Washington Family Ranch

 A couple weekends ago, we took a family trip out to eastern Oregon. Matt took Friday off so we took the trip out nice and slow, stopping at the standard tourist attractions along the way. Here we are at Multnomah Falls. Glorious!

 We then proceeded until we reached Hood River, where we stopped for an early dinner of pizza, beer, and gelato. Because there really is no better way to start a vacation than with pizza, beer, and gelato! Especially if it's at a fun, local place like Double Mountain Brewery. We got a small table near a window, where low and behold, hops were growing right out our very windowpane! Matt got a yummy ale...

 ...at least, the half of it that we tried was yummy, because this little sprite accidentally knocked it all over her brother before either of us could swipe a taste! The booger!

 Well, she looks cool in her broster's glasses, so we said whatevs. The waiter cleaned things right up and we were on our way to the ooiest, gooiest pizza on the thinnest wood-fired crust. We were sold. But sadly, no pics. We were too busy enjoying! After dinner, we got back on the road and drove until we reached our destination: Washington Family Ranch.

 We stayed in dorm-style cabins, which you may be able to make out in the pic above, that are situated on this Young Life camp. We went with folks from our church as a retreat and a goodbye to summer. It was the desert, but had grass as verdant as a rainforest, sand like the beach, and water-slides to rival any amusement park. I'm so sending our children here in the future with YL! They would have a blast here with friends in middle school!

Overall, we took it really slow while at the ranch and soaked up as much sun as possible.

  
By way of farewell on Sunday morning, there was a gathering to worship and hear God's word in the chapel at the ranch. The kids totally got into worship as they stood with the other children up front. Kiel was raising his hands and swaying, while Eva marveled at all the children entering into worship.

 We packed up and drove home, but not before snapping this beautiful glimpse of desert landscape. God does such good things.

Xx,

Mandy