In celebration of my 30th, Caitlin went all out. She let me sleep in, which was highly needed, and cooked me an amazing breakfast. During breakfast she handed me a scavenger hunt flip book that would drive the day's events. Up first, catch the 11:25 a.m. ferry.
On the ferry I flipped to the next page which instructed me to go to Pike Place Market to walk around and pick out anything that looked fun and interested. I ended up with a sweet Seattle t-shirt that screams I am a tourist. I love it.
Following our time at the Market I flipped to the next card and off to 1st and Lenora we went. Here sits the Seattle Patagonia store. We walked in and Caitlin forced me to walk up to the counter and say, "I'm Riley Hopeman." Of course, the woman I spoke with had no clue who I was, it was unbelievably awkward, and Caitlin had to explain that there was something behind the counter for me. It was a priceless moment.
Following our time in Patagonia we made for 5th and Blanchard. At the intersection I panned left and then back right until my eyes landed on Top Pot Doughnuts. Inside, the cashier presented a giant box with the largest maple bar you've ever seen. Check it out.
We both had a small piece and then kept on motoring to 6th and Blanchard. Here we entered Velo Bike Shop and once again, I had to say "I'm Riley Hopeman, I think you have something for me behind the counter." Again, the sales person didn't know anything and had to go retrieve another employee who handed me an envelope with a gift certificate towards putting some functioning shifters on my mountain bike.
We walked around the city a bit more before heading to dinner at The Pink Door. This restaurant is near Pike Place and was fantastic. I had hands down the best scallops of my life. It was amazing. As dinner came to a close I flipped to the final card which instructed us to get on the 7:20 p.m. ferry.
Back on Bainbridge after the ferry ride we made our way to the car just as the rain started to pick up. Here, Caitlin told me there was one final surprise and that I had to close my eyes. Off we went and as best I could I tried to keep track of our location. She threw me off when she took a wrong turn and had to back up and when we parked and I was allowed to open my eyes I saw this...
Caitlin had reserved our favorite coffee shop on Bainbridge Island, The Pegasus Coffee House for the evening and had somehow managed to invite all of my classmates, mentors, friends, etc. It was and is unbelievable. Talk about being surprised.
At Pegasus we drank, had some appetizers, and finished the night with one of the most delicious chocolate cakes of my life. And, just before anyone could sneak out I managed to wrangle them for a group shot.
Everyone embracing the mustache.
It was an unforgettable day and night and I feel so very fortunate for everyone who came and of course, for my amazing fiance who went all out. It's a day I'll never forget.
Leftover cake is in the fridge!
Riley
