Bend Makes The Short List

We spent 4 great days in Bend, Oregon.  Our old neighbors just moved there and have always talked about how beautiful it is.  We camped at Tumalo State Park which was within minutes of downtown but didn't feel like it.  We did a couple of hikes that were beautiful.  We happened upon a food truck/bar/outdoor entertainment area that was great.  We met some really nice people, especially Julie who we ended up meeting there regularly along with her father.  She also took us to her barn to meet her horse.  People were super friendly and it was beautiful.  This area definetely is on our short list for potential new landing spots.  Our only concern is the cost of housing, which seems to be at the top of the bubble right now.  Seriously considering moving there to rent for a year and then see how things look.  Many decisions to be discussed.  I'm not even going to post anything about Wyoming...not living there.  We did stay for two nights in Nebraska at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area.  It was a great surprise.  Who would think a big lake with beautiful sandy shores was in Nebraska...certainly not me.  We are excited to be heading back to the Chicago area and are thinking just one more day to Des Moines and then on to the "love shack" aka The Candlewood Suites in Warrenville.  Can't wait to see my family and friends.

Tumalo Falls

 Nebraska, really!