I hope that Mother’s Day was a great occasion for all the mom’s in

the area and that families got together to celebrate the special occasion. I

do know that the long distance phone lines were humming, and if I

recall correctly, Mother’s Day is the busiest day of the year for the phone

companies. I would have to guess that floral shops were up to their necks in

customers as well. In any case, a belated Happy Mother’s Day to all.

PPP

Speaking of celebration, it will soon be celebration day for all

the school kids, with summer break coming up very soon. That also

means summer vacations for families – people on the move.

I just came back from a short trip myself and was reminded that

this state provides some of the greatest vacation spots in the nation. Within

a matter of hours, you can be enjoying the ocean, the mountains, the

open plains, desert regions and low rolling hills covered with forests or light

vegetation of all sorts. Deep canyons, high mountain peaks, miles of sand and

so on can be found in this great state of Washington. Never mind looking

to other parts of the nation for vacation this year. Check out this state.

Over the years, I have found some of the most fantastic scenery within

a short drive from my home. On the Sound and along the ocean there

are small towns with quaint shops of all types, a laid-back lifestyle

with friendly people and nice comfortable places to stay. If you are into deep

forests, raging rivers and creeks, head for the rain forests and high mountains

of the Olympic Peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Puget

Sound region. Or, for some of the most incredible scenery anywhere in

the world, lose yourself in the magnificent San Juan Islands. Here lies the area

of this state I fell in love with several years ago and go there whenever

possible. If you are into boating, this is the place to go.

For high majestic peaks surrounding deep clear blue lakes, you need

to hike the Cascades. The Cascade Trail can take you on a tour of some of

the greatest alpine areas of the world. If you are willing to do the walking,

high mountain lakes have fish for dinner waiting for the angler.

On the east side of the state miles of wheat fields await you, with

mountains to the north, desert to the east and south and all manner of

recreational opportunities on the west side of the Cascade Range. In the fall, hit

the Yakima Valley and other parts of Eastern Washington not only for things

to do but also for all the fresh fruit and vegetable stands to pick up great

food buys from the Columbia Basin breadbasket.

So much to see and do, a single column could not begin to cover

all that is available in this great part of the country. Fishing, hunting,

camping, hiking, rock hunting, prospecting (somewhat hampered at the

moment) and so many other things to do abound in our state. With gas prices as

they are, it might also be a good idea to stay close to home.

A couple of places you might start with for further information would

be the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission at (800)

233-0321, or stop by the Ranger Station in North Bend. In the office area of

the Outlets Stores in North Bend there are numerous pamphlets on display

of things to do within the state as well as some sports stores and major

hotel/motel chains. Have fun this summer here in Washington state.

PPP

Thought for the week: I had a great one but then I forgot what it

was. Will try again next week. Bummer.

Preston News Notes author,

Bill Hebert, can be reached at

P.O. Box 918, Preston, WA 98050.