Today our senses were saturated with the sights, sounds, and tastes of life along the Columbia River!
Upon awakening, we were surprised and delighted with the complete change of scenery. As we went to bed last evening, we were in the green, rain-soaked area of Portland, OR. When we stepped out on deck this morning, however, it was as if we were on a totally new itinerary. During the night we left behind the Cascade Mountains and entered the dry, desert like section of the Columbia River. Approaching the locks and dams throughout the day, we heard the hum, whirrrrr, and growl of the bow thruster. For many onboard, this was their first experience with locks—and when looking at the likes of John Day Lock & Dam—truly what an impressive sight!
After lunch we cruised slowly past the Umatilla Wildlife Refuge. Here we heard the flute-like songs of the meadowlarks swooping past the ship. We had the chance to spot some American white pelicans floating and doing some cruising of their own.
In the late afternoon, as we made our way closer to the connecting Snake River, our hotel manager, Judie, gave our tastebuds a delightful treat. The ship’s lounge was transformed into a gourmet sampling of local wines, chocolates, pepperjams, jellies, honeys, cheeses, and smoked seafood. All of these tasty treats are representative of the growing food and wine industry in the Columbia River region. Locally grown fruits such as apples and pears are used in making elegant eau-de-vies and brandy. What a delicious introduction to the River!
