Spring Break

The  Denver Sodens are spending spring break in DC.  Derek had to be there for a work trip so Amy and the kids tagged along and are doing the education vacation.  Of course the kids got sick and it will be one of those "vacations" mom and dad will talk about longer that the kids.

The Portland grand kids came here and, thankfully, brought their support team (Ryan & Judy).  We didn't get to the snow play areas as Ryan had to work a bit.  But we did get to their favorite Redmond playground most days.

 Nina liked the slides and playing tag with new acquaintances.

Louis liked the park but his favorite playground was the kitchen.

Nina and her panda, Jack, liked the view from the rock in the front yard.

She didn't discover it until we were loading up the car.

We shot a few nerf rockets onto the roof and finally it was time to head home.

 The kitchen/playroom/percussion section wasn't the same without Louis.

 So, it already seems so quiet and boring. Can't wait for them to come back.

Getting warmer every day and looks like the rest of the country is finally getting a break. Hope you are all well and.....

staying warm.

Moving On

I have no photos but take my word for it, the house was ready for spring.  Teri had everything put away and we were ready for Ryan, Judy and the grand kids this weekend. Then we got the fifth wheel out of storage, brought it home and emptied it out.

Next it goes to the local dealer form some minor repair then to the lot on consignment.  Another adventure draws to a close.

Does it look empty?  If you could see where it all went......  Anyway, after a dump run and a couple of reorganizations we got the Prius back in the garage.  The house is another story; best told another time.

Promise some photos of the kid's visit.

Meanwhile, stay warm.

Hidden Beauty

Update on Timbers for those of you that missed the action this weekend.  We tied the opener (3-3) and lost last Saturday to Vancouver (2-1).  Next week is away to Seattle, should be tough but we remain confident. You're welcome.

Teri gets back tomorrow and we can get started on the Spring projects. Saw the new version of the weinermobile at Fredy's today.

I'm sure the original is not street legal but this one is.

Found a company in Bend that reclaims barn wood.  Not just the siding but some large beams and timbers. Here is their web site:

Barnwood Industries

Here is a piece of Gum that was part of a 12x12 post or beam.

Not all that impressive until you look inside.

I'm going to have to learn how to see behind the rough exterior.  This will hopefully be enough to make up a step stool/chair for Louis.  I am starting the process of designating different parts for the individual pieces.  It will be fun finding the chair in there.

Teri said the inside view didn't look all that hot. So here is one out in the sun.

Also found a source for salvaged Juniper and that is really interesting.  More on that later.

Weather is perfect. Bulbs are coming up: we are behind Portland but Spring is on the way.

Check out Google's home page today and click on "don't panic".

Timbers Home Opener

The season starts this Sunday, so we are in Portland.

Stopped in Rhododendron to check out a cabin we are all going to stay in for a few days at the end of May.

Located at only 1500 ft elevation, it didn't have any snow but looks like it gets a bit of moisture throughout the year.  The brochure shows it in a winter wonderland.

Total moss roof on a cabin nearby.

Recycling begins before the tree falls.

Neat climbing wall to rope bridge.  Note to Amy, would make a neat bridge between trees in your back yard.

We have tomorrow to play with grand kids then it's game day.  After that Teri goes to LA for a week or so. Supposed to have a storm hit this weekend (rain is a requirement for opening day in Portland) so trip back to Redmond should be interesting.

Hope all goes well for you.

Stay warm.