I had quite the homecoming adventure during the long weekend. Upon my arrival, I discovered a note on my door from my cousin, who had crashed out in my bed because I was running late. Feeling less than welcome in my own house, I decided to turn the situation around by heading straight to the pub for a pint or five. The barman at the Dock was more than happy to see me and poured generously, making my night a little more bearable. Stumbling home, which thankfully was just a block away, I collapsed in my chair.
To my surprise, my cousin, who is deaf and hadn’t heard me come in, found me at 4 AM in a drunken stupor in the chair. In my state, I managed to mumble something about no worries before passing out again. The only photo she had seen of me was one where I didn’t exactly look my best, but it was enough for identification at 4 AM while I was drunk in the chair. And this was just the first night back!
Friday started off rough, thanks to the hangover and stiffness from sleeping in a chair. Things didn’t improve when my father called and laid a guilt trip on me. Despite this, I rescheduled my day to help load my sister and her family into a 26′ truck packed to the brim with stuff. After that, I treated myself to a much-needed hair chop and headed to Terasco in Ballard for some tasty beer, courtesy of my buddy Jason. Dinner at the Steelhead Diner near Pike Place Market was a highlight, with exceptional food and service, not to mention a friend working in the kitchen. The lamb was the best I’ve had since leaving Australia, and the peach dessert was the perfect ending.
Saturday was spent driving with my Aunt to Monmouth, Oregon, to help my sister and her family unpack. The drive was long, but the dinner at a little Mexican restaurant with friends Heather and Jason made it worthwhile. Their new house reminded me of my grandparents’ house when I was growing up, a feeling of familiarity and comfort.
Sunday was a mix of getting a new stereo installed in my car and enjoying Bumbershoot with friends JB and Uli. We saw some great comedy, witnessed some crazy folk wandering around, and explored the Rock Poster exhibition. I wrapped up the day with a movie and a few drinks at my favorite pub, where I was kept company by the bartender to ward off unwanted attention from Russian fishermen.
Monday was a bit more relaxed, with a trip to the island to visit my folks and help my dad prepare his gallery for the upcoming Whidbey Island Gallery Tour. I urge everyone to attend this tour, no matter where you are in the world! The night ended with me back at the Dock, making friends and enjoying a few drinks before flying back to Tucson, where I am now.
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