MAY 2006

We arrived in the Willamette Valley just in time to see Spring arrive...and the rhododendrons were fabulous! From the coast to the valley, we had never seen such rhodies in our lives. Brilliant! We had just missed the tulip festivals, and the iris were just going by. When we asked everyone where to go, several told us about The Oregon Garden also, so we took that in one weekend. We were a bit early, but nevertheless, their conifer display was one of our favorites.

The Oregon Garden, near Salem, OR...The Conifer Garden

What a variation in color and textures!

Astoria, OR...a short visit One weekend, we took a quick trip to Astoria, OR to see some of the historic sights there, and visit the coastline again. Our treat to ourselves was to stay in a new hotel, the Cannery Pier Hotel, which is right on the water with views from every room of the boat traffic! Terrific! What fun to watch the boats go by from the window seat in the room...or even from the tub or spa! Astoria has a very interesting Maritime Museum, so if there, make sure to take it in...more interesting than we expected.

The Cannery Pier Hotel (in background) with trolley that goes into town along the waterfront, Astoria, OR

North Head Lighthouse, Cape Disappointment, OR

Tillamook Rock Lighthouse...now this is one lighthouse I would NOT want to have been a keeper at!