B & D's USA Hideout: On the road again! (Ashland re-cap)

Seasons Greetings! Brian had a successful tour at sea and returned home safely late last week. We spent a long weekend in Ashland and now we are en route to Lake Tahoe as I type. We'll be spending Christmas week on the south end of the Lake and exploring the local ski mountains. Shortly after the holidays, we are taking a two week trip to Hawaii (Santa came a little early for the Watsons). We are vacationing on the Big Island for one week and another on Maui. These islands are home to the three National Parks in the state. We're bringing all our camping gear so we can experience the south Pacific islands under the stars, in the rain, on the beach, on the side of a volcano or wherever else the wilderness may call to us.

Before completely moving on, I just want to express my sincere love for Ashland, Oregon. I had such an enjoyable time laying over in this Rogue Valley town. The vibe is earthy and of a waste not, want not attitude. The people are made up of outdoor enthusiasts, artists, wealthy, poor, stoners, modern day hippies and college kids and all move to a beat of their own. I got to spend time with girlfriends that I may never have otherwise had the chance to. We had so much fun exploring all the hiking trails in the area, tasting all the amazing local wine and beer and meeting new friends. I attended the Rasa Yoga Center daily and gained so much in mind and spirit with the great variety of classes and instructors. I would also like to comment on the fact that Oregon is one of the only states that still enforces full service at the pump. It is quite the treat to have someone pump your gas and wash your windshield. The service in general deserves a standing ovation. Between the Chevy dealership, RV repair shop, tire store and gas stations, each one was a pleasant visit, affordable and good quality service. I will miss the Shop-N-Kart grocery store, the witty signs transients hold on street corners, the wine, Grizzly Peak, Puck's Donuts, Growler Guys, Paddington's (snooty accent required), First Fridays, skiing Mt. Ashland, Jackson County Public Radio and so much more. But, as the urban legend goes, once you drink the fizzy water packed with sulfur, bicarbonate and lithium from the fountains in Ashland's downtown plaza, you will always come back.

Here are a few of my favorite shots...