Friday- Mountains, Moose, and Lobster

We were lucky to pick up Joel from work at 11 today. I guess all
those 12 hour days paid off! Once we stole him away, we headed north
to the White Mountains of New Hampshire- our destination being the
Lost River Caves and Gorge. It took about 2 hours to get up there,
but was absolutely worth it. On the way, we saw a sign that said,
"Break for Moose! It could save your life!". We laughed a little and
talked about how unlikely it would be that we'd even see a moose, much
less have to break for one! Soon after, we accidentally drove past
our destination. We drove a hundred feet further, to turn around, and
guess what crossed the road RIGHT in front of us?!?! A mama moose and
a baby! The baby wasn't tiny, but definitely wasn't full grown. We
parked and watched them drink from the stream for a while. Amazing.

Then we went to the gorge. 1000 stairs, 700 vertical feet.
Overwhelimg water and we never let go of Carter's little hands. Most
of the caves had river running through them as well, and several were
closed bcs the water was so high. It was an amazing experience, but I
was glad when it was over so I could relax that my baby wouldn't
somehow bust through the sturdy railing.
After our hike we decided to drive 100 miles to Portland, Maine, and
find ourselves a lobster dinner. It took longer than expected to get
there, thanks to what was described to us as the 'most scenic route in
the country'. Our apologies to New Englanders, but it really wasn't.
But then again, being from the PacNW, we are probably scenic snobs.
We finally made it to Portland- what a gorgeous town. We drove around
and then stopped and explored the beach and fort for a bit, but I
can't remember the name. By then it was around 7 and we were hungry!
We'd read about a place called The Lobster Shack. It's in South
Portland and right on the surf. So amazing. Unfortunately Carter had a
mishap getting out of the car and ended up with a very fat lip and
lots and lots of tears. Not fun.
The restaurant was casual and fun and perfect with kids. It was
incredible atmosphere with the waves breaking and the moon rising. It
felt like we were on the edge of the world. Unfortunately we were all
a little shaken from Carter's accident. Joel loved his lobster though!
After 300 miles for the day we finally got back to our hotel and
crashed around 10:30.

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