Oregon Trip

Mt. Hood with Mt. Jefferson in the background

I just got back from a mini-vacation.  It was peaceful and relaxing.  I always enjoy rebooting at my dad’s home.  From the front room window, I enjoy a beautiful view of Mt. Hood (weather permitting) or watching the hummingbirds and finches in the fountain turned bird bath.  They are in the Willamette Valley on a couple of acres of land.  Jeanine does a beautiful job of caring for the lawn, pasture, garden and home.

On occasion I think about moving down there but then realize that it wouldn’t be the same.  I’d have to find a job since I don’t have a husband to care for me.  Knowing that I would not have the same freedom to enjoy their home and fellowship in the same way that I am able to do when I visit.

I am blessed to have family that lives in a place of peace and beauty AND a job that has great benefits including vacation time.

Spring Trip

Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

I just got back from a lovely trip to the Willamette Valley in Oregon.  My dad and his wife live very close to a tulip farm that opens to the public for the season.  The above photo is just one of several.

The highlight of my enjoying God's creation was on Saturday morning.  All week had been rainy and cloudy; however, Saturday morning was clear.

Mt. Hood at sunrise

I was able to capture Mount Hood in the back left of the picture.  What a sight from the loveseat in their living room!

My week was a blessing.  I always enjoy my visits with Dad, Jeanine and Lori was able to come up from California.

Summer Heat

(taken within the last 24 hours)

Whew ~ extremely warm temperatures for the Pacific Northwest.  Mid to Upper 90s going on two weeks.  I am not a fan of the summer heat; hence, I do my best not to complain of the cold, snow and rain we get the rest of the year.  Currently, there are some fires around the area and the air is smoke-filled which is bad news for those with asthma and other respiratory illnesses.  My prayers go out to those near the wildfires, all the firefighters and those affected by the fires.

Other news, I recently went on a mini-vacation to visit family in Oregon (near Portland).  It is always so relaxing and enjoyable.  I helped with some yard work and outside organizing (they are on a couple of acres) in the mornings and visiting in the afternoons.

This, That & the Other

A week until I am on a mini-vacation.  I get to visit with family and slip away from my job and community for a few days.  I pray that it is a joyful time of fellowship and re-energizing for my body and soul.  The last 2 months have been hectic at work, although that hasn’t pushed into other aspects of my life (other than an eye tic that won’t stop!).

My small group is in the middle of a book we are reading and discussing.  We usually do some type of study; however, a couple of gals were interesting in this particular book.  More 'book news' ~ I have just finished reading most of Charles Dickens’ works [I think I may have missed one or two but will double check].  Hmmm, I am lagging behind in crocheting – I would like to make some items and maybe put them on www.Etsy.com to sell.

I am amazed that it has been about a year since I started wearing skirts and headcoverings all the time.  I wasn’t sure how it would be in the winter; however, this year we have not been inundated with precipitation as the East Coast has.  So all in all, the adjustment to wearing skirts (or dresses) only has been extremely easy.

Vacation

I am back from a wonderful vacation!  I went up to Anchorage to visit my sister and see the amazing handiwork of God, then went down to Woodburn to visit my dad and his wife.  I always enjoy my time with them as we are able to chat about a wide variety of events.  However, I am happy to be home with my sweet kitty, Spice.