Monday, August 8, 2016

August 7, 2016 Seattle, WA


I decided to walk the one mile to Sea-Tac International Airport and do "reconnaisance" in preparation for traveling tomorrow. Located the Southwest Airlines arrival and checkin stations. Then, walked across the airbridge to the light rail station and rode downtown. I had decided to check out the iconic Seattle space needle, since it might be my only opportunity. There was a monorail across the street from the light rail station in Seattle that went directly to the Seattle Center, where the space needle, museums, etc are located. Since I was still gimping around a bit with my bum foot, I took the monorail. 


As soon as I arrived, I checked out the space needle. The fee to go up to the observation deck was $30. My frugal side kicked in, and I reasoned that I was not all that passionate about going up to the top - at least not passionate enough to pay $30. Besides, how could any view from there come close to those magnificent mountains and nature I had just experienced? So, I opted to walk around and mostly people watch. Came upon an innovative and interactive playground and just watched a while. Took a few pictures of the various museums and the Armory, which was a large warehouse-like building with all sorts of food vendors, art displays, and a children's museum. I also walked to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation which, unfortunately, was closed on this particular Sunday. That is probably the one fee I definitely would have paid. I was struck by the saying on one of the foundation's outer windows: "The chance to make a difference is not just someday - it's now." Something to think about. 







As I arrived back at the airport light rail station, I received a call from the bicycle store indicating that my bike was boxed and ready for pick up. Since I was at the airport, I decided to just bite the bullet and hire a taxi to retrieve the bike and take us back to the motel. That done, I essentially had the rest of the afternoon to rest and reflect. Gimped down to the restaurant down the street for a late lunch/early dinner, then settled in for an evening of Olympics watching. I have had a hard time getting into these particular Olympics, but I must say the lineup tonight does sound inviting. 

One other update since some have asked: the jaw pain and teeth issues appear to have competely resolved. Even the bite imbalance seems to have resolved and I am chewing normally. I am suspecting that the jaw pain arose out of a muscle spasm, since it was almost competely alleviated by 1 dose of that stronger-than-Advil pain med. Will further explore the teeth issues at my next appointment. Thanks for asking.

Tomorrow I travel the final leg of this northwest adventure. When I started 7 weeks ago, I could never have imagined the unpredictable twists and turns that unfolded. But, when you think about it, isn't that what an adventure is all about? 

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