May 20. 2008 by Merilee.

          Yes, maybe so.  Camped at a beautiful pine-forested state campground in the Winema National Forest, we are enjoying the trees.  Today after the rain (yes, typical Oregon weather) we toured the Collier Logging Museum.  I know our NH friends would have enjoyed the large collection of tools and machinery dating back to the early 1800’s.  It was amazing to walk the outdoor paths through this extensive display of logging history in the Northwest.  Brad was seen examining the amazing human ingenuity incorporated in the machinery.  Interestingly, I am posting a pic from the pioneer village rather than all the rusty machines.  I just have to admire the sturdy log outhouse covered with lime green moss.  Yup, out in the woods too long.

Chiloquin, OR

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May 19. 2008 by Merilee.

      We had a wonderful time at Crater Lake NP today.  It was in the 70’s with blue skies.  What a pleasure to feel the breeze off the 78 inches of snow that still remained at the lake.  The deep blue water with the crystal reflections of the snow covered peaks studded with tall evergreens inspired awe in both of us.  It was a panoramic beauty to behold.  The park ranger said he was guessing at a total of over 500 inches of snow this season!  (and you thought you had a bad winter).  Interestingly, the lake never freezes over due to volcanic thermals in the base of the caldera.  The sign behind Brad reads “Stay off the roof.”

We are spending three days here camping in a forest with tall trees on a the Willamson River.  It is a very peaceful and tranquil place to take a deep breath and enjoy the just arriving spring surroundings.

Crater Lake NP, Oregon

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May 9. 2008 by Merilee.

   It was a beautiful drive up the Oregon Trail to LaGrande Oregon.    The picturesque snow covered Blue and Wallowa mountain country is bathed in spring green pastures with more cows and horses than people.  This group of locals came calling early this morning by our rv site located at the foot of Craig Mountain in the Grande Ronde Valley.  This must be the land of milk and honey the early settlers were seeking.

Sue, the Fall Marsh Wildlife Preserve is across the street and the wetlands are teeming with migratory birds!  If the wind dies, I will attempt some pictures for you.

May 15, we continued on the Oregon Trail along the Columbia River and south along the Cascade Mountains to Bend, Oregon.  Viewed Mt Rainer, Mt Hood, the Three Sisters Peaks from one view point!  Magnificent!

LaGrande, OR

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