PNW With Family

 This trip was really just to see family. And because we stayed healthy, we did get to see almost everyone. But Frank, Amy and the kids were sick this time, so we missed them again... :( 

We left Fargo and had a 4 hour layover in Chicago which allowed time for all the Chicago treats: popcorn, hot dog and pizza. Our flight to Portland had a bit of a detour thanks to a super powerful storm cell that gave us quite a lightning storm out of Chris' side of the plane and quite a bit of air traffic out of my window... 

It meant we got into Portland even later than we had expected but we just went straight to Mom and Dad's and went right to sleep. The next morning we rented our car, did a bit of shopping and then drove south to Zack and Tatum's. We ate some delicious foods, played games, watched a bit of TV. But the next day we drove out to the Newport Aquarium... 

The weather was very nice, and we got to see lots of animals! 

After checking out the sealion dock and having a delicious seafood dinner, we stopped at Depot Bay and saw gray whales! Unfortunately they were too far out for a good picture...

Before heading back to the house, we made a quick stop at D River to walk along the beach...

After church on Sunday, we went to the creek and had lunch with family. Unfortunately no one took any pictures. I guess we were just too busy enjoying the company...

Monday was Zack's birthday and we went bowling with Ester and Bree at a really cool place in Sherwood!

Tuesday was back at my parents' and then dinner with the Cummings...

Wednesday we took a drive to see Silver Falls State Park with Mom & Dad and then dinner at Wyatt's grandparents' German restaurant...

Thursday we drove up to see Leslie and Tom. Unfortunately we ended up spending the entire day in the ER with Leslie but we did find out what was going on and she was able to get the meds she needed. The next morning we all went to breakfast at IHOP. I forgot to take a picture but Tom was able to create one with Chat GPT. It looks great if you don't look too close... LOL

Then we flew the redeye to Dallas and then back to Fargo by Saturday afternoon. Glad we went and hoping to see everyone again soon!