12 February 2023
Carrie asked if she could go to church and I volunteered to take her. The weather, bright and sunny, reminded one of the beauty of nature (god) in the Seattle suburbs. Carrie and I walked along 8th Avenue West to the Lutheran Church at the junction with McGraw. As we approached, someone opened the door which led into a foyer where another smilie individual greeted us and offered a program for the service.
The interior of the church impressed me. Clean lines with high arches and everything made of wood. The only decoration seemed to be a large cloth with the cross hanging in front of it and then stood a simple wooden altar.
Behind us stood the excellent choir who sang beautifully and overwhelmed any sound that might have come from the congregation. I didn’t recognise any of the hymns, but then I’m not a regular church goer.
The congregation consisted of about 30 people, the youngest of whom were probably in their mid-thirties. We were subjected to 3 readings from the old testament which I found difficult to follow and then came the actual sermon. Unless you are a regular reader of the bible the whole procedure seemed to be completely out of touch with modern day living. Carrie became restless and we left after 35 minutes.
Alex drove Maggi and I to Fred Meyer’s supermarket in Ballard to buy a few supplies. I decided to buy a bottle of whiskey as I’m likely to drink all of Greg’s supply. Queued up in the shop and was refused because my ID was not a passport. They wouldn’t accept my driver’s license even though all they need to know is that I am over 21, which is pretty obvious unless you are blind.
Fred Meyers represents an unpleasant shopping experience.
When we arrived back home Tim and Kelly had already arrived in preparation for the Superbowl between Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles. Soon Helen & King appeared with their children. It certainly made the football more entertaining with a house full of people. At half-time we ate American brisket and home-made baked beans and corn pie. The beans tasted great and was the more enjoyable part of the meal.
The Chiefs won the match by 3 points.
As soon as the game finished everyone disappeared and we cleared up. We left for bed about 9:30 with lights out at 10:30. So far haven’t suffered from jet lag for some reason.