OMSI and the ZOO with the cousins

Willamette Jet Boats

I have always wanted to go on the jet boats. I have said it every year. This year I actually did it! Isaac and I had THE BEST time soaring up the river, pausing to see sights and learn the history of Portland. Even though it was a bit chilly, it was great taking the big 360 turns and getting splashed.

Birthday hike with Christina

I just stand in praise for living in such a beautiful place where I have access to all this beauty so close to home. I also praise our great God who has blessed me with living so close to my dear friend, Christina. For my birthday, she took the day off work, packed me the best lunch and went on amazing hike with me. There is not a better way I could have spent my day!!!

The Cousins are in Town

We had a sweet time with cousin Emily and Elizabeth in town. Abigail had a sleep-over in Scappoose and we had a day all together at OMSI and on the river. Fro the first time, we saw a "ice-cream boat" that went alone the river even playing the music. Genius! Of course we bought popsicles.

Champoeg Fun

Date with my girl!

This girl is super fun to hang out with while brother is at OMSI camp with Tristan leaning how to make video games.

*Can you see the "comet" over the river? 

Handsome Son

By Dad:

I tell my son how handsome he is, he never believes me. He just says he's "plain looking, nothing special." I completely disagree with that! Regardless, I remind him that as beautiful he is on the outside, it's the inside that counts. It's how much you love God and love others that counts! Keep loving the Lord and others son, being beautiful inside and out!!!

L.I.F.E. Lessons

LIFE lessons learned today (not my oppinions, just game observations):

*Going to college sets you back and starts you with a lot of debt (while there is no option of moving back in with your parents when you can't find a job).

*Buying insurance gives you peace of mind, but doesn't really pay off (even if you use it). 

*Insurance is not mandatory, and health insurance is not even an option (though most people do end up paying for some kind of doctor visit along the way).

*You can get a higher paying career, even if you don't go to college.

*You can always get a job. You just have to buckle down and pick one, even if you don't like it.

*Salaries fluctuate in LIFE, but they still add up with every payday.

*Police officers profit when people get caught speeding.

*Everyone should stop to get married and buy a house (and marriage is before the house)...renting for LIFE is not an option.

*Housing choices are heavily influenced by the visual appeal (even more than the price or practicality).

*You can keep going in LIFE without having kids (but you may end up with more than will fit in your van).

*Stocks are a financial risk, but they are best if you invest early on.

* It benefits you in LIFE to do things like ride your bike to work, plant a tree, go to a museum, and win the lottery.

*You have to pay your debts before your LIFE is done.

*You can be doing all you can to plan well in LIFE, but just one bad spin can really set you back circumstantially or economically...yet you just have to press on and keep going toward the finish.

*You had better put someone you trust in charge of your banking/finances. A bad banker will really mess things up for you and everyone involved.

*Some people retire very early and just sit around while the rest keep struggling to get there.

*Slow starts in LIFE can still turn out well, so it's best not to be discouraged and quit...because you never know. :)

...and don't get mad if someone else comes out ahead of you in the end. LIFE was supposed to be fun. 

July 4th, 2016

Another Epic 4th of July in Scappoose!

Swimming

Baseball and Brewing

For Chris' birthday, he had brew time with his buddies Steve and John. We also sent him to California for a night to do to a Dodger game with John and his dad, Rick. His brother, Kevin, surprised him by attending the game too.