clamming. The clams did not abide. It turns out that clams do not want to be approached by a giggling dude pawing at their spot. Im not one to judge, but maybe quit the waterworks if you dont want to be approached. Im also not one to give up, and after a handful of misses, I struck pay dirt. I nabbed me a tongue tied bivalve and took it for a ride to show Nicole. Her enthusiasm was not a match for my mine; to each their own.

The slightly overcast day did not afford us a view of the Olympic mountains in the far distance, but we were able to see parts of the Kitsap peninsula. A hungry seagull also gave us a show of how they get to the innards of the clams. A brief flight to heights ends with a freefall and subsequent splat. The circle of life is a wonder in all its forms. That and seagulls are not merciful in regards to their food.

I put mine back. Softly.

The next event was to see the famed cherry blossoms at University of Washington. We didnt know what to expect when we arrived, other than the obvious foliage. Rows of brightly colored trees in full bloom greeted us as we crested the hill. The delicate petals juxtaposed by grand gnarled branches. A beauty of nature encompassed by a triumph of architecture in the background. Towering rooftops tipped with gargoyles who looked down upon us in their domain.

Well, us and about a thousand other people. Plus dogs. Add a wedding photo shoot for good measure. Sprinkle in jaded residents/college students for the full effect. Point being, all this comes with a cost. Still worth it.

Look up for majesty, down for misbehaving children

The views quite sublime,

dodge crowds for a first-rate shot

get off that branch, please?

This state continues to bring out the best in us both. Weather pushes us to try new things in unfamiliar settings. Attractions near and far tempt us to find the time to visit. There is food to sample, trails to brave, a whole new world to behold. Our roots continue to dig in deeper as we tap the soil of this place for what it has to offer.