Forks, Washington Home of "Twilight" Vampires

We left Tacoma early in the morning for Port Angeles and Forks, WA, intent on going to the various places that were mentioned in the "Twilight Books" by Stephenie Meyer. November is usually cold, overcast, and rainy, but as luck would have it, the weather was beautiful. The sun was out, although the weather fluctuated between 32 and 43 degrees the whole day. We drove through some of the most beautiful country, with flowing waterfalls on the side of the road, lakes, forests, and sometimes the most magical lighting filtering through the miles of forest along the road. We saw deer, hawks, a beaver, sea otters, a large white owl, and more squirrels than I could count. The ride was beautiful.

In Port Angeles the shopkeepers were very friendly and helpful at directing us to the Lincoln Theater, the Restaurant where Bella and Edward ate, the Gottschalk's where she bought her prom dress, etc. Of course we had to take pictures, and the day was perfect for it.

From Port Angeles the ride to Forks was spectacular. Of course I heard from the kids that this was the road that Edward Cullen drove around 100 miles an hour on going home. Apparently Vampires can drive faster than we did, as it took us about an hour or so. Waterfalls and forest on the left side of our windy road , and a beautiful lake on the right side we drove towards our destination- Edward and Bella's home, Forks.

You will pass the road to the La Push on the Quileute Indian Reservation about 12 miles from Forks, and I suggest you go there first, we didn't, and had to back track. We wanted to go to First Beach where another character from the Book, Jacob, supposedly lived. The kids were pointing out homes that they thought he might have lived in, and played as we made our way down to First Beach (there are a couple other Beaches, Second and Third Beaches). But it was First Beach, littered with driftwood and huge trees that had washed up on shore that was our destination. A small fishing fleet, 3 or 4 sea otters, and one lone fisherman in his boat were what greeted us at we parked and took in the magnificent sights. A Photographers Paradise with James Island a little off the coast, miles of driftwood, and the misty sky seeming to change with each wave that crashed onto the outcroppings.After spending about an hour at La Push we drove back to Forks.

For anyone that is doing a "Twilight" tour here are a couple hints:

1. As you enter Forks on the right is a lighted sign that says Welcome to Forks. There is a small ramp to walk up to the sign for anyone wanting to take a picture.

2. The Cullen House is next door to the Police Station; the two story home to the left. It is a beautiful bed and breakfast, and they are used to the "Twilight" tourists and have a whiteboard where they tell you where the Cullen Family is that day.

3. There is a store in town selling "Twilight" merchandise on the main street. The store is appropriately called "Twilight."

4. At the Hospital-Dr. Cullen has his own Parking Space (picture op for kids) just be careful to leave room for cars to go around you.

5. The Forks Chamber of Commerce is on the left as you are leaving town and this is where Bella's truck is. The Chamber has some fantastic "Twilight" souvenirs for sale, and a book where they have collected letters, cards, and various Bella items of interest. The Forks Chamber has also made up a Trivia Quiz for "Twilight" enthusiasts.

We lucked out on our trip, with both Weather and pre-planning. We were able to see and do many of the things some tours are charging over $1,500 to do, and end our day with a beautiful sunset in Kalaloch, another wonderful area of the Olympic Peninsula.

Five Things not to miss whether you're doing a "Twilight" Tour or just visiting the area.

1. Port Angeles- Bald Eagles live in this area so if you go off the beaten path look for these magnificent birds
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2. Rain Forests- A must for anyone that hasn't been to the area., and even those that have

3. Architecture- If you like old buildings and history, walk around town, it is a treat

4. La Push- Camping and Hiking Paradise don't forget to go to the end to First Beach. There's a nice little Tribal Store with Souvenirs and Native Wear right before you get to First Beach.

5. Forks Chamber of Commerce- Everything you wanted to know about "Twilight", the area, and the books you can get at the Chamber. And don't forget to look at the back of Bella's Truck!

September 13-14,2009 Bella's Birthday Bash ......loads of activities all week-end. Last year was a big hit, and this year it should be even bigger.

Release of Newest Twilight Movie, "New Moon." November 20,2009

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January 18- Casting is apparently pretty much complete except for a few spots for "young" Native Americans (or look alikes) for the sequel to Twilight, "New Moon." Casting ends Jan. 30th.

So far Celebrity Guests for the Chicago Twilight Convention in February include:
Kellan Lutz aka Emmet Cullen and Ashley Greene aka Alice Cullen