On Saturday we went back to Mt. St. Helens for a second time. This time there was no rain and the weather was great. We took along sandwiches from Subway and had a nice lunch in the parking lot of the Observatory at Richardson Ridge, about five miles from the crater. From the Observatory you are looking at where the mountain blew. Admission to the Observatory is $5.00, however, since I have a National Park Senior pass, I got in free. I paid $20.00 when I got mine years ago and have used it quite a bit. The price is now up to $80.00 which is still a bargain.
I took a few more pictures. While near the mountain we ran into a group of four women who were doing the same thing we were, enjoying the view. They took pictures for us and we did the same for them. Also saw a couple of chipmunks. On the way down we stopped at Coldwater Lake. Again, pictures below. I talked to another visitor who was familiar with the lake. I asked if the lake was stocked and he said no, the fish were reproducing naturally and the fish were 12″ to 16″. On the way out I saw the limit for fishing was one fish that had to be at least 18″. Fortunately, I had no plans to fish.
Saturday night we had dinner with my brother, Tim and his wife Elaine. It was great to see them again. One of Tim’s “jobs” is working at a winery as a sales person. He gave us a couple of samples. So far, the taste has been great.
Sunday, we left to Kennewick, WA. On the way in we could see a number of vineyards and wineries. We have not done any touring yet. Tuesday and Wednesday Becky took driver’s lessons in the motorhome from Dan Sheppard. Dan has the same year and model of motorhome that we have so the lesson was even better. One of the best parts is we learned how to back into a parking spot. This has always been one of my weaknesses. Now I see how easy it is if you do it the right way. In the past we have always guided from the rear. The new way is to do it mostly from the front. Seems crazy, but it really works.
We are free now until Sunday when we are off for Montana.
