I actually went on a little trip!

I haven't left my immediate surroundings since last September to tell you the truth, so this. was a nice adventure.

I met my middle son and his wife halfway and we stayed at a casino hotel for two nights. Casinos are interesting places. People watching is peak level. We had a lovely time hanging out, and shared one epic and memorable meal at a fancy restaurant that for me involved some wonderful roasted asparagus and scalloped potatoes with a combination of exotic (to me) cheeses and a shared piece of cheesecake that will not soon be forgotten.

We took a short drive up the road to go to a park near the Umpqua River. It was a PERFECT day. The air was full of newly leafed out trees that were giving off the most delicious Spring aromas. I could hardly stop commenting on it. Maybe some of it had to do with everything being near the river.

Here's a picture of the old bridge that is no longer in use.

All around in the lawns of the park were these sweet daisies. It was magical!

And growing wild, amid the blackberry bushes were two different Rhododendron varieties... like weeds! What??

And lastly, a flowering shrub that none of us knew the name of.... but was quietly charming.

And though there was nothing natural about this next tree.... they were scattered around the courtyard of the hotel. They had white artificial leaves intricately attached to the branches with fairy lights all over them... The picture just cannot really capture what they look like in person.

I want one.

It was a lovely trip. And we hope to repeat it sometime in the future. The drive isn't too long and the company was exceptional!

💗