As I’m getting ready to leave Washington I’ve decided to post some of my favorite pictures of the Pacific Northwest. It’s been a joy to spend the last five years exploring Alaska, Yukon Territory, British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. This is truly one of the most beautiful corners of the Earth.
If you ever get up this way be patient with the locals. They’re sometimes slow to warm to strangers, but they have wonderful stories and make great friends. You know you’ve been accepted when they tell you where their favorite hiking trail is.
You’ll need a rain coat and a jacket if you come this almost any time of the year. Most of the area is a rain forest, a very chilly, verdant, old rain forest with spectacular mountains and wonderful wildlife. Look for the Northern Lights almost year ’round (there are apps that will alert you to when you have a good chance of spotting the auroras) and try the salmon, it’s delicious! The reindeer hotdogs are tasty too.
And don’t forget the bookstores. Powells in Oregon and University Bookstore in Seattle are two of my favorite places. Plan to spend several hours (or a whole day!) rambling through the shops and exploring the eclectic content.
To all my friends I’m leaving here when I move… thank you so much for making me feel welcome. Living in Washington has been one of the happiest times of my life. And Alaska, although I thought I’d never want to be there, you have my heart. I miss you, Alaska, especially in the summer.
Washington, your bountiful farmers markets, beautiful hiking trails, caves, and vibrant literary scene have made you one of my favorite places in the world. Emerald City Comic Con will always be my Home Con. Thank you to all the authors, booksellers, and publishing people who showed me the ropes while I was here. It’s been a delight meeting with all of you at signings, cons, and readings.
Alaska, I never wanted to even visit you, but once I survived my first winter your summer won my heart. I’ve never seen anything more beautiful. Anchorage is everything I could ever want in a city, large enough to be diverse but small enough to feel cozy. Beluga Point, Seward, Hatcher Pass… I have so many memories.
Yukon Territory, our flirtation was brief but you are beautiful and so are your people. Everyone was warm and welcoming. Every little town we found was a delight. It was an amazing adventure traveling the AlCan Highway and spotting bears in the wild. You’ll never be forgotten.
British Columbia, let me start by apologizing for destroying one of your hotels in POLAR TERROR. Let’s just say I had my reasons. You’re still a fun place and I thank you for your hospitality. Celebrating Canada Day with you was a blast!
Oregon, my visit with you was far to brief but your rugged coastline won me over. The strength of the ocean and the stunning coastal vistas will never be forgotten. I look forward to seeing you again this summer. Let’s make a date for donuts and books in Portland. <3
