Boston to Portland to Seattle

A brief hello from Washington, as I did not get a chance to post yesterday.  

It is worth noting that my first "donation" towards my trip came from my father who slipped me a $20 as he and my sister dropped me off at the bus station in Boston yesterday around 4pm.   Perhaps this will encourage more donations!

I then took the two hour bus ride back to Portland where I was happy to see my name on the buzzer at my new apartment!  Excellent - people are working even when I am not!

I proceeded to accomplish the daunting task of packing, which was followed by very little sleep and was up again (for the second day in a row) at 4am!  Wow - this unemployment thing sure is making me get up earlier than I ever did for actual work!

I arrived at the airport in Portland around 4:40am.  Checked in - was offered a first class upgrade for an additional $150 per flight (I had two).  Although tempted, as I thought about all the Bloody Mary's I could consume on the way to Seattle, I decided better of it since, (if not already immediately apparent).....I am not currently receiving a paycheck.  My decision was confirmed to be the correct one when the woman behind the counter told me that my bag was 3 lbs over the limit and charged me an additional fee.  They even tagged it - as if I didn't already know that the bag was heavy.

So I may have overpacked a bit - but this should come as no surprise to those of you who helped me move recently!

Landed in Detroit, had a 45 min. layover.  Was getting on the Seattle flight when I heard some guy in front of me complaining about the airlines.  I was tempted to hit him over the head and say, "hey stop complaining, you are ruining the tranquility of my vacation."  But again, I thought better of it, wouldn't want to cause a scene on day one.  Maybe on day two.

The Kramers were right, the flight into Seattle was incredible.  It's a clear day here and to one side of the plane you could see the downtown area perfectly, the space needle and the islands off the coast. My view on the other side of the plane was of never ending mountain ranges. In short, absolutely beautiful.

I have already made friends with Bruce, a rather large Polynesian man who is the driver for the hotel to and from the airport.  He is taking me back shortly to catch the bus downtown (he told me it is cheaper and quicker to take the bus to downtown from the airport than the nearby street location).  Just thought I would let you all know I have arrived safe and sound here on the other side of the country and still have a full day ahead of me since it is only 1:00pm here!

Oh and Dad...I already spent that $20 so please send more money!

And also a special hello is sent to my mom who is doing well, as she recovers from a recent surgery!

With beer list in hand I am off to explore Seattle.....