Saturday, October 25, 2008

Port-a-Potties, Peacocks and Hootels




We headed north today, though not in any hurry, along the scenic west side of the lake. Again, took the opportunity to spend some time in the places we used to really love to visit – such as Emerald Bay. There the girls took the opportunity to try a little “free” climbing. Although Lloyd and I are debating whether “free” or "solo" means without ropes. Essentially – they were bouldering, but having a great time of it. Both girls are pretty much naturals. Although there is some concern that Madeline may try “base jumping” at some point – since she got to the top then launched herself off at her dad. Good thing he has quick reflexes!

From Emerald Bay, we continued along the lakeside, stopped along the way to pick up sandwiches for a picnic (although really we were trying to use their bathroom – irritating when they won’t even let customers use them! Especially with two kids who are trying to do the whole potty training thing!) Anyway…the guy at the deli counter kindly directed us down the road about 3 miles to a port-a-potty. Can I just say how challenging it is to try and take a toddler to the bathroom in a port-a-potty? “Don’t touch, don’t move, don’t touch, don’t move” – was pretty much my mantra through two separate trips. We do everything in twos...

After that lovely experience, we headed to Squaw Valley (site of the 1960 Winter Olympics) to take a photo of the girls in the big chair!


Those that came to visit us, know that along with the Camel Races photo, the big chair at Squaw was another mandatory photo op. After that – we pointed the van for Medford, Oregon. The girls kept asking if we were going back to Uncle El's house tonight, and we’ve told them that no – we are going to a hotel tonight somewhere in Oregon. So – for the last few hours we’ve fielded questions about “is this the hootel?” The girls really have some of the funniest pronunciations.

Somewhere in northern California, randomly – we are driving on a highway and out of nowhere appeared 2 PEACOCKS!
Lloyd, our trip photographer, was too surprised to pick up the camera quickly enough and I (as the driver at that point) was trying to make sure the birds didn’t join the scores of grasshoppers on our grill.

The girls have been such incredibly good travelers this whole trip. They have watched a few DVDs when we are driving after dark. Their favorite shows these days are Monsters Inc and Madagascar. Apparently, Madeline believes that the movies are interactive. A few minutes ago, all of a sudden we hear her go “rawr”! And, as I’m not driving, and don’t have the benefit of the rearview mirror, Lloyd tells me that her claws actually came up as well.

Since we are on the major highways and approaching Oregon, OLGA is our friend again. She tells us we should arrive in Medford around 11 tonight. Too late for a swim, but Madeline will be thrilled when we finally arrive at the "hootel".

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