Oregon Coast Odyssey

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Heading out from Leavenworth, we took the scenic route that took us past the spectacular Mt Ranier and through central Washington. The drive was much longer than we anticipated but most agreed (at least Dad did) that it was well worth it. Soon we were on familiar roads along the Oregon Coast and like usual, the beautiful beaches drew us in. Parking our trailer, everyone was quick to want to explore Cannon Beach and search out favourite ice cream and salt water taffy treats (those freebies are always welcome and addicting - oohh, just one more). We did some exploring that we hadn't done in previous years including hiking down and exploring through Ecola State Park. The water is cold but that doesn't hold back the Connor kids as they played in the surf for hours. It seems like whenever you get away from home, you do things that you don't do in your own backyard. We picked up a hitchhiker and his dog. They were walking down the Coast of Oregon but it had gotten dark so we gave them a ride to the next State Park where they could camp. What an amazing adventure that we would have missed out on if we hadn't picked them up (makes you feel connected to humanity when you do things like that -- awesome). The week went by very fast and the arrival of the O'Dells and Dendy's meant that there was always fun to be had. Marla was sick for the first part but she rebounded and it was a great stay. We went to the Cannon Beach Convention center daily to hear some great speakers (Jim Burns was one of them - http://www.homeword.com/). The kids just played and played. The weeks was spent exploring the beaches and Seaside during the day and having campfires at night on the beach. Highlights included having to rescue the trapped group on the next beach, do an ice cream drive through for 16 on bikes, and the endless laughing around the campfire (Silly Billy's were flying all week). The Oregon Coast has always been a magical place for us and this year was no different.

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Photos

Magnificent Mountain
Long drive but well worth this view (at least that's what Dad says)

Cannon Beach
From up top of the cliff, the endless beach falls away to the South. Haystack Rocks look great from up here. Don't step back!!

Soaking in the Sun
Court and Syd enjoying the waves and feel of sand flowing between toes

Wave and Rocks
Years of wave action have created beautiful features all down the Oregon Coast

How many ice cream?
Driving through McD's in style (they still don't know what hit them).

Adventure
Momentary friend walking down the Oregon Coast

Comments

[Dolores]

WOW
As usual it is great to vicariously travel with everyone. Looks like you had a great time. I see Mt. Ranier from my bedroom window when it is clear. Thanks for the treat of sharing this trip with you. Much love to all. Especially enjoy the pictures.

[Krista]

WOW! Looks like a great time
Thanks for the update! Just last week I wondered about what you were up to and now I know! Please soak in some salt air for me. Cannon Beach is always beautiful! Krista

[Born to Explore]

Thanks Krista
Sorry for the confusion but we wanted to update last years blog before we started on our new one for this year. We just left Dubrovnik today and will be updating the blog tomorrow. We hope you guys are enjoying the incredible heat wave. Cheers.