I just got back from a quick road trip to Bend, Oregon; we try to have a family reunion there every year, but with growing families and adventurous kids, it’s hard to bring everyone together in one place at one time. I managed three days and nights of rivers, books, coffee and consignment stores-not to mention some great family time and outrageous sunsets!

Deschutes River, watching the swimmers.

For the kids, the big draw in Bend is swimming and floating in the Deschutes River-of which I did neither. I think I was the only one besides the grandmas who stayed dry – guess I’m officially OLD!

She was much braver than I!

Bridge near Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon

There’s lots of cool shopping in Bend – we started off in the Old Mill District. The teens loved the clothing, but I loved the Savory Spice Shoppe. I can’t wait to try out my Thai Green Curry and Ghost Pepper Salt!

Next, the search was on for used books and clothes. We found huge amounts of both at two adjacent shops: The Open Book and City Thrift. Shopping for resale winter clothes makes much more sense in a mountain town! Did you know that many thrift/consignment stores sell used books at low, low prices?

City Thrift in Bend, Oregon

We could hardly wait for coffee…and there are many choices in Bend! We headed for a favorite, Lone Pine Coffee downtown.

Cool outdoor seating at Lone Pine Coffee, Bend, Oregon

Next stop was Dudley’s Bookshope Cafe in downtown Bend. This place was that delicious combination of used books, big comfy chairs, delicious pastries and coffee…I never wanted to leave!

Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe in Bend, Oregon

Ju-bee-lee is a tiny gem tucked in amongst clothing stores and cafes. The shop offers gorgeous vintage-type clothing, soaps, lotions, artisan jewelry, cards, candles…it’s my ultimate kind of gift shop.

LOVED this store – ju-bee-lee in Bend, Oregon

This cute quote caught my eye:

Next, we found more gems at Rescue Consignment Shop; such fun to try on vintage/new dresses!

Rescue Consignment in Bend, Oregon

I love downtowns that invest in beauty.

Love the flowers in Downtown Bend, Oregon

Didn’t have time to stop here, but definitely would love to spend a hot afternoon at one of Bend’s microbreweries.

Deschutes Brewery and Public House in Downtown Bend, Oregon

Can  you believe my morning view? Not a bad place to sip coffee!

morning meadow view near Bend, Oregon

On my last day, I took a walk alone back to the Deschutes River-not to swim, but just to take in the glory of the high desert.

near the Deschutes River, Oregon

Can you spot the desert flower?

river view of swimming hole, Deschutes River, Oregon

They jumped off this?! Deschute River, Oregon

On the way to the airport, a quick stop at Dutch Bros-one of my favorite West Coast chain coffee shops.

Central Oregon is home to Dutch Bros!

Just couldn’t resist one last sunset photo; this one of my niece sums up the beauty of my road trip to Bend, Oregon. Sunsets, rivers, shopping, coffee, books and family. It was a good, good time.

Sadie at sunset in Bend, Oregon

Bend on Dwellable

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Jennifer Wolfe

Jennifer Wolfe, a writer-teacher-mom, is dedicated to finding the extraordinary in the ordinary moments of life by thinking deeply, loving fiercely, and teaching audaciously. Jennifer is a Google Certified Educator, Hyperdoc fanatic, and a voracious reader. Read her stories on her blog, mamawolfe, and grab free copies of her teaching and parenting resources.

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