Portland, OR/Vancouver, WA

My cousin got married last weekend and we didn't want to miss the big day, so I packed up my little travel buddy and headed to Washington. My cousin Trent lived in AZ, and once he met his new wife Dawn, who lives in Washington, he relocated. After just a few days of exploring this part of the county I understand why he moved (you know besides being in love;) It's beyond beautiful!

Robby had to stay home and work, but I am so grateful I had the opportunity to be with them on their wedding day.

The wedding venue... Camas Meadows Golf Course. I've never seen such happy plants/trees/flowers.

Aunt Lon & Uncle John

My handsome date

Grandma Jo & Grandpa Jack

Aunt Judy & Uncle Gordie (parents of the groom)

"I do" Dawn

"I do too" Trent

~LOVE~

Grandma, Grandpa, & Baby

A boy and his Great Grandma

Grandpa & Aunt Carol hanging out with drool monster

We realized the oldest grandchild (Scott), youngest grandchild (me), oldest great-grandchild (December), and youngest great-grandchild (Mason) were all in town for the big event.

After all of my family packed up and headed home, Mason and I packed up the party and headed to Vancouver for some exploring.

A few months ago I was talking to Ms. Angie about places we have visited and the ones we have to visit again. She was telling me how Vancouver, WA is a MUST on her list. After I told her we were headed to a wedding close by she said she would love to meet me for a few days, if we wanted to stay and see some sights.... Here are a few pictures from our adventures.

We hit the road and headed to the coast (about 1 1/2 hr drive).

Cannon Beach

(Robby's 2nd favorite picture of Mason from our trip, haha)

It was too windy for Mason (and 67 degrees), so we had a cardigan wrapped around his head. Even with the protection from the wind his gasping reflex was working full force.

Low tide at Haystack Rock

Mason wanted a feel

Starfish Family & Friends

Beautiful Coastline

Further down the coast... Tillamook Cheese Factory/Creamery (YUMMOLA!) in Tillamook, OR

Overlooking the Columbia River Gorge from the Vista House

(As soon as we left the House the fog lifted and the sun came out. It was still a magical view though.)

Hiking to the falls

Multnomah Falls

This baby loved the Rose Garden (Portland)

We stopped to smell the roses

And of course the petals had to be tasted

(Robby's favorite picture of Mason from the trip:)

I am so grateful for Ms. Angie offering to spend a few days with us. I don't think I would have been brave enough to stay and explore on my own, and I know I wouldn't have been able to see as much as we did without her. It was surely a trip to remember, and one I can't wait to take Robby on.