Big girl on campus

Franny and I headed out on another adventure this afternoon. We started at Reed College, as I found a short hiking trail that goes around Reed Lake and then runs into the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden--it sounded like the perfect excursion! Unbeknownst to me, Reed Lake is very generous terminology. Actually, nasty bog is very generous terminology. And as it turned out, the trail wasn't stroller accessible anyway. It was just as well, because we both really enjoyed just walking around the campus instead. It is very beautiful, serene, and quiet--at least until we came along. Franny was so completely taken in by it all that she expressed her joy by singing out at the top of her lungs to everything, everyone, and even nothing at all. But everyone found her quite amusing--there's not many toddlers running around Reed-- and nearly everyone we passed either smiled, waved, or complemented her on her hat. And our presence must have been at least somewhat unusual, as several people asked us if there was anything they could help us with! Or, maybe Reedsters are just that friendly! Either way, we made a strong impression.

Even though the trail didn't work out, we still proceeded to Crystal Springs. And it was such fun! She got a huge kick out the ducks, birds, and geese that inhabit the Gardens. Little did we know that Franny is just slightly taller than a Canadian Goose! If you look carefully, I think this one is sticking his tongue out at her!

As with majority of protected urban wildlife, the ducks were so tame, that they barely even flinched when Franny came barreling along to check them out. But when some flew off into the adjacent pond, Franny laughed hysterically. I'm still not sure what was so amusing , but she clearly did! We watched them for quite some time before moving on.































I had never been to this park before and was very impressed. Although it is unquestionably beautiful now, it is obvious it must be spectacular when the Rhododendrons are in full bloom. I wish we had had more time to spend, because it was a perfect excursion for Franny--lots of paths, shade, and a great variety of interesting things to look at. I am sure we will be heading back soon, as there was so much we didn't have time to explore. And when we do, we'll be sure to stop and yell out our hellos to the students at Reed!