November 14 - Girl Time in Goldendale

What a balm to my soul! After weeks of rain, I managed to escape to Goldendale on the bike to visit my best friend, Michelle Martin, for lunch. About 30 miles east of Washougal the sun burst through the clouds, bathing the hills, meadows, and mountains in rich rays of gold as I continued east on highway 14. There is something about sun on a fall day that I especially treasure.

I have been burning the candle at both ends lately and decided that I needed to rejuvenate with some “girl time” as well as some solo two-wheeled wind therapy. I chose to take highway 14 East to Goldendale, mainly because I simply adore the views all along the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

Passing Cape Horn, I traveled through Skamania, the Cascade Locks, Stevenson, White Salmon, and Wishram on my way to Goldendale. The meadows were displayed in a bright patchwork of yellow, brown, and green highlighted by the bright blue of the Columbia River to the south. Cows munching on grass stopped to look at me as I swept past rolling hills and mountains. The route along highway 14 and back took me through almost a dozen tunnels and past numerous rivers, lakes, and tributaries. I feel so blessed to live in an area of the country abounding with water and such a profusion of color.

I was especially grateful for the moderate weather, as it can be much colder this time of year. The weather was a balmy high fifties to low sixties most of the route, and there were just a few minor rain showers. The last ten miles to Goldendale were fairly windy, which seemed appropriate given the numerous wind turbines dotting the landscape in that area.

As always, the lunch with Michelle was delightful. Both of us are so busy and I appreciate her making the time to escape to lunch with me for a couple hours. I headed home feeling rejuvenated and ready to face the week ahead.