I'm back! Our trip was a quick one, just five nights away from home. I'm sorry that I didn't have the opportunity to check on everyone's blogs. But now, life is returning to normal (sort of).
I am posting my Friday Fave Fives to share all the wonderful things that happened on our trip. (the link takes you to Susanne's blog where you can join and post about your FFFs, too)
1. I am thankful for safe travels. The Professor and I were happily surprised at the short waiting lines, especially at TSA checkpoints. Our four flights (two each direction) were smooth and on time.
2. OK. Where did we go? My cousin passed away last month and I wanted to attend her memorial service. If you have been reading my blog for awhile, you will know that I was born and raised in Oregon. Portland, to be exact. Almost all of my family (especially on my dad's side) live in Oregon.
3. We spent all of Saturday (after we checked out of our hotel by the airport) visiting friends. I have a college friend who married a guy I've known since high school. She makes and sells soap and years ago my daughter (and I) worked with her at local county and state fairs. (If you want to purchase some the best soap in the world, go to Laurelstone Soaps www.lssoaps.com) We had so much fun talking that we didn't take a single photo. Then we met another friend for dinner at a delicious Lebanese restaurant and talked until we closed it down.
4. After visiting our former home church for their Sunday morning service, we drove to where my cousin's memorial service was being held. The tribute to her was lovely and prompted so many memories of her and our times of playing together as children. Like the time it snowed and we were at school. She and I decided to go outside and play in the snow at lunch recess and since we were the only ones out there, we didn't hear the bell and stayed out until the principal rushed out and pulled us in. Yes, we did get in trouble for that one. All my cousins and my brother were there and also some of their children and grandkids. After the service all but the oldest cousin gathered at a coffee shop and we chatted for another two hours. I am so blessed with all those boy cousins (and a brother).
left to right: cousin1, cousin3's wife, cousin3, me, cousin4, cousin2, my brother.
All but cousin4 and I live in Western Oregon
5. Monday and Tuesday were devoted to time spent with my brother and his wife. He drove us out to the beach on Monday and then on Tuesday we did some exploring of the area where they live which is Oregon wine country. I took so.many.photos. Here are just a couple from those days. Come back for LOTS more.
The beach!
Vineyards!
