The self-guided "tour" was definitely not a highlight, but the kids liked peeking in the windows to see the cheese-packaging facility.
They also had free cheese samples (delicious!) and ice cream for sale (even more delicious!)
Once we reached the city, we actually stayed in Vancouver, Washington, which is right across the beautiful Columbia River from Portland.
In a strange coincidence, Uncky Dan and Aunt Jenn happened to be in Portland at the same time as us! We were able to meet up with them for a couple of meals.
And we perused the children's section at the extensive Powell's bookstore before D&J headed on to Seattle.
We spent a little time walking around downtown Portland, but then we went in search of a brewery that we'd been wanting to go to, Hopworks.
It had children's play areas in each room of the brewpub, so Mom and Dad could enjoy their beers that much more. Brilliant!
Our hotel was also within walking distance of a small park that had a pretty nice playground. It was perfect for getting out of the room without adding to our time in the car! We were even able to walk to dinner on the second night.
Owen's favorite part of the hotel stays (and maybe the whole vacation) was the pool. Since he'd just finished swim lessons, he had a new appreciation for swimming, especially if he had his goggles. His daddy was really good about teaching him some new techniques and practicing with him. Ah, nothing like escaping the grind, am I right?
So we didn't do much Portland-y stuff, but that was okay. It was nice to take it easy. After two nights, we headed back east. Our first stop was at Multnomah Falls, which we had seen 10 years ago. It was still spectacular, and the kids got to enjoy it this time. If we had more time, I would have done lots more waterfall hikes in this area, since this one was a little crowded!
The boys went up the trail to the bridge, but Hadley was not going to wait at the bottom! She walked her way up to the bridge with only one fall/scrape. :)
Owen was being very helpful in trying to get sibling shots with Hadley, who wasn't that interested. But this tree was pretty neat with lots of knobby roots for seats. I can't get enough of these lush green forests!
After our brief waterfall excursion, we pressed on to Hood River to meet Uncle Michael and Aunt NJ at a beautiful riverside park. Owen was so excited to see them again; he had ambitious plans for hiking and fishing with them, but unfortunately our schedules didn't allow for that much. Hopefully next time though!
The playground area was unique and well thought out with a climbing wall and spinning web, among other things. The kids had a great time! Hadley was the first on top of the climbing wall, which made everyone a little nervous, but she loved it up there. Big brother couldn't let her show him up. :)
Owen had been wishing he had binoculars, and Aunt NJ had some! He was the creepy boy on the beach checking out the floaters. Ha!
As is standard in Oregon, there was a microbrewery across the street, so we sought refreshment and conversation after the park.
And then we documented our meeting with group pictures, since they are pretty rare! It was fun, and I do hope we can do it again soon.
It was well after nap time when we decided to part ways. The kids were totally wiped out and slept most of the way to Pendleton, our stop for the night.
The next day was a solid 7 hours in the car (more like 10 with stops and meals), but we made it home mostly unscathed. The highlight of the day was watching an 18-wheeler get a tire change at our lunch stop.
I'm glad we went on our vacation. I think we might have some good travelers once we get through toddler-hood. It would have been much more difficult if we didn't have the iPodTouch and iPad to switch around in the backseat. :)
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