Eric’s parents and sister came to visit over the weekend, acting as our first guests in this new state. Of course, this gave us a great excuse to get out and explore.
We started our Friday morning with breakfast at Glenwood Restaurant, where Eric and I ate on our University of Oregon visit a little over a year ago. It was just as tasty as I remembered! Then Eric gave the family a short tour of the campus before we headed east into the Cascade Mountains for a hike to the blue pool. Eric and I had visited back at the end of September, when it was warm and dry (which you can read about here). This time around, the temperature hovered in the 30’s and there was snow on the ground. Oh, and it was raining. Welcome to Oregon, Ringer family! I, lover of all things snow, think it was even more beautiful this way.
I think we’ll have to try this hike again when there’s lots more snow on the ground. Seeing those trees with a little frosting of snow made the whole place seem like a snow globe. Absolutely beautiful!
After a day of hiking, we headed back into Eugene for dinner at Pizza Research Institute. I don’t think we ever would have found this place on our own, but I am so glad Rich’s friend suggested it! The restaurant is in a former garage, and has been renovated to be really cool and hipster-ish. It’s one of those places with mismatched chairs and table settings, lots of “found” art, and a generally laid-back feeling. All of the plates at our table featured different states (which has inspired me to want to collect state plates, if anyone is wanting to send a gift this way). Something about this place was just so “Oregon.” It was great. And I haven’t even mentioned the pizza. The pizza. Oh, the pizza. I was a little nervous about the choices, as they were all kind of crazy combinations, but the granny smith apple, smoked gouda, and roasted walnuts combination was incredible. So, so good.
Check back soon for the rest of the Ringer family visit!
-Ally
Becca says
This is awesome! You are so hardcore.
Betsy says
I think I might have gained 10 pounds while visiting!! I am fasting tomorrow!! But we had SUCH great time seeing you in your environment! It’s SUCH a beautiful and interesting area. I’m already looking forward to visiting you all again – uh – when it’s warm!! I was very happy to enjoy my warm San Diego sunshine today!!