Relaxing like it's our job

Our week with Eric's family north of Spokane was a much-needed respite from work and challenges and day-to-day responsibilities and working out--oops, didn't really mean for that last one to be so, but it was. It is such a gift to have unscheduled days with leisurely breakfasts on the deck and days with agenda items like farmers market and golf and nap.

Here are some things our days were filled with...

Local commerce, music and produce.

Candyland (niece Emerson's first time).


Golf. I liked it the first few times that I played, but now I fear that I am really hooked!

Yummy food!

Gorgeous views.

This is the view from the site where Mike and Tanya are about to start construction on their new house! Incredible spot just outside of a small town and not too far from Spokane.

Sleeping! I really should have taken a picture in my bathrobe for all the time I spent with it on!

Ice Cream. Ann got my favorite (and hers)--Tillamook Mudslide. I think Em liked it ok, too.

Hanging out.

Have I mentioned all the delicious food?

Flying in Brody's plane. Though I battled queasiness on this windy ride with bumps galope, it was a spectacular adventure. More on this flight later!

Working on the lake cabin--Mike and Tanya had done lots and then the boys went back for a work day while we were there. The floor used to be battleship gray and the ceiling was covered in stained whitish tiles. It's becoming a bright and cheery little place.

Looking cute. Well, that was mostly just Emerson.

Golf cart rides! Em yelled instructions: "Faster!" "Slower!" "Go right!" (pointing left). "Go slowly, Tia Mia!" And she showed her approval through giggles.

Playing. Silly Uncage.

Exploring little towns.

Oh, and eating.

But no matter how fabulous our time away is, my heart swells with joy each time we come around this bend and see Mt. Hood for the first time. It is a clear sign that we are almost there--home.