We got up early this morning and packed up the house so we could head home. Grandma and Grandpa left with Cohen extra early since Grandma needed to take her friend to an appointment. The house was beautiful, and I’m so glad we took this trip! It was such a nice mix of relaxation and adventure, and I loved exploring new places with the kids.
On our way out of Sunriver, we stopped at the bakery for donuts. When we went a few days ago, they were completely sold out—they hadn’t realized it was Washington’s spring break and didn’t stock enough! I really wanted to try their donuts, so we made sure to stop again. We picked up plenty of treats to kick off our road trip home. This time, James was with us, which gave the car a totally different (and very fun) vibe.
Stopping At Trillium Lake to See Mt. Hood
As we drove, I spotted Mt. Hood in the distance under a perfect blue sky. I remembered the last time we went to Trillium Lake—the view had been smoky and hazy from the forest fires—so I wondered how far off our route it would be to stop for a quick visit. Mizz checked and said the turnoff was right along our road, so we decided to go for it. We spent about 30 minutes taking photos and “exploring.” James begged to go on a hike and was so disappointed we couldn’t; I wasn’t prepared and Lydia was in Crocs. I had to laugh since I just bribed him to hike the day before, and now he was eager to go! I think he secretly loves being outdoors but sometimes forgets how much. It was such a great little detour—I love that place and hope we can camp there someday.
Visiting Sandy Ririe To Say Goodbye
When we got back, Grandma and I headed out to visit Sandy Ririe. Over Easter, Scott had mentioned that it might be my last chance to see her. Sandy has Alzheimer’s and has been in a care facility since the fall. Mizz didn’t want to go—she said she preferred to remember Sandy the way she was. I understand that. I also knew Sandy wouldn’t recognize me, but I wanted to go for Scott’s sake. It sounds like not many people visit anymore, and I wanted to show my support. My heart breaks for him—it must be unimaginably hard. My mom truly is a saint; she visits Sandy every week.
Sandy didn’t know who I was, and she mumbled things that didn’t make much sense, but I’m so grateful I went. When she looked at me and gave me her sweet, familiar smile, it felt like a little glimpse of the Sandy I’ve always known. She was one of the smartest people I’ve met—so strong in her faith and such a pure example of Christlike love. She was also full of mischief and always up for a good laugh. I hugged her and told her I’d see her on the other side. I hope, for her and for Scott, that she passes peacefully and soon.
Foil Dinner For Cohen
After our visit, we finally headed home and made foil dinners for dinner—Cohen’s absolute favorite. It’s funny how much he loves them! Anytime he sees a BBQ, he asks if we can make foil dinners (or “hobo stew,” as we sometimes call it). When he saw the BBQ in Sunriver, he asked again, but I told him we already had meals planned. We promised we’d do it once we got home, and Grandma—true to her word—made it happen right away. Cohen was thrilled, and even James and Lydia ate theirs! That’s always a win.
Throwing The Ball With Lydia
After dinner, Mizz and Lydia tossed a ball around again. Lydia’s getting so much better at throwing—Mizz said a few of them even had some serious heat! I’m so proud of her. With more practice, she’s going to be amazing. I’m just so grateful for Mizz and for days like this.
