Chelan

Chelan, Washington.

Population 3,995, known for it's unparalleled combination of breathtaking scenery, vineyards, wineries, orchards, golf, hiking trails, boating and fishing, and hometown of good friend, Jake from University of Montana.

Chelan is not too far from my new residence in Seattle. So when I got wind that Jake and oldest college friend, Eric were going to be in Chelan for the weekend. I had to make a small road trip to go see my friends.

I fell in love with Chelan. Located at the very end of Lake Chelan, the little town sits right in the heart of Washington wine country. The hills around the lake stretched with vineyards of grapes and apples. Jake’s family actually owns one of the largest apple orchards in Chelan.

Upon my arrival in Chelan, we went on a wine tour. Started on one side of the lake and made our way around the hillside. We went to about three different wineries. Smelling, twirling, and sipping, I learned a little about wine.

We than painted the town (apple) red. Small local bars with a few mirco brews lead to a series of bad kareokee tunes, and equally impressive dance moves. Special thanks to good friends, Eric and Jake, for showing me everything Chelan has to offer.

Black Friday

Black Friday. Why do they call it "black" Friday? Is it because it is still dark outside when the stores open? Is it because you black out and spend more money than you ever wanted/expected to? Or is it because it turns people's souls black as they compete to get the best deals?

After my first ever Black Friday experience, I think it is a combination of all three. I popped my black Friday cherry this year when I went out with cousin/roommate Heidi and her mother. Our first, and most important stop, was Target/Best Buy. I wasn’t really out shopping for anything particular so I was there as more of an assistant to the die-hards.

My given task was to get a 6’ prelite Christmas tree for a screaming deal of $25. After waiting in line for about 40 minutes, the workers of Target opened the doors. The doors opening to target was like opening Pandora’s box. Pure pandonem broke lose. People began pushing and crowding, so of course I joined in. I raced with my chart to the back and luckily snagged one of the said trees. Fewww. I didn’t let the team down. Not gonna lie, it was quite the rush. I can see why people get consumed it that initial thrill.

We continued to do some shopping at the mall, but the lines and all the people were kind of getting us anxious to get home and go back to bed. We had a few Zzzz's to catch up on. By 9 we had already put in some serious shopping!

Thanksgiving

To give thanks. I am thankful for my family. This year was the first that I did not get to spend Thanksgiving with my family. I unfortunately was unable to afford the time off and plane ticket home for T-giving. However, the holiday wasn’t all lost.

Roommate, Heidi, had her mother come to Seattle for Thanksgiving. I didn’t refuse because Marilana is not only a good time, but she is an amazing cook. So for a holiday that is mostly based on eating with good company, of course she was welcome.

We had a delicious meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, Giardelli rolls, asparagus, and of course pumpkin pie for desert. I always overdo it on Thanksgiving. Helping after helping, till I am so full it hurts. But I feel as though it is kind of exempt on Thanksgiving. Plus it will all get consumed eventually via leftovers for the next week!

After dinner we played Scategories, which was hilarious. Our family is a little competitive and when we get playing games, things get serious. Sometimes we even chant taunting cheers to our components.

As the turkey coma slowly set in, it was off to bed early for an exciting morning of shopping, Black Friday style. It was a good Thanksgiving. Pretty low key and calm. However, I did miss my family like crazy. Next year, I will work it out so I can be with them.

Here Kitty Kitty

One day a year I love second to most next to Christmas is the beloved Cat/Griz game. Falling usually at the third weekend in November, the University of Montana Grizzlies take on the the Montana State Bobcats.This is the biggest rivalry game in the entire big sky conference. It is completely bad blooded as well. Once a Griz, always a Griz. Once a Bobcat, always a pussy.

This was the first year I was not able to watch the game in person. I did however attend a Satellite "party" of the game. In Seattle, it is held at a bar in downtown called Sluggers. I went with fellow alum, Heidi and Dooooonielle. We then meet up with a few of the other "recent grads" Deidre, Britney, and Katy.

The Griz beat the Cats!!! Woot woot. Not really a shocker. They have been playing 1897! the Cats have won 35 times. The Griz, however, have won a whooping 69 times! (*5 times they never played each other).

All and all, it was a GRIZ/cat weekend for the books. GO GRIZ!!!