Wood,
I was born and raised in the Auburn Valley, (between Seattle & Tacoma) and my family comes from the Omak/ Okanogan area, which is north of Wenatchee.
As a youth, we would go that way at least once a year. It seems like we would take Blewett Pass (sp), and come down into Wenatchee. It was a long, winding two lane road with hair pin curves and sheer drop offs. My mother used to grip the dashboard!
I recall we would stop on the top of the pass somewhere, and fill a 5gallon water jug with ice cold- snow melt water. In those days, that water was almost magical! These days, I wouldn't even consider it with all the pollution in the air.
With that said, I don't think you would regret the move. Washington State has so many different aspects to it. Rain forest, lush conifer forest, mountains, arid plains, desert, volcano's, salt water, ocean and the Columbia River. The Washington wine industry seems to be doing quite well, and there are so many activities available. Plus, it's warmer in the winters than where you are!
Deezil,
I see your in Federal Way. I spent many days and evenings on the pier at Redondo, and we used to “cruise” the Sea-Tac mall on the weekends as teenagers.
I lived a good part of my adult life in the deep south, and now I'm here in Colorado.
I REALLY miss Washington State. I miss the old growth forests, the waterfronts and even the slugs. (don't think there's many slugs on the east side of Cascades)
I told our realitor some six years ago, I wanted three things; mountains, trees and ocean. I'm still waiting for the full effect of global warming for the last.
Wood,
I hope the best for you in your venture!
Randy
