Merrifield Times

Summer is a beautiful time of year here in Oregon. We probably shouldn't say that as it violates the newcomer non-disclosure agreement... But it's been ten years so that may have expired. Even if it isn't sunny, dry and warm (but not hot) practically every day of summer... which it isn't... It's still great to have people visit. Soon after returning from Bend (where we celebrated the 4th ) Jolyn's sister Becky arrived from Chicaaaago with Brendan and Leah. They are about the same age apart as Trevor and Hannah and just a little older so it works out great. It's amazing how cousins are such fast friends . It takes them no time at all to pick up where they left off. The Cruise Director (aka Grandma) had everything all lined up... a trip to the coast (that's the left coast) and jet boat ride , a day at the Wildlife Safari (yes, that's in OR), some shopping for the girls and fishing for the boys and of course a day at the lake.

In late June/early July, the Goodrows (pictured in front of Sahalie Falls) visited the Northwest with stops in Eugene (with us), Bend (with Grandpa Herc and Georgia ) and Washington (with friends). It was great to see Mike's sister Merri, John and Kelty again and especially nice to meet Colden (check it out: "hockey hair", shoots left ) for the first time. We managed to pack quite a bit into their visit including a couple birthdays , a little hiking , some ski lift aided mountain (inactive volcano) climbing , some sailing (naturally), a splash of swimming and plenty of hangin out and relaxing . Overall it was one big celebration . At times... several times... we just had to sleep... anywhere we could... anytime we could... What else can we say about the dog days of summer? Good times.