I spent June 26th traveling. I finally arrived at around 12:30 am, and Brett picked me up and dropped me at Jena’s.
Raina’s welcome home performance!
The next day was spent shopping with Jena and Raina and trying to get a phone. On Saturday, the 3 of us went to see Pilobolus, which was really enjoyable. I hadn’t been to ADF for years. Sunday we went to the Expedition School, where Jena is now working. There are paths along the river there, so it is a wonderful setting. I finally succeed in getting a SIM card for the US, and then headed to the Kamans.
Lake Stevens for Independence Day
crabbing and fishing in Mark’s boat
David and Janet
Soon it was time to head to the west coast for our extended family reunion at Lake Stevens. It is such a gorgeous setting and it was wonderful to reconnect with so many family members.
Following fun times there Mom, Dad, and I headed back to their house, which is like a retreat as well.
parents’ driveway
parents’ front room view
Then it was off for the annual reunion with my college buddies from Cottey. We stay in Lebanon, OR along the Santiam River. Hysterics, hiking, birding, and sharing make this an event to look forward to every year!
friends for almost 40 years!
at the fork in the road
On the way back to Mom and Dad’s I spent most of the day with Liz Mitchell. We checked out Voodoo Doughnuts and her beautiful yard.
Liz and me
She dropped me at the KEMPS (my youngest brother’s family) for birthday celebrations for him and my other brother, Daniel. A bit more time with Mom and Dad in White Salmon and then back to NC.
fun with Paul
Kaleah and me
Mikayla and Elijah
Dad, Kiki, and Paul
Daniel
Mom and Dad
I squeezed in a weekend with Parker and a week with Adrianne and Scott. There were even a couple of wedding showers!
Scott and Adrianne at the Bywater for shower
Parker at Bywater
Then some more time with the Kaizens, which included seeing “The Painted Bird” by Paperhand Puppet Intervention, and the Kamans, house sitting for the Aldridges and suddenly it’s time to return to Kuwait! A stop over in DC meant an opportunity to catch up very briefly with Ronna and Peter.
Paperhand Puppets performance
Paperhand Puppets
Raina and Kalil at Paperhand Puppets
Ronna and Peter at Dulles
It was a glorious summer and I am so grateful for the opportunity to see and spend time with so many people. I’m already looking forward to next year!
allaboardforadventure 