The High Desert

Last week, the six of us loaded up and headed several hours south for a bit of vacation time in Central Oregon.  Our cousins who live three hours south of us, joined us as well.  There was a lot of fun and adventure between the nine of us!

Ready to hit the road -- more or less.

After an 8 hour journey, Stella couldn't wait to get out and puddle jump.

Heading out to explore the high desert.

Wandering among pinecones.

Preparing for our Lava River Cave explorations.

Getting the hang of the USFS lantern.

Reaching the "end" of the 1-mile-long cave marked with a cautionary sign.

Back to the 90 degree temperatures at the surface -- the depths of the cave are a cool 42 degrees.

Strolling near the Nature Center with the kiddos and an abundance of mosquitoes.

Heading out to whitewater raft on the Deschutes River.

Chillin' on the bus ride down to the river.

Rockin' and rollin' on the Big Eddy!

Quiet time on the front porch.

The Boys vs. The Girls Scavenger Hunt.

The Boys...

and The Girls show off their finds.

Reading new books in Sunriver.

Crusing along Bend's River Walk in our family-sized Surrey bike.

Iver and Stella in their prime front seating.

A quick stop in Maupin.

And Hood River.

Our drive home.