Astoria Column and Storm Watching

It was actually kind of pleasant this morning! However, we slept in and dawdled over breakfast a little longer than we should have. On a morning walk we were less than a mile away when the rain started to fall and the wind blew us back to the hotel. No matter. We packed a few things in the car and headed north to drive along the north coast area, eventually ending up in Astoria.

The rain slacked off a little and we decided to drive up to, then climb to the top of the Astoria Column. It's only 164 steps up a metal spiral and then there's a magnificent view of the Columbia River, Astoria Bridge, Young's Bay and the Ocean. Oh, and through the mist we could see Washington State. Climbing the steps wasn't difficult, but surprisingly (well, I was surprised) I got a little "dizzy" from ascending and descending the spiral. We got to the top, opened the door to the viewpoint and Whoosh! the wind and rain hit us full force. I managed to snap a few pictures of the rain soaked scenery, but we didn't spent much time just gazing at the view. :)

Our 3rd floor hotel room has a splendid view of the Necanicum river, and the rest of our afternoon was spent in the room watching the trees blow sideways and the waves form on the little river. Oh, yes, and it rained. Luckily, there are plenty of movies in the lobby to check out and watch. Good thing I brought along my hook, too. :)