May 3: Venturing North for Seattle’s Best BBQ
Some people might think it was a little crazy to travel 450 miles for a good lunch. But then they probably haven’t been to Jeff’s Texas-Style BBQ in Marysville, about 40 miles north of Seattle. After getting a hot tip about this delightful eatery by Sound Harley Davidson while setting up a book signing a few years ago, I’ve made it a point to return periodically to get my fix.
Heading north this morning, I settled into the seat of my Harley in the early morning chill, looking forward to having plenty of time to feel the wind in my face and the rumble of the road while thinking thoughts of gratitude, praying for loved ones, and appreciating the beautiful sights around me.
Traveling past the Columbia River to my west and then crossing over the Cowlitz River past Castle Rock, I marveled at how fortunate I am to have to have my health. After losing much of the vision in my left eye and developing double vision in both eyes, I am so grateful to have prescription goggles that allow me to see well and medication that mitigates my symptoms. I reflected that none of us knows what tomorrow will bring but we can squeeze every moment of joy out of today.
After gassing up in Chehalis and passing the Tacoma Dome, I enjoyed a beautiful view of Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline before making it through thick traffic in Seattle and Marysville and arriving at Jeff’s Texas-Style BBQ.
Stepping inside, I breathed in the hearty aroma and smiled at the helpful staff. Because all their food is home-made it can be hard to decide what to order. But I settled on the brisket baked beans, several slices of the fatty end of the brisket, and three baby back ribs along with two different kinds of sauces.
Sitting outside at the picnic benches, I luxuriated in the feel of the sun on my back while dipping my meat in sauce and licking my fingers. The brisket was so tender and moist it fell apart in my hands and melted in my mouth. The ribs were covered with a sumptuous spicy char and had a satisfying crunch on the outside with a tender middle. The baked beans were rich and hearty and perfectly complemented the meal. Wow!
Riding home through rain, road construction, and a variety of traffic jams, I was nonetheless treated to a spectacular view of the Seattle Space Needle, perched high amidst the city’s other tall buildings and standing proud over the surrounding sound. This iconic tower features the world’s only revolving glass floor, situated 500 feet above the city. What a great day on the bike!
