Travel Uncategorized

Idaho’s State Capitol and Other Fun Facts

Visiting state capitol buildings and presidential libraries are great ways to learn history.  Not only are the state capitols usually pretty elaborate, but they almost always have interesting facts about the state.  Boise’s capitol building was no different.…

Travel

On Paper, Salem Looks Pretty Good

We originally thought we’d take a year travel sabbatical, see some of the country and maybe look for other places besides northern California to retire.  When we started the journey (now nearly 4 years ago!) I thought someplace we…

Travel

When Your Hometown Is Unrecognizable

Is the picture above Napa?  Sonoma? Paso Robles?  No, no, and no.  This is not even in California!  It’s Newberg, Oregon – the small town where Doug spent many of his formative teenage years.   We’ve been here a couple…

Travel

Tillamook – This Ain’t Your Mamas Cheese Factory Tour

If you’ve only been to the old Tillamook cheese tour, you’re missing out!  The 2018 visitor center has an improved factory tour, plenty of delicious products (especially the ice cream) and lots of fun facts.  Given that cheese might…

Travel

Astoria – A Small Town with Huge Appeal

Who says small towns don’t have a lot to offer? Astoria, Oregon is a town that celebrates its historical significance in the Lewis and Clark journey ️natural beauty situated at the confluence of the Columbia River and the ocean…

Travel

Cape Disappointment Was a Mixed Bag for Lewis and Clark

When you think of great explorations, especially in the U.S., the 2-year Lewis and Clark journey probably ranks at the top of the list.  They encountered unforgiving terrain, harsh weather conditions, treacherous waters, injuries, starvation, disease, and hostile natives…

Travel

4 Quick Stops in Southwest Washington

From Tokeland, our next stop was Raymond, Washingon, located inland near the Wilapa River.  From Raymond, the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway heads westward first and then south along the Pacific Coast.  This drive highlights the diverse landscapes, including marshes, estuaries,…