Journey to the Enchanted Forest

Hangin' with Humpty

Benjamin had been longing for a trip to the Enchanted Forest (Salem, Oregon) and sent Jeff an email requesting a date. Jeff responded: "I have scheduled for you, me, Mommy and Annie to go to the Enchanted Forest on Saturday, August 25." He was so excited, and the trip turned out to be amazing. Here are some pictures of some good, old-fashioned fun.


Honest Abe and Benjamin


The boys move on to the next adventure


Snow White's house

Camping at Willamette Pass

Nearing the top of the ski run

Here's a picture from our trip to Jeff's race at Willamette Pass Ski Area in Oregon. Benjamin suggested a gondola ride, which turned out to be a nice treat. A gorgeous hawk flew beside our car on the ride up, and Benjamin was stung by a bee at the very top. He handled it well and told everyone how "aggressive" the bees were. It turned out to be a lovely weekend.

Here's a link to a video clip of Jeff during the Where's Waldo 100k Trail Race at mile 53. He ran really well and ended up winning the men's race.

Country Roads, Take Me Home

Cousin Richie, Crying Annie and Tuned-Out Benjamin

In July, we took a long-awaited trip to Missouri to catch up with family and friends. Upon our airport arrival, Jeff and I were struck with how it felt (and smelled) like home. It turned out to be such a lovely visit. Benjamin and Annie caught fireflies with cousin Richie, we took a couple of hikes to the Devil's Icebox cave in our college town (Columbia), and got to see lots of people we love. Sometimes you can go home again.





Firefly Hunt (and Release)