Father's Day River Trip 2012

Every year, we go on a river trip with my work colleagues, and, every year, we look forward to some time on the river to help us return to normal. This year, we enjoyed the John Day River in north/central Oregon. It was great but a lot of work. 

The river trip was our first overnight river and camping trip with Arlo, and he was so good! He was patient, good natured, and generally easy going. I think this is the start of something wonderful!

Ryan owning the oars! 

Naptime setup:  Papa on the edge of the boat, Arlo in his carseat rigged in the boat. 

The costume night theme was "Ode to the Olympics." It was a good time to break out the Messi jersey (thank you Hannah and company!). 

Sunset at camp

Early morning view at one of the camps 

Hooray! 

(What he was celebrating is unclear. Perhaps a goal?) 

Papa was a swimmer (yes, a Speedo was involved). Arlo liked the goggles. 

Nose kisses... awww... 

We also celebrated Ryan's second Father's Day on the river. He is such a wonderful father -- beyond what I could have ever imagined or dreamed of. We are one lucky family! Love you, Ry!

A Breath of Fresh Air

Between the hustle and bustle of daily life, we sometimes need to escape and enjoy a breath of fresh air. This weekend, we were lucky to have a visit from my brother, Mike. Arlo was a little wary of Mike a few weeks ago, but by the end of this weekend, he was following him around the house. 

Mike recently graduated from basic training in the Army and was stationed at Fort Lewis, about an hour south of Seattle. We are thrilled to have his home base so close, but we are sad to report that he immediately got deployment orders to Afghanistan. He leaves in a couple of weeks, so we are trying to enjoy as much time with him as possible. Fortunately, he was game for joining us on our hike to Bridal Veil Falls. 

 The nearby mountain peaks occasionally emerge from the low clouds.

Enjoying the view. 

Ooohh... Ahhh... 

Bridal Veil Falls was spectacular. This photo does not do it justice. 

We were all sprayed by the rushing water and awestruck by the incredible drop and thunderous roar of the falls.  

Sharing some laughs near the end of the hike. 

More laughs and maybe some slight delirium. That's what fresh air does to you.

We are sending Mike off with lots of love and well wishes for a quick and safe return. We have lots of fun outings to enjoy together when you come home!