My solo trip to Oregon

There comes a time where every mother needs a break.  No matter how much she loves her children, her motherly duties and her husband, she needs to be allowed to escape; to catch her breath, not have to cut up food into small pieces, shower uninterrupted, and to wake up on her timetable instead of by a little finger poking the side of her face, telling her to wake up cause someone is hungry.  

Truly, motherhood is amazing! And the best way to keep it amazing, is to getaway every now and then. :)

I made a solo trip up to Oregon, the last weekend of April, with the charge from my husband to "relax, hang out with my sister, surprise my dad at his spring concert and catch my breath in an environment away from my responsibilities."  He's a good man!

I boarded a plane with my mom, who was traveling home from her special visit with us that week.  We decided to let her in on our plan the day before we left, figuring the kids would probably appreciate the heads-up that both mom and grandma were leaving town.  (Although, as soon as they were told about the donut outing Daddy had planned for them, they seemed to get along just fine!)  We arrived late Thursday night, and I parted ways with my mom, making sure she understood that my dad was not to know I was in town.  Friday I spent some quality time with my niece Ellie, and nephew Ben.  Although they are the same age as my kids, it still felt like a vacation (cause I was able to spoil them and their lunch, by treating them to cake pops and hot chocolate just a bit too close to lunchtime. :) Joys of being the aunt who was in charge!)  

Ellie and I, playing with yet-to-be-born, baby Joy's clothes and toys.  She thought it was a hoot!

We walked to Starbucks in the rain -- exciting for me, and completely no big deal to them. 

Sugar high and spoiled lunch commencing.

The entire weekend, I was blessed to spend wonderful 1:1 time with my sister, who I hadn't seen since last July.  I was also able to surprise my dad at his spring concert at George Fox University.  This was a significant thing for me to be able to attend, as he was performing a piece that was commissioned and written in memory of our close family friend, Jeff Cumpston.  The look on my dad's face when I showed up in his office minutes before the concert began, followed by the whooping, hollering, and tears, was priceless. 

Mom, Dad, me and Sarah (and baby Joy!)

Saturday and Sunday brought more special time with my family...

Daddy-daughter dates are just as important when your all grown-up!

We even celebrated my Dad's birthday while I was in town!

Ben is ready for cake and ice-cream!

Sisters at "Sister's Coffee Company"

Such a beautiful, growing family!  I loved spending such devoted, special time with each of them!

My sweet Ellie and Ben.

Love.

Missing a few key players, but otherwise, a complete, blessed and happy family!

My early morning flight allowed for some gorgeous views on take-off.  The PNW will always have my heart, no matter where my residence may be. 

I guess I was missed. ;)

What a treat it was for me to have this time away.  Brant held down the fort with donuts, and other fun treats, and did an outstanding job for sending me away for 4 nights.  I highly recommend this to mothers everywhere -- even quarterly!! ;)