Excursion.

We've lived in Virginia for 6 years.  I've come to the realization this summer, as I skirt through back roads, run into friends and acquaintances while running errands, have gouge and can give directions, that this has become home.  I miss Oregon with every fiber of my being.  I miss actual mountains, I miss the "vibe" I feel while in Oregon, that it's a happier, friendlier place (mostly).  Most of all, I miss that I won't be raising my kids there, as I'd always imagined.
The thing is, I'm not really sad anymore.  I happen to think that Hubband and I are making a good life for our boys - Here.  Hubband and I carry the Pacific Northwest with us and will teach and show our boys the best parts of it.  It may even help them to appreciate what is over there even more, not having it all the time.  I know I didn't truly appreciate it until I no longer had it under my feet and at my fingertips.

Part of what has made this place home, aside from the five of us, is our friends.  We've made some great ones here.  Friends that help us be better parents, better people, friends who help make us laugh, think, and grow.

This weekend some of those great friends invited us to come stay at their parent's house out in the woods with them.  Being fans of nature - we couldn't say no.

 Water fights, pirate play structure, swings, barefoot outdoors.  Childhood bliss.

 First time ever making "real" s'mores.  The only other s'mores they've ever made was on our stove.

Dusk from the deck. 

 The views at this place were amazing.

Braxton "communicating with the fish" in the mighty James. 

Kenny, who was against trying to commune and was all about
just going after the fish. 

"ATT" (ATV) ride to and from the river. 

 How would you like to wake up and look out the bedroom window at views like this?

Just because it's not the views I grew up with, doesn't mean they're any less beautiful or special.
*Giant* realization, right there.  

More ATV riding.

Roadside dairy/ice creamery.
Dreamsicle shake.  Holy cow.
pun intended 

Silo by a cornfield dressed like corn.
Who doesn't take a picture? 

Though "thank you" isn't really enough, Thank you for a fantastic weekend, friends.