A Suitcase and Go

This post took a while to write, since I've been busy getting my bearings in Seattle.  This is the only location that I didn't do for a full month and instead opted for 2 weeks.  It just happened that way based on how I scheduled my time in destination #4.  Since I didn't have much time in Seattle, this will be my only post about the city encompassing everything I did.  I had a few days of rain, but also got some really wonderful weather, so no complaints. Livability for me :  50% - I ended up really liking Seattle and could see myself visiting it again (maybe living there), although I'd prefer coming in the summer.  Also, while I liked the area I stayed (Belltown), I'd probably stay in the Capital Hill area which has a more Brooklyn vibe. Highlights: The Space Needle - A total touristy thing to do, but I have to say I became infatuated immediately with Seattle after going up.  The views were completely beautiful and the city has so many high rises ...

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...