Spring Break in Oregon

Steve and I flew into Portland, Oregon on April 3rd, rented a car, and drove a little less than an hour to Forest Grove to spend spring break with Julie and Sheldon. We had a fabulous vacation. Oregon is a beautiful state with so many state parks, rivers, hiking trails, view points, and trees that one could never begin to count them all. We enjoyed a variety of activities including hiking, cruising on the Willamette River for a Sunday brunch, attending a play called "Wicked," shopping, touring Julie's school where she teaches 4th grade, eating out, eating in, and going to the movies.

Steve and I took two days and drove to Washington where we walked along a four-mile path by the Columbia River in Vancouver, attended the Holland Tulip Festival in Woodland, and drove to Mount St. Helen to observe for the second time the devastating aftermath of a volcanic eruption that occurred a few decades ago.

After returning to Forest Grove and meeting back up again with Julie and Sheldon we drove to the coast. En route we stopped at Tillamook, Oregon and toured the cheese factory. We went to Cape Meares and saw a majestic lighthouse with its spectacular surroundings. We then drove to Newport, Oregon and spent several days there enjoying the breathtaking coastal views, lighthouses, and aquarium. We rented a condo that had a view of the ocean from the balcony. One night Sheldon built a fire on the beach, and we roasted hot dogs and made chocolate S'mores for dessert. It was really cold and rainy on the coast, but it did not spoil any of our fun. It was a terrific break from school, and it made me anticipate all the fun we'll have this summer when we can travel again. Thanks Julie and Sheldon for taking such good care of us. It was a perfect holiday week.