Anacortes to Sedro-Willey

Miles 38
elevation gain 940'
We left at 8am this morning to take our group picture by the water. It was more of an informal picture taking event, but everyone managed to get in the photo. We left then, heading back to Anacortes and out of town via a very nice bike path than followed along the waterway. It was cool but not uncomfortable with grey skies and no rain.
It felt good to finally get out on the bike and to start our journey. We went across the water on this really cool bridge. I saw a sea lion piping his head up to greet us as we rode by.
The ride was fairly flat, with good bike lanes or shoulders, except for one part on a bridge that had a bunch of junk on the side of the road and cars that were screaming by.
We then rode on some very nice country roads. It is so green and lush in the valley here. We rode on a crushed limestone path that was right along the slough. The tide was way out and the birds were looking for lunch.
We got into town about noon and decided to check out the downtown area for lunch. Jennifer and I ended up eating at a little diner.
Right next door was a sporting goods store, so after lunch I went in to look for a warmer fleece. I packed well to be on the bike, but I have been cold and I wanted something warmer to wear off the bike. I found a great deal and so now I am nice and warm after riding.
Jennifer's brother lives in the area and he met us at the hotel. He drove us around and showed us the area. We went to this amazing bread shop. I had the best macaroon-EVER. I bought some homemade graham crackers for a snack on the ride, too.
He took us to the top of Blanchard trail. We had a view of the valley below, the San Juan Islands and the surrounding mountains. It was spectacular. Several hang gliders floated above us like birds, finally making their way to a landing site below. One guy managed to land back on top. He came towards us with all his stuff on-pretty amazing. As we were leaving he asked if any of us would like to take a flight with him tandem. We kindly declined. It was a nice tour of a very lovely area.
We had a great dinner tonight. Patty made a great dinner as usual.
Tomorrow we will have a longer ride, but we don't have a big climbing day until the 3rd day. That is the first long day 91 miles.