Serious for a change . . . .

Just got back from Portland where I attended the annual conference of the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys. Some interesting experiences. I serve on the board of trustees of the group, and it has given me some opportunities to share some things about the Church. With Seth's mission call this week, it gave me some great opportunities to explain why we send our sons off for two years. It helped that his call was to New Zealand because everyone assumed he'd be hitting the beach a lot.

After the conference, I spent about two hours trying to find a car to rent so that I could drive to the Portland temple and give back to the Lord. I found a car, got all dressed up (it was the only time I wore the tie I took with me), found where the temple was on the map, and set out. I found the temple and excitedly approached the front door, only to find a bad storm had shut the power down in the neighborhood. I waited several minutes before they finally came out and said the temple was closed for the rest of the night. Bummer . . . .

So, out of frustration I got back on the Interstate and started driving. I saw a turn off toward the coast and just kept driving. I figured I'd paid for a car, I might as well use it. It was a beautiful drive through the Oregon hills, and I did it silently, with no music or radio playing. It was a good time to reflect and enjoy some quiet time.

I was still dressed up, but turned to Cannon Beach, where Haystack Rock is located. It was colder than heck, but I ventured out to the beach, without a jacket. Here is the evidence of my trip. Sorry about the quality of the pics, and sorry I'm in a couple. I guess I should carry something other than my phone to take pictures.