Christmas in Seattle

I decided to trade the wind and snow for the rain in Seattle for Christmas. Actually, it was a nice trade; I am getting tired of Wyoming weather. So, I packed my bags and arrived in Seattle at a very early time in the morning. Derek was kind enough to interrupt his slumber to come get me. Alexis' brother, Adrian, also came. On Christmas Eve we went to the Black Diamond Bakery for breakfast and had a relaxing day. We stayed up till 2am playing Cities and Knights. Somehow I managed to pull myself out of bed around 9am Christmas morning. Christmas morning we had a delicious breakfast of egg casserole and yummy Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls. Then we opened presents and enjoyed more relaxing. For Christmas dinner, we were joined by some friends of Adrian, Derek and Alexis as we feasted on Turkey, stuffing (that requires 1/2c of butter not just a sliver), mash potatoes, rolls, etc. For dessert Alexis made a delicious Chocolate Mousse. For New Years, we played Cities and Knights and watched a movie.

Evan is investigating what Santa put in his stocking.

Holly, Derek, and Greta anxious to open presents.

Evan, Adrian, Greta, Holly and Alexis on Christmas. Evan and Greta anxious to play with the now opened presents.

Greta sitting with her Dad while trying out her new blanket. For the price of free babysitting, I had my friend Kim sew blankets for Evan and Greta. Evan's is to the left and has dump trucks, backhoes, etc.

Derek, Susan and Chad, Rob and Dianne Reider, Adrian, and Holly enjoying Christmas dinner. And yes, I ate more than what is on my plate.

I have never been to Leavenworth, WA (famous for its Bavarian style) so I asked Derek and Alexis if we could go. We headed up through Snoqualmie Pass which was just beautiful and through the Cascades. We had a German lunch of jager schnitzel and weiner schnitzel and looked in a few stores. I enjoyed seeing Leavenworth and the beautiful setting that surrounds it.

Derek and Evan speeding down the sled hill.

Evan and Holly checking out Leavenworth. Derek, Greta, and Adrian are in the background. Derek is the one with the bright orange hat.

I also wanted to go to the Seattle Space Needle since it is a tourist experience I have never had. Derek suggested we go to the top the Bank of American building instead. After weighting my opportunity cost, I decided to follow Derek's advice and we headed to B of A building. We rode two elevators to get to the 73rd floor. It was only $3 with my student discount which is $15 cheaper than the Space Needle. Plus we got a much greater view of the city, Olympics, Cascades, and Mount Rainer.

Evan and Greta waiting in style for the elevator

I liked this picture because it gives you idea of how high we are. Here are Qwest field (Seahawks) and Safeco Field (Mariners) and you are looking south.

Mt. Rainer in the distance and you are looking southeast of Seattle.

Derek and Alexis often call Evan "Happy guy" and you can see why: He is a happy guy.