Lake Union boats

We took a walk on Seattle's Lake Union on Sunday and went in search of boats. Not hard to find, actually. There are an amazing number of yachts for sale in our area; of the $1m, $2m and $3m variety, although none, that I saw, with a helicopter pad on them. But they sure were sleek and fine. We also finally saw, through the trees, one of the famed houseboat areas - but not the specific "Sleepless in Seattle" boat. It was a great walk, followed by clam chowder and great fresh halibut for lunch, prepared by one of the finest seafood restaurants in the area. A very nice day. Our favorite kind of day.

It brought to mind a couple of stories:

My father had a 'tycoon' friend who had worked his way up in the world and bought a yacht in San Diego. He was cruising around the bay feeling pretty darn proud in this "I have finally Arrived" sort of moment when a much bigger boat floated by with a helicopter pad on top. I guess it was a very deflating moment. There is always 'bigger and better.'

The area we walked in is home to the SLUT - the city's unfortunately named South Lake Union Trolley. I kid you not. It's maybe taking acronyms a bit too far.

Every time we go out like this - almost weekly - we see something which we can't quite get to, but which inspires us to go again in search of new adventure. In this case it was the unique silhouette of Gas Works Park - where the remains of the gas plant is the main distinguishing feature of the park. We could just see it across the lake but had no idea how to get to it. (Like the troll that we searched and searched for, but finally found...) Every big city has these special hidden places, and day trips to find them are our specialty.

Hope your weekend was fun too!