I love the Pacific Northwest!

We were hoping for a beautiful, warm day to spend at Sunset Falls on the north fork of the Lewis River. It didn't get warm but it did get beautiful! We went with Michelle and her family, and my parents. Austin and Mike decided to jump off of the falls. CRAZY! I was so scared that they weren't going to come out alive. The water was ICE COLD! and like I said, it wasn't really warm out! Mike taunted Austin and said that he'd chicken out, so Austin said he didn't have a choice, he "had to do it".

They did make it out alive but their teeth were chattering.

Multnomah Falls

This is from the top of Multnomah Falls looking out at the Columbia River Gorge. It was a beautiful, clear day! After a tough hike to the top of a waterfall at Mt. Ranier last year, Lindsay always says she "isn't a good hiker". She didn't want to do this one, so we told her it wasn't a hike - it was nice walk. She bought it and came with us. She didn't complain (too much) It was so fun! I had been wanting to take the kids there for awhile. My parents joined us and after the hike (walk) we went to the Saturday Market downtown Portland. I love it down there... perfect place to "people watch"

Mayfield Lake, our favorite Lewis County hang out. We love to leave first thing in the morning and spend the whole day! It's even better when we add a stop for dessert on the way home.

Just recently I was looking at pictures from this past summer. I found these and during the rainy, cold and dreary days of winter I want to remember the reasons why I love the beautiful Pacific Northwest so much.

I always fantasize about living someplace warm like Arizona or Hawaii. However, I know I would miss this place! I love the mountains, the evergreen trees, the rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. I guess the months of rain will just continue to make me appreciate the days it takes a break!