Our Grand Northwest Adventure - California!

If you ever find yourself driving from Crater Lake to Crescent City pack all. the. things!  There is next to nothing.  So, we found ourselves in a park with a rotisserie chicken from a little market.  Also, those roads are not for those who get carsick.  It really takes away from the beauty of the trees.  However, our kids were in for a big surprise. 

Earlier in the trip we had stayed at an Airbnb that was attached to a studio apartment.  This situation required us to be quieter than a fighter jet - our usual sound level.  We told the kids that our next cabin was kind of like that house except we would be sharing the actual cabin.  We would share the kitchen and living area with other people.  (So, don't wear just your underwear to breakfast.)  They were a little concerned, but we assured them that we heard the other residents were very nice. 

We arrived before the other guests and had a quick look around the cabin.  Then, Jonah heard a car pull up.  He peeked out the window and then went crazy!  It was Grandma and Grandpa!  There were hugs all around and then out of the bushes step Uncle Jason and Aunt Kristin!  The kiddos were totally shocked and thrilled!  We were going to spend our last few days of vacation with family!

The following day we hiked through the giant redwoods!  We had a blast as we scrambled over logs, braved tree bridges, and tried to wrap around a tree.  It took all of us to make it all the way around!  I loved watching Juliet chat with Aunt Kristin and Benaiah having photo shoots with Uncle Jason.  So many memories made. 

We had scheduled to walk on the beach to see a lighthouse.  However, the rain came and changed that plan up a bit.  The kids ended up playing at a playground in the rain instead.

We all ended the day with dinner out. Theo was a hoot as he drank the spicy salsa - and loved it!!!  We stopped by the ocean at dusk to touch the Pacific Ocean.  Then, we celebrated a wonderful day with ice cream for dessert!

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end.  Our trip ended with a nine hour trek back to Seattle with one last picnic with the leftover ice cream for dessert.  Nevertheless, we made our flight and safely returned to Alaska. 

Ready to fly!

Sleepy plane riders.  Yay for empty seats!

I am so very thankful for the opportunity to spend quality time as a family exploring the wonderful creation God has made.  Not one area we visited looked like the next and yet they all beheld the glory of God.  I hope my children can look back on our trip with fond memories and know that they are dearly loved, cherished, and enjoyed!