R and R Trip

A Sign as we entered Bend, Oregon

Our trip to BEND was really, really nice. Though going originally for a Wedding, we got to see and stay with my riding bud James, that had moved away to Texas last year. 

He was sorely disappointed with the arrangements, once in Texas, and took the second job offer, in Bend Oregon...he moved in May this year.

 It has been a painfully long time since my husband and I did anything together...new careers, schedules and schooling...have effectively diminished our times together. And it does make me wonder...is it worth it? That is the primary question in my mind...feeling life is short and all...the quest for a career and the times gone without each other...huh. Well, looming stuff in the spirit I have. 

This sign may need one more word added....

"TRAIL CROSSING"

"IN A NEW DIRECTION?"

We started the trip behind a group of Old fashioned cars...jaunting down the road slowly.....It set the pace for the trip nicely.

I loved it, truly!

Once we got to Sisters, Oregon, we stopped for a bite of grub. 

The place we found had apparently gotten the award last year, for the best Bar-B-Q ...so we treated ourselves- to "Slick's Que Co". Oh YEA! GOOD GRUB! 

Nicely styled atmosphere too~

These Cowboy hats were adorable on the lights, as shades.

We were totally satisfied and did a walk about the town's antique stores. After a time we headed to Bend, some 15 minutes away to see James, our host. It was definitely hotter than we had been experiencing at home. The 1st day of summer had been more like spring  in our town...cool and no sun yet.This 5th day...more like summer now...and we had to travel South to get it!

These signs were everywhere...I loved it!

We got to our destination and we were handed a cool drink and an afternoon sit on the deck over looking the Descutes River ....

a gorgeous Snow capped mountain.

while being serenaded by doves!

OH! It was so lovely, having the breeze of summer cool us from the river, while we caught up on each others lives again.

My man had some work to do though....School assignments. 

James had Wi-Fi there...in our totally cool honeymoon suite- downstairs from the main floor!

We soon had to ready for the wedding at the high end golf course...that is what James said it was. He said it was private, but the the economy being what it was these past years...they opened it up to the public. It certainly was spectacular..though- the sun was right in our faces and the wedding pending..I did not have the time to be creative. We arrived at seating time, and sat in an entirely bad spot for photos too!

I did get the first Kiss and the first glance at the guests; as a young and handsome married couple!

The communion table, with the Golf course background caught my eye as well.

We enjoyed the brief time there and forwent the appetizer reception..and made our exit to be with our host.

We called him and he was out of it..he has been on the go looking for a house and property since March...making trips from Texas to Bend. He had looked at 2 that day before we arrived. So, He stayed in and we went into town and found a little sidewalk restaurant to sit and eat at.

The next day we had planned on Riding!...But again, James was wiped out...and I was totally disappointed, but understanding. 

We did go visit his 2 horses though.

And the place had this huge mural..seemingly painted of his horses...in welcome!

We just Chill-laxed...back at his place again...Q, his rather large Black and Tan Hound...stole my attention !

He'd talk to his beloved owner and then go up to the yard for a roll .

And look at me, while I snapped away!

He has always been a dog that was more people like...he looks right at you..and is not the typical dog that takes offense- with you looking at him back!

James really lucked out with this place...it is a vacation rental...fully furnished..kinda cabin like and cluttery, but heck...he did not have to unpack anything! 

See you later Q hound...

The next move with James...will be the last, hopefully so.

Our drive home was delightful and we stopped at one Of Oregon's premier Ski resorts. Timberline Lodge at Mount Hood. (NextPost)