The drive to Pendleton was long, but also quite pretty. With all the snow and rain this past winter, spring has come and it is very green everywhere! Oregon was especially beautiful with forests, hills, and even an occasional elk off the side of the road. When we were nearing Pendleton, we came down the mountains and had a sweeping view of the entire valley and could see patchwork fields in various shades of green and brown. It was very much like a quilt my grandmother made!

For dinner, we took the students to a locally owned casino for their all you can eat buffet, but don't worry, we adults kept our eyes on them to make sure they stayed in the restaurant. We didn't have to worry, though. The food was delicious, and since everyone was hungry, they kept going back for more.

After dinner, we only had time for a few minutes of relax time with friends before the students were sent to bed. We are up early this morning so we can leave the hotel in time to drive 2 hours to make it to The Dalles where we will visit the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and learn a little about Lewis and Clark. After wards, we will make our way to the beach house in Pacific City.