Portland Weekend

(Can you believe I took this picture with my phone?) Tons of beautiful bridges in Portland!

It's been a rough few weeks for us all. Andy was out of town for a week and working for days and days straight before that in preparation. I've been working through some anxiety and personal problems, and struggling to find peace and hope. LIFE IS HARD. I am so grateful for the gospel and the knowledge that I can pray to a loving Heavenly Father. I am so grateful for his Spirit that prompts me where to look for help and how to overcome my trials. Last Friday morning, Andy and I were talking and together felt that it was time to take time for ourselves. We just needed to let everything else go and enjoy our family. We decided that we just needed a break, so we took one. We spent the next few hours covering our weekend responsibilities and getting reservations then we left town. 

We rode the train to OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) one day. It took twice as long but was a fun experience for the kids. Abby wasn't the best passenger and wanted to walk while the train was moving so she spent the hour each way strapped into her stroller :(.

We spent an afternoon at the Portland zoo as well. I have never seen animals as interactive as they were that day at the zoo. It was perfect because even though Portland is a rainy climate most of the time it was a sunny, warm day and all the animals were out playing.

These orangutans entertained Abby right in front of the glass for 15 minutes or so. 

I couldn't believe how big the elephant enclosure was here! Its like a third the size of the whole zoo.

No visit would be complete without a picture of Wynn and a goat.

We took the scenic route home on Highway 30 and stopped to see multiple waterfalls and scenic overlooks. 

Selfie at Multnomah Falls!

'Looking closely... their asleep.... Apparently we know how to wear some kids out! Our last thirty minutes in the restaurant though was bliss since the kids conked out.