Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Fort Vancouver/Beacon Rock

We woke up on September 8th wanting to go somewhere and do something. A few weeks ago we had started out to some surprise destination for a hike, but the van had problems and we ended up having to back to a large repair bill. Greg decided to unveil the surprise this day and even added to it. Our first stop was Fort Vancouver. We have driven by it numerous times. Greg remembers spending the night with a class in school at the Fort, but the kids and I had never been inside. We all loved it and can't wait to return. The cost was very low, $5 for the family. They often have volunteers playing different roles. We met one, just as we were leaving, beginning her work in the kitchen. She had a fire going and was making a berry cobbler. Too bad we had to leave!

Next stop was Beacon Rock on the Washington side of the Columbian River. It's not far west of the Bonneville Dam. As the name suggests, it is a large, tall rock. There is a trail, about 1 mile, leading to the top. Even Olivia hiked all the way up and nearly all the way down with little assistance. We would not let go of her hand, however, because although there was a rail, the trail was on the side of this rock and much of it was exposed to a long fall, and a beautiful view of the Columbia. The weather was gorgeous and there were many people hiking. Henry and Solomon enjoyed it the least as they are not height lovers. Olivia and I counted 53 switchbacks on the way down.











We have been approved to move into an apartment in Beaverton. We are hoping to move this weekend, but they are having some problems with the tenant moving out. The condition of the apartment may warrent some extra time for repairs. At any rate, it is good to know that we have a place to go and that it will be soon. The kids and I are excited about getting some things out of storage. I'm excited about not having to walk outside to the house if Olivia or I have to go to the bathroom during the night. It will be nice to have a home of our own again.