Bellingham to Yakima, Wa

We had Dinner at the Black Cat, a restaurant in a restored building with balconies all around each level with a direct view to each floor below. After dinner Garth took us for a walk around the oceanside walkway. He pointed out the ferry that transports people and cars to Alaska. Ah, another dream destination! Not this trip though. Saturday drove through a mountain pass: when we entered Mt. Rainier Nat'l Park rain turned to snow. Rangers were posted in the park advising motorists without all wheel drive or chains to turn back due to 6" of snow and more falling. Keep in mind that there are no railings in the park so one slip is into a ditch 1,500 feet or more deep! The larch trees were a brilliant yellow and the only deciduous evergreens in the area. Massive, snow covered evergreens were a striking contrast to yellow larches. All of a sudden ,the tune Let It Snow came to mind and of course I had to sing it! We entered White Pass and discovered two cascading waterfalls. It was 32-39 degrees F. The sun eventually emerged and the terrain changed dramatically to sheer, treeless cliffs that had a blocklike appearance as if someone had purposefully chiseled the columns. The culprit was actually lava that had flowed over uneven terrain. Learned that they are referred to as entrapments. Will have to discuss it with our son-in-law, the geologist. Hi Ryan and Sarah! I'm still amazed at the rivers and lakes within Washington State. The perpetual cloudy days with clear nights, and frequent rain would deter me from living here. Plan to explore the wineries today as there are 40 within the Yakima area. A delightful way to spend a Sunday afternoon, don't you think? All for now, Kare