My lonely trip...

So, here it is, my first post!  Yes, it's true, it is not Devon doing this entry, but me, Warren, the one who never wanted to learn how to do this.  What is the reason for my change of attitude?  Well, it is because Devon and I were supposed to go to Nelson BC for a True Colors Conference, then head south to Spokane for the annual WASA Summer Conference.  But...., Devon did not go.  Instead, she stayed home to complete more applications on her quest for a new job.  Meanwhile, I went by myself ....alone...without anyone to talk to....  Hence, it falls to me to inform you of my adventures, lonely as they were, in somewhat chronological order.

Day 1 - I started off from Arlington last Thursday morning, headed over the North Cascades.  Of course, it gave me the opportunity to really use the navigation system in the "Nox" to the max.

Equiped with my iPod plugged in and snacks on the seat, I started out towards Darrington.  Along the way I decided to snap a picture while driving of a scenic mountain peak.

Notice that I pretty much missed the mountain, but great clouds, huh?  Guess it proves I didn't take my eyes off the road.  My next attempt came out a little better.  Here's the top of the pass.

After traveling through Winthrop, Twisp, Omak, and Republic, I crossed the border someplace in the middle of nowhere and headed on to Nelson, BC, on the shore of Kootenay Lake.  The hotel was very nice and our (my) room had a nice lake view.

 Here's a great sunset looking north.

Days 2 & 3 were spent in Nelson learning the latest about True Colors.  Friends from Tennesee and Louisiana were there, as well as several new people from Florida and all over Canada.  After a great conference with several social events, I headed to Spokane, again, going through remote country I had never seen before.  Somewhere south of the border I stopped for a quick look at the Selkirk Mountains.

I got to Spokane in time for the ERNN Board Meeting, then checked into the 2 room suite I booked at the Marriott for us,...I mean me:

I hope you're noting the subtle theme that this trip would have been a lot more fun had I not been alone....

I did find humor, however, in the expansive deck attached to the suite...

If you recall Devon's post last year about our trip to Banff, you'll understand that this "deck" was about 3 square inches bigger than our one at the Worldmark in Banff, you almost had leg room between the table and the chair at the Marriott....

Days 4 & 5 were spent in Spokane, I went to a couple of session at the WASA conference (even presided over one; a tough job...I had to introduce the speakers and pass out their handouts...; but I was good!) Again, had the chance to connect with several old administrator type friends and visit with prospective clients in the future. 

Finally, today, Tuesday, I headed home via I-90 and got to A-town about 4pm.  I was amazed along the way at the number of new windmills getting built around Vantage, including several right along the freeway.

Evidently, each of these windmills is taller than the Statue of Liberty, and they are all over the place.

Despite the fact I was alone, I had a good time.  I think that has to do with being a "green".  However, it's always best to be home, with my lovely wife.

Warren