Weekend with Bilba!

Bilba ~ noun. ~ 1. happy couple known as Bill and Alba 2. celebrity nickname for Bill and Alba

You Remember Bill and Alba (Katie's brother and his beautiful girlfriend) as our first hosts in Arizona and Mexico when the trip began. They flew in late Thursday night to Seattle where they stayed with cousins, Joseph and Meredith. Friday morning Bilba was ready to get the festivities under way. Katie and I drove up to Seattle mid morning, and I met up with our visitors at Pike's Place Market while Katie had a prior engagement. Completing the last few items on their souvenir list, Dan took Bill and Alba to check out the infamous 'wall of gum' followed by a meandering walk along the waterfront. By the time we reached the end of the picturesque part of the walk, we were again joined by Katie. (Hugs were exchanged) We started to walk back towards the shops and pubs downtown. Meredith met up with the growing party on foot and took over the duties of tour guide. After walking around some historic sites, Meredith's office, and a few urban treasures, we headed to Collins Pub for an early afternoon refresher. The hummus was the best we ever had and the artichoke crab dip was equally superb. We then proceeded to Elliot's Oyster House, where we finally got to experience oyster progressive happy hour. Joseph joined our group here and the party was officially underway for Bill's birthday weekend. The basic breakdown is that we got a whole lot of oysters for not that much money. Though the price was definitely right, everyone was slightly disappointed by the VERY salty oysters. But the view was splendid and some of the menu items being carried to other tables looked superb. The rest of the night was spent at the Capital Club, a Moroccan themed restaurant bar with some tasty snacks. Good conversations were had and memories were shared. Before calling it a night we revisited the Dinette for a herbed frittata toast (unfortunately served with a little attitude this time) and got some braised pork tacos (cheap and delicious if a little small) from Taco Gringos, a late night taco stand with Northwest flavor.


Saturday morning was a much slower day for many reasons. This time, Brian joined in on the festivities. Today's highlight would have to be the ferry ride to Bainbridge Island. Seeing the city from the water was unreal and recommended for anyone who visits Seattle. At the Harbour Public House everyone enjoyed some delicious beers and beverages as well as an excellent early dinner. Highlights included the Killer Shrimp and the Crab Melt. Afterwards we headed back and relaxed in Capitol Hill. Katie revealed the german chocolate cake she had baked as a surprise for her brother's birthday and everyone enjoyed and then went to bed early in order to be ready for the next days activities.






Sunday started off early for the boys. Dan, Katie, and Brian woke up at 4 a.m. to get up to Seattle and pick up Bill and Joseph for a 6 a.m. salmon fishing excursion. After a dedicated effort Katie switched driver's seat with Dan and the boys were off. We got to the boat and were introduced to Captain Steve and deckhand, Austin. Setting off into the sunrise, the boys were about to embark on their first salmon fishing experience. Within the first half hour, Dan reeled up a Chinook, unfortunately it was the wrong season, Salmon 1 the Anglers 0. The morning progressed and we eventually all landed a Coho Salmon. Exhausted, we headed back to the condo to meet up with the girls. They had apparently slept in, made some tasty breakfast and were having delicious coffee. Anywho, everyone lent a hand in preparing for a delicious lunch feast of salmon. We prepared the fillets 2 ways. First, Joseph found a recipe to pan sear the salmon encrusted with ginger, minced garlic, green onions, and olive oil; it was very tasty. Second, Katie baked the salmon in poaching liquid for a classic take on the fish with butter, lemon, dill, and rosemary. Everyone had a sampling of each with a side of spinach and mashed potatoes. Fish just tastes better knowing you had caught it earlier in the day.

Bill with the Biggest Catch of the Day

Brian with a close Runner-Up

Lunch.

Everyone had to walk off serious food coma, so we headed over to the neighborhood of Queen Anne and watched the sunset over the sound and downtown. Thinking back, most of the afternoon was a lot of resting and relaxation. We think Dan has also rediscovered his love for the piano, stay tuned for that. Later that evening we went to Via Tribunali for a final delicious meal before Bill and Alba headed back to Arizona. I do have to say the Pizze Salame is our pie of choice.