"Capital Fun" in Salem, OR: Aug 2018 Family Vacation: Part 1

Since we were headed to the beach anyway, we decided to take our trailer down to Salem the weekend before our vacation started and visit some dear friends during drill weekend before heading to the coast. We had a wonderful time catching up with a family we hadn't seen in 3 years. Our kids had a blast playing with their kids in the Willamette River.

Such a an awesome couple and wonderful hosts! We ate well while we were there.

The guys got to talk "military" and "Boy Scout" stuff. Josiah is really growing up. 

 During Michael's lunch break, we rushed over to see the Oregon State Capital building. Unfortunately we weren't able to get in as it was a Sunday and much of the outside is under renovation. At least the kids were able to see the basics- something they've never seen before.

 The beaver bronze was a hit with the kids. Next time, we'll have to go back on a weekday so the kids can go inside. Also we will wait for the renovation of the grounds to be completed. 

Michael took us to work for a couple of hours where we got a private tour of several helicopters, including this Blackhawk. The kids thought it was amazing! We really enjoyed meeting some of Michael's co-workers. Great people!

That evening, we all combined our kayaks and we had just enough for both our families to go kayaking on the Willamette River. So much fun!

What a blessing to reconnect with friends and see where Michael drills. It's nice to put faces to names. It was a short weekend packed with lots of fun. We left the next morning for our aerial adventure at"Tree to Tree Park" in Forest Grove, OR, as we slowly made our way to the coast. 

More fun to come...

God Bless,
Jackie