Sleepin' w/The Sharks @Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport, OR

A few of the wonders that attract visitors to Newport, Oregon: rugged beauty, fascinating marine life, Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon Coast History Center, Newport Performing Arts Center, and historic lighthouses. That was not what drawn us to Newport this amazing weekend, April 21-22, 2007. We didn't even get to stroll through local art galleries let alone to enjoy a fresh-caught seafood meal with fine wines.

The kids and their friend, Irene Peaks, chaperoned by our friend Lynn Peaks, spent the evening with the sharks in the world-class Oregon Coast Aquarium, hosted by Campfire USA. Local sea life may be viewed both in- and outdoor. The inside galleries allow you to peer through viewing windows to observe jellyfish, salmon, and sturgeon in their natural habitats. "The Passages of the Deep" Exhibit permits you to walk through a clear underwater tunnel with 360-degree view of the creatures occupying 3 tanks. Tunnel sights include sharks swimming overhead/underfoot, and a sunken ship. Besides observing the antics of otters, seals, and sea lions as you wander through the aquarium's outdoor facilities you'll be met with delight by nature trails, a seabird aviary, a playground, and a picnic area.

While John (Lynn's husband) stayed at a waterfront hotel in the next town, dh and I stayed at a Travelodge in Newport. We spent next day (Sunday) together with The Peaks playing on the beach during low-tides. We wouldn't have planned better to visit 'cuz so happened it was the lowest tide ever, blessed with impeccable warm day. The kids didn't mind getting soak n wet. By 10 pm, they were sad to part from their friend while The Peaks stayed for another day. We did promise to return for an exhilarating coastal adventure. The Andersons recommended the Sylvia Beach Hotel in Nye Beach. It is known as "a hotel for book lovers." The rooms are named after such authors as Mark Twain, Dr. Seuss, Robert Louis Stevenson, Edgar Allan Poe... With no phones or televisions, this cozy hotel is a great place to enjoy a quiet, relaxing getaway. Challenge: Can we be relaxed with 3 energizing kids?

The kids' photos were taken by Monica of Campfire and others by me. More will be uploaded when we locate the missing CD.



0 encouragements:

True learning-learning that is permanent and useful,that leads to intelligent action and further learning, can arise only out of the experience, interest, and concerns of the learner.
John Holt
Real heroes are men who fall, fail and are flawed, but win out in the end because they stayed true to their ideals, beliefs and commitments.
Actor Kevin Costner
 

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