some things I forgot to mention.

• my cell phone fell out at a {rest area} along the way
• after spending 20 minutes unpacking the pick-up in the pouring down rain at another rest area, we realized it was NOT with us
• I dialed my number several times - hoping to hear it ring
• on my last attempt before totally FREAKING out ... someone answered (and it wasn't one of my boys)
• some wonderful folks had picked it up ... and those wonderful folks just happened to be from Eastern Oregon ... and better yet ... they like cattlemen (and their wives)
• I got my phone back yesterday ... and honestly, I didn't really miss it too much

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• Tillamook Ice Cream is always better in Tillamook
• Cold Stone Ice Cream is good ALL the time
• homemade caramel corn is mouthwatering
• steamer clams dipped {soaked} in melted butter is a meal in itself
• my family has an addiction to Salt Water taffy
• the Pelican Pub Brewery is one of greatest things about Pacific City
• fish 'n chips always taste better when you can see the ocean while eating

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• life away from {reality} is good for the soul
• taking pictures of life is worth EVERYTHING
• making the effort to drive a little further south ... and then a little further north is TOTALLY worth it
• being the person you say you are isn't easy
• living the life you say you have isn't easy either

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we're home.

we're doing our jobs.

we're making memories.

we're stepping up when it'd be easier to step out.

we're raising our boys.

we're dreaming of the future.

we're blessed. and we know it.

** thanks Misty - for letting me try out your lens

** thanks Papa & Mimzy - for building a beautiful home that we are so lucky to enjoy

** thanks Carlsons - for picking up my phone - and returning it

** thanks God - for this beautiful life we live - trusting, believing, and hoping in You.