My annual birthday trip this year was not out of the country, but I did get to a beautiful historic site that has personal and national significance.
Minutes before sunrise on Mt. Hood
https://www.timberlinelodge.com/
Built in 1937 and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977, Timberline Lodge is also where my parents met in 1955. My mother worked as a waitress in the Cascade Dining Room and my father drove a snow-cat. He received an “Over-The Snow” plaque when he left the mountain, in honor of all the snow miles he’d driven.
My sister and I spent a few nights at the lodge, which is now open only to overnight guests, due to the Covid virus.
We were very lucky with the weather, getting clear, sunny days. The Magic Mile lift was open, so we got to ski that famously scenic run under almost clear skies.
It was a very nice feeling to travel again. Like everyone else, my international trips were all canceled last year. Hopefully, soon we’ll all be vaccinated and our travels will return to normal.
A Traveler's Photo Journal 
Once again I am in awe as the photos and just a taste of verbiage focuses you on the story told.
Special place to celebrate your birthday and honor your Mom and Dad’s first meeting!
Looks like you and Becky had the entire place to yourselves, plus great pics as always.🥂
Yes, we dominated the green runs! Ha ha ha
I wish I had an active sister to have fun with!
Thank you Hisae, that is a sweet thing to say.
Laura, what a fantastic couple of days you two had!!!! It is so beautiful at Timberline!!! Growing up in Hood River, we were able to frequent this amazingly historic area often! It’s cool to know your personal family history of this lodge!
Thank you for sharing this journey. Makes me want to go there!
Great post, Laura! So glad that you are back in action with traveling and blogging! I always love seeing your beautiful photos and reading your entertaining commentary. I have missed your posts over the last year. What a wonderful place, made even more special with the backstory of your parents. Happy, Happy Birthday!