It all started with a high 5!!

Yes, it all started from a high five!  I had just arrived at the Lynden, WA KOA and successfully set the tent up for the first time alone. Just one! I had to tell SOMEONE!  A couple had pulled up a site over and had began to unload.  They had been cordial saying hello and their dog's name was (Riley!).  Once I completed the task, I yelled over to them what I had done and it was a big moment for me.  Well, the woman states, "That deserves a high 5!" and runs over to deliver one to me.  She stated that was awesome and I should be proud of myself.  That was the beginning of a nice, new camp friendship.  I would like you all to meet John and Gail from BC, Canada.  Probably some of the NICEST folks you will ever meet.  She invited me over for apps and drinks with her group ( a few guests were arriving).  Unfortunately, I just wasn't in the mood that night.  I regret that now bc I would have loved to gotten to know them better--as well as their friends bc I am sure they were all similar.  GOOD PEOPLE! At the end of their meal, while I was reading she ran over some dessert! Delicious angel food cake w/ strawberries and topping.  YUM!!!  The next morning, I was not able to get hot water until 9am if I used the store so I asked John if he would heat some water for me to make coffee.  He offered up their perk coffee which was already made and it was great!  I don't know if it was the hospitality or instant gratification but very welcome!  At that point, I had made up my mind to finally purchase a Coleman Stove!  Even if just for coffee at 7am!!  I spoke with them about the purchase and they told me where to get it and the ins and outs of the propane since I was a little weary of that. (I am my fathers daughter!!)  I made it back with my purchase and made my first dinner---quinoa and veggies!!  YUM!  The next morning, we were able to share a while.   What cool stories they have!  Their story makes me smile and gives hope for a love, even if much later in life.   John is a retired RCMP and currently a police officer where they live. (I finally met a Mountie!!)  Gail is a Special Education Teacher Asst. which I believe God puts those special people on this earth.  They are both around 58 yrs old (I originally thought much younger!!)  They both went through school together.  They knew each other but weren't close or even friends really.  They both survived marriages that were not healthy for them and then about 4 1/2 yrs ago, decided to get together for coffee (living only a mile from each other this whole time). AND THE REST IS HISTORY! They were just married this March. They couldn't be more compatible and HAPPY!!  They just ooze it!!  It literally brought a tear to my eye.  Just thinking how things work--how God works.   AND THEY ARE SO CUTE TOGETHER! John then helped me finish out the morning by packing my tent, which is not as fun as putting  the tent up I learned.  It's kinda like taking Christmas down........:(   John and Gail if you read this please know it was truly a pleasure!!!  I hope our paths cross again.   So it all started with a high five but ended with a new friendship....... 

This area of the state is just gorgeous.  I know I keep saying this but I don't know what else to say!!!  I just HAD no idea all the beauty and diversity WA had to offer.   I have reached the ocean--bays, whatever!!  We hit Anacortes yesterday after driving the Chuckanut Scenic Dr. from Lynden.  Today we toured historic La Conner which is an artsy small village.  Very nicely done. I didn't buy anything but 2 dog treats! But mostly have enjoyed just relaxing for a nice lunch at a quaint spot in town.  I have been taking advantage of that.  I'd rather have that experience than purchase something---besides--what do I even need???  We then traveled over to Oak Harbor, home of the Whidby Isle Naval Air Base.   Saw several jets & copters fly over.   Gives you a great sense of freedom and appreciation when you see and feel that!!   Deception Pass is the Bridge you will see in the pics.  I'm in WA about 2 more weeks & can't wait to see what else is out there.  The weather on this side has been perfect.  It was hot and in the high 80's in Winthrop, in 70's in Concrete and 65 here!  I have keep pants and long sleeves on.  I think its the humidity!!  Feels cooler than 65.  I believe the Olympic National Park will be breathtaking.  I could see the snow capped mountains in the distance today.   For all you Twilight Fans---that is where the vampires originate from!!  And maybe the movie was made there too?  I don't know yet but I WILL!!!!  

We've had our first injury here at camp.   J jumped off the porch yesterday and a big splinter ripped a toenail in half!  I have not seen either of them bleed like that yet.  And poor guy----he's exhausted himself licking it.  It bleed hard again this morning after our walk & he's hobbling a little so I know it is tender.    AND THERE'S NOTHING I CAN DO!!   Hopefully it will not lead to the cone!!   The only thing I used out of my first aid kit was some aspirin!!   Tomorrow is a drive day so hopefully we will rest it and all is well.   

FYI----I played around with the settings so it should be much easier to leave a comment now. You don't have to log in, etc.  So please leave me a message!!  For the prayer warriors out there--please pray for Rick (my old boss) as his beautiful wife Lynne is about to pass with cancer.   Very sad.  They are a wonderful couple.   

Below are pics of: John and Gail!, the next 3 are LaConner, Deception Pass Bridge and Fighter planes outside the base...