A must browse shop as you tour Port Townsend, conveniently located on Water Street.
Traveling solo to Nepal in the mid 1980’s was the first time that I encountered the beautiful word “Namaste.” Instinctively, I knew that it was far more than a simple greeting. A guidebook translated “Namaste” as “I welcome the gods that dwell within you.”
Another translation I found: “I honor the place in you in which the entire universe dwells. I honor the place in you which is of love, of truth, of light, and of peace. When you are in that place in you, and I am in that place in me, we are one.”
When I hear “Namaste” or see it in print, I think not only of the various translations but also of the fabulous time I spent in Nepal and the many beautiful people whom I met.
I think fondly of a smiling father proudly showing me his young son and the waiters who had such delight when I ordered native food and drink and of people on a local bus giving up their seats for visitors to their country. Read more
April 11, 2018
Kitsap Peninsula’s Gig Harbor has retained its small town charm. Walk about the harbor ~ gaze at Mt. Rainier in the distance ~ explore the local shops and art galleries ~ check out the local coffee shops & restaurants, including Il Lucano (fabulous, Italian), Cutter’s Point (local artisan roasted coffee), Green House, Morso, Tide’s Tavern and Devoted Kiss Café ~ rent a kayak, take a gondola ride, walk Cushman Trail. Located near Tacoma (take time to explore Point Defiance Park), Bremerton (ferry to/from Seattle) and Port Orchard, Gig Harbor is a terrific stopover when exploring the Pacific Northwest.
Approximately 75 miles north of Myrtle Beach, you will find the southern end of the beautiful Outer Banks. Enjoy exploring and finding your special place.
My favorite restaurants in the area include ….
If you live near or are visiting Seattle, take the ferry to Bainbridge Island to explore Eagle Harbor Book Company.
A short walk from the ferry, on Winslow Way, you will find everything you desire in a bookstore:
https://www.eagleharborbooks.com/
Photos ~ Bainbridge Island, WA
Take a deep breath — you can do this! Make a to-do list and be flexible.
Plan your route. The USA has a terrific interstate highway system with rest stops and information kiosks with very easy access to hotels, gas stations and food.
Reserve your room the day prior, considering weather and how far you think you will drive the next day. Reserve a ground floor room as you will be bringing not only your stuff into the room, but also your cat and food and toys and litter pan. Flexibility is key. Pick a hotel chain where most of the chain accepts pets. I used Choice Hotels and would recommend them.
Here is a link about my cross country trip from western Washington to South Carolina. I have many great memories of the trip with my cat, Shadow. She was the best navigator and I am so glad that I was fortunate to make such a memorable trip.
Cross Country with Shadow ~ A Cat Tale
Always ranked very high on any list of the world’s best cities to visit (“Top 10” of Travel and Leisure’s 2018 list), Charleston has much to offer you when you visit. You will feel comfortable walking about, browsing the shops and enjoying the local cuisine, beaches and golf courses. Here are some of my favorite things to do:
When you visit Charleston, plan time to explore the gorgeous nearby coastal area and discover your own special places. Soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the beach, golf and local cuisine. Indulge yourself.
Brookgreen Gardens, South Carolina ~ Photos
Journeys with Eileen Diane 