Land of Awe: Mt. Rainier, WA

At 14,410 feet, Mount Rainier is the fifth highest mountain in the continental 48 states. Its a beautiful 2Hr drive from Seattle. Mount Rainier National Park is a gorgeous place. Any traveler can enjoy the mountain's grandeur without having to be an experienced mountain climber. The visitor's centers offer amazing views from the comfort of a heated building. On your way to Paradise Inn, be sure to stop by various waterfalls and have pictures. However, be prepared for snow and view-obstructing clouds to move in at any moment. The clouds moved in quickly while leaving the park, making for about 15-minutes worth of white-knuckle driving on the Chinook Scenic Byway. Be sure to check the weather before you go.

Crater Lake, Oregon

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, and one of the most beautiful!  The lake was formed after the collapse of an ancient volcano named Mount Mazama. I drove from Salem to Roseburg and took the Mapquest âs directions to Crater Lake. It takes around 6hrs drive from Seattle. It was simply wonderful I loved seeing the points near Crater Lake in the distance, and the beautiful little purple flowers on the side of the road.We started noticing the snow right away, so we pulled over and played in it! When we got to the first lookout, I rounded the corner and nearly lost my breath, it was astounding to say the least.

Finally we were at Rim Village, The Gift shop had some very cute and pretty things, I picked up Christmas Ornaments that were on clearance, a photo box, a envelope of standard size postcards, and a beautiful turquoise necklace.