Kathy's Picture Blog

The O'Neals took us on a grand tour
when we visited in Astoria, OR.
It rained most of two days, but we had a
wonderful time learning the History of the area.
And...of course being with Barbara and Ray.
We started from their beautiful home high on
the hill. It is cozy and very Victorian inside to
match the English Garden look, outside.

This is the Astoria Column. We walked up
164 steps to the top where we could see for miles.
The Column is an artful summary of 14 significant
events that occurred in the region. It is America's
claim to the Pacific Coast when Spain, England,
France and Russia all competed for this prime land.

The paintings where recently refurbished and are beautiful.

Barbara and Ray opted to stay on the ground and
wave to us when we reached the top. After climbing
164 stairs we all knew why!!

Ian was willing and ready to climb, but his Uncle
Dave and Grandpa Marc carried him to the top.

Looking out over Astoria and the mouth of the Columbia River.

Giddy up mom!

The Lewis and Clark River and National Park Area.

Ahhh...a moment of sunshine..quick take a picture!

Ian loved the ride down. Laughed as he bounced.

Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria.

Ian and Grandma taking a rest in the museum.

Fort Clatsop (named for a local Indian Tribe)
built by the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery
and used as a base of operation for expoloring the
Pacific Coast and making maps.

The River below the fort where they held logs in rows.
This is Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock (Goonie Rock)
to us, where the movie Goonies was filmed. The house
is in Astoria.

So windy and cold at Cannon Beach.

Fish and chips and clam chowder warmed us all up.

Ian was sword fighting his mom with a knife and
thinking it was very funny!!!! He got the reaction
he wanted from her!!!! Iiiiiiiiiaaaaannnnnn!

View of the Rock (on left of tree) and Cannon Beach
from the highway above. I bet it is beautiful in the summer.
A lookout over the mouth of the Columbia.