A Suitcase and Go

Landed safely in Denver, Colorado - stop 5 in this crazy adventure!  My first week in Denver has been so fun.  The weekdays are filled with work, walking around and eating lots of awesome food!  I rented a car the first weekend and had wonderful trip around Colorado Springs.  Highlights and pictures below. Red Rocks - OMG I'm in love with it here.  I got up early and went for the sunrise.  Completely worth it - it was so beautiful coming up over the rocks.  Then I went hiking and took in the beautiful sites.  My goal is to come back here to see a concert - everyone has told me it’s a must do. Highland Tap and Burger - I was recommended this restaurant specifically for the their mushroom and swiss burger - definitely did not disappoint. Little Man Ice Cream - So many recommendations to come here, I can't even count.  I ate a lot more ice cream than I should have, but it was completely worth it.  They're ice cream just melts in your mou...

I decided driving would make the most sense for Portland to Seattle since I can make stops along the way and take my time.  Its only about a 3 hour drive, and I love long drives like that.  My goal was to leave in the am and reach Seattle before the car rental place closed so I didn't need to deal with parking.  I'm so thankful I drove, I was able to see some really nice sites that I wouldn't have stopped at otherwise.   Highlights:  Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge - Such a cool spot to stop and I'm really happy I came.  You can hike and walk around here in the summer.  During the winter you can take a car around the refuge and do tours.  There are all these different birds and nature sounds.  Lots of people with professional cameras were taking pictures.  I was able to see some really different birds and deer roaming around.  It was a really beautiful place to see and a recommended stop between Portland and Seattle. Pictu...