Yes, that's Danielle in an ice cave. Our first stop on the Reunion Tour was Hood River, Oregon where we reconnected with friends Victoria and Matt. They can always be counted on for a spot of spontaneous fun, above or below ground. The highlight for me was visiting the abundant orchards for U-pick cherries.
Then we returned to our home-ground in Portland, reconnecting with family, friends and colleagues. God-daughter Jocelyn (seen here helping me make pies from the aforementioned cherries) is off to public high school and increasingly competitive volleyball. Brother Devon is headed to University of Oregon and sister April started playing Pac-12 soccer at Washington State. It's an exciting time for the youngest of our clan! We also had the pleasure of putting together a BBQ for my Dad's birthday (above, with me and brothers Garrett and Devon). With no small amount of trepidation, he has successfully reached the 60 mark.
Before heading to Astoria, we circumambulated the Olympic Peninsula, camping, hiking and breathing in the rich air of the ancient forests. This adventure included a side-trip to Victoria to spend a few days with our Canadian friends. As always, it was pure fun, swimming in a lake, basking on the seashore, and cooking for each other.
Though we haven't seen all of our loved ones yet, this was a terrific start. And, as we launch a new journey, it was good to revisit places formative to our identities -- the woods we were steeped in -- and give thanks.
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