Having "riding days" in April is always special. So with the garden planted, the mowing done, and other obligations satisfied, we dug out the bike for another ride on a beautiful summer-like day.
We took the back roads through the Machias area where many people were already out on the Centennial Trail, running, biking, and walking dogs.
We continued through Snohomish where antique shoppers were already out wandering through the many shops.
River Road between Snohomish and Monroe offers views of the Cascades Mountains and all the farmland in the rich river bottom of the Snohomish River.
Nurseries abound on Tualco Loop Road between Monroe and Duvall, and Mt Rainier adds a dramatic backdrop.
Interesting clouds as we traveled High Bridge Road toward Carnation
When friends visited from Florida, we asked what they found most surprising on their first visit to the Pacific Northwest. "All the agriculture!" was their answer. We also find that to be most surprising in most areas we visit - there is a lot of it in our country, but the cities get most of the national press coverage.
Found a new place to eat in Fall City - Good food, slow service - crowds!
Came home and dove in the lake - and nearly had a heart attack it was so cold. Too cold yet for a long distance swim! Maybe after several days of 80+ degree days today will be my first swim day of the year.
