Vacation

We had such a great vacation. It seems a million miles away now since it has taken me over a month to post photos from our trip to Portland and Bend. Here is the whole gang down in my parents condo in Bend, OR. (Thanks again Mom and Dad for letting us use the condo. As always, it was such a treat!) But before we got to Bend, we made a one night stop over in Portland. We went to our favorite water/wading pool/fountain park- Jamison park. It has this really cool fountain that spills over these stepping blocks and fills a bigger wading pool below. It was perfect for a warm, end of August day. Josie even brought a nice beach ball to throw around and share with new friends.

The combination of water and climbing could not have been better for our little water and newly climbing up everything little boy.

The Deschutes River is COLD. Very cold. Many people bring rafts or floaties and float down the river. It sounds very fun but with small kids that just isn't an option for us. No worries. We just took turns and walked up river a ways and then floated down on our backs. Markus, Jen, Marty, Elli and I all took turns. Everyone else there thought we were crazy but it was really fun.

Photo below: Markus floating, Marty debating the plunge.

They even got the girls to go in... well not really in as their feet barely were touching the frigid water.

The pool at the condo offered a much better water option for the those wanting a bit more warmth.

The girls were fish and spent HOURS in the pool.

Ellie, Benjamin and Elli. It was confusing having two Ellie's. Big Elli and small Ellie never really sounded right but we figured it out.

Taking a break with Dad... hand down the pants nearly always these days :)

Mia

The three blondies watching a German DVD

Eating breakfast out on the deck over looking the Deschutes River

We were even able to get away on a date night thanks to my parents and Elli. It was the first time I've ever just "ordered one of everything" off of the happy hour menu. YUMMMM!!

Markus and Jen digging in.

Up next... our trip to Mt. Bachelor