A Room with a View-Cascara Campground

So. . . the big news is we have a new rig. Bigger. Room for friends to visit. A dining table. A spot for the cat box so we can use the shower. And a back window. Above picture was taken inside the rig and through the back window.

The Lake 2017

The Lake 2018

No swimming this year. Or fishing. Or kayaking.

Fall Creek

Last year when we volunteered at Cascara Campground, Rich and I were unable to hike in the nearby Willamette National Forest which was closed due to a forest fire. This year we enjoyed hikes in this gorgeous and serene rainforest.

Rich and Cheryl's Big Adventure

Belknap Hot Springs

A lovely soak in the hot springs. A lovely walk in the woods. And a lovely time by the Mackenzie River.

Sunny Days

It's hard to believe that our first month at Jasper State Park is coming to an end. There has been no rain so we are enjoying sitting outside in the sun. There are two downsides of no rain. Weeding is more of a challenge. The park opened to the public May 1. One of our main jobs is weeding and getting the park presentable. The second is the water level in the reservoir will be low later in the summer which will affect how often and where we will kayak. Right now, we are truly enjoying the sunshine.

photo: a painted rock tucked in a stump.

Out of the Woods

Trillium

It has been four years since Rich and I have been at a park when Trillium is in bloom. At Silver Falls, there is an abundance.

Upper North Falls, Silver Falls State Park

At each and every park we have volunteered, there have been deer sightings. This little guy and two other older deer frequented our hosting site at Silver Falls.
 
Our site was nestled in the woods which created a wonderful ambiance. Contrast direct sunshine, when it wasn't raining,  for maybe a few fours each day with the brilliant sunshine all day at Jasper Day Use Park where Rich and I are volunteering this month. In truth, we love both. Living in the woods with a rustic lifestyle and lots of pine needles everywhere. On the floor, stuck in your socks, in the washing machine. Now, a return to urban living, and the ease of living it brings. Imagine us sitting outdoors in reclining chairs with eyes closed and the warm valley sun shining on our faces.  

Silver Falls State Park

North Falls

North Falls is one of the places I visit yearly in the Pacific Northwest that feeds my soul. Deep nourishment for my soul. North Falls can be a spiritual place of healing and insight. Many times when I visit, there will be a woman standing behind the falls or off to side. Standing still communing with the spirit present. A sister in spirit as I stand behind North Falls meditating.  

South Falls