Journey in June: Our Final Night

We made great time on our way through Montana and as a result we began discussing the possibility of cutting over on Hwy 12 at Missoula to visit my sister, Jeni, and family in Orofino. My side of the family was having a little mini reunion of sorts over the long weekend but we initially didn't think we'd have enough time to join them. We decided to leave it up to the girls because it would add an hour to our driving time. We asked if they would rather stay overnight at a location where there was a pool or go visit family in Orofino. It was unanimous and there was much cheering heard. We contacted Jeni and George and arranged to spend the night at their place. They didn't tell anyone else that we were coming.

The drive along Hwy 12 was beautiful! It is actually the path Lewis and Clark took on their way to the coast. It follows right along the Clearwater River after going over Lolo pass. We could tell we were back in the Pacific Northwest as the trees became taller and thicker. It felt good to be close to home.

When we arrived in Orofino, we parked down the way from their house (they live on a steep one way hill) and walked up to their home. My aunt Sharon was the first to notice us. Jeni and George had hamburgers and hot dogs waiting for us and we had a great time visiting. All the gals, including Michaela and Rebekah, went down to the hotel where my family was staying and sat in the hot tub before bed.

We hit the road around 10:00 this morning and are now on our way home. There is much discussion as to what everyone is looking forward to at home. Seeing friends and sleeping in our own beds are the two things I hear repeated the most. I am looking forward to cleaning out the car and catching up on my sleep!