The Lush Forests of the North West

I  was beginning to think that my choice in being a truck driver wasn't going to pay off as well as I had hoped. But today was a day that made me think twice about my decision. 30 miles outside of Seattle in the Snowqualmie Valley is where I have spent my last two days. Its monday now and rainy. Not unusual for these parts. But Yesterday was gorgeous I must say, sunny and warm.  Funny thing is I spent most of it in the truck reading Twilight, a fitting book considering my location. After finishing said book, I fell asleep and woke up to an overcast. Today was cooler and cloudy. It looked like it was going to rain most of the day but luckily it waited till the evening to drop a lake on us. After spending most of sunday inside I was getting a little antsy. As I said the rain held off for a while so I took advantage of the locals. I asked them if there were any good hiking trails in the area, I found a nice little trail about 2 miles up the road, a place called twin falls. I was up for anything as i began my walk towards the trail. It was fairly easy to find, convenient signs were placed within view. I was excited to see that i was not the only person out for the day. A good amount of cars were parked at the beginning of the trail. I made a goal to make it to the falls and back before dark, so I proceeded with my jaunt. Of course I didn't realize how long of a walk this would be. About half way to the falls I was becoming rather thirsty. That and my bad habits were catching up with me, and following me. Luckily I found a nice couple and their child who were kind enough to chat with and they happened to give me a bottle of water. I was very grateful. This wouldn't be the last time i was shown hospitality by a stranger. After my intrusion to these kind peoples day I kept on my way to the falls.  Another ten minutes and I was there. I was overwhelmed with beauty. One hundred foot waterfalls, towering cliffs, and trees with trunks larger than i have ever seen. A bridge cascaded 90 feet about the waterfalls, it was rather unnerving but breathtaking. I was spell bound.  I could not ask for a better day. The only thing that put a damper on my mood is that i had no one to share it with. That and my phone died before I could get a picture of the waterfall. But luckily I did take a few quick pics before it decided to crap out on me. I hovered around the waterfalls for a good while, and carved my name in to a railing. When I was satisfied that I met my goal, I made my way back to the beginning of the trail, and after that the truck stop. But before I could make it too the beginning of the trail it started to rain. Not heavy, but just enough to get me very damp. By the time I made it a 1/2 mile from the truckstop, it was pouring. This is when i was shown another act of chivalry. As I was walking on the road to the truck, a car heading in my direction started to slow down, and eventually came to a stop next to me. A hand holding an umbrella reached out the passenger side window. All I could do was grin. I told this wonderful woman I didnt have far to go but she insisted that I take the umbrella and that i could keep it. Another thanks, and I was on my way. A little dryer. I finally made it back to the truck. My co-driver was convinced I was mauled by a bear. I was gone for over 3 hours. After all was said and done. I took a very long shower, and had a very nice dinner. I am pleased with how the day went. But to be honest I think need more naked women in my life. EnD