Not All Who Wander...

“Man cannot discover new oceans

unless he has the courage to lose sights of the shore.”

- Andre Gide

February 4.  Today marks the end of my first week in Seattle.  Contrary to popular belief, it has not rained every day that I have been here.  We've even had some sunny days!! (Don't tell the locals I told you; they like to keep it a secret).  Even though I am unpacked and settled, I feel like a traveler on vacation - who just happens to have all of her belongings. Given travel is a large part of my life, I think my brain has simply gone into tourist mode. Thankfully, tourist mode has its benefits, mainly, the urge to experience everything new.

I've been keeping busy this week and plan to keep it that way.  For the first time in almost 30 years, I am miles away from my beloved family.  They are the greatest gift ever bestowed on me.  I feel disconnected without them but despite my sadness, I know Seattle is where I am supposed to be right now.  I can feel it when I'm in the city or looking at the mountains from the highway.  I am so excited to be here.  

This blog will serve as a journal of my time out West; enjoying the mountains, finding hoppy beers, etc. (hence the name 'Hop to the West' - see what I did there?!).  I plan to use more pictures than words (present entry excluded).  With that said, here is a pictorial summary of my journey, thus far.

Saturday, January 25, 5:00 am - My dad and I hit the road with all my possessions in the Mazda's backseat and trunk (win!).  We hit up breweries, survived 30+ mph winds blowing snow onto the road, purchased some of the cheapest gas in the US (thanks, Bozeman!), and rocked out to our favorite classics.  31 hours and 2,100 miles.  It sounds long, but if you have the perfect company, it can fly by.

Tuesday, January 28 - Arrive in Seattle.  We unloaded the car and unpacked in less than two hours.  I am staying with my friend, Matt, until more permanent arrangements arise. My mom and Christina flew in that evening.  We went downtown to Pike's brewery for dinner.  Thanks to the two hour time difference, we all crashed early.  My dad and mom at a hotel nearby; Christina and I snuggly in my twin bed. 

Wednesday, January 29 - Family Day spent swimming in the hotel, visiting wineries, and enjoying the best of company.  A few loving tears.

Thursday, January 30 - I dropped off my loved ones at SEA-TAC and, miraculously, didn't get into an accident on my way home.  Tears.  That evening, I volunteered with Kristina at the Northwest Avalanche Center's Snowball Event.  I helped check-in all of the attendees and tracked the auction purchases.  It was a fun way to spend the evening!

Friday, January 31 - Went to the dog park with Kristina (and Porter!) followed by a relaxing night-in with my roommate, Matt!

Saturday, February 1 - I met up with the 'Running Group' for their post-run breakfast. They have runs 3 days/week at varying locations.  I did not partake in Saturday's run, but was more than happy to join them for mimosas and delicious food afterwards!  I also spent a little time downtown taking touristy photos. :)

 

Sunday, February 2 - Super Bowl!!!  What more can I say.  It was an incredible way to spend my first Sunday in Seattle, celebrating a Seahawks win!  Not to mention, I met about 20 new people who were all over to watch the game.  There was even a kale salad(!) - another reason I'm so excited to be here.

   

Monday, February 3 - I visited the dog park with friends in the afternoon.  That evening, I attended a game night.  My roommate, Matt, started this 9 months ago.  It takes place once a month in the Columbia Tower, the second tallest structure on the West Coast.  From floor 75, you can see the city and play a million games you've never heard of before (believe me, you haven't heard of them).  I... did not do so well, but it was fun!

Tuesday, February 4 - Today, I continued my job search and 'treated' my body to its first 3 mile run in... well, way too long.  It wasn't pretty, but I did have some stunning scenery to help me get through!  Now, I'm off to a 'Chicago' bar to watch the Bulls game with a few Chicago natives.

So there it is!  A quick snapshot into my first week out West.